HISTORY-MAKING referee Louise Thompson hopes she has shown aspiring female officials what is possible after becoming the first woman to take charge of a top-flight men’s fixture in the Irish League.
Thompson refereed Dungannon Swifts' 5-1 Sports Direct Premiership win over Crusaders at Seaview on Saturday afternoon, describing it as “a great experience”.
“You try to be a good role model and you just want to show other women what’s possible. I knew what it meant for females in men’s sport,” she said.
“It was a great experience. It’s good to get the first game over and under your belt. I’ve got the experience and that helps you get through. It’s another step up, that’s for sure. You just concentrate on what you do normally.
“When I finished playing I did the courses for both coaching and refereeing. I really enjoyed the refereeing and this is the level I always wanted to get to.
“The butterflies were going but they soon go away. I wanted to enjoy the occasion. I’m thankful for the opportunity. My officiating team were fantastic. I also got messages from fellow referees which was great. It’s great to have the refereeing family around you.”
FIFA referee Thompson has previously officiated in the men’s Irish Cup and has also been a fourth official in the men’s Premiership.
Swifts boss Rodney McAree said: “The referee was excellent. All credit to Louise Thompson – she has worked hard to get to where she is. Well done to her.”