The 2026 FIFA World Cup is nearly complete following Wednesday’s second semi-final between England and Argentina.
While millions around the world watched every kick, some local soccer fans were focused on the referees.
That’s because one of the assistant referees was Edinboro native and General McLane High School graduate Corey Parker.
During the game, Philip Ward talked with the PennWest Edinboro University Head Women’s Soccer Coach Gary Kagiavas, who used to coach Parker.
Kagiavas said that even from a young age, he had a feeling Corey was destined for this international stage.
“As he went to Penn State University, he started refereeing and did a lot of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) games, and you knew he was going to move on to bigger and better things. It’s great… you can get there from here, it does not matter where you are.”
Kagiavas also praised Parker for inspiring young players and giving back to the game of soccer.
The game also marked the first time an all-American officiating crew has refereed a FIFA World Cup semi-final.