Promising Young Referee Graces Beverley’s Pitches

While photographing Molescroft FC this Sunday apart from the players the referee stood out. He did not stand out for his decisions or because he was constantly blowing a whistle, he stood out because he was just 14 years old.

The referee was Chris Allen, a young man who has been involved with refereeing since the age of 12. Today Chris was kind enough to return a call and explain a little about his experiences as a referee in the Hull Boys Sunday Leagues.

Chris explained:

“I have shown an interest in refereeing since the age of twelve.  Watching other referee’s gave me an insight into the world of refereeing.”

“Hull City Centre of Excellence focuses on refereeing as well as the youth development of players.  At the age of 13, I was selected to referee at the Centre of Excellence because they thought I had the potential to progress further.”

“I am guided by a team of very good mentors who have given me the confidence to progress and develop my skills and knowledge of the game.  I keep on top of my fitness by attending, with my colleagues, a well run fitness programme organised by the County FA Fitness Co-Ordinator.”

“At fourteen, I successfully passed the basic referees course held at the East Riding County FA Head Quarters on Inglemire Lane.  This qualification has enabled me to start refereeing on the Hull Boys Sunday Football League.”

Chris currently referee’s two games on a Sunday, anyone involved in amateur sport will know how vocal touch lines can get. At just fourteen years old it is fair to say Chris shows great courage in taking charge of a football match.

Yet Chris is so positive about what he does saying “I really enjoy refereeing and would recommend it to anyone who is thinking of taking up the whistle.”

Chris is confident that with dedication and commitment he can continue to climb the amateur football leagues and some day get to take charge of a Conference or even a Football League game.