Rebecca Welch to make Premier League history

Rebecca Welch, 39, is set to make history as the first woman appointed as the fourth official for a Premier League game. She will be on the sidelines at Craven Cottage on Saturday as Fulham takes on Manchester United. This is a significant moment for women in football.

Breaking barriers in the sport

Welch has already made her mark in the world of football officiating. She became the first woman to referee a professional game in England when she officiated a League Two clash between Port Vale and Harrogate in 2021. She then went on to oversee an FA Cup game and a Championship clash. Her impressive performances have now earned her a call-up to the Premier League.

Welch joins a small group of women officials

Welch will become the fourth woman to be part of the team of officials for a Premier League match. Wendy Toms, Sian Massey-Ellis, and Natalie Aspinall have previously served as assistant referees. However, Massey-Ellis holds the honor of being the first woman to act as the fourth official for a Premier League game, doing so during the second half of West Ham United v Everton in 2017.

Welch's journey as a referee

Welch's journey as a referee began 12 years ago when she picked up a whistle at the age of 27. Initially dared by a friend, she quickly fell in love with the role. She started officiating university football clashes and Sunday League games before progressing to Women’s FA Cup finals, the WSL, Women’s Champions League, and international clashes.

It is clear that Welch's appointment as the fourth official for the Fulham vs Man Utd clash is a significant moment for women in football. This milestone shows that progress is being made towards greater inclusivity and diversity in the sport.