Willie Conquer achieves FIFA Accreditation for the Fifth Year running.

The Webmaster caught up with Willie and asked a few questions:

WM - This is the 5th year running you have been successful in achieving FIFA Assistant Referee status, that’s some achievement. Is it any different from when you first started?

WC - I feel as proud now as I did when I was first nominated. An achievement that I never imagined.

WM – You knew you had been nominated in November last year.  How does it feel during the time between that stage and getting the information that you have been accepted?

WC - It has become easier for me as the years have passed but still a nervous time until the email arrives in your inbox from the SFA.

WM – You pass various fitness tests in Scotland along with the other Senior Listed Officials.  Is there a FIFA Fitness Test that you have to endure along the way?

WC - The fitness test is now the same test in Scotland as we do for FIFA which is line with the rest of Europe and this is done in the Autumn.

WM – So, when does your European season start?  Do you have any idea of the Countries, Teams or Stadiums you will be included in?

WC - The season really starts as early as June, however due to the FIFA badge being valid from 1st January until the 31st December it can start anytime. You do not have a clue where you could end up but it’s a special feeling when you get the call to say you have been appointed to a foreign appointment.

WM – You’ve travelled the length and breadth of Europe during this part of your career; What’s the most exciting game you’ve been involved in?

WC - There have been a couple of games in the past few years that have been exciting, however the 1 that sticks out was Steau Bucharest Vs Fenerbahce as the winners of that match went into the later stages of the Europa League. The match finished 0-1 to Fenerbahce and the game was held up for several minutes due to rockets etc. ending up on the pitch!

WM – And the best stadium where you’ve been an official?

WC - Just winning it has to be the Olympic Stadium in Rome home to Lazio.

WM – Do you have a funny story, entertaining event of any of your trips?

WC - Too many to mention but to make you laugh of the 19 foreign trips I have been on I have lost my luggage on 5 occasions which you do see the funny side or the other boys do anyway!!!

WM – There are always fellow Referees in the Fife Association who are looking to get to the top of their career, just like you have done.  What advice or tips can you offer them that would help them achieve this?

WC - You have to work hard at your game, including working hard on your fitness and take on all advice that is given to you from any of the advisory panel to start with and then as you start progressing through the grades keep raising your game. I would also advise to speak to the guys and girls within the Association who are on the senior list to gain experience at all levels on the way up!!

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