Bhupinder Singh Gill will become the first Sikh-Punjabi to act as assistant referee in the Premier League when he runs the line at St Mary’s Stadium on Wednesday for Southampton’s game against Nottingham Forest.
“This has to be the proudest and most exciting moment in my refereeing journey so far, but I’m not getting carried away as it is just another step in the direction to where I want to get to,” Singh Gill said.
“Hopefully this is another moment to help to inspire the next generation to sign up to a refereeing course and get into officiating. My dream has always been to reach the top of the game, be a role model for future officials and encourage more people from diverse backgrounds into officiating, especially from a South Asian background just like me.”
Singh Gill, a PE teacher, usually officiates in the Sky Bet Championship and is a member of the 28-strong development group of referees in the Premier League’s new Elite Referee Development Plan (ERDP).
“I think the ERDP has been a breath of fresh air for match officials,” Singh Gill said. “Many officials have been given development games and it’s been pleasing to see they’ve delivered them very successfully.
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“It’s not only development games though, there are opportunities outside of match days too — such as joining strength and conditioning sessions with higher-positioned officials, as well as attending training camps and meetings at the level above, and that’s really aiding with the development and progression of officials.”