The Sunday Mail
Referee of the Year second runner-up Stella Ruvinga made history after being crowned the first female to scoop that award at the Castle Lager Soccer Stars banquet held last Friday.
The referee of the year gong went to Brighton Chimene while Salani Ncube was the first runner-up.
But it was a proud moment for the Chitungwiza-bred female referee who excelled in a male-dominated field where no other of her sex has ever achieved.
Ruvinga, who began her journey as a referee in 2001, said discipline and focus had opened the door for her into Zimbabwe’s football history books.
“I never expected to receive this accolade especially because there are many equally good referees. And even in my wildest dreams I never thought I would be among the country’s top three.
“It is always difficult to officiate in men’s matches because at times you are abused by both players and supporters.
“But I remained focused and disciplined. And as time went on the supporters appreciated that we could also do what men do. I guess that is why I am here today,” Ruvinga said.
Indications that with she was destined for bigger things were evident in 2003 — two years into her career — when Ruvinga won the class 3 Junior Referee of The Year award.
Ruvinga is determined to excel in an environment known for its hostility to women as it is to men.
“I greatly appreciate the support I have received from the referees committee and my family. I will be back to win the bigger one (Top Referee Award),” added Ruvinga.
Ruvinga officiated 33 matches, 13 in the Division One League with 20 of them being in the Castle Lager Premier League encounters that included Cup matches.
The assistant referee featured in the OneWallet semi-final encounter between Chicken Inn and Triangle as well as the Chibuku Super Cup first round between ZPC and Harare City.
An assistant’s referee supports the referee to control the match as well as pick out incidences not seen by the man at the centre of any football match among other roles.
