Soccer referee Bibiana Steinhaus-Webb demands more respect

Hello, my name is Bibiana Steinhaus-Webb. I am a police officer. But most likely you know me better as a soccer referee.
Even as a young girl I lost my heart to football and played myself. Then I trained to be a referee. For me personally one of the best decisions. European championships, world championships, Olympics. As a referee, I was able to experience the biggest sporting events up close in the greatest stadiums in the world.
You can imagine it: it wasn’t always easy to assert yourself as a woman between 22 players. Anyone who is ready to face the challenge of making decisions also offers a target for attack. Some of my fellow referees are repeatedly exposed to hate comments and abuse. We are committed to fair dealings with one another. As is the case, for example, with the police, security services or rescue services.
People who stand up for others deserve respect. Let us treat one another with respect. Just like the players and I did on the pitch. Not ALTHOUGH I am a woman and not BECAUSE I am a woman. But because we met each other fairly and on an equal footing. Responsibility knows no gender.
You can do that too! You too can assert yourself in all areas, even in supposedly male-dominated industries. It is not the gender that decides, but the performance. Football is a reflection of our society. It is up to each and every one of us to take our place in society. That is only possible with each other and in dialogue.
Be brave! Choose your jerseys one size larger. I am sure: you too will grow into it.