We are delighted to welcome Isaac Blakey to the Berks & Bucks FA team.

Isaac joins the organisation in the role of Referee Training Officer and is responsible for the delivery of our Referee Courses and for providing a more structured training and mentoring support pathway for Referees looking to develop, especially those in the early stages of their careers (post course), to help them navigate their journey as an official.

Growing up as a passionate Reading FC supporter, Isaac started his football journey playing for local grassroots teams as a goalkeeper. He completed the Referee Course at the age of 14 with the Berks & Bucks FA and has since progressed to a Level 4 Referee, officiating on the Hellenic League. In addition to his own Refereeing career, as an FA Tutor since 2019 and former Referee Development Officer at Bedfordshire FA, Isaac has dedicated his time and expertise to supporting up and coming referees.

Away from the football pitch, Isaac has a sports coaching background working in various schools to deliver PE provision, is a very keen cricketer and has a passion for live music.

On his appointment, Isaac said: “I am very pleased to have joined the Berks & Bucks FA as the Referee Training Officer. As a proud Berks & Bucks FA Referee myself, I am really looking forward to working with and supporting the next generation of referees from our county. I want to make refereeing as accessible and inclusive as possible for people in our county, providing them with opportunities to develop their skills as both match officials and people.

"We will work tirelessly to ensure that we are creating a positive environment for new and upcoming referees, providing them with the support that they need. Our next FA Cup Final referee is out there somewhere – we just need to find them!”

To get in touch with Isaac, please email or call via 01235 544890. To find out more about referee courses, training and mentoring click here.

Alternatively, please visit the Board & Staff section of our website for more information.