Key Facts
• Sumire Ichikawa, 18, from Nihonmatsu City, Fukushima, is a senior at Fukushima Meisei High School.
• She will serve as a youth referee for the National High School Soccer Tournament (July 28–August 2, 2025).
• Only about eight youth referees are selected nationwide for this event.
• Ichikawa began as a soccer club manager in high school and earned her Class 4 referee license in her first year.
• In February 2025, she advanced to a Class 3 referee, qualifying her to officiate as a main referee in prefectural tournaments.
• She is one of only three female youth referees with a Class 3 license in Fukushima Prefecture.
• Ichikawa was recommended by the prefectural soccer association for her accuracy and professionalism.
• She will act as an assistant referee or fourth official during the tournament.
• Refereeing requires running over 10 kilometers per match, demanding significant physical preparation.
• Ichikawa reviews match footage and takes notes to refine her skills, aiming to officiate with confidence.
Summary
Sumire Ichikawa, an 18-year-old senior at Fukushima Meisei High School, has been selected as a youth referee for the National High School Soccer Tournament, taking place in Muroran, Hokkaido, from July 28 to August 2, 2025. Out of approximately eight youth referees chosen nationwide, Ichikawa stands out as one of only three female Class 3 referees in Fukushima Prefecture. Her journey began as a soccer club manager, later earning her Class 4 referee license in her first year of high school and advancing to Class 3 in February 2025. Known for her accuracy and professionalism, she was recommended by the prefectural soccer association. Ichikawa will serve as an assistant referee or fourth official during the tournament. Despite the pressure of officiating at a national level, she is committed to excelling, preparing physically and mentally by running over 10 kilometers per match and studying match footage. Ichikawa aspires to be a respected referee, earning the trust of players and coaches alike.
