Islamic Republic of Iran’s Sofia Navadeh was the voice behind the microphone, who also happens to be the only female official in the ongoing event here. She passed her assessment under Monir Shah, the then President of the Referees Committee in the World Squash Federation. 

“There are very few female referees who are active in Asia and in Europe. I am really tired of being alone. Right now, I feel like I am a boy as all my co-workers are men (laughs),” said Sofia in an exclusive chat with DT Next . To standout in a male-dominated workplace takes some doing and the 29-year-old is relishing her transition from a player to a referee/coach. Her playing career came to a halt due to a back problem seven years ago.

 “I always like to boss around (laughs). I had an issue with my back and I couldn’t train a lot when I was about 22 years old. Since I always was in love of refereeing, the change didn’t affect me much,” she asserted.  

“I am thankful to the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) for getting me on board for this tournament. It’s been a good learning experience as I am sharing space with some of the experienced referees from different parts of the world,” added Sofia, who was part of the Asian Championships here last year. The Tehran-based lady is yet to officiate a match in the senior section of the World Championships. But, she is ambitious about climbing up the ladder and scripting history by making her presence felt at the highest level. 

“It would be fantastic if squash is included in the Olympics in the future and officiating a match there would definitely be a dream come true,” remarked the Iranian, who holds a Master’s degree in Sports Injury. Speaking about the evolution of squash in the Middle Eastern nation, she said, “The scene is definitely improving back home. They are thriving hard and don’t forget, the Consolation Plate final was won by a boy from our country.” Mohammed Reza Jafarzadeh’s closely-fought win over Pakistan’s Uzair Shoukhat seems to have brought a smile on her face in an otherwise disappointing campaign for her nation.  “The players didn’t enrol themselves for the team championship as they are going to prepare for the upcoming Asian Games in Jakarta,” she went on to add.