Ainsley McArthur, 15, is making the most of the opportunities in front of her as a third-generation referee.
According to the Ponoka Minor Soccer Association, McArthur is the youngest referee officiating soccer matches for the Alberta Youth Soccer League (AYSL).
The Alberta Soccer Association announced in late 2023, that they would be playing 75 matches for the AYSL — meaning there’d be a great opportunity for referees in the region.
When evaluators began to consider who could be selected, McArthur’s name came up, despite her young age.
According to a release from the Ponoka Minor Soccer Association (PMSA), McArthur was considered because of her experience and enthusiasm.
“Recent emphasis across Canada has been placed upon ensuring that women coach and referee young women,” stated the PMSA.
With her father and uncle both involved in PMSA, Ainsley had the family support to pursue her goals.
In addition to family, others such as Central Alberta Soccer Assistant DRA Tracy Everitt, has also helped.
PMSA prides itself on producing “top-notch” soccer referees, such as former referee Cal David, who travelled all over western Canada officiating soccer games at the highest level.
Before COVID, Matt McArthur, PMSA’s referee coordinator, said the association had so many senior-level and youth district-level referees.
“Post-COVID, our numbers were down, but after last season, we now have a whole new fresh crop of excellent youth officials coming up through the ranks,” he said.
Stepping up onto the stage of the AYSL is no small feat.
Lonny Behm, technical director for Central Alberta Soccer and one of the big proponents of seeing these games come to Red Deer, recognizes what a big deal this is for the region.
“AYSL is the highest level of youth soccer, in not just Alberta, but it is the highest level in Canada. These are the kids who will one day be playing for Canada’s national team.
“To have a young person from Ponoka officiating at that level, once again, just speaks great volumes to the quality Ponoka Soccer is producing, especially with regard to the girl’s side of the game,” said Behm.
“Long-term player development and pathways don’t stop when a player stops playing. We are dedicated to producing not only soccer players but future referees, coaches, and board members.”
To ask about becoming a soccer referee this coming spring in Ponoka, reach out to Ponoka Minor Soccer at referee@ponokasoccer.ca.