Adcock, from Nottingham, and his fellow countryman Michael Salisbury were England’s representatives at the U17 competition in Denmark last week.
The 30-year-old from Nottingham was chosen to referee the Final on Saturday with Chorley-born Salisbury as assistant after impressive performances during their first three matches - capping a “hugely beneficial” week for the pair.
“International football is where all players aspire to be and officials are no different"
Referee James Adcock
“International football is where all players aspire to be at, and officials are no different and we want to represent our country at matches and tournaments,” Adcock told TheFA.com.
“Me and Michael are no different. These were our first international matches and we were appointed to the tournament by The Football Association around two months ago as preparation for this season.
“We've had an intense week, but very worthwhile. The training development has been excellent on non-match days.
“We've had training sessions, the actual matches, had sit downs with two UEFA delegates and observers to go through our games with us. Then we've all sat and gone through video clips and what we have done from our games and studies other officials’ performances also.
“They've been long days, but worthwhile. It's put us in great stead for the games we will have in the Championship this weekend.”
Having sampled his first taste of international football, Adcock is keen to continue his progression and harbours hopes of emulating Howard Webb in the future by refereeing a World Cup Final.
“Definitely - I'm a realist and know there is a lot of hard work ahead - but I'll be striving to achieve that next level.
“I'm a Football League referee who is trying to achieve Premier League status, that's my first goal.
"The best thing in football is playing - the next best thing is being on the field as referee"
James Adcock
“Then if I can achieve that, then I'll be looking to achieve my next goal, which will be to get on that FIFA match officials list.”
Adcock clearly has a huge love of the game, and for those that are not quite good enough to make the grade professionally as a player, he encouraged them to look into a career in refereeing.
“The best thing in football is playing - you'll never replace it,” admitted Adcock. “For me, the next best thing is to still be out there on the field as referee.
"If you have a passion and love for the game, and still want to get involved, then there is support from local County FAs and referee associations that will give you the help you need.
“They'll give you the backing to get the right qualifications, then set you up with leagues and help you progress through the ages.
“Anyone who is thinking about taking it up - I never thought I would whilst I was still playing but I'm glad I did.
“It's an intense game now that meets demands on fitness levels, so the earlier you start, it gives you the best chance of getting up that refereeing ladder.”
If you are interested in taking the first steps into the world of refereeing, then find the nearest course to you by clicking here.
