Rebecca Welch will make history by becoming the first woman to referee a Premier League match on December 23rd, overseeing Fulham vs Burnley.
While this development continues to garner global commendations, PUNCH METRO presents five facts about Rebecca Welch.
i. Having worked as an NHS admin officer, she started her life as a ref in university football clashes and Sunday League games.
ii. Welch’s groundbreaking milestones include being the first woman to officiate a men’s Championship match, an English Football League game, and an FA Cup third-round tie.
iii. In addition to refereeing the Women’s FA Cup final twice, in 2017 and 2020, Welch has officiated in the men’s National League for three seasons and taken charge of WSL, Women’s Champions League and international clashes.
iv. She officiated three games at the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
v. Rebecca Welch’s journey in the Premier League commenced as a fourth official in a match between Manchester United and Fulham.
