Northern NSW Football is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of NNSW State League Football Referees’ oldest member and Life Member Bill Jones.
Jones joined the Newcastle Football Referees association in 1954 and was one of the founding members of the NNSW State League Football Referees when it was established in 1971.
Throughout his time involved with the association, Jones held the position of treasurer for 11 years before he stepped into the role of secretary for three years.
Jones refereed more than 500 first division games throughout his career and was selected as a referee for the Phillips Soccer League. He was also appointed as a match official in numerous international club and national team matches. One highlight was Jones’ appointment as a referee when a Northern NSW representative side took on then English first division club Middlesbrough FC in 1975.
Jones was also part of the Australian Soccer Referees Federation and the Affiliated Australian Soccer Referees Federation, where he represented referees involved in officiating junior and senior football.
NNSWF General Manager Referee Growth & Development Brad Carlin said Jones’ loss would be felt across the entire referee community.
“I don't normally use the word legend to describe a person too often but that’s exactly what Bill was to referees locally, across the state and nationally,” Carlin said.
“Bill was an outstanding referee who achieved some remarkable accomplishments and was also an incredible administrator in football.
“He was a genuinely wonderful person and his loss will be felt across the northern NSW region.”
Northern NSW Football sends its condolences to Jones’ family and friends.
