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Referee Kathryn Nesbitt makes MLS history
12 August 2020
Kathryn Nesbitt became the first ever woman to work a Major Soccer League title match
Kathryn Nesbitt made history on Tuesday 11 August when she became the first ever woman to work a Major Soccer League (MSL) title match.
Nesbitt, a chemistry professor at Towson University until she decided to focus on refereeing, was assistant as Portland Timbers recorded a 2-1 win against Orlando City SC in Florida.
She has a weath of experience having officiated in some 60 MLS matches since her first in 2015. Kathryn was also a referee for the 2019 Women’s World Cup in France.
Along with Felisha Mariscal, they were the only two women among 47 officials sequestered - just like the teams - for the month-long tournament.
“I like to think that there are some referees out there that look up to me,” Kathryn said. “And I’m I’m really hopeful that I’m putting out a good example and emanating qualities that other officials hope to achieve someday.”
If you are interested in a career as a referee The FA website is a useful first port of call here: https://www.thefa.com/get-involved/referee.
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Along with Felisha Mariscal, they were the only two women among 47 officials sequestered - just like the teams - for the month-long tournament."