Sunday's Illawarra Premier League Grand Final will see a 23-year record fall when 22-year-old Nick Ryan becomes the youngest referee to take charge of the region's showpiece fixture.

 

Ryan admits he is honoured to be refereeing his first Premier League Grand Final but says that won't be on his mind when he strides on to Win Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

 

“Referees, just like players and coaches, aim to be in a grand final and to be given the opportunity is something that means a lot to me,” Ryan said.

 

“[Being the youngest Premier League Grand Final referee] is definitely an achievement to be proud of but I won't be focusing too much on it at this stage.”

 

“My focus is more around preparing for the game and refereeing to the best of my ability, however, it definitely will be something to look back on.”

 

Ryan was in control of last season's Premier Youth League decider and since his ability with the whistle has seen him referee a number of high-profile matches including the Preseason Cup Final and key Premier League finals matches.

 

Ryan puts his strong season down to taking in information from those around him on where he can improve his game.

 

“I would put it down to continually working on my refereeing skills and taking the opportunity to learn from other referees and assessors,” Ryan said.

 

“I’ve had the privilege to work with referees with experience in the NSW Premier League and A-League who have taught me a lot."

 

"I’ve also learnt so much from many of the other referees in the Illawarra who keep pushing me to improve.”

 

The man who will see his record broken is Bobby Mazevski who was 25-years-old when he refereed Port Kembla against Lysaghts in the 1995 Grand Final. Mazevski will be Ryan's Fourth Official on Sunday and he believes the match is in capable hands.

 

"Nick is a bright young prospect who has earned his spot with some consistent performances with the whistle this year," Mazevski said.

 

"I am glad to be a part of his team in this historic occasion and I am sure he will do a fine job."

Photo by John Carusi