Adrian Arndt Calls Time On Remarkable 23-Year Refereeing Career

This weekend’s National Premier Leagues Men’s NSW First Grade fixture at Seymour Shaw Park will mark the end of an outstanding 23-year refereeing career for one of NSW’s most respected match officials, Adrian Arndt.

Like many referees, Adrian’s football journey began as a player before he took up the whistle at just 14 years of age, joining the St George Football Referees Association in 2004.

From the beginning, Adrian showed a strong commitment to developing his craft, regularly attending training and progressing through the local refereeing pathway. His dedication was rewarded when he was appointed to the St George Association Premier League Grand Final at just 18 years old.

In 2010, Adrian’s potential was recognised on the national stage when he attended the Football Australia National Youth Championships in Coffs Harbour, where he was named Referee of the Tournament. This achievement earned him selection into Football Australia’s National Talent Pool and the former Foxtel National Youth League, where he officiated for five seasons between 2010/11 and 2014/15.

Adrian made his NSW NPL Men’s debut in 2011 before joining the NSW State League Football Referees Branch in 2012, continuing his progression as one of the state’s leading officials.

Throughout his career, Adrian gained valuable international experience, including participation in the Dallas Cup in the United States. In 2017, he was selected for an exchange program between Football Australia and the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), travelling to England for three weeks to referee in the U23 competition and learn from English Premier League officials and instructors.

During his time at state level, Adrian received numerous accolades recognising his performances and contribution as a match official. His honours include:

• Laurie Ang Rookie of the Year (2012)
• Under 20s Men’s Referee of the Year (2012)
• NPL Men’s Referee of the Year (2020)

Adrian’s career has also included several prestigious finals and major appointments across Football NSW competitions, including refereeing the 2017 Waratah Cup Final between Hakoah Sydney City East and APIA Leichhardt Tiger and the 2021 NPL Men’s NSW Grand Final between Rockdale Ilinden and Sydney United 58. He was also fourth official for the 2023 Waratah Cup Final between Sydney United 58 and APIA Leichhardt FC.

His achievements extended to the national stage, where Adrian officiated Australia Cup Round of 32 and Round of 16 matches. In 2017, he was appointed referee for the NPL Series Grand Final between Brisbane Strikers and Heidelberg United.

During his time on the Football Australia National Referees Panel from 2014/15 to 2019/20, Adrian was appointed as an A-League Men’s Fourth Official on 31 occasions, further highlighting his standing among Australia’s leading match officials.

Adrian’s 23 years as a referee is a testament to his dedication, professionalism and passion for football.

Beyond his performances on the field, Adrian has been a valued leader and mentor within the refereeing community, making a significant contribution to both the St George Football Referees Association and Football NSW Referees Branch.

Football NSW congratulates Adrian on an outstanding career and thanks him for his commitment, service and contribution to football across NSW.

While the whistle may be put away, Adrian’s legacy within the refereeing community will continue to inspire the next generation of match officials.