Natalie Simon becomes first black woman to officiate in the MLS

Natalie Simon became the first Black woman to referee an MLS game when she took charge of San Jose Earthquakes’ win over Real Salt Lake on Saturday September 16.

Born in 1990, Natalie Simon was delegated for the center Referee role after severally serving as a fourth official in the Major Soccer League – MLS.

Home team San Jose Earthquakes defeated Real Salt Lakes 2-1 in a keenly contested game that saw center Referee Natalie enjoying the spotlight over her latest feat.

Natalie Simon is no stranger to the football refereeing history books. In 2022, Simon became one of four American women to hold a FIFA international refereeing badge, the highest honor for a referee, and the first Black American woman to do so.

Her performance in the game was good enough to ensure she stays in the illustrious role and serve as inspiration for other African-American women in Sports.