National Group Richard Beeby
Works as a planning officer in local government and a life member at Northamptonshire CCC, also enjoys a game of golf. Promoted to The National List of Referees in 1999 and has had a successful career to date refereeing FL Play Off Semi Finals in 2004, 2005 and 2007, and a final in 2004. In season 2004-05 he refereed matches in the Premier League In 2005 he refereed the FA Vase Final.
How did you get introduced into refereeing?
I played locally in Northampton as a goalkeeper and broke my neck in a challenge. I couldn't play following this incident so became an Assistant Manager but whilst I enjoyed the coaching, I was bored during the game itself. I wanted to be active during the match so I attended the referee’s course and loved it.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
3 games stand out for me. My first game as a Football League Referee (Southend United v Plymouth Argyle 1999), refereeing a Play Off Final at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff (Bristol City v Brighton HA 2004) and refereeing the FA Vase Final at White Hart Lane (Didcott v AFC Sudbury 2005).
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
The best game tension/profile etc was Barnet v Torquay United - with the losers being relegated to the Conference.
What are your aims as a National List Referee?
To enjoy the wonderful opportunities refereeing gives me and to officiate at the highest level possible to the best of my ability.
What skills do you think you need to become a referee?
In my opinion the more important skill is awareness. If a referee is aware of what is going on around him and can anticipate what is about to occur then he is a better referee. This is coupled with the ability to manage people and situations and the ability to sell decisions.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
3 influences. First Jim Wilkinson, Northamptonshire Football Association Director, who mentored my from the start through to contributory standard. Secondly Peter Roberts (National Assessor) who taught me how to referee in the professional environment. And thirdly the late Peter Foakes (PGMOL Coach) who saw me through my early years on the National List.
In your opinion who is/was the best referee?
For me Jack Taylor. Why - the 1974 World Cup Final was the first I can remember watching throughout, I've actually meet Jack, the only world cup referee I have, and whenever I have been in his company he treats all people with utmost respective, affords people time and gives sound advice. A truly great man.
