Hari Fovakis recently embarked on his officiating career as a football referee with Central Football, starting midway through the 2024 season.

With a strong commitment to contributing to the local football community, Hari is excited to bring his passion for the sport to the middle of the park and foster a positive atmosphere for players and supporters alike.

Hari’s shift to refereeing is shaped by his own personal experiences.  After suffering injuries that limited his playing career, he sought a way to remain engaged with the game. "I wanted to stay involved and give back to the sport I love," he shares. This desire led him to officiating, a choice that has brought him both fulfilment and new challenges.

So far, Hari’s experience has been overwhelmingly positive. "I’ve met some fantastic local referees and Central Football officials, and it’s been great working with them," he comments. Whether he's in the centre of the action or acting as an Assistant Referee, Hari appreciates the complexities of the game. He finds joy in the challenges posed by the laws of the game and the players; it’s not just about maintaining order—it's about staying engaged and contributing to the sport.
 

Referee Manager Matt Wallace is thrilled to welcome Hari to the officiating community, stating, "Hari is a dedicated and enthusiastic referee with a strong eagerness to learn. I'm looking forward to following his progress and seeing where this journey leads him."

Hari also encourages young people to consider refereeing as a way to stay involved in football. "If playing at a higher level isn’t your goal, getting involved as a referee through your local high school is a great option. There’s so much you can do in this role – the world is your oyster." This sentiment reflects his belief that officiating is not only a way to remain connected to the game but also an opportunity to positively impact the community.

Hari’s passion for football began as a young child. He started playing junior football at six in Palmerston North, progressing through various representative teams for Manawatu. His playing career included stints with senior teams at Takaro, Marist, Riverside, and Red Sox.

His love for football is deeply rooted, inspired by his father, who imparted a passion for the game. Hari vividly recalls watching the 1982 All Whites compete in Spain at the age of nine, a moment that solidified his lifelong commitment to football.

As the 2025 season unfolds, we look forward to witnessing Hari's growth as a referee and the positive influence he will undoubtedly have on young players and the broader football community. Whether on the field as a player or as an official, Hari Fovakis embodies the spirit of the sport through his dedication and appreciation for football.

Article added: Thursday 22 May 2025