Laalia began refereeing in her freshman year to earn extra spending money, but over the last four years it became something she genuinely enjoys because it’s opened doors to new opportunities and introduced her to a wide range of people. She sees the soccer community as a place of connection—where you meet others who share similar experiences, including people from all over the world at tournaments. She’s looked up to senior referees as role models, learning from them how to stay composed and manage tough situations with coaches and parents. Laalia tries to challenge herself and grow in the role, and she hopes to inspire young women and girls by helping create a safe, fair, and fun playing environment
1. Can you share your journey into your current role?
I started refereeing as a freshman. At first it was just a way to make a little money on the side, for fun. But, over these last 4 years I’ve learned to really love my job. I started with little rec kids and now have made my way to reffing older adults, and also 18/19 year olds.
2. What does being a part of the soccer community mean to you?
Being apart of this community means the world to mean, it means connection to people from all over the world. Connecting on our best and worst games, but also having space where people can learn and teach soccer.
3.If you weren’t actively participating in the development of youth soccer, what do you think you’d be doing instead?
I think if I didn’t do reffing I would probably be working a job that wasn’t active as refereeing. Or they wouldn’t be as flexible with their schedule. The best thing about refereeing is the flexibility, you make the rules.
4.Who has been a role model or mentor for you in this space?
I would say that everyone who has had more experience than me has been a mentor of sorts for me. I can float around everywhere so I get a lot of information from a lot of different people.
5. What initiatives, programs, or events have you been part of that made a real difference?
I’ve been all over the place, done tons of different things. I have been apart of some developmental leagues.
6. How do you inspire others especially young women and girls to get involved in soccer?
I think inspire by just showing up and owning the field. Creating an environment that is fun, but also is fair and level for everyone.
7. An angel investor has offered you $1m to grow the game of women’s soccer, how would you invest this money?
With the first half of the money I would donate it to an organization that provides sports gear and equipment for those who can get or afford it. With the other half I would create scholarships for under privileged young girls who want to be apart of sport.
8. If you could watch a match anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I would watch the match in Algeria, it’s my dad home country. Also the country is very beautiful and would be a very proud moment for me and others.
9. What’s one change you would love to see in women’s soccer in the next 5 years?
I would love to see a change in acceptance and openness in this sport. I think that sometimes if you aren’t the best you don’t get the same amount of attention. Everyone should be able to play soccer and get the attention and appreciation they deserve. Soccer is all about love of the sport and fun.
10.Favorite motivational quote or mantra?
“be a goldfish”
11.Best book, movie, or TV show about soccer you’ve ever seen?
Ted Lasso
12.What’s your favorite piece of soccer gear or memorabilia you own?
My favorite thing is my soccer photos and pictures, especially those with past or present teammates. Having those memories just makes it all worth it. Looking back and remembering the good and fun times on and off the field.