Tennessee Tech alumna Brooke Mayo has been selected to serve as an assistant referee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Tennessee Tech said Mayo graduated in 2011 and previously played for the university’s women’s soccer team. The press release said Mayo received the news of her appointment from fellow officials Tori Penso and Kathryn Nesbitt.
“You’re only as good as your last performance,” Mayo said. “At these events, there are so many people watching that you want to put your best foot forward to represent yourself, your country and your federation well.”
Mayo previously officiated the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the 2024 Olympic Games, and the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The press release said Mayo was also named the 2025 Female Referee of the Year by U.S. Soccer.
“I learned how to be a good teammate,” Mayo said. “No matter what referee I work with, I’m able to be a good teammate, and I learned that by playing on a soccer team for four years at a high level.”
Mayo spent ten years coaching soccer at Stewarts Creek High School before focusing on her officiating career. The press release said Mayo is moving to Colorado to begin a new role as a middle school physical education teacher this fall.
“I love coaching referees,” Mayo said. “Referees need coaches as well, and we’re starting to invest in that.”
Mayo was recognized as the 2011 NCAA Woman of the Year for Tennessee Tech after playing for the Golden Eagles from 2007 to 2010. The press release said Mayo continues to follow the university’s athletic programs and maintains contact with former teammates and current coaches.
“I’m very proud,” Mayo said. “We love it. I still keep up with so many of my former teammates. We see Tech doing really well, and it’s a good reason to reach out.”
The press release said Mayo hopes to have another opportunity to officiate the Women’s World Cup in Brazil as her career continues.