Gloucestershire First for Women’s Rugby
The first ever women’s game for home club Cheltenham North against Hardwick & Quedgeley Quins saw lots of players in both teams enjoying their first experience of a rugby match.
And to add to the occasion, the team of three match officials were all women too. Around 150 supporters, including members of other local women’s clubs, stood on the bank next to the pitch in the glorious sunshine, delighted to be back watching local rugby.
With much cheering and a celebratory atmosphere, a 78th minute length of the pitch try by the home team secured a 29-all draw to an enormous roar from the crowd.
It was the first ever match officiated by three female referees from Gloucester and District Society. Referee Fiona Brunt and her two Assistant Referees Emily Hope, a young match official, and Sandra Morgan earned applause from the fans.
“The match was amazing. You could see the passion and emotion that the players had for rugby and it was a great experience to be part of,” said Emily.
“What a fantastic match, played with lots of heart and enthusiasm. I was honoured to have been part of the ref team and I learnt a lot,” added Sandra.
The woman with the whistle agreed: “I couldn’t be prouder of the work the officials put into the game. Our goals as a team of three were to keep everyone safe and for as many players as possible to turn up to their next training session still in love with rugby. I think we succeeded.
“It was a real privilege to be involved in this first for the Society and I know we’re all looking forward to being able to do it again. I’m really grateful to the Society for their continuing support, as well as the home club for their wonderful hospitality,” said Fiona.
If you want to know more about becoming a referee follow @RFURefs on social media and check out the referee pages on englandrugby.com including how to book a course.
