BIANCA WESTWOOD created history by becoming the first female Soccer Saturday match reporter – but she was initially told she was not attractive enough for the job.
The reporter spent more than 22 years at Sky Sports before quitting last summer.
Westwood joined talkSPORT but reflects well on the time she spent travelling around the country reporting on matches for Soccer Saturday.
She is incredibly proud she created history by becoming the first female reporter on the show, particularly as she almost missed out.
Westwood explained on The Business Excellence Channel: “When I did a screen test, many years ago, I was told I wasn’t attractive enough for Sky Sports News.
“And part of me was like, why do I have to be attractive… because there’s some unattractive men on there.
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“But also, I thought I wasn’t too bad looking. At that time I was told there has to be a certain type of symmetry to your face as a woman, and I didn’t have that.
“It’s interesting that years later I ended up in a box with just my face… And it didn’t matter that one eyebrow was higher than the other!”
Westwood now fulfils a similar role at talkSPORT where it is her voice which takes centre stage, rather than her appearance.
She revealed she was “buzzing” to start her new job after a long and fulfilling career with Sky Sports.
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Westwood announced her resignation saying: “A bit like when I did my first match report, I didn’t want to make a fuss but I’ve had so many messages and questions about where I’ll be today I thought I might as well let you know.
“I haven’t quite made enough money to retire unfortunately, but I am retiring from Sky Sports & Soccer Saturday. It’s been a phenomenal 22-and-a-half years and I’ve been a small part of building the channel into the giant of broadcasting it is today. What a ride!
“Being the first female match reporter on Soccer Saturday is something I’m immensely proud of & that can never be taken away from me. I’ve covered hundreds & hundreds of games, I’ve interviewed hundreds of players & managers.
“I’ve watched hours & hours of football. Years of experience (I said what I said!) that will live with me forever. For the most part, it’s been a blast. I’m grateful to you the viewers for watching over the years & for all your support.
“To those I’ve worked with who’ve been a big part of my life at Sky, you know who you are, thanks for the memories. On to the next chapter. Buzzing for it.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
