Linamandla Mpama (15), from Butterworth, dreams of becoming a professional football referee one day.
Mpama shared her aspirations after receiving the award for Best Assistant Referee of the Tournament at the recent Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup, held at Walter Sisulu University’s Bika campus in Mnquma.
This was the first officiating award for Mpama, a Grade 10 student at Ndabankulu Senior Secondary School, in her two years of experience as an assistant referee.
“I’m very excited and happy to win the Assistant Referee of the Tournament award. This award means a lot to me,” said Mpama, visibly delighted.
She added that the recognition motivates her to remain dedicated and committed to officiating football matches.Mpama began her refereeing journey last year, officiating league games in the Mnquma Local Football Association (Mnquma LFA). She was also given the opportunity to act as the fourth official in the second edition of the Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup.Discussing her future plans in officiating, Mpama expressed her desire to follow in the footsteps of Akhona Makalima, the Ngqamakhwe-born Premier Soccer League (PSL) referee.
“Akhona Makalima is the referee who inspires me. One day, I want to be a professional referee just like her and I will work hard to achieve this dream,” said Mpama.Currently, Mpama continues to officiate games in the Mnquma LFA and local tournaments while pursuing her goal of becoming a professional referee.The Mnquma LFA praised all match officials who participated in the annual Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup and expressed pride in their outstanding performance during the event.
