International referees’ spotlight - Paul Whittle

How did you get into refereeing? When did you become an international referee? 

I started out as a line judge in Blackpool in 2009, and then went on to complete my first Beach Volleyball refereeing course in 2011.

I then advanced to being selected for the London 2012 Olympics, where I was required to be a qualified referee.

Following the Games, I continued to referee on the VEBT (as it was then) and into the UKBT. Most recently, I completed my International Course in July 2023 in Leuven, Belgium and I am now a qualified international referee.

What is your favourite thing about refereeing? 

My favourite aspect of refereeing is the opportunity to be part of the sport and provide players with a platform to showcase their skills.

What advice would you give to someone starting out as a referee? 

Every match is a learning opportunity. Whether you think you did well or not, you can take something from every match. 

What has been your biggest achievement as a referee? 

My greatest achievement in my refereeing journey has been successfully completing my International Course in 2023, as this is something I worked very hard for.