Raymond Terrace's Sam Newell, 18, was one of only two Australian referees to be chosen to officiate at the under-17 boys tournament, currently scheduled for China in August, but could be moved to Brazil, Malaysia or Spain due to effects of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Despite being voted 'Senior Referee of the Tournament' at the recent Futsal nationals played in Sydney, Newell said she was not expecting to get an international call-up simply because it was unprecedented for a female to referee in a male world cup.

"When I received the email to say that I had been selected I cried for half an hour. It was the most exciting news ever," said the former Irrawang High student. "The tournament will present challenges and I see this as an interesting test. There will be language barriers we must work through."

Asked if she felt intimidated officiating at a boys tournament, the slightly built Newell, who weighs just 55kg and stands a little over 1.5m, quipped: "I have had enough intimidation over the years to know how to stand up for myself. Besides I have the whistle and the cards."

Newell began playing outdoor soccer at age 12 and Futsal at 13. She earned her referee's certificates in both forms of the game around the same age. "I enjoyed refereeing more than playing and the money was good."

Newell says she has received her fair share of abuse, particularly from sideline parents, but is no longer phased by the criticism. "When I was younger the abuse did affect me but I believe it has made me stronger and more confident as a referee. It has shaped me to be the person who I am today," she said.

"I am fortunate that I have had some excellent mentors through my family, and the northern NSW and state league systems, and while I would encourage any youngster thinking of becoming a referee to give it a go, I also know that the job is not for everyone."

Newell said that while she enjoys immensely the indoor game, she still had aspirations to officiate at a higher level in the outdoor game, and dreams of a future officiating the W-League and A-League competitions.

"There is no doubt that you need to be a lot fitter to referee park football. Futsal on the other hand is probably more difficult because it is faster and more intense."

Deb Tserepas, a spokesperson for Northern NSW Futsal, described Newell's selection as "a great reward for a hard working referee who has been through our NNSW referee's system over the past four years".

If anyone in Port Stephens would like more information on becoming a Futsal referee they can contact sec@nnswfutsal.com.