National Group Robert Madley
Location: W. Yorkshire
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
I played as a junior at a good standard and was released at 16 by a Championship teams’ School of Excellence. I was slightly disillusioned with playing at the time and was advised to take the course. I passed along with my older brother Andy, who is also National List Assistant, in December 2001 and progressed from there.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Being appointed onto the National List of Assistant Referees was a major highlight as well as being appointed to the Panel List of Referees in the same season. I would also place my first Championship game at Sheffield United v Charlton Athletic right up there as well.
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
The appointment as Assistant Referee for the International Friendly between England and Spain U16s at the new Wembley Stadium has to be the best game. I always dreamed of gracing the hallowed turf as a player and to be a part of the first team of English referees to officiate a match there and to climb up the famous steps to collect a memento was a dream come true.
What are your aims as a National List Assistant Referee?
My aims are simple: Be the best I possibly can, to enjoy every single game and to learn from my vastly experienced colleagues, the referees, assistants and assessors. Of course everybody would love to be part of the Select Group or to referee on the National List, but as long as I can say after a game hand on heart that I have given my all, and given my colleagues 100%, then anything else is a massive bonus.
What skills do you think you need to become an Assistant Referee?
Mental and physical fitness/awareness are vital. I think the ability to tune into the way a referee is controlling the game is a crucial skill, but whilst at times you need to stand up and make the big decisions, I think it is important to remember that our primary role is to ‘assist’ the referee and not ‘insist’.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
There really are too many to name them all! My parents, brother Andy and girlfriend Rachel are always there for support which is crucial! Since I started refereeing Chris Spurr (Wakefield FA) has given me a lot of support, guidance and advice. As I’ve progressed over the past few years the added input of close friends such as Jon Moss, Mark Haywood and Dave Richardson has been fantastic, if at times a little ‘honest’! These guys are always on the end of the phone, whether that be all three for football; music advice from Mark or fashion advice from Jon, most importantly they have never once allowed my feet to leave the ground.
In your opinion who is/was the best Assistant Referee?
Phil Sharp’s achievements in the game are incredible and are difficult to top. I have learned an enormous amount from Dave Richardson and he is also undoubtedly an Assistant I admire greatly.
