Select Group Michael Oliver
Michael started refereeing at fourteen years of age and reached the National List of Referees only eight years later, joining his father on the Referees list.
The Oliver family enjoyed a unique refereeing double when dad Clive took charge of the 2009 Football League 2 Play-Off Final and son Michael officiated the next day at the 2009 Football League 1 Play-Off Final
Morpeth Sunday League was his first in senior football and he reached the National List of assistants in 2004. He became the youngest National List match official to referee at Wembley when refereeing the Conference Play Off Final in May 2007.
To add to his ‘youngest ref to...’ titles he became the youngest ref to take charge of a Premier League game when he took charge of Birmingham City against Blackburn Rovers on 21 August 2010.
Michael was 25 years 182 days old and broke Stuart Attwell’s record as the youngest ever Premier League referee.
How did you get introduced to refereeing?
From watching my dad referee locally when I was younger (i.e. 14)
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Being promoted to the National List of Referees in 2007. Refereeing the Nationwide Conference Play Off Final at Wembley, May 2007.
What is the best game you have officiated and why?
Nationwide Conference Final - Exeter v Morecambe - 20.05.07. First Conference Play Off Final held at Wembley, highest final attendance to date. Morecambe won 2-1. A fantastic experience.
What are your aims as a National List Referee?
Initially to establish myself on the list, and then in future years attempt to progress towards the Select Group list
What skills do you think you need to become a referee?
The two main ones I believe are: Man-Management, Awareness
Who has been the biggest influence in your career and why?
My Dad, Clive. Perfect coach to have having refereed at the same level. Willing to listen and lend a hand, but not afraid to tell it like it is.
In your opinion who is/was the best referee?
Pierluigi Collina - He had a presence.
