SG Asst Referee John Stokes
John was promoted to the Select Group of Assistant Referees in 2007 and also in that year was appointed as an Assistant Referee to a Football League Play Off Final and the FA Women’s Cup Final.
How did you get introduced to Refereeing?
I was playing football locally and met Jack Blakemore an ex football league assistant. He ran the referees courses and so I enrolled and started refereeing. I was 35 so was a late starter having played football all of my life. I found I really enjoyed it and more importantly wasn’t too bad at it either.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I have quite a few highlights so far in my career. Getting on the National list of assistants was one of the first major ones and my first game at Halifax Town v Mansfield Town. Appointed to the 2007 championship playoff 2nd leg between Derby County v Southampton and being appointed to the League one playoff final at Wembley, Truly great experiences. Most of all being selected to be part of the select group of assistant referees and officiating at the highest level in our professional game a truly great honour.
What is the best game you have officiated?
I loved officiating at Wembley; the whole weekend was just a great feeling and I will never forget it. However for drama the semi final play off between Derby County and Southampton was brilliant, exciting football, extra time and penalties. Everything a game could have was there to see.
What are your aims as a Select Group Assistant Referee?
My aim is to continue to officiate as an assistant on the select group and to maintain the high standards that are required.
What skills do you think you need to become a Select Group Assistant Referee?
A number of skills are required. Commitment and dedication, high level of fitness, concentration and awareness, integrity and honesty and continually aiming to develop professionally and maintain the high standards that are required.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
I couldn’t possibly name one person in particular. However in no particular order Jack Blakemore for actually getting me started, Dave Pugh, Mike Dean who have always been there to advise me. George Cain who was the referee on my first football league game when I was nervous to say the least and Dave Horlick who’s advise on being a assistant is second to none. They and others have all helped me to develop in to an assistant on the select group.
In your opinion who is/was the best Assistant Referee?
The standard of assistant refereeing in this country is the best in the world and would be very difficult to pick one out. However if I have to pick I would pick Phil Sharp as he has been to the very top of our profession and is a shinning example to all.
