Bec Malseed, who manages AWI & RIST’s Lifetime Ewe Management course, in her spare time is a female central/field umpire in her local country footy regional league. It’s fair to say that she is trailblazing a path for other women and girls to follow - in 2023, she became the first female field/central umpire in senior mens football in the Mininera & District Football League.

Her conversation with Ferg puts a spotlight on her experiences breaking into this traditionally male-dominated space, highlighting the importance of communication, seeing different perspectives and building resilience - in umpiring, as well as in life outside of sport. The conversation also covers how sport strengthens rural communities, helping people move through challenging periods.

Bec shares her hopes of encouraging more women to get involved in umpiring and reflects on the personal growth she’s gained from her time in the game.

• Key role of communication
• Importance of rural sports and community-building
• How umpiring has built Bec’s personal resilience
• Being able to see different perspectives, both on the pitch and off

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