Aug 29, 2023

Hola familia! This week we've got a wholesome conversation with a Australiana Latina based in Melbourne. I stumbled upon an incredible personality while browsing through instagram profiles, and I just couldn't resist reaching out to learn more. We're diving into the world of the world game, passion, and overcoming challenges with the one and only Laura Moya, a FIFA referee hailing from the vibrant football scene in Australia.. (and Chile).

I caught up with Laura, a Melbourne native with deep Chilean roots, who is conquering the male-dominated field of football refereeing.

Laura's story is a beautiful blend of her Chilean heritage and her Australian upbringing. Growing up in Melbourne, she proudly carried the torch of her cultural roots, even if it meant clarifying that "football" meant soccer or as she said ‘Round Ball’ ! A first-generation Australian born to Chilean parents, she reminisced about the multicultural Southeastern suburbs of Melbourne that nurtured her love for her heritage and recalled the beauty of being amongst peers who all spoke a different language at home.

Laura's story began with family. Her father, a dedicated Chilean football enthusiast, instilled a deep love for the game within her. Football wasn't just a game; it was an integral part of her identity, a way of connecting with her heritage. As she put it, "football was just part of my life, and like any Latino, it's in our blood."

With a chuckle, Laura remembered the friendly debates about the term "football" itself. "You know," she said, "you'd think people were talking about a completely different sport!" A passion for football ran in the family – Laura's dad was a referee too. And here's where the story took an interesting twist.

At 15, Laura found herself intrigued by her dad's role as a referee. Maybe it was in her blood, or perhaps she just thought it was cool. Either way, she decided to give it a shot. Little did she know that this decision would set her on an incredible journey that would span over a decade. With a laugh, she admitted, "Opportunities just kept coming, and here I am!"

Laura stepped into the world of refereeing at the age of 20. This marked the beginning of her adventure in the Women's National League, also known as the W League. And let's not forget that Laura is an assistant referee for FIFA, a title she's held for an impressive 13 years. As she reminisced, “it struck me that this period aligns with the remarkable rise of women's football on the world stage.”

I couldn't resist asking about the upcoming matches, and Laura shared her insights about the Matilda's chances in the Women's World Cup. Her eyes shone with excitement as she talked about the team's strengths and their undeniable home advantage. She wasn't just an observer; she was a part of the journey, eagerly watching all the games.

The conversation took a more serious turn as we delved into the challenges Laura faced as a female referee in a male-dominated arena. "It's always a bit of a challenge," she admitted. The sports world, she explained, is evolving, but biases and comments still persist. It's often not about ability but rather an easy jab, a stereotype. "Go back and play with your dolls," she mimicked. But Laura's resilience shone through. She shared how she learned to block out the noise and focus on her job, knowing that she was making the right calls.

Laura's journey took her back to her Chilean roots in an unexpected way. She'd experienced the passionate intensity of football there, and even had the unique opportunity to referee a match between North Korea and South Korea. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, she beamed as she recalled the electric atmosphere in the stadium.

Amidst all these stories, Laura's warm and inviting tone painted a vivid picture of her experiences. She spoke of the camaraderie, the passion, and the moments that shaped her. As we wrapped up our chat, she mentioned how grateful she was for the opportunities she'd had. From officiating matches between Chile and Australia to stepping onto the international stage, Laura's journey is a testament to the power of pursuing one's passion, breaking stereotypes, and thriving in a world that's often resistant to change.

Laura Moya, a fierce and dedicated football referee one of only four Assistant Referees for FIFA in Australia. Her journey from Melbourne's multicultural suburbs to international stadiums is inspiring, a story that resonates with many aspiring individuals out there. So, whether you call it football or soccer, remember that it's more than just a game – it's a powerful medium for connection, identity, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Listen to her podcast below.

Until next time, familia!