National Group Fred Graham
Now aged 42, Fred started refereeing in 1988and progressed via local football and the ECL to the National List in 2000 before being promoted to the Referees list in 2004. Unfortunately he only remained at this level for one season and returned to the list of Panel Referees. However he remained committed and was again promoted to the National List of Referees in 2006. Enjoys keeping fit and managing an U-12 boys football team.
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
Used to play Saturdays and Sundays, I got quite badly injured and decided to stop playing at 24. My girlfriend's Dad was a Referee, he suggested doing the course. I completed it in 1988 and the rest is history.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Getting Promoted to the National List in 2004, and even more so, being re-appointed to the list in 2006
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
Purely for passion and entertainment value, the Conference play off semi-final 2nd leg in 2006:-Hereford United 3 Morecambe 2 after extra time.
What are your aims as a National List Referee?
I think like every other Referee, simply to do my best and try and get every decision right. Hopefully, by getting the decisions right, the reward of bigger games will come along, although, and I know it's cheesy, every game is a big one on the Football League
What skills do you think you need to become a referee?
I think the biggest skill is trying to remain calm whilst all around you are getting upset or angry. If you remain calm as a Referee, then you can always remain in control. I also think it is essential to be fit and up with play whenever possible.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
I am in a position where I have numerous quality influences on my game. From grass roots level right up to the present day, I still call upon several different people for advice, because I know that the advice they will give me is of the highest quality.
In your opinion who is/was the best referee?
Bit of an unfair question really to ask me to pick just one Referee. Currently I would have to say Howard Webb. Authorative without being officious, super fit and a great decision maker. In the most recent of years, I would have to say David Elleray. He always personified the ultimate professional in everything he did, both on and off the field of play. And on the few occasions that I have met him, he has always been encouraging and complimentary. From a few years back, and I hope he forgives me for saying that, I would have to say George Courtenay, he had the ability to calm the most difficult of situations.
