When it comes to North Coast Football, young groover Lex Weiley is a man for all scenarios.
The 17-year-old St John Paul College student plays in the elite Coastal Premier League and is also a fast-rising star in the refereeing ranks, nevermind that he only took up the whistle last October.
And he’s been kinda busy in his emerging role as an official.
“Mostly centres for 13s, 14s, 15s and 16s, run the line for 17s, and I’ve done a few lines for NPL and I’ve done a CPL line,” Lex said.
Despite his relatively short time in the middle, he’s more than impressed – so much so he’s been named the Newcastle Permanent Referee of the Month.
Lex is also active as a player, representing Coffs Coast Tigers in the CPL reserves, while toying with dipping a toe in the coaching ranks next season.
“I wouldn’t mind having a go at coaching Under 6s or something like that,” the Year 12 student said.
“It’s simple. I love sport and I love soccer.”
In this week where the role of referees is especially celebrated, Lex noted that most players and fans were generally appreciative of the role of officials.
“In some of the big games you can get a few who get a bit fiery, but it’s important to just keep cool and keep being yourself,” he said.
And there’s one truism we should all reflect upon – if there’s no referee, there’s no game.
