Student Refereeing

Officiating university football isn’t just about making calls from the sidelines, it’s a chance for students to grow personally and professionally. From managing fast-paced British Universities and College Sports (BUCS) fixtures to taking charge of high-level academy games, students at the University of Derby are developing key skills such as decision-making, teamwork, communication, and resilience.

Whether they're studying sports-related degrees or pursuing completely different academic paths, our student referees are discovering new perspectives on the game they love, all while earning money, staying active, and opening doors to future opportunities in sport.

Thomas Gibson - 2nd year Football Journalism student

Why Refereeing? 

"I have always been a huge fan of sport, particularly football. When I stopped playing in a team, I realised going into refereeing or football media is the next big thing. The opportunities at university allow me to do both!"

Thomas balances his passion for football with his journalism degree and finds refereeing a natural extension of both interests.

Building Confidence and Leadership

"The experience officiating in BUCS games has been brilliant for my confidence and to keep fit. It's also ideal that I can fit the time in around my studies and other social events—it even allows me to earn money doing something I love."

Through refereeing, Thomas has developed vital soft skills:

"You have to be assertive and confident when officiating, and Derby has helped me grow in that aspect."

Linking Journalism and Refereeing

By combining his journalism background with his officiating, Thomas has had opportunities to learn from the best:

"I sat down with former Premier League referees Mike Dean and Jon Moss last year and discussed some of their greatest memories at the top of the game."

Advice for Future Referees

"I would greatly advise refereeing to anyone who enjoys football. It gives you a different angle of the game and is a fantastic way to learn and earn within sport."

Thomas Lee-Walker - 1st year Biomedical Science student 

Developing On-Pitch Confidence

Through officiating in both BUCS games and external leagues, Thomas has sharpened his decision-making skills and positioning:

"Being a BUCS linesman has allowed me to be more confident in the decisions I give and has helped my positioning—whether that’s spotting fouls or staying level with the last defender."

Gaining Leadership Experience

"My leadership experience has allowed me to communicate with the other referees effectively, so that everything moves along much smoother and there are fewer time delays."

Opportunities Through Refereeing

Thanks to his affiliation and external matches, Thomas has taken on exciting challenges:

• Refereeing Derby vs Everton U17–19
• Being a regular official for higher-level games
• Gaining consistent match experience across formats

"The skills and experiences I’ve gained will definitely help in my refereeing future and in life. I’m more confident in my decisions and able to confer with my team to come to the right outcome."

Final Thoughts

"Keep up the good work and keep offering the BUCS games. They’re a brilliant opportunity for anyone, as long as they can keep up with the play."