Fermanagh referee Louise Thompson is set to make history tomorrow.
Thompson, who is a FIFA and Irish FA referee, will become the first female to take charge of a NIFL Premiership game when she officiates the match between Crusaders and Dungannon Swifts at Seaview.
Andrew Davey, Senior Refereeing Manager at the Irish Football Association, said: “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."
Back in 2020 Thompson was involved in another Northern Ireland football first 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.
Image: Louise Thompson refereeing a game between Northern Ireland Women’s Under-16s and American side Surf Select at SuperCup NI in 2022.
