Veteran referee calls it a day
South African international referee Jerome Damon retired from football on Tuesday after an 18-year career in the game.
Damon, who made his refereeing debut in the 1996/97 season, informed the SA Football Association of his decision earlier in the day.
"After a very long introspection, prayer and consultation, I have decided to call an end to my active duty on the Safa national panel of match officials," said Damon.
The former Premier Soccer League Referee of the Season said he was unable to train regularly anymore and wanted to focus on his teaching career.
Damon was Referee of the Season in 2004/05 and 2008/09. He was stand-by referee for the 2006 World Cup in Germany, and was selected to officiate in the 2010 World Cup on home soil.
He was a familiar face on the African continent as he handled the 2004, 2006, 2008, and 2010 Africa Cup of Nations matches.
"I have certainly enjoyed every single moment of serving on this county's highest panel as first an assistant referee, and then as a referee," Damon said.
(File photo:Gallo Images)