Longtime assistant referee Sian Massey-Ellis has confirmed her retirement from active officiating to join the Football Association in a senior management capacity. Her new role will center on the mentorship and growth of female match officials.
Massey-Ellis leaves behind an impressive legacy, having served as an assistant referee in over 150 Premier League matches. She made history in 2010 as the second woman to work in the Premier League. Throughout her career, she achieved several milestones, including being the first English woman to officiate in a men’s European match and a men’s FA Cup final. She also participated in five Women’s FA Cup finals and represented England at four Uefa Women’s Euros alongside the 2019 and 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cups.
Reflecting on her departure, Massey-Ellis emphasized that while she is leaving the pitch, she remains committed to the sport. She received an MBE in the 2017 New Year’s Honours for her contributions to officiating. Looking ahead, she expressed enthusiasm about guiding future generations of officials, noting that she hopes her own path serves as inspiration for others aiming to break barriers in the game.
