On International Women’s Day 2025, we proudly highlight the remarkable contributions of the female members of the Somerset Rugby Referee Society (SRRS). These outstanding women serve not only as dedicated match officials but also as excellent role models for anyone aspiring to join the world of rugby, especially as a referee. Affiliated with the Wessex Ladies, our female match officials have a unique and deep insight into the evolution of women’s rugby over the years. Their passion and commitment to the game encouraging and inspiring the next generation of women to take up the whistle.
We reached out to several of our female match officials to share their thoughts on why they love rugby. While their answers touch on a wide range of reasons, one thing is clear: it’s not just about refereeing – it’s about being part of a sport that encourages respect, personal growth, and community.
Lindsay Evans
Lindsay sharing a joke when refereeing a game between Wells 2 & Bridgwater & Albion 2
I’m Lindsay, and while I’m now the wrong side of 50, my journey in rugby refereeing with Somerset is just getting started. I joined the SRRS in 2021, but my refereeing career began earlier with the Durham Society. It’s been an incredible experience, and I’ve learned so much along the way. Recently, I took on the role of Head of the Wessex Ladies, a group dedicated to female referees within our federation alongside the Dorset & Wilts Referees Society. I’m passionate about this role because it allows me to support and uplift women in rugby, something I truly believe in. I’ve been organizing online training sessions that help all referees, no matter their level of experience, develop their skills and gain the confidence they need to excel. Since moving to Gloucestershire after COVID, I’ve been refereeing most weekends for one society or another, and when I’m not on the pitch with the whistle, I enjoy stepping in as a fourth official for PWR games. The camaraderie and support within the rugby community are aspects I really value. One of the most rewarding parts of my journey this season has been taking on Ann-Marie Myhill as a mentee. Helping guide her through her development and seeing her progress has been incredibly fulfilling. I truly believe in the power of mentorship and peer support, and it’s one of the things I love most about being involved in rugby. The connections I’ve made, and the chance to give back to the sport, make all the hard work so worthwhile.
Beccie Kettleborough
Beccie kicking off the 2023 Frome 7s Super Social Final
I’m Beccie, and I’m currently in my third season of refereeing. My journey into this role started after my former coach at Hornets RFC encouraged me to give it a go. It all began after I went to watch him referee at the Dyson 7s at North Dorset RFC, an event run by Bath Rugby Community. Watching him on the pitch inspired me to take the leap, so I quickly enrolled in a referee course. Not long after, I was stepping onto the pitch for the first time at a junior event at Weston Super Mare RFC. Alongside refereeing, I continue to play rugby and serve as the women’s lead at Dings Crusaders RFC in Bristol. My refereeing journey has taken me to some amazing places, including London, where I had the honor of being part of the prestigious National School 7s, as well as Bournemouth 7s, thanks to an invitation from London Referees. One of the standout moments for me so far has been being part of an all-female team to referee at the Bath Rugby ground. These experiences have been truly enriching, both for my career and my passion for rugby, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next!
Ann-Marie Myhill
Ann-Marie in full flight in a recent refereeing appointment between Frome 3 & Keynsham 3
I’m Ann-Marie, and my rugby journey began at Oxford University RFC before I moved to Rosslyn Park RFC, where I coached my son’s team. It was the youth leads there who encouraged me to try age-grade refereeing, and that’s where my refereeing career took off. One of the highlights early on was getting the opportunity to referee at The National School 7s, which was an incredible experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. This season, after moving to Bath, I decided to fully commit to refereeing by completing my ERRA. It’s been such a rewarding experience, and I’ve really loved every minute of it. The support I’ve received from the Somerset Referees Academy and the Wessex Ladies group has been amazing. I also started out with another “lady ref,” and it’s been fantastic having each other’s support along the way. My passion for refereeing continues to grow, and I’m proud to be part of such an inspiring and supportive rugby community.
Sarah McClelland
Sarah at her recent appointment between Crewkerne & Chard 2
I’m Sarah, and I joined SRRS at the very end of October last year. I’m currently in my first season of refereeing after completing my Introduction to Refereeing course, and since then, I’ve never looked back. As an active second row for NC1 side Yeovil RFC, I feel that my playing experience really helps with my refereeing, and vice versa. I play most Sundays for Yeovil RFC, but it doesn’t interfere with my refereeing. I set my own availability with the society, which works perfectly for me and allows me to balance both roles. At 27, I really enjoy the unique contrast of refereeing on a Saturday, telling players what to do and which laws to follow, and then playing on a Sunday, trying to break those very laws. I find it’s a great way to stay engaged with the game from both sides, and it’s been such a rewarding experience so far. My commitment to both playing and refereeing is something I take pride in, and I’ve worked hard to find a balance that allows me to excel in both areas. I’m passionate about rugby, and it’s been amazing to be involved with both SRRS and Yeovil RFC. I look forward to continuing my journey and developing in both capacities.
Tammy Argent
Tammy (Left) at a recent junior event in Weston Super Mare with former society member Lucy Smith & a team of U12 girls from Shrewsbury
I’m Tammy, and I’ve recently joined Somerset from Dorset & Wilts, along with my son, to help support the development of new referees in the game. Over the past few seasons, I’ve been part of teams of four for the Gills Burns County Cup games, where I’ve found my niche as the fourth official with the clipboard. I’m currently enrolled in the RFU Mentoring course, and I have a background in coaching, having been with Sherborne RFC until recently. My love for rugby is what led me to refereeing, and before I transferred to SRRS, I had the opportunity to support the society at various events, including the Frome 7s, Beach Rugby Festivals, and Junior Events. I’m really excited to see how SRRS supports its new referees and am looking forward to contributing to the development of the refereeing community in Somerset. It’s a rewarding journey, and I’m eager to help nurture the next generation of referees in the game.
Sky Bunting
Sky at Twickenham wearing the red rose
I’m Sky, and I recently joined SRRS to help me complete my ERRA. At just 15 years old, I’m the youngest member of the female match official team. I still play prop for my local team, Yeovil RFC, and I’ve been selected to play for the Somerset U16 county representative team, which I’m really proud of. I’m also a dedicated supporter of the Bristol Bears and have taken several trips to Ashton Gate to watch them play. Rugby has been a huge passion of mine, and I’m committed to doing my best both on and off the pitch. I’m excited to be part of the SRRS team, and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead. On this International Women’s Day, I just want to say “Happy International Women’s Day!” to all the amazing women in rugby!
