Rebecca Welch, the referee who made history as the first woman to officiate Premier League and EFL matches, has announced her retirement from on-field duties to take up a managerial role with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL).
Welch, who has been a prominent figure in refereeing since 2010, will now serve as the manager of the Select Group Women’s Professional Game. In her new role, she will focus on supporting and developing officials in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and Women’s Championship, as well as inspiring the next generation of referees.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the support, guidance and opportunities I’ve been given during an unforgettable time on the field,” Welch said. “I’ve loved working alongside some great people and officials from all over the world — refereeing has given me so much including many amazing memories and I hope to continue to see more youngsters take advantage of the growing opportunities which are there for everyone.
“I’m now excited by my new challenge and giving back to the game I love in a new capacity. There’s a real focus on the pathway and development at PGMOL and, alongside a great team already in place, I’m eager to help drive that culture of high-performance, offering my experience and support in developing officials within the women’s game.”
Welch’s career has been marked by numerous milestones, including refereeing the 2024 UEFA Women’s Champions League final and officiating at major international tournaments.
She made history last December after becoming the first female to referee a Premier League match, taking charge of the clash between Fulham and Burnley.
The 40-year-old also oversaw the Women’s FA Cup finals in 2017 and 2020 and featured in the FIFA international list of match officials.
She will be honoured with her induction into the National Football Museum’s hall of fame in due course. As she steps into her new role, former referee Lou Saunders will join her as a coach for the Select Group Women’s Professional Game.
PGMOL chief refereeing officer Howard Webb said: “Rebecca has been a pioneering figure within refereeing, consistently breaking barriers and achieving great things in England while she has also done us proud on the international stage when representing PGMOL and The FA at major tournaments, including the recent Olympics.
“I have no doubt her expertise and passion will be invaluable in her managerial role with us. We’re thrilled to have her as part of our team of support staff and we’re confident that her contributions will be continue to be hugely significant.”
(Florencia Tan Jun – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
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