Statement from Jean Thompson

 

I have made the decision to retire from soccer after 45 years.  It was a long and hard decision to make, but I feel that I have made the right decision.

 

45 years ago, when I was asked to help start up women's soccer in St John's, did  I have any idea that I would accomplish what I have, no I didn't.  After 4 years of playing soccer, I took the referee course and passed.  It was a milestone as there were very few female officials in Canada and none in the Atlantic Provinces. It was a struggle and a lot of hard work to make it to a Class 1 (Provincial) official in a male dominated sport ,but I have no regrets and have enjoyed every minute of it.  I have officiated at all levels in Newfoundland and at the National Amateur level.  I  have enjoyed my 20 years officiating and have made friends that will last a lifetime.  Before I  gave up officiating, I took the assessor course and started to give back to younger officials what I have learned as a referee.  I went on to become a National Assessor and enjoyed my time at this level of soccer, putting back into the game what I have learned over the years.   Among these 45 years, I have spent 25 years assigning officials for St John's Senior Soccer and the past 10 years for the NLSA.

 

Thank you everyone that has helped me along the way to accomplish my goals.  It has been a great 45 years.

 

Jean