Gary Keane has recently joined Westmorland FA as new referee for the 24/25 season, and what’s special about Gary is he's a man on a mission! 

During a recent referee course, Gary stated that he has a clear goal in life. “I like to do things that people with my disability don’t normally do.”

Well, Gary is certainly doing that by becoming a football referee! 

Living with Fragile X syndrome can make some day-to-day and learning tasks a bit difficult for Gary, but his sheer determination certainly isn’t affected. Gary completed the FA  Referee Course last month, and on Sunday proudly walked onto the field of play with the match ball to referee Grange v Craven Wanderers in the Kent Valley League! 

A close game that saw well-managed free-kicks, offside decisions and a penalty, was brought to a safe conclusion by Gary and is evidence to all within the football community that this game can be enjoyed by everyone. 

Whilst we celebrate Gary's great achievements, its important to recognise the contribution made by the players, coaches and spectators on Sunday! This was a great environment for any new referee, and a game played in great spirits with some goals and saves living up to Match of the Day quality. It’s a shame Lee Carsley wasn’t watching!   

On Monday night, Gary was back at Westmorland FA referee training, as he is gearing up to take charge of Kendal United v Appleby on Sunday in the SM Jones Trophy, sponsored by Bowes Dairy.