Assistant Referee Carl Berry
Location: Surrey
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
I first qualified at the age of 16, but after a couple of years I decided to give playing one last go. After a few seasons I realised that refereeing was the way forward, although I had to take the referee’s exam again as my registration had expired!
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Promotion to the National Group of Assistants in 2007.
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
Swansea v Gillingham 2007-2008. Swansea won the fixture and as a result were promoted to the Championship.
What are your aims as a National List Assistant Referee?
I want to earn the respect of my colleagues and finish each match with a smile knowing I gave all three teams 100%.
What skills do you think you need to become a Assistant Referee?
Concentration, awareness, being in tune with the Referee and keeping calm in pressurised situations are at the top of the list.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
There have been quite a few along the way such as Kevin Merchant and Dave Frampton but my dad has been there from the start. He was the one that had to drive me to the local parks at the start of my career and still comes to as many fixtures as possible.
In your opinion who is/was the best Assistant Referee?
I couldn’t name one individual but I firmly believe we have the best Assistant Referees in the world.
