Mariia Zobenko was officiating in Ukraine when the outbreak of war turned her life upside down.
After seeking refuge in Scotland, Mariia found a sense of comfort in taking up refereeing again. Determined to pick up where she left off, Mariia is now working her way through the Scottish refereeing ranks.
Mariia spoke to the Scottish FA, revealing her dreams of one day running out at the World Cup.
"The support I have had – from the local association, the Scottish Football Association, the other referees, and people I have met along the way – has been amazing. It has been a hard year, but I consider myself to be a lucky person.
"At least here, my biggest concern is how to improve my performance in matches. How to take feedback on board, improve my communication and keep progressing. I’ve had games at different levels, and it was special to get to be an assistant in the SWPL for Hibernian against Motherwell.
"I have a long way to go but I feel myself getting more and more confident.
One day I would like to be a professional referee. My dream is to run out in a World Cup.
"It might never happen, but I’ll do everything I can to get there. Whatever happens, I am proud of how far I have come. I’m stronger than I thought I was.
Scotland has given me a home away from home. Football has given me the best kind of distraction and renewed purpose.
"I hope someone will read this and be encouraged to chase their own dreams."
