Playing in the National League will bring a whole host of new experiences for Dale, including a new list of match officials.

We will see the first of those on Saturday when GARRETH RHODES referees our opening fixture of the season at home to Ebbsfleet United.

Based in Selby, Garreth is an Operations Manager for a construction company and as a youngster, he had trials with professional clubs and represented West Riding County FA at U18 level.

He didn’t make it into the professional game, but went on to play for Tadcaster Albion and Selby Town in the Northern Counties East League.

Injuries brought Mr Rhodes’ playing career to a premature end and he started refereeing in 2008. After 10 years he reached his current level of Panel Select referee and is starting sixth season at National League level.

In November 2019, Garreth refereed Ebbsfleet in their 1-1 draw at Stockport and last season he officiated at 17 National League fixtures, showing 59 yellow cards and two red cards.

Photo: Action Images

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