Queensland match official Laura ‘Missy’ Krause was named Referee of the Tournament for the 15 years age group at last month’s National Youth Championships for Girls.
Having been a referee for six years, this was Krause’s first call up to the national stage at the tournament in Coffs Harbour.
Krause comes from a family with strong refereeing heritage with her father and both brothers also match officials.
“Everyone in the family has done it…Dad started it and both my brothers referee,” said Krause.
Reflecting on the national tournament experience, the demanding schedule of refereeing multiple games throughout the week was nothing that Krause couldn’t handle.
“We were refereeing two or three games per day but we focused on recovering a lot and warm downs so it wasn’t too bad,” said Krause.
Being a national tournament, Hyundai A-League and Westfield W-League referee coaches were mentoring the young match officials throughout the week which Krause pointed out was a particular highlight.
“The coaching was a lot better and we were being taught by people we ultimately want to be,” said Krause.
When asked if refereeing in the A-League and W-League was on her to-do list, there was no hesitation in Krause’s answer.
“Yes 100% definitely,” said Krause.
Football Queensland (FQ) would like to congratulate Krause on this significant achievement and wishes her well in her refereeing career.