Lara Saba is a Lebanon Rugby League Local Hero

Lara Saba loves rugby league – she says so! She is also a match official but not just any match official. Lara is the Match Official Director for the Lebanese Rugby League Federation and her journey is an inspiration to everyone.

Like many people, Lara went along to a game with a friend and immediately was taken with the sport. She quickly progressed from being a spectator to being a fourth official and with the support of RLEF official, Remond Safi, quickly got her match official qualifications.

Once she had progressed to the middle, she had to earn the respect of the players as it was unusual to see a female referee, however, with a mixture of patience, self-reflection and review and high quality officiating, Lara quickly showed that she is a formidable and respected referee.

The real turning point was an educational trip to Australia where she really honed her skills to the point where she was appointed as Match Official Director on her return home. Her next goal is to become a qualified match official educator and start to inspire the next generation of referees.

Lara is keen to talk about her journey and love for rugby league saying;

“Once I become an educator, I’ll be able to guide the next generation and give hope to all girls out there, that once you set a goal, nothing and no one can stand in the way.

“I would like to thank all my colleagues and a special thank you for our current CEO Nayef Abi Saad.

“We’ve worked hard, and we still have a long way.”