Legacy of Uvena Fernandes: A multi-faceted referee in Indian football

Uvena Fernandes, a name synonymous with excellence in Indian football refereeing, recently announced her retirement as an active FIFA assistant referee.

A trailblazer in her field, she remains the only Indian assistant referee to officiate a FIFA World Cup final, a milestone she achieved at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2016 in Jordan.

A career steeped in passion for football

Before taking up the whistle, Uvena was an international footballer, representing India at the highest level.

"Football has always been my first love," she told The Bridge. "After retiring as a player, I chose refereeing to stay connected to the sport. Becoming the first Indian to officiate a World Cup final was a dream come true. That moment, at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Jordan, was one of the most significant achievements of my life."

Her career as a referee saw her officiate in major tournaments like the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, Asian Games, and multiple Women’s Asian Cups.

Reflecting on these milestones, Uvena said, "Every referee dreams of reaching the pinnacle of officiating, and I am grateful to have lived that dream. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication required to excel in this field."

Excelling in a male-dominated field

When asked about the challenges of being a referee in a male-dominated sport, Uvena credited her diligence and composure for her success.

"I have been fortunate not to face much criticism, perhaps because I have always been meticulous about the rules and maintained my fitness. My calm demeanour and accurate decisions helped me navigate the pressures of the job," she explained.

"My father, who passed away when I was two, wanted me to play for India. Although I learned about this later in life, it motivated me to excel. Today, I hope to inspire others to follow their dreams," she said.

Uvena also acknowledged her mother’s role in supporting her journey. "My mother was initially hesitant about my passion for football, fearing injuries. But she eventually became my strongest supporter when she saw my dedication," she shared.

Balancing her demanding career with family responsibilities has also been a hallmark of her journey.

"I am married and have a son, who is both my strength and my priority. As women, we can manage multiple roles effectively, and that has been my key to maintaining balance," she stated.

IAF-Football balance

A senior officer in the Indian Air Force and an air traffic controller, Uvena’s career in the armed forces complements her journey in football.

"There was not a transition between football and the Air Force; I pursued both simultaneously. Both roles demand quick decision-making under stress, which has been a common thread in my professional life," she explained.

She elaborated on how the discipline and decision-making skills honed in her Air Force role contributed to her efficiency as a referee.

"In both fields, staying calm under pressure and making quick, accurate decisions are vital. These skills have been instrumental in my success," Uvena added.

Developing women's refereeing

Talking about the development of Indian referees, Uvena reflected on a recent workshop organized in collaboration with Reliance Foundation Youth Sports and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for women's match officials, at the RYFC academy in Mumbai, aims to support the development of female referees and match officials in India, as part of the broader mission to strengthen the Indian football ecosystem and encourage greater female participation at all levels.

"I attended the workshop last year as a referee, and this year, I’m here as an instructor. The infrastructure provided is exceptional and rarely available elsewhere in India," she stated.

Uvena emphasised how these workshops prepare referees and players alike, offering a platform to refine skills and build a robust sporting foundation.

"These workshops are instrumental in uplifting football and other sports by covering a range of topics, including fitness checks and practical sessions. Such initiatives not only enhance the game but also nurture talent from grassroots levels, ensuring a brighter future for Indian football," she added.

Continuing to give back

Though she has retired from active refereeing, Uvena is far from stepping away from the sport.

"I am pursuing my PhD in Human Resource Management, focusing on sports and grassroots education. I have also completed courses in coaching and sports nutrition to contribute to the development of young players. My goal is to use my experience and qualifications to uplift grassroots football in India," she shared.

She is also deeply committed to mentoring young referees. "As an instructor and assessor, I aim to guide the next generation of referees to reach greater heights. The future of Indian football lies in the hands of these young talents," she said.

When asked about her advice to young girls aspiring to reach similar heights, Uvena said, "We all face challenges, but problems should not stop us from dreaming. Hard work and perseverance are essential. Even when it seems impossible, we must keep trying. It’s only over when we give up. Dream big and work relentlessly to make those dreams a reality."