Tara Jones Makes History as First Female Super League Referee

Tara Jones will make history this Saturday when she becomes the first woman to referee a men's Super League rugby match. The 29-year-old gets the honor just one day after receiving her MBE at Windsor Castle for her services to rugby league.

Jones thought she was in trouble when her bosses asked her to join a video call while traveling to London for her awards ceremony. Instead, they delivered news that made the former England hooker "absolutely made up."

The road to this moment began back in 2018 when Jones became the first female on-field match official in men's Super League as an in-goal judge. She refereed her first Challenge Cup game that same year, steadily building her credentials while still playing professionally for St Helens.

Making the leap from player to full-time referee wasn't easy. Jones retired from playing just over a year ago after St Helens lost in the Women's Super League Grand Final, a decision she initially struggled with.

But the past 12 months proved she made the right choice. The Rugby Football League appointed her to their group of full-time match officials at the end of 2024, recognizing her skill and dedication.

Why This Inspires

Jones's journey shows what happens when talent meets opportunity and determination. She didn't just break one barrier. She kept pushing through multiple firsts, from in-goal judge to Challenge Cup referee to now taking charge of a full Super League match.

Her story resonates beyond rugby. Every young girl watching this weekend's match between Wigan Warriors and Huddersfield Giants will see what's possible when you refuse to let tradition define your limits.

Jones put it perfectly when she said "the 12-year-old me would be very proud." That young girl who loved rugby grew up to change the game itself, opening doors for everyone who comes after her.

Saturday's match represents more than one woman's achievement. It signals a sport evolving to recognize that excellence has no gender, and the best person for the job deserves the whistle regardless of who they are.