Ref Isatou Touray on the rise

Referee Isatou Touray of Gambia knew she wanted to wear a FIFA referee badge after watching Senegal’s Fatou Gaye officiate men’s matches – “her running style, blowing of the whistle, signaling and making decisions without fear all inspired Touray, 33.

Now in her seventh year as a referee, Touray said not all is easy or rosy being a female referee in The Gambia.

“I faced many difficulties because of religious and cultural perceptions and stereotypes but despite these challenges, the popularity of women’s football is helping break those barriers.” –

Courtesy of discoverfootball_berlin