The news of the passing of Douglas Downie was a shock to everyone who knew him even although it was known that his general health had been deteriorating gradually for some considerable time. Notwithstanding it was upsetting to lose a colleague, friend, integral member of the EDRA, and a member of the refereeing family.
Douglas started refereeing in the mid 60’s and one of the photographs (1 below) depicts him heading the group at training, and I’m sure some of the older members might also recognise other well-known faces of the time. Douglas was an extremely fit individual so unsurprisingly was always out at the front setting the perfect example for others (particularly the new members) something which he maintained throughout his career.
After achieving senior list status (Cat3A) in season 1969/70 he quickly progressed to Cat2 in 72/73 and ultimately to Cat1 in season 74/75 which he maintained for 12 years retiring (through age at the time) in 1986. It is also worth noting that Douglas refereed two Scottish Junior Cup Semi-Finals before achieving Cat1, the first in season 71/72 and the second in 73/74. I feel it would be safe to say that in the twelve years officiating at the top-level Douglas had more than achieved his personal ambitions. Appointments to fixtures in the top division of the SFL was very much the norm as was that of the Scottish Cup culminating in the appointment to the semi-final in 1980 between Rangers and Aberdeen.
It’s a well-known fact that not everyone manages to achieve Cat1 status and even fewer make the FIFA list, yet Douglas achieved exactly that in 1979 and remained on the list until 1981. During his time, he received ten appointments the most prestigious of which included a World Cup Qualifier between Rep of Ireland and Denmark as linesman, two UEFA Euro Qualifiers and most notably a UEFA Cup Semi-Final as linesman to Bobby Davidson involving Club Brugge and Hamburger.
His refereeing record is one that stands as a testament to his dedication, resilience, and unwavering professionalism. He was a familiar face on pitches across Scotland, respected not only for his command of the game but also for his ability to remain composed and fair under pressure. Colleagues often remarked about his meticulous preparation ahead of fixtures and his insistence on the highest possible standards, both for himself and those around him, something I personally experienced when appointed as his 3A linesman (assistant).
Yet what truly set Douglas apart was the camaraderie and mentorship he offered to officials at all levels. Whether it was a quiet word before an important match, a reassuring nod in the tunnel, or a candid debrief afterwards, Douglas always found the time to nurture and guide those following in his footsteps. His sharp wit and dry sense of humour lightened many a tense moment, and his encouragement was often the difference between doubt and confidence for younger referees.
His achievements on the field are mirrored only by the respect and affection he commanded off it, a legacy woven not just through the appointments he received, but through the countless individuals who flourished under his guidance.
When Douglas eventually retired from active refereeing in 1986, he was immediately offered and duly accepted the position as a supervisor (Now Observer) where along with Bill Mullan were responsible for referees in the association until reorganisation in 1989 resulted in him taking charge of the then West Lothian area. During his time there Douglas assisted several officials in achieving their aspirations one of which being Ian Fyffe who only recently intimated to me that Douglas had unquestionably played a crucial part in his career and him achieving Cat1 status. I am confident that during his tenure many other EDRA members besides Ian and I will have been equally grateful to Douglas for the support and guidance he offered them along their pathway.
Further reorganisation in 1999 saw Douglas moving to Fife where he served diligently until his retirement as a supervisor in 2006. Although he was only there for seven years, it was clear from speaking with my counterpart in Fife (Stuart Macaulay) that Douglas had been equally successful in achieving promotion for several officials during his time in the kingdom.
I first met Douglas in July 1977 when I attended my first training session @ Tynecastle and to say he was extremely welcoming is very much an understatement. However, along with others (Eddie Pringle, George Smith, Alastair Huett, Bill Crombie, Jimmy Duncan, and Rab Cuthill to name but a few) they encouraged and supported me in the early days of my career and indeed every step of the way and without their continued support I have no doubt whatsoever I would not have achieved the career I did. As I progressed through the categories Douglas was one who was always there to give advice (some of which wasn’t pleasing on my ear at the time yet was proffered with good intention, and always very constructive).
Off the field
Douglas held various council positions (Management Committee).
• Social Organiser 1969/70 – 1971/72
• Vice President 1972/73
• President 1973/74 and 1974/75
• After leading the association in his inevitable professional fashion Douglas took over the duties as Appointment Secretary for one season in 1975/76.
• Following a few seasons concentrating on his career on-field Douglas returned in season 1981/82 as coach (class instructor) a position he held for five seasons until retiring and appointed as a supervisor.
I recall with great affection (during my time as assistant coach to Douglas) my visits to his place of work at Greendykes Road in Edinburgh where both Douglas and his wife (Anne) managed a children’s home. I was always made extremely welcome something I had the highest regard for given their responsibilities for children under their care. However, this was further evidence of Douglas’s life in general where along with Anne they were doing their very best to have a positive impact in shaping the lives of those under their care.
Douglas will not necessarily have been known to many of the current members; however, I can confirm without fear of contradiction, that whilst he may not have been the tallest in stature, he was a giant in the eyes of everyone who encountered him.
My thoughts and prayers are of course now with Anne and the family at this very sad time on the loss of a great man who will be dearly missed yet fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to have known the man; Douglas Downie.
Martin Clark
Association Manager
