Assistant Referee John Farries
Location: Oxfordshire
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
I was introduced to refereeing by a football friend of mine who suggested I do the course. Once I passed the course I started refereeing and I was hooked.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
The highlight of my lining career so far has been making the National List. I was also lucky enough to run the line on the 2003 FA Youth County Cup Final.
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
There have been many games that I have enjoyed, but the game for the Tsunami victims that was played at Anfield was an unbelievable night, with an atmosphere of solidarity that I shall probably never experience again.
What are your aims as a National List Assistant Referee?
To improve game on game, season by season and if that strategy works you never know I may one day make the Select Group.
What skills do you think you need to become an Assistant Referee?
I think the best officials on the list have an ability to shut out all outside influences and are able to focus their concentration on a particular moment in a game.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
I have had great help and support from many individuals, but my biggest critics and my greatest supporters are my wife and seven children.
In your opinion who is/was the best Assistant Referee?
Being an Oxfordshire Referee I'd have to pick Oxfordshire’s greatest Assistant Referee who is now my coach, Rob Harris.
