IN MY WORDS: Get to know Cal North FIFA Assistant Referee Deleana Quan

Soccer has impacted my life at every level. I’ve met my husband, made lifelong friends and really credit soccer with shaping my life and where I am today.

I was born and raised in Sacramento and have played soccer for as long as I can remember. Refereeing was something that came natural to me and I started officiating at my local club when I was 14 years old. It didn’t take long for it to become a more than just a hobby.  As I was making my way through the ranks and learning what it took to succeed, amazing opportunities presented themselves and I was lucky enough to start working state-wide tournaments and that’s when officiating really became a passion. It was something that not only did I want to be good at, but something I wanted to excel at.

Being here in California I have had an opportunity to be around some of the best officials who I’ve been able to learn from and grow my career. Early in my career I was lucky enough to begin working and training with Veronica Perez who not only became a friend, but also showed me what it takes to become a successful referee.  With each of my current and former colleagues, we consider ourselves an extended family. Each of us not only push each other, but look to each other as support system so that we can collectively reach our goals.

Throughout my career I have been lucky enough to have some great anchor movements in my career. My first professional game, Seattle Reign v FC Kansas City in 2013 - My first international game, USA versus Ireland in San Diego – but the moment that always stands out is the 2016, U17 Women’s World Cup in Jordan. It was the first international women’s event in the country which was incredible to be a part of both personally and historically.

The San Jose Earthquakes will host Women’s Soccer Appreciation Night, Friday, August 13 when they host the Vancouver Whitecaps FC at PayPal Park. Kickoff for the match is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

Fans can purchase their special event ticket here, which includes a ticket to the match, a Quakes scrunchie, and a pregame Q&A with Danielle Slaton, Sammie Ellis and Deleana Quan