Robert and Jack Taylor cherish the honour of being there for one another most weekends when they travel around our local grounds to officiate games together. These pair have been a part of our referee’s branch for over 3 years after sitting the level four referee course together once Jack was of age at 14.
We caught up with Robert to learn about what inspired him to become a referee and what the experience is like getting to officiate a long side his son on a weekly basis.
How long have you been a referee? I’m in my fourth year as a referee.
What made you become a referee? My son Jack had been a cadet referee, and decided to do the full course at age 14. I figured that I would be driving him to games anyway so may as well join him and do the course as well. I was also aware of the general referee shortage in football.
As a father, describe the experience of officiating a game alongside your son. I’m very proud of being able to help Jack in his matches as an AR, and have him help me as an AR. We have a natural understanding where just a brief look between us brings a quick decision. Being able to watch his growth in assertiveness and confidence, and growth generally as a referee from up close has been wonderful. We also have valuable time together to talk on the way to and from matches, where we can discuss the good (and bad) elements of the day’s events.
If you could give one reason to help convince someone to become a local referee, what would that reason be? The feeling of being part of a fast, close and great game of football is far more rewarding than I could have ever expected.
Son Jack (left) and Father Robert (Right) supporting their referee polo and jacket.