Carnet Machethe in action during Lehlabula Soccer Tournament in Phalaborwa. Photo credit : Izee Snap
By: Boitumelo Makhapheetja
Carnet Machethe a female referee from Ga-Makhushane Maune in Phalaborwa, is breaking barriers and making a significant impact in the male-dominated world of football officiating. The start of Machethe’s journey as a referee demonstrates her passion for sport and her dedication to the beautiful game.
“Gender has no bearing on good decision making and leadership as a referee. It is important that young girls see this in practice.” Machethe reflected.
Machethe’s passion in becoming a referee dates back when she grew up idolizing female referees on television and told herself she would one day become one of them.
Later on, the idea of refereeing became more endearing to Machete and she sought out the necessary training by attending classes provided by SAFA .
The 31-year-old is a level four accredited ref and currently referees in the Hollywoodbets regional league, and Local Football Association (LFA) .
While she thoroughly enjoys what she does, Machethe says her job can be extremely challenging. On different occasions she has been a recipient of verbal abuse by male players and spectators.
she was once told “She makes soft calls, This is not netball. She belongs in the kitchen”.
These comments though only make Machethe want to work harder. “I see this as a source of encouragement.”
Machethe further challenged women to take up refereeing and change the face of South African soccer.
The 31-year old has set her sights on being selected to referee in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) games for now and aspires to work in the English Premier League one day.