Who is Rebecca Welch, the first female referee set to officiate a Premier League match?
Rebecca Welch is set to become the first female Premier League referee for a top-flight fixture, officiating Fulham's match against Burnley on December 23.
Rebecca Welch, 40, initiated her refereeing journey in 2010 and achieved a milestone in January by becoming the first woman to officiate a men's Championship game. Sam Allison, a former firefighter, joined the Football League in 2020 and rose to the Championship earlier this year.
Sam Allison will make history as the first black referee in the Premier League in 15 years, overseeing Sheffield United's game against Luton on December 26.
These appointments mark pivotal moments in football officiating, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to diversify the field. Howard Webb, referees' chief, highlighted the quality of both officials, stating that they deserve these opportunities. The Football Association's initiative aims to recruit 50% more referees from under-represented backgrounds by 2026.
As of now, 8% of football officials are of black or Asian ethnicity, with only 3% in professional football. The FA's plan targets an increase of 1,000 women referees and 1,000 black or Asian referees across all football levels within three years.
FAQs:
How old is Rebecca Welch, the referee?
Rebecca Welch is currently 40 years old.
Who is Sam Allison?
Sam Allison is a former firefighter who became the first black referee in the Premier League in 15 years, overseeing Sheffield United's match against Luton on December 26.
When did Rebecca Welch first referee a men's Championship game?
Rebecca Welch made history in January by becoming the first woman to referee a men's Championship game.
What is the Football
Read more on economictimes.indiatimes.com
