Meet The Member – Andy Biggin
Why did you get into refereeing?
I played for 34 years and I was at a point where it was either coaching or refereeing as I was picking up niggly injuries.
What is your current refereeing level?
Currently a level 4. I’ve really enjoyed this season and I am hoping that I can be rewarded for my efforts and potentially promote to level 3.
What is your favourite football team?
I am a Man Utd fan from Cumbria. I met Bryan Robson as a kid opening a New Balance factory near where I lived. I have supported them ever since, through the good times and current ones.
How many years have you been refereeing?
Since 2018. I completed my course through the Army FA, led by Andy Halliday (former premier league assistant referee).
Who is your refereeing idol?
Pierluigi Collina. He was a referee in my younger years who I admired. He had bite, he had personality, and whilst football has evolved, he had that authority about him that made him respected.
What are your current ambitions?
I am fortunate to have a coach, being part of the National Centre of Refereeing Excellence (CORE). I’m 44 this year, so recognise time is not favourable for me to fulfil my ultimate goal of reaching the football league. If I can make it to Level 2b, on the National League north/south, that would be a huge achievement.
What is your proudest achievement?
I have a number of proud moments. Representing the Army in the Inter Services game between RAF V Navy at the Montgomery Waters Stadium. Refereeing the TJ Vickers Cup Final has to be up there as well as being recognised for showing excellence in refereeing, to be selected for National CORE.
Anyone you would like to thank for helping you along the way?
Refereeing can be a lonely place. Having a strong cohort of refereeing colleagues always helps following a difficult game. My CORE coach has been influential, as have a number of match officials within the Telford Referees’ Association. I’d also be nowhere near where I am without the support of both my wife and daughter. They are both lenient to allow my commitment to refereeing and are supportive of my ambition.
Can you tell us a fact that people might not know about you?
I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2016. A life adjustment that can present its own problems during games, due to fluctuations in glucose levels.