The Korean national beat fellow referees from Australia and Thailand to the prestigious accolade which is awarded based on points achieved for performances at international matches over the last year.

Hong took on some challenging matches in 2009, as both a referee and fourth official in the AFC Under-19 Women’s Championship in China and at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifying games.

Hong receives support from Loughborough’s sports scholarship programme alongside several Olympic and Paralympic athletes and hopefuls. When receiving the award she was quick to recognise the support she receives for her sporting career whilst studying at the University.

“I am so happy to be here today for this award,” she said. “I would like to thank my university and the FA for helping me achieve my goals, and my family too.”

As a FIFA qualified international referee she officiated at the Beijing Olympic Games, including women’s semi-final between Brazil and Germany. As well as continuing her studies and research at Loughborough University, Hong now has her eyes on London 2012 and a bright future as an referee.

She said: "All I can do is keep my head down and train hard and of course, I want to referee at the London Olympics in 2012. It would be even more special to referee in England."