When Hollie Davidson realized her dreams of playing rugby at the highest level were dashed due to injury, she didn't walk away from the sport. Instead, she embarked on a new journey that would see her rise to become one of the world's top rugby referees. This Friday night in Cardiff, Davidson will make history as the first woman to referee the Challenge Cup final, overseeing the match between Bath and Lyon.

A Dream Deferred

Davidson, a talented half-back, was on the verge of earning her first cap for the Scotland women's team when a shoulder injury derailed her playing career. "I was gutted," she recalls. "It's so brutal when you get so close to something you want so much." Despite the setback, Davidson found a new passion in refereeing, a path that has led her to numerous historic milestones.

Breaking Barriers

Starting as a young female referee was not without its challenges. "The early days are probably the hardest when you are trying to forge that reputation," Davidson says. However, her confidence and skill have earned her the respect of players and fans alike. She has officiated in the United Rugby Championship, the Women's Rugby World Cup final, and became the first woman to referee the world champion Springboks.

Setting New Goals

Davidson's ambitions continue to grow. "The big one would be to ref a men's Six Nations game," she says. "Outside the World Cup, it's like an absolute pinnacle every single year when the Six Nations comes around." With her sights set on the 2027 Men's World Cup in Australia, Davidson is determined to keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible in rugby refereeing.

A Role Model for the Future

Davidson's journey is a testament to resilience and determination. As she prepares to take the field in Cardiff, she not only makes history but also inspires the next generation of rugby players and referees. Her story is a powerful reminder that even when one door closes, another can open, leading to even greater achievements.