Bhupinder Singh Gill will live out the latest chapter of his football dream on Wednesday evening when he runs the line in Nottingham Forest's clash with Southampton.
The 37-year-old father of two will become the first Sikh-Punjabi assistant referee to officiate in a Premier League game after following in the footsteps of his brother Sunny Singh Gill, who earlier this season became the first British South Asian to referee an EFL game since their father Jarnail Singh, the first turbaned referee in English league football history.
Singh Gill said: “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. My family are also really proud and excited for me. I wouldn’t be in this situation if it wasn’t for my dad, who has supported me throughout my journey and been a role model for me.
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“He’s taken leave from work to make sure he attends the game alongside my wife and son. It’ll be special to have them there.”
A PE teacher by trade, Singh Gill – who qualified as a referee at the age of 14 – is hoping to inspire the next generation of officials, and particularly those from a South Asian background.
He said: “Hopefully this is another moment to help 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.”
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