Trailblazer Hollie Davidson is about to make history as the first female referee for a Men’s Six Nations game! This weekend, she’ll be calling the shots in the Ireland vs. Italy match in Dublin. But Hollie’s journey to the top hasn’t been easy. She’s faced ‘ridiculous’ and sexist abuse right from her early days in 2015.
Critics had a lot to say, claiming she belonged anywhere but on the pitch. Even when she made a wrong call in the European Challenge final between Bath and Lyon, online trolls took aim not just at her, but also at her family. Hollie admits, “I hope we don’t get to a point where the only people left at the top are the people with the thickest skins.” Yet, her dedication has never wavered, proving many naysayers wrong.
It’s not just the men’s game where she’s faced hostility. Hollie recalls being escorted off the pitch after a tough Women’s Six Nations match in Bayonne in 2022, admitting it was a hard moment, but one that made her stronger. “You either decide: ‘This isn’t for me,’ or you grow and stick with it.”
Her dream? To one day officiate a men’s World Cup final. And with her resilience and talent, there’s no doubt she’s on track to make that dream a reality.
Let’s cheer on this incredible referee as she steps into the spotlight this weekend. Go, Hollie! 🌟👏