2024-08-18 09:46:34
New Delhi: Riohlang Dhar has become the second Indian woman assistant referee to be selected for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup to be held in the Dominican Republic. 34-year-old Riohlang from Meghalaya was on Friday included in FIFA’s list of 38 match officials who will officiate in the tournament scheduled to run from October 10 to November 3. Uvena Fernandes is the first Indian woman assistant referee to officiate in a World Cup. Uvena had officiated in the 2016 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Jordan.What did Riohlang say upon being elected?
Riohlang, who works in the Meghalaya Police Department, said, “It is a matter of great honour for me to be appointed for the World Cup.” The assistant referee said, “I will have to work hard to live up to FIFA’s expectations. I will also keep in mind that I will be there as India’s representative. I will do everything possible to keep the Indian flag flying high.”
Riohlang said refereeing has been a part of her life since 2009. “After I stopped playing football, I became part of the refereeing syllabus and I found it interesting because it kept me connected to the sport I love so much,” she said.
“So I decided to blow the whistle and carry the flag. I have come a long way since then. I have officiated at many international tournaments but the World Cup is going to be a different experience,” Riohlang said.
Riohalang gave the credit for this success to him
Riohlang Der said, ‘Without the support of my state association, the AIFF and my employers, I would not have been able to reach the World Cup. The AIFF is doing tremendous work in the development of women referees. We have all benefited greatly.’