Rebecca Welch Makes History as First Woman Fourth Official in Premier League
Rebecca Welch has made history by becoming the first woman appointed as the fourth official of a Premier League game. The 39-year-old will take to the touchline at Craven Cottage on Saturday as Fulham takes on Manchester United.
Welch has been a trailblazer in the world of football officiating. She became the first woman to referee a professional game in England after officiating a League Two clash between Port Vale and Harrogate in 2021. She followed that up by becoming the first female referee to oversee an FA Cup game this year, before officiating a Championship clash between Birmingham and Preston.
Impressed by her skills and professionalism, Welch has now earned a call-up to the Premier League. She will act as the fourth official to referee John Brooks and will be called upon if he is unable to officiate the match due to injury or any other reason.
Welch will become the fourth woman to be part of the team of officials for a Premier League match, following in the footsteps of assistant referees Wendy Toms, Sian Massey-Ellis, and Natalie Aspinall. However, Massey-Ellis holds the honor of being the first woman to act as the fourth official for a Premier League game. She took on the responsibility for the second half of West Ham United v Everton in 2017 after picking up an injury while serving as a lineswoman.
In the upcoming game between Fulham and Manchester United, Massey-Ellis will act as the assistant VAR. This demonstrates the increasing presence and importance of women in football officiating roles.
Welch’s journey as a referee began 12 years ago when she picked up a whistle at the age of 27 after being dared to do so by a friend. Despite starting her career as an NHS admin officer, Welch has always had a passion for football and has played the sport since childhood. She began refereeing in university football clashes and Sunday League games before gradually building up her experience and officiating two Women’s FA Cup finals. She has also gained valuable experience refereeing in the Women’s Super League, the Women’s Champions League, and international matches.
Welch’s appointment as the first woman fourth official in a Premier League game is a significant milestone for women in football. It highlights the progress being made in breaking down gender barriers and promoting inclusivity in the sport. Welch’s achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring female referees and demonstrate that gender should not be a barrier to pursuing a career in football officiating.
As the Premier League continues to evolve and embrace diversity, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate the achievements of individuals like Rebecca Welch. Her appointment is a step forward in creating a more inclusive and equal playing field for all involved in the beautiful game.