奇速英语

足联女裁判索尼娅·德农库特

Sonia Denoncourt is one of the most successful personalities in the world of women's soccer. She made her name doing what many still think of as a “man’s job;” refereeing soccer matches.

The Canadian began her career as a referee in 1978, at the age of 14. She worked her way up, and in 1994, she became the first female international FIFA referee. Sonia was the first woman to referee a top men’s professional game, in EL Salvador in 1996. A year later, she became the first female to referee a men’s first division game in Brazil. She has refereed at thousands of games at all levels, including over 100 international games, three World Cups, and two Olympic Games.

Her goal has always been to encourage more young women to become involved in the game. She accepts that it can be difficult, but she is sure that progress is possible. “I became a top referee and I’m from Canada, which is not a huge footballing nation,” she said.” “So if I can do it, anyone can. And I wouldn’t change anything about my life because my career has given me incredible opportunities.”

In 1994, there were only four female referees on FIFA’s list. In 2008, this figure had risen to 552-over 18 percent of the 3,000 listed FIFA referees and assistants. She is now Head of FIFA Women’s refereeing and continues to promote the role of women in soccer. However, there is still a long way to go in the battle for equality in the game.

It is still very unusual to see a female referee at the top international tournaments. Some people say this is because the women referee aren’t fit enough to work at the highest level. But for Sonia, this is simply an excuse to hide the widespread opposition to women doing what is considered a “ man’s job.” “It’s a social thing, “She says. “In some countries women in positions of authority are just not accepted.” Even Sonia admits, “Football is still a man’s world.” But, things are changing, thanks to pioneering women like Sonia.