Patrick Mitchell

Interview date 29th April, 2006

After a quick trip down to Winston Hills I was able to interview one of our newer GDFRA Members, Patrick Mitchell. Patrick was there to referee two matches then go out himself and play for his beloved Winston Hills Bears. He has only been a member since last year and has decided to follow in his dad’s (Brad) footsteps and take up the whistle. Best of luck Patrick and lets hope you have an enjoyable and successful career.

1. What is your reason for refereeing?

To keep healthy after soccer and to have extra money in the bank.

2. Worst moment in reference to refereeing?

My worst moment was when I had to give my dad’s team the 13’4s, two penalties, coming both from handballs.

3. Best moment in reference to refereeing?

When I had to ref my first ever game in the 10’3s in front of many old referees, including Dinosaur who’s grandson was on one team.

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

It would be that you and only you control the game. No one else matters. From coaches, parents or players don’t listen to what they say.

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

I would sit next to Harry Kewell because he is one of many favorite players in the Australian team. He also plays for my favorite English league team Liverpool and sounds like a great bloke.

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

My interest include playing soccer, playing cricket, riding my bike, reading, science, rugby league and AFL.

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

I would change the recent laws that have been added to the offside rule.

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

To go to the middle of the Amazon and follow the Congo/Nile rivers through Africa.

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

Buy a comic/book to read until I get bored with it then trade it for another comic/book.

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

Yes, I do including singing too loud, poking my brothers, clicking until the person really gets annoyed but my worst is making sounds with my tongue so much so that everybody around me becomes annoyed.

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

Sideline referees.

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

I would compare myself to a minkie whale because I’m big, slow and peaceful. I make very large noises that sometimes angers and annoys people.

13. What are your refereeing/management aspirations?

To become good enough to referee in the A-league, English league and ref in many countries around the world.

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