Sapir Berman has created history on Monday by becoming the first transgender referee to take charge in an international game. The 30-year-old is all set to officiate in the game between Women’s Under-17 Euro qualifier between Northern Ireland and Montenegro in Belfast.
“It’s an overwhelming feeling — immense pride, indescribable excitement — but more than anything, it’s an opportunity to continue doing what I love, in the world that shaped me and where I grew up,” Berman was quoted by AFP in a statement.
“I step into this moment with deep humility and excitement, hoping to do my very best, to represent my country, to stand for my sisters in the transgender community, and to show that every dream is possible,” Berman added.
“When young players see diversity on the field, it helps make inclusion normal, and it sends a strong message that what matters is talent and commitment,” Berman would go on to say.
In 2021 Israeli came out as transgender and is living — and enforcing the rules of the game — as the only woman in the country’s top-shelf league.
“I always saw myself as a woman, from a young age,” Berman, whose birth name was “Sagi,” told reporters at Ramat Gan Stadium, headquarters of the Israel Football Association at the time.
“I realized society will not accept me, will not be on my side, so I continued like this for nearly 26 years,” she said.
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Berman said that being involved in such a male-dominated profession made her hesitate to go public. But about six months ago, “I decided to come out and to show who I am, first of all to myself, for my soul,” she said with a smile.
Fans and players quickly took notice, she said, addressing her with the feminine form of Hebrew words — a change Berman chooses to see as a sign of respect for her decision to transition.
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