A Giant of Football: Honoring the Life and Legacy of Les Coffman

Remembering Les Coffman, the Pillar of New Zealand Football Refereeing

Les Coffman, a life member of New Zealand Football and an iconic figure in the refereeing world, has passed away at the age of 95. Revered as a referee, coach, and assessor over nearly six decades, Coffman left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. His immense contribution to football was aptly chronicled by historian Jeremy Ruane for the Auckland Soccer Referees’ Association, and excerpts of his profile are shared with permission.

Les Coffman QSM: The Man Behind the Whistle

Early Beginnings and a Remarkable Journey

Les Coffman’s refereeing career began in June 1957 at Auckland Domain, but his journey in football officiating had already started years earlier in England. Bringing six years of experience from across the globe, Coffman quickly made his mark in New Zealand. For over 20 years, he officiated high-stakes games across the nation, including his final National League match in 1979 at Allen Hill Stadium.

Post-retirement from active refereeing, Coffman’s passion found new avenues. As an administrator, coach, and assessor, he played a pivotal role in nurturing New Zealand’s refereeing standards. His expertise saw him involved in FIFA international matches, including World Cup qualifiers.

Milestone Matches and Memorable Moments

Among his many achievements, Coffman’s officiation of matches between Auckland and Manchester United in 1968 and New Zealand against the English FA XI in 1969 stand out. That same year, earning his FIFA badge solidified his international reputation.

Known affectionately as “Centre Circle Coffman” for his methodical style, Les occasionally defied his own principles. A rare departure from his usual reserved approach came during a match at Newmarket Park in 1979 when he famously covered the entire pitch—an uncharacteristic gesture in response to the game’s intensity.

Coffman’s anecdotes remain legendary, such as disallowing five goals from Blockhouse Bay at Anderson Park or being named “Man of the Match” by National League players. His sharp decision-making and sense of humor enriched his legacy.

A Lifelong Devotion to the Beautiful Game

Les Coffman often referred to his 40 years in refereeing as “a short time.” His entry into officiating was serendipitous. While serving in the Royal Air Force, he was reprimanded for criticizing a referee, leading to his first exposure to the rulebook—a pivotal moment that shaped his career.

In 1993, his extraordinary contributions were recognized with the Queen’s Service Medal (QSM). Beyond football, Coffman’s wife Kath also held national titles in table tennis, embodying a shared legacy of sporting excellence.

A Legacy Etched in Football History

Les Coffman’s unwavering dedication to New Zealand football transcended generations. From refereeing high-profile matches to mentoring aspiring officials, his influence will continue to inspire. His story is not just about refereeing; it’s about commitment, resilience, and an enduring love for the game.

As the football community mourns his passing, we also celebrate a life richly lived in service to the sport we all cherish.