A survey gathered by SSN and The FA, completed by 2,905 grassroots officials, explored referees' aspirations and why they got into officiating, with many citing love for the game and fitness.
But camaraderie was up there as the most popular reason for becoming a referee, and we went out to ask refs of all levels to explain their love for the job.
Throughout the week on Sky Sports News and SkySports.com, we'll be highlighting some of the challenges and issues faced by our referees from the grassroots right up to the Premier League.
