Name: Elizabeth Lambert
Age: 49
Branch: Newcastle Football
Years Officiating: 3
Football fanatic Elizabeth Lambert may have never played football but has been involved with the sport for many years.
The former hockey and touch football player, Elizabeth picked up the whistle three years ago to initially support her son, but admits it’s become a major part of her life.
“I have always loved watching football… I have managed my sons’ junior teams and my husband plays, but I have never played,” she said.
“I wanted to be more involved, so when my youngest son wanted to become a referee, I joined to support him. From day one of training I have loved every minute. My son has since moved to Canada, but I cannot imagine not being a match official now.”
From very early on in her refereeing career, Elizabeth quickly began to showcase her talent to her fellow football community and has since fallen in love with being an official and thoroughly enjoys being involved in the game she loves.
“My refereeing career highlight would have to be winning the Newcastle Permanent Referee of the Year for Newcastle Football in my first year of officiating,” she said.
“Every game I look to improve and identify a goal for that game to ensure I keep improving.
“I love seeing players challenge themselves to do better and the thrill of the players’ faces when they have an amazing football moment whether it be scoring or saving a goal.”
Although she confesses that match official abuse is a problem and needs to be treated by all parties of the game, she encourages others, particularly women, to step up to the challenge of being a match official.
“Unfortunately, on occasion, players and team management can often have little respect for the match officials and expect they should never make a mistake.
“My piece of advice to other referees would be have fun. If you are having fun, this will show in your refereeing.
“To other women considering taking up being a match official I say go for it. Start today. You won’t regret it,” concluded Elizabeth.
Thank you, Elizabeth and all her fellow match officials, for their contribution to our great game.
