Rashpal Shergill story

Rashpal Shergill makes County Cup history

Breaking down barriers inspiring a new generation of referees.

The Kent FA is proud to announce that Rashpal Shergill, a level 7 referee, appointed to The Merit U13 Girls Cup Final on the 2nd of April, became the first-ever South Asian female to ever referee in a Kent County Cup Final.

Speaking of her experience Rashpal said: “I never dreamed that helping out at my children's football games would ever lead me into refereeing, let alone making history!

Rashpal Shergill storyI am overwhelmed and very proud to hear that I am the first female South Asian female to referee at the Kent County Cup finals. It means so much to me to represent females of colour in refereeing and I hope by sharing my story I can provide a visual role model for all females, inspire them to be brave and have a go, take up the whistle and start their magnificent journey in refereeing too.

"Let's let the world know, we ALL belong in refereeing.”

Nick Dunn, Referee Development Lead spoke about Rashpal’s journey and how she is inspiring more women into the game. 

“The appointments to any of our cup finals should always be recognised as a prestigious appointment; we are delighted that, this season, Rashpal has become our first female match official of south-Asian heritage to officiate in these finals," he said.

"We recognise that match officials from historically under-represented communities may face challenges that the majority of our match officials do not encounter. Rashpal’s appointment is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and supports that she has shown over recent years to the grassroots game, as well as positive on-field performances. 

"Equally, Rashpal’s commitment in breaking down barriers is fully supported and embraced to ensure that being a match official is open, accessible, and supportive to all. We hope that this is the very start of a long and prosperous journey for Rashpal, and her peers.”

If you are feeling inspired and what to find out more about becoming a referee, visit kentfa.com/referees/get-into-refereeing or email the Referee Department at Referees@KentFA.com