Answering Her Call: Empowering women in volleyball officiating 

Just over two years ago, I was discussing the idea of creating a dedicated group for female officials in volleyball. 

At the time, it was simply a conversation, a shared recognition that while the game was growing, the visibility, support and development pathways for female referees still needed strengthening. 

When I started refereeing over 18 years ago, there were very few female officials in the sport. Female mentors were even harder to find. 

I learned through experience, resilience and the generosity of those who supported me along the way. But I always felt there was more we could do to create a stronger network, one where women in officiating could connect, develop and lead with confidence. 

As I progressed in my refereeing career, from those early grassroots matches to now becoming the first female international indoor volleyball referee in the UK, the responsibility to give back grew even stronger. 

Reaching that milestone was not just a personal achievement; it highlighted how much progress has been made, but also how much more is still needed to ensure women are visible and supported at every level of the officiating pathway. 

Those early discussions turned into action. 

Together with like-minded colleagues, I helped to create what is now a thriving Her Call group, a professional and supportive community designed specifically to encourage the growth of female volleyball referees across the UK. 

What began as an idea has grown into a structured network with many new female members and 15 ambassadors, who actively champion our mission. 

We meet every four to eight weeks to discuss developments in the sport, analyse match scenarios, reflect on challenging situations and share best practice. 

These sessions are not only about technical improvement; they are about confidence, leadership, resilience and creating a visible pathway for the next generation of female officials. 

Seeing the Her Call group flourish has been a real achievement and one I am incredibly proud of. The commitment of our members and ambassadors demonstrates that there is both appetite and ambition among women in officiating to continue raising standards and supporting one another. 

The support of Volleyball England has been integral in helping this initiative grow and sustain momentum. Their backing reinforces the importance of increasing female representation within refereeing and ensuring long-term development opportunities remain accessible. 

Her Call is more than a discussion forum, it is a movement towards visibility, empowerment and professional growth. 

We continue to open our doors to female referees who are looking for support, community and development. Whether newly-qualified or experienced, there is a place within Her Call to learn, to contribute and to lead. 

From a conversation nearly two years ago to a thriving national network, this journey reflects what can happen when intention meets action. For me, it represents giving back to the sport that has given me so much, and helping to shape a stronger future for female volleyball referees in the UK. 

If you would like to find out how to get involved in the Her Call group, please email refereeing@volleyballengland.org.