A SENIOR tutor at Ashton Sixth Form College who is also a qualified match official has expressed his pride in being appointed to his first televised football game.
Mark Bates began refereeing when he was 14 years old and, just two years later, had progressed to adult football.
After taking a break, he took up the whistle again in 2018 and had progressed to Level 3 in the pyramid by 2022.
Mark now operates as a referee at steps three and four of the non-league pyramid, as well as an assistant referee at step two.
Having finished high on the merit list following a fine 2023/24 season, he was chosen to run the line on the recent National League North play-off final.
With the game broadcast live on TNT Sports, Boston United beat Brackley Town 2-1 in front of 3,074 fans at Brackley’s St James’ Park ground.
Mark says officiating has helped to advance his ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure.
The aim over the next few seasons is to be promoted to the Football League as an assistant referee.
“I was thrilled and honoured to be appointed to this prestigious game,” said Mark.
“It was exciting as it was my first televised game. I am pleased and proud to have made the first big decision of the game eight minutes into the match, which was to correctly disallow a goal.
“If any students are interested in becoming a referee, I would be happy to spend some time with them and give them advice.”