James Hunt

Interview date 6h May, 2006

Whilst refereeing at Progress Park (Auburn’s Home Ground) I had the pleasure of having as my Assistant Referee one of GDFRA best and most experienced juniors, James Hunt.  James has been a member since 2004 and has followed his father into the refereeing ranks. You name it, James has done it (as he has listed below).  James was also part of the winning 2005 “Umbro Trophy” Youth League Panel.  For the 2006 season James has taken on the position of Junior Ordinary Member and is relishing the opportunity to represent and help out his fellow junior members.  KEEP IT UP JAMES!
 

1. What is your reason for refereeing?

Great fitness, develop great communication between people, great community & great fun.

2. Worst moment in reference to refereeing?

Probably having a drink bottle hurled at us in a Semi Final last year.

3. Best moment in reference to refereeing?

Where do I start, State Titles, 4th Official on Youth League Grand Final, Champions of Champions Grand Final, Premier League Grand Final, Thistle Cup and Cotton Cup Grand Finals… but probably just getting out there every weekend and being “the ref”.

4. What would be the best advice you could pass on to another referee?

Go with your gut, what ever appointments you get do them, ENJOY YOURSELF!!!  It’s your weekend as well.

5. On a long plane trip who would you most like to sit next to and why?

Probably Mark Shield or Pier Lugi Collina

6. What other hobbies/interests do you have apart from refereeing?

Absolutely anything sport related I adore, also talking and hanging out with mates (although quite hard to do when I’m refereeing for 18 hours a weekend).  I also like wearing my RED referee shirt.

7. If there was one thing you could change in regards to refereeing/laws what would it be?

None, referees should learn to adopt and adhere to the changes in the FIFA Law Book.

8. If you had a chance to go on the ultimate holiday where/what would it be?

South America, always enjoy watching those games on TV. Wonder what it would be like to ref one of those.

9. If you were down to your last $5 what would you spend it on?

Knowing me, probably a Fox 40, a set of cards or something like that.

10. Do you have any bad habits and if so what one is the worst?

In reference to refereeing I have one.  When players start going off at me I just smile at them. Also getting sunburnt.  I should also mention wearing my RED referee shirt at home.  Not in reference to refereeing, probably annoying my mates and/or family talking about refereeing all the time.

11. What is your pet hate in reference to refereeing?

Referees not turning up on time (30 mins at least).  Also with everyone giving new referees (especially juniors) different tips and advice.  They are going to learn by experience and that is the only way that they are going to pick up these little tricks along the way. Also not being able to wear my RED referee shirt.

12. If you compared yourself to an animal what would it be and why?

A dog, always loyal and nice… but sometimes I can bite back.

13. What are your refereeing/management aspirations?

To get as far as I can possibly can get and maybe beyond that. Also to help out up and coming juniors if they need any help or queries.  I nearly forgot to add, eventually getting the chance to wear my RED referee’s shirt during a game.

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