Maria Akenese Salamasina is on her way to the Cook Islands for the kick-off of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Oceania Qualifiers. Recently, she completed Stage 3 of the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) course in New Zealand, bolstering her skills as a match official who assists on-field referees with video reviews.
She has officiated at several prestigious FIFA tournaments, including three Under-20 World Cups and two Open Women’s World Cups. In addition, she has extensive experience as an assistant in numerous OFC tournaments, showcasing her dedication and expertise in the sport.
This isn’t Maria’s first time participating in major tournaments; she has a history of involvement in international competitions. Maria sees them as a chance for growth and is proud to be an example and inspiration for her fellow referees in Samoa, showcasing the importance of representation in sports.
Maria has dedicated over a decade of her life to officiating in Samoa Football, earning a reputation as a knowledgeable and respected referee in the sport. Her extensive experience has not only honed her skills in the field but also deepened her passion for promoting fairness and integrity in the game.
