Name: Sarah Hobbs
Board Role: Vice-Chair
Local Referees' Association: Milton Keynes RA
Occupation: Senior Marketing Professional
Number of years involved in refereeing/The RA: 23 years

Refereeing highlights: Being an Assistant Referee in my only televised game on BT Sport at Slough FC, for Chelsea Ladies FC vs London Bees FC in the Women’s Continental Cup, it was a fantastic experience and one I will remember always. 

Any other involvement in football/refereeing: I am a passionate advocate of the Women’s game. I remember refereeing in the old Women’s Premier League and officiating Tottenham Hotspur vs Millwall on the local park with a man and a dog for watching, so seeing Wembley stadium and other big stadiums, playing host to women’s football is incredible.

What motivated you to join the Board: I want to use my experience and professional knowledge to help develop match officials coming through the system and for supporting my fellow colleagues at all levels of the game. The Referees’ Associaition has played a big part in my refereeing career from my training, to regular support across my 23 years of experience. 

What are you responsible for on the Board: I’m the Vice-Chair meaning I step-in and support the Chair whenever they are unavailable. I am also looking after the corporate and charity partnerships. 

Current priorities or projects: Currently I am working with both Prostate Cancer UK and Breast Cancer UK on their upcoming campaigns including Prostate United and Orange Laces respectively. Helping to raise awareness of both conditions. 

A message to the members: Support is there for everyone. You are not an Island. Whatever you’re experiencing others have also walked in those shoes. We’re here to help.

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Partnerships are often formed between individuals, agencies or organisations with a shared interest to address specific issues. Our evidence reveals that our members young and old often require mental, emotional, financial, medical help, support and guidance. The Referees’ Association champion the work of those agencies that provide this support in times of need. Should you require support please contact the relevant agency below or the RA Head Office.
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