Danny Makkelie, a distinguished 37-year-old Dutch referee, is set to officiate one of the most significant matches of his career in the UEFA Europa League final between Sevilla and Inter Milan. The match, to be held at Stadion Köln in Cologne, symbolizes a milestone for Makkelie, who has a profound appreciation for football and refereeing, especially after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Refereeing ‘Calling’ from Youth
Makkelie’s journey into refereeing began at an exceptionally young age. Born on the Caribbean island of Curaçao to a Dutch Royal Marine, Makkelie moved back to the Netherlands with his parents. It was in this new environment that he discovered his passion for sports and leadership. By the age of ten, he was already overseeing football and basketball sessions, finding joy in being a leader.
“I really enjoyed being a leader, and that feeling has stayed with me as part of my personality,” Makkelie reflects. By his teenage years, he was officiating adult matches and gaining positive feedback from players. This encouragement led him to believe that a career in refereeing was possible. The Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) noticed his potential and invited him to join their refereeing setup, paving the way for his future.
Rising Through the Ranks
Refereeing his first professional match at just 22, Makkelie’s career trajectory has been impressive. He quickly rose through the ranks, both domestically and internationally, becoming known for his strong personality and ability to handle the pressures of the job. “You need a strong personality,” he emphasizes. “You must be able to handle the pressure, and you must have the authority that means that players are able to accept your decisions.”
Makkelie credits Jaap Uilenberg, a former FIFA referee and current UEFA referee development panel member, as a crucial influence on his career. “His experience has been invaluable – he knows how to motivate me and get me focused. It’s because of him that I’m where I am as a referee.”
The Importance of Teamwork
Makkelie is quick to acknowledge that a referee is nothing without a strong team. His assistant referees, Mario Diks and Hessel Steegstra, along with video assistant referees Kevin Blom and Jochem Kamphuis, have been with him since 2015. “We’ve been together as a team now since 2015, and we have a fantastic relationship – we’re friends, we trust each other, we share responsibility and win together. I can’t emphasize the value of teamwork enough. Alone you may go faster – but together you can go further…”
The ongoing impact of COVID-19 means that the final in Cologne will be played without spectators, but this doesn’t alter Makkelie’s approach. “You still have to do the best job possible, you have to be totally focused on what you’re doing, whatever the circumstances.”
Life Beyond Refereeing
Away from the pitch, Makkelie enjoys watching films and listening to music at his farmhouse situated between Rotterdam and Utrecht. He is also dedicated to helping the next generation of referees, working with the KNVB to share his extensive experience.
Gratitude and Determination
Makkelie expresses immense pride and delight at being appointed to referee the UEFA Europa League final. “I’m proud and delighted,” he says. “Especially when there are so many other excellent referees who would have deserved to have been selected as well.” He extends his gratitude to UEFA for their comprehensive training programs during the COVID lockdown, which kept referees engaged and prepared even when matches were suspended.
Conclusion
Danny Makkelie’s career is a testament to his dedication, strong personality, and love for football. His journey from a young boy leading sports sessions to officiating one of Europe’s most prestigious finals highlights his unwavering commitment to the sport. As he prepares to take charge of the UEFA Europa League final, Makkelie’s determination to achieve the highest standards in refereeing remains as strong as ever. His story is an inspiration to aspiring referees and a reminder of the vital role that referees play in the beautiful game.
