Northern NSW Football targets junior officials through new female referee mentor program

NORTHERN NSW Football has launched a female referee mentor program, aimed at strengthening pathways and development in the officiating ranks across the regions.

The mentorship program provides female referees with opportunities to connect with experienced female coaches and leaders.

Football Far North Coast has been seeking more junior and senior referees over the past seasons.

Final registrations for 2026 closed on 30 June with 7,578 players and only 135 match officials. There were also 738 volunteers and 665 team officials.

The new program aims to support the retention and progression of female referees by creating an inclusive environment that recognises their contribution, builds confidence and encourages the next generation of match officials to become involved in the game.

Mentors and mentees participated in the 2026 Northern NSW Women’s State Cup as part of the program led by NNSWF high-performance referee coach and FIFA referee Casey Reibelt.

 

Mentees received active coaching from their mentors as well as other experienced match officials throughout the tournament, giving them valuable insights and support.

The program also saw 25 female referees officiate across the Women’s State Cup.

Northern NSW Football participation and women’s football general manager Allana Neeve said the program was an important step in strengthening pathways for women in refereeing and ensuring aspiring match officials have the support and opportunities needed to progress.

“It’s incredibly important to have women as part of our game across all roles and refereeing is integral to the game,” she said. “We’re really fortunate to secure funding from Office of Sport to be able to support this program, which connects our older referees with aspiring up-and-coming match officials.

“We’re lucky to have Casey Reibelt who will oversee the program so that we can support the women as much as possible so we can make it sustainable and increase the opportunities for female match officials.”