Former Hereford player Peter Vincenti is training to become a referee.
He has joined a scheme based at Warwick University along with 15 other former players which is a collaboration between players union the PFA and elite refereeing body PGMOL. It is being funded by the Premier League.
Vincenti had a 14 year long playing career with eight different clubs including Hereford. He hopes his experience as a player will count when as a referee he gets abuse.
“We have already experienced that in our playing careers,” said Vincenti.
“You have situations as a player where your form dips and people are on your back.
“You know it [abuse] is going to happen but we have a thick skin. It’s not at the forefront of my mind, otherwise I wouldn’t be here. I prefer to look at the more positive aspects.”
The group will be monitored and if they show promise fast-tracked.