Where Are They Now: Sophie Dennington – FIFA Assistant Referee

A UCFB graduate has been talking to us about her career in refereeing since graduating with a degree in BA (Hons) Football Coaching and Management.

Sophie Dennington now works as a national referee manager and officer at The Football Association, as well as a referee at the Berkshire and Buckinghamshire FA and an assistant referee for FIFA.

So early on in her refereeing career, Sophie has already been an assistant referee at the Women’s FA Cup Final, and became a FIFA assistant referee at the age of 23.

She spoke about how her time at UCFB helped her find passion for refereeing.

“I did the BA (Hons) Football Coaching and Management course because I wasn’t too sure if I wanted to be a coach or referee.

“During my degree, my refereeing took off. I found that was my passion. So, with the help of the university, they got me through my coaching degree, but then my refereeing took off, so it was a case of managing them both at the same time.”

She added: “My university degree has a big impact on my day job, working for the FA, developing and coaching referees. I’ve taken the aspect of coaching but into the refereeing workforce.”

Speaking about the 2023 Women’s FA Cup Final, where she was an assistant referee, Sophie said: “There was a bit of added pressure, as I was coming back to my home for university.

“Everyone in England wants to be involved in Wembley somehow. The added pressure, the fans, the atmosphere; it was something really, really special.”

She finished by offering advice for students wanting a career in the sports industry.

“Just follow your passion. I think if you’re passionate about something, then it doesn’t feel like a job.

“So if you’re passionate, just give it a go and make sure you follow it through.”

Find out more about UCFB’s wide range of alumni who have gone on to secure roles across the football and sports industry.

You can also learn about our array of undergraduate degree courses, ranging from sports media to business and coaching, all tailored to help you score your career goals in the industry.