So it's a lot of compromise and sacrifice, but if you're willing, there is a great future for women officials because, not only FIFA, but all the sports, are starting to open doors. At 33, Denoncourt has only slightly more than a decade left at the highest levels of her sport. FIFA referees face mandatory retirement at the age of 44, and that's if all goes well. If they're not happy with everything about your performance, they won't assign you to another game. While Denoncourt employs the same high standards whether she is refereeing women's or men's games, she noted a huge difference between the two.
Fitness is one of the most important factors.
Men run a lot faster. They really move the ball and they use the field 100 per cent. Women's play is tighter and there is a big difference in the way they commit faults. Lots of people like high-level women's soccer because they are really competent technically. It's not as physical so there are more chances to see nice plays and more room for the good players to perform.