Kirsty progresses to FIFA list

Kent FA referee Kirsty Dowle is delighted after being added to the 2020 FIFA international list of women referees. Dowle, formerly of Canterbury, started refereeing youth football in 2013 and last year was assistant referee for the Women’s FA Cup final between Arsenal and Chelsea in front of a record 45,000 crowd at

Wembley. The 28-year-old said: “It is only recently that this has become a dream of mine, when I started six years ago I wasn’t even aware this could happen. “I know it will be hard work but I can learn so much as an international official. “I’m grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to represent the Kent FA and the FA on the international stage.” Dowle started playing football at the age of six but found it difficult due to a lack of female sides.

When studying her PHD at university, which focused on the psychological elements within refereeing, she was encouraged to enrol on a referees’ course. After youth football Dowle moved to officiating men’s open-age football before attaining Level Three status and overseeing men’s semiprofessional football. Dowle is in her second season refereeing the Women’s Super League. “I have enjoyed my time in women’s football and it’s great to be part of a league that is progressing at such a rapid rate,” she said.

Nick Dunn, referee development officer at Kent FA, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Kirsty, her FIFA appointment epitomises her hard work and dedication. “We wish her every success and look forward to seeing her flourish on the international stage.”

‘When I started six years ago I wasn’t even aware this could happen’

Kirsty Dowle is in her second season refereeing the Women’s Super League