Hollie Davidson has made history at the Six Nations, becoming the first female official to take charge of a men’s Six Nations game. The 33-year-old refereed Ireland’s clash with Italy at the Aviva Stadium. All eyes were on Davidson as she reached the latest milestone of her refereeing career.
From Player to History-Making Referee
Davidson began her rugby career playing as a scrum-half. She went on to represent the Scotland Women U20s side. In 2017, Davidson became Scotland’s first full-time professional female referee after leaving her banking job.
She has achieved several milestones. These include becoming the first female assistant referee in the men’s Six Nations. She was also the first woman to referee a men’s European final and officiate Test matches involving the Springboks and All Blacks.
Recognition and Praise for Davidson
In September last year, Davidson received the World Rugby Referee Award. She seems to enjoy a level of celebrity. When she walked out onto the field as an assistant referee for the URC match between Edinburgh and Scarlets last month, supporters mobbed her for autographs and pictures.
She was cheered throughout the game. Fans called out her name and showed her adoration. Italian captain Michele Lamaro paused his post-match press conference in Dublin to congratulate Davidson, describing her as “outstanding”.
Davidson received praise from TV personality Jamie Laing following her history-making match. Laing posted on Instagram to congratulate her, thinking it was a successful day at the office for her.
Personal Life
Davidson has largely kept her personal life private. She is now thought to be single. This comes after splitting from her former partner, Scotland international Helen Nelson. The pair are thought to have dated for over 10 years. Nelson has 75 caps for Scotland and has scored over 230 points.