Hollie Davidson has been appointed as Scottish Rugby’s first female referee.
Davidson, a former Scotland U20 international, will officiate four of this season’s Women’s Sevens Series tournaments. She also hopes to officiate at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.
Davidson previously played as half-back for the Murrayfield Wanderers. She became interested in rugby after going on school trips to watch Scotland play in the RBS 6 Nations, and then playing at school.
Speaking about her appointment, Davidson said, “I am delighted to join Scottish Rugby as a contracted referee, having made the transition from player to match official and enjoyed refereeing from the moment I picked up the whistle.”
“My focus next season will be on securing my position on the sevens circuit, and putting myself in contention for the top matches, while also developing within the 15-a-side game on a domestic level.”
“Refereeing rugby is completely different to playing, it is the type of involvement where you have to stay mentally sharp and on the button for 80 minutes.”
Tappe Henning, Scottish Rugby referee commissioner, said, “As a result of our women and girls’ referee development strategy, implemented at the start of the 2015/16 season, Hollie has developed her officiating on a number of national and international stages.”
“This appointment demonstrates our commitment to developing female referees and ensuring the growth of home-grown talent, as we strive to compete for more appointments at World Rugby tournaments and international competitions.”
