- Name?
James Emanuel
- Age?
40 (but you would never know it)
- How long have you been refereeing?
Since 1997 (7 years)
- What Level are you and what leagues do you officiate on?
Level 5 Cambs Premier, Senior A & B, Cambs div 1.
- Why did you become a Referee?
To put something back into the game as I have stopped playing and passionate about football. To keep reasonably fit. I enjoy this different type of contact with people that referring brings rather than in my work environment.
- Most inspirational person in your refereeing?
Glen Sandell a Ridgeons ref in my previous society in Norwich, Norfolk.
- Most memorable moment since refereeing
Hunts Lower Junior Cup Final last year 2003. Both enjoyable and controversial. ( the Hunts Post headlines agreed as well).
- What is the funniest moment in any of your games?
A dog running on the pitch on a Sunday morning league game in Norfolk and chewing the ball. It was quickly replaced. (the ball not the dog!)
- What is the worst or frustrating moment in any of your games?
Knowing that I had made a wrong technical decision that could have influenced the game and then kicked myself for it in the changing room afterwards. ( I am very critical of myself)
- What ambitions do you have whether refereeing or having given up the whistle…
In one year?
Continue to learn and develop at this level
In five years?
Maintain a reasonable all round standard of performance.
In ten years?
Still enjoy and keep reasonably fit.
- Before each game you officiate on, what aims do you have?
To educate players, ensure I have the correct equipment and try not to let anybody down.
- What most frustrates you on the field?
Dissent. The lack of respect that players and managers have for somebody who ensures a game of football is able to take place. Referees do not criticise the inability of players who miss easy goal scoring opportunities.!!!!!
- What pleases you most on the field?
Smiling …..and a good performance by the players and myself.
- What one change, if any, would you like to see in today’s game?
A SIN BIN introduced for an allotted time (10 mins) as a replacement for a second yellow card. A third yellow would equate to a red card.
- Is there any one piece of advice you would give to anyone considering taking up the whistle?
Smile, learn and enjoy. If you can’t then don’t do it !!!!!
- Is there any one piece of advice you would give to another referee?
Its good to talk… to your colleagues.
- Hobbies & Interests outside of football?
Fishing and I have recently taken a liking to red wine. (all varieties)
- Who is your favourite footballer of all time?
Probably David Beckham. I have changed my opinion of him as he has a massive influence on everybody connected to football.