University honours top ref Collina

Honoured: Pierluigi Collina
14 April 2012

Italian referee Pierluigi Collina today received an honorary degree from the University of Hull.

He was being awarded a Doctor of Science degree for his contribution to the world of sport.

Dressed in red and green robes and wearing a black cap, Collina, 44, said it was a very proud day for him.

"This is a very particular day for me. It's not usual for anyone to receive an honorary degree from a university, particularly for an Italian in England.

"The degree has been awarded for my ability as a referee on the field and I am proud that what I did on the field in the last 27 years has been recognised.

"I hope that what I did in the last years can help the image of other referees."

Collina showed off a silver whistle engraved with the Hull University crest, which was presented to him.

He said: "This is a very nice gift from the university, but it's a bit different to the whistle I'm used to on the field."

The Italian said he had only made a short visit to the city of Hull, but he said he was impressed with what he had seen so far.

He said: "It seems like a nice city. I saw parts of the university campus and the sports centre.

"I think sport is an important way to educate people, so the sports department is useful for society."

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