2021 NWSL Championship crew confirmed
Tori Penso will referee the National Women’s Soccer League Championship on Saturday, November 20 (12PM ET) between Washington Spirit and Chicago Red Stars at Lynn Family Stadium in Louisville, Kentucky.
Penso has taken charge of games in Major League Soccer, United Soccer League, and international matches during 2021, as well as refereeing in NWSL – a competition she debuted in six years ago.
She will be joined by assistant referees Tiffini Turpin and Kali Smith. Turpin was AR2 in the NWSL Challenge Cup Final in 2020, with Smith having NWSL Playoffs experience from her role as an assistant referee in the postseason two years ago.
Meanwhile, Natalie Simon, who refereed the 2021 NWSL Challenge Cup Final in May, will be the fourth official for this weekend’s showpiece game. Walt Heatherly is the Reserve Assistant Referee.
The final will be a battle between the third and fourth-place finishers in the regular-season standings, with the two teams separated by just one point after 24 games. Washington Spirit defeated OL Reign and Chicago Red Stars overcame Portland Thorns in the playoff semifinals to reach this stage.
Washington Spirit vs Chicago Red Stars
Lynn Family Stadium (12PM ET)
REF: Tori Penso
AR1: Tiffini Turpin
AR2: Kali Smith
4TH: Natalie Simon
RAR: Walt Heatherly
PRO wishes all the officials a successful and enjoyable final. This important assignment recognizes their excellent work throughout the season.