Lee Probert says he is going to miss refereeing at the highest level after announcing his retirement as a Select Group 1 match official.
A long-standing back injury has forced the 47-year-old to hang up the whistle after two decades in the game and 181 Premier League matches to his name.
"I've loved every one of them," he told premierleague.com. "They're all very memorable. They're all nice stadiums to go to, fantastic atmospheres. I'm going to miss it."
Probert has fond memories of taking charge of the FA Cup final between Arsenal and Hull City, an honour bestowed upon only those referees at the very top of their game.
Learning curve
But that five-goal thriller was a far cry from the goalless draw 12 years ago that he still regards as his baptism of fire.
"A 0-0 draw between Bolton and Middlesbrough in November 2007 - that was a tough one," he said. "It probably won't last long in the memory of football fans but it sticks in my mind as I was new to the Premier League.
"I had Kevin Davies on one side and David Wheater on the other and they were both managing the game better than I was! It wasn't my best performance but I definitely learnt from it."
New opportunities
Probert now hopes to use his vast experience in his next role.
"The good thing is that while we've been refereeing, the PGMOL have offered us opportunities to further our education at colleges and universities," he said.
"I've done a degree at Gloucester University and my plan now is to work with Par4 Sports, offering training camps in Spain for amateurs and professionals from every sport."
The Referees' Association would like to thank Lee for his service to the game, and we look forward to working with him in the future.
Our Partnerships
Partnerships are often formed between individuals, agencies or organisations with a shared interest to address specific issues. Our evidence reveals that our members young and old often require mental, emotional, financial, medical help, support and guidance. The Referees’ Association champion the work of those agencies that provide this support in times of need. Should you require support please contact the relevant agency below or the RA Head Office.
Learn more
Join the Referees Association
The National RA recommends that prospective members should join through their local LRA, the easiest way being to attend one of the many local association meetings that take place across the country on a regular (usually monthly) basis. Find your nearest branch now.
Alternatively, online membership is now available for any referee who wishes to take up central membership. The National RA will then allocate you a local branch. Join now.