#inspire – celebrating female referees in rugby
Lily has been officiating for the last year.
Her dad, Matt, coaches her team and that of her sister. He encourages her to be at the top of her officiating game.
In collaboration with our partners at ACME Whistles, we met up with Lily to chat about what it is she loves most about rugby, what motivates her and why female role models in the sport are so important.
Can you tell us a little about your relationship with rugby?
I love rugby! I love playing and being a match official as it has helped me build my confidence both on and off the pitch and I’ve made some great friends in my teammates and good role models in my match official mentors and coaches.
What was your first experience as a Match Official like?
I started off being a touch judge for the men’s team at my club. I started reffing my brother’s U12 team last season who are my harshest critics. They say I am too fair!
Tell us about your most memorable officiating moment to date.
Being allowed to use the comms kit and hear what the ref was saying whilst I was touch judge. Lex listened to what I had to say in the game and it was great to have an input.
Who inspired you to take up the whistle?
Dan Brothwell, a coach at my old club, always seemed fair and was always very positive. He also encouraged me to go on the ref course with him, which started my match official pathway.
What motivates you to referee?
I find it exciting and it’s always the highlight of my week when I have a game at the weekend to ref.
In a few words, please tell us what it means to you to be a positive role model and INSPIRE other women and girls to get in to refereeing
I strongly believe that anyone can be a referee. It’s great to volunteer and give something back. As a player, I was aware of my team being frustrated with referees and the decisions they made and I believe that instead of complaining, you should try to do something about it and make a change.If you’re feeling inspired to take up the whistle, find out more about becoming a Match Official here: keepyourbootson.co.uk/referee-toolkit/supporting-match-officials-female/