Assistant Referee Declan Ford
Location: Leicestershire
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
My dad was a referee, as was the manager of the youth team that I played for. The pair of them got me to take the course when I was 14.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Being promoted to the National List as an Assistant, and to level two as a Referee.
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
The Army Cup Final which I refereed in 2006. The whole day was a great occasion, and the game was a 5-5 thriller, eventually decided on penalties.
What are your aims as a National List Assistant Referee?
To line to the best of my ability and at the highest possible level.
What skills do you think you need to become an Assistant Referee?
You need to be fit, both physically and mentally, so that you can fully assist the Referee for the whole game.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
My dad who has helped and supported me from the early days of my career.
In your opinion who is/was the best Assistant Referee?
Mark Warren was the first Assistant that I really noticed as being a top class Assistant.
