National Group Steve Bratt
Now aged 30 he started refereeing at 14 years of age and eight years later was promoted to level 3. After only one season stepped up to level 2 where he remained for seven seasons until promoted to the National list of referees in 2006.Was an assistant referee for the 2006 FA Vase Final, and in 2007 refereed in the Four Nations Semi-Pro Tournament held in Inverness. Enjoys keeping fit and live music.
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
As a 14 year old in Walsall. I wanted to earn a bit of extra pocket money by refereeing on a Saturday and Sunday morning and playing on a Sunday afternoon.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Being promoted to the National List of Referees in 2006
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
As an Assistant Referee in the 2006 FA Challenge Vase Final. It is an honour to be selected to officiate in a major FA Final
What are your aims as a National List Referee?
To be as successful as possible and to ultimately achieve promotion to the Select Group of Referees
What skills do you think you need to become a referee?
You need to be physically and mentally prepared and have an excellent knowledge of the Laws of the Game. A Referee should be fair and impartial, operating with honesty and integrity. A Referee should also be able to display excellent man-management skills and have a strong strength of mind and personality
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
My Dad. He used to take me to all of my games early on in my career as I was not old enough to drive. He still comes with me to the vast majority of my matches to offer me support and guidance
In your opinion who is/was the best referee?
Jack Taylor. The last Englishman to officiate in a World Cup Final who still commands the ultimate respect amongst modern day Referees
