National Group Tony Bates
Employed as a production manager in the pottery industry, qualified referee since 1983, National List assistant referee in 1993, FIFA assistant referee 1996 and appointed to Euro 1996. Joined National List of Referees in 1996, now one of the longest serving. Assistant Referee Charity Shield 1995 and FA Cup Final 1996. Refereed FA Women’s’ Cup Final in 2007.
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
While playing Sunday league football and nearly always being sub and running the line, the referee suggested I take the refs course so I did that referee was Jim Rushton
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Linesman for the 1996 FA Cup Final and Linesman for Euro 96 group match
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
I cannot think of one that stands out.
What are your aims as a National List Referee?
To referee a play-off final and to referee a FA Premier League match.
What skills do you think you need to become a referee?
Common sense a love for the game be thick skinned, knowledge of the laws, sense of humour, a decent level of fitness and be able to listen to advice.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
David Elleray because he gave me the opportunity to sample football at the highest level
In your opinion who is/was the best referee?
At present Howard Webb is the best referee but the best referee I have ever worked with was David Elleray, in a class of his own.
