THE fourth and final article in a series on Suffolk officials to celebrate Black History Month.

Dave Primus, 59, is a Level 6 official who referees in the Suffolk Youth league, Suffolk & Ipswich League, Ipswich Sunday Morning League, Suffolk Girls’ & Women's League and the Norfolk & Suffolk Veterans’ League.

When did you take up refereeing?

I qualified in 2004. 

Why did you decide to give it a go?

I regularly took my son to youth football and often ran the line as no other adults volunteered plus it stopped me shouting instructions at him!

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a referee?

I love football, so I enjoy the social interaction and feeling the appreciation when a match runs smooth.

What do you think could be done to attract more Black officials?

Reach out in schools, estates and Goals centres or local radio using us referees as representatives.

What would you say to a Black person considering becoming a referee?

We’re all in our late 50s, so we need the next generation to follow us to represent the large minority of BAME footballers. 

Suffolk FA have a Referee course coming up as follows:

Venue: Walsham-le-Willows FC

Dates: Monday, November 20th, 6.30pm-9.30pm and Sunday, November 26th, 9am-5pm

Booking link: https://rebrand.ly/60p7wpn