Breaking barriers: Adriana’s inspiring officiating journey

While the squash spotlight often shines on players, the biggest games and biggest competitions are only made possible through the efforts of the referee.

Adriana Aida started her refereeing journey at 18 years old, and has had opportunities at the highest level of the game in the years since.

It was while at university that Adriana – a keen squash player then and now – enrolled in a refereeing course designed for students.

Adriana, now 25, recalls: “I joined the course out of curiosity more than anything else.

“While I was doing the course, I thought refereeing was quite interesting, and as I started doing it more, I began to enjoy it a lot.”

That enjoyment has sustained her passion for officiating through the years, and helped her through a big life change.

Moving to Scotland

Originally from Malaysia, Adriana’s move to Scotland marked a significant chapter in her life.

After arriving in Edinburgh to pursue her Masters degree, a chance encounter with refereeing stalwart Jim Hay, led her to get involved in the Scottish game.

Refereeing wasn’t just an opportunity to stay connected with squash, but also a means to build friendships and relationships in Scotland.

Adriana said: “After I started refereeing in Scotland, I met lots of new people – the referees, the players, the parents – and I really enjoy being part of the squash community here.”

The Commonwealth Games 2022

The official’s hard work and keen eye for the game did not go unnoticed, and was rewarded with what Adriana describes as the highlight of her refereeing tenure.

She said: “Going to the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham was incredible – that was the biggest event that I’ve refereed.

“It was amazing to meet referees from around the world and learn from their styles of refereeing.

“I learned so much from that event and it changed the way I referee, making me more empathetic with the players.”

A role model for women and girls

As a young female referee, Adriana knows first-hand some of the challenges women and girls can face when taking their first steps in officiating.

Reflecting on her early experiences, Adriana said: “Back when I started in Malaysia, I was the only young female referee and that was really challenging for me.

“A lot of people look down on you and don’t take you seriously, but that only motivated me to improve and get better.

“That then inspired some of my friends to try refereeing, and I would hope to do the same here in Scotland because we need more female referees.”

The drive for new referees

What would Adriana – who was shortlisted for the Scottish Squash Referee of the Year award in 2023 – say to those thinking about taking their first steps in refereeing?

“I would say, if you love squash and you enjoy watching the game, then refereeing is a great way to stay in touch with the sport and be part of a supportive and welcoming community.”

With a clear passion for officiating, there is no doubt that Adriana’s example serves as a brilliant example to anyone looking to give it a go.

If you are interested in giving refereeing a go, or learning more about the rules of squash, why not try the free Level 0 World Squash Officiating course here.