A Werribee lacrosse official has netted a glowing recommendation.
Anna Lewer was recently named a finalist in the Victorian Sport Awards’ Victorian Community Official of the Year category for her referee work in lacrosse. The nomination followed her receiving the 2017 Lacrosse Victoria Official of the Year award.
Lewer has spent the past 15 years officiating women’s games for the Altona Lacrosse Club, and last year also took on the Men’s State League – the highest grade possible.
“It unusual to get a female to [be an official] for men’s games,” she said.
“That’s quite challenging for referees, because the men can be quite aggressive and know their rules – it’s a bit more of a challenge than division three [where I started].”
Although Lewer missed out on the top gong last week, she said she was thrilled to have been nominated.
“I was really surprised, and humbled [to be nominated]. It’s nice that you’re appreciated and that people remember you.
“When I started playing, everyone had to have a turn at refereeing, because there weren’t even referees going around. Everyone was nominated to do at least one game per season and eventually I did more and more refereeing.”
Sport minister John Eren said the awards recognised and celebrated Victoria’s home-grown sporting heroes.
“We’re proud to honour our selfless and dedicated individuals, clubs and organisations,” Mr Eren said.
