"After recently taking part on the online training session for assistant referees, on Saturday I stepped up and ran the line for my daughter’s team, the under 16 Leopards Reds. I will admit, having never played football before, but being a keen spectator I was a little nervous. However, the girls, their parents and our coaches were all extremely supportive and I decided to put on my big girl pants and took the flag from the referee. I told him it was my first time and he kindly ran through the flag positions and told me what to flag, said to enjoy it and thanked me.

The first offside I flagged I did with confidence and even had the opposition coach say ‘good call’.

My nerves subsided as the match went on and even though a few spectators doubted some of my decisions, I continued to flag and run up and down the muddy line.

As the girls game continues to grow stronger, it would be great to see more mums, aunts and sisters take on this role."

Continue the good work Michelle, many thanks again!!!