Assistant Referee Paul Thompson
Location: Derbyshire
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
I started refereeing on the Chesterfield Sunday League after giving up playing at 28. I progressed through the Central Midlands League on Saturdays, the Northern Counties League, then on the Panel and fortunately onto the Football League.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Being promoted to the Football League Assistant Referees list, for the fact that I thought it had passed me by and came totally out of the blue. It just goes to show that you can never say never.
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
There have been many games of note. The Sunday Cup Final played at Anfield, FA Cup Third Round matches, one FA Cup Forth Round game, the Central Midlands Cup Final and my first Football League game. Every game is a highlight because you always take something out of it.
What are your aims as a National List Assistant Referee?
My aims are to be consistent and to keep my standards up that I have set myself and hopefully reach as high as I can.
What skills do you think you need to become an Assistant Referee?
Good man management, fitness and good teamwork. Most important of all though – to enjoy what you do.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
There are a few. You need the backing of your family because of the time and commitment away from them. Stuart Ainley, Central Midlands Referees Secretary at the time pushing you all the way but also keeping you in check when needed. Peter Rapson of the Chesterfield Sunday league for starting me off and for still supporting me now.
Friends and colleagues who helped out so I could do the games without losing time off work. Glenn Turner just to show that a local lad can reach the very top and also help when needed.
In your opinion who is/was the best Assistant Referee?
Glenn Turner for what he has achieved as well as Phil Sharp, plus all the others who operate at this level.
