Louise Thompson becomes first female referee in Irish League | OneFootball

Photo: Ephy McConnell

Louise Thompson made history on Saturday as the first woman to referee an NIFL Premiership game, when Crusaders hosted Dungannon Swifts.

Thompson was involved in another Northern Ireland football first in 2020, when she became the first female to take charge of the Intermediate Cup final.

She has also been in the middle for Irish Cup and Championship games as well as NIFL Women’s Premiership matches, and been fourth official at Premiership fixtures. And she has extensive experience on the international stage.

Ahead of the match, Andrew Davey – Senior Refereeing Manager at the IFA – told irishfa.com: “This is a landmark moment for women’s refereeing in Northern Ireland.

“Louise’s dedication and relentless effort have brought her to the pinnacle of football officiating in Northern Ireland, a well-deserved recognition of her skill and hard work.

“Her success demonstrates the growing opportunities for women not only in the women’s game but in the men’s game as well, providing a clear pathway for future female referees to aim for the highest levels of football.”

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