It’s fortunate that Becky, speaking to us minutes after France’s opening victory against Wales at the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi, has always been one to rise to the challenge. She’s currently serving as a Provost officer in the Royal Air Force, based in Southwick Park, Hampshire, and previously turned out as a forward for Harlequins.
“I’m really grateful to the RAF for allowing me to come out here and make the most of all the opportunities I’ve been given,” says the RFU-appointed referee. “I’ve been fully supported by RAF Rugby Union and Rugby Union Referees, so a big shout out to them.”
Despite the early kick-off time (10am in Italy), the sun was already beating down hard on the venue, the home of URC side Zebre Parma, which is nestled amongst a cluster of athletic facilities known as the Cittadella del Rugby.
“It was a warm one!” said Becky. “I don’t think much can prepare you for [these conditions], but the players certainly weren’t showing any signs of fatigue, so it was just a case of keeping up with them.”
How does she prepare for refereeing the biggest game of her career so far? “It helps to contextualise scenarios,” explains Becky. “Of course, you have to be ready for anything, but sometimes there are certain processes you might go through.”
The Women’s Summer Series is a brand-new competition that will bridge the gap between the U18s pathway and senior rugby. Coaches and players alike spoke at this week’s launch about the importance of exposing young players to a high-performance environment – including everything from engendering good off-field habits to the matches themselves – thus making the transition to senior competitions like the Guinness Women’s Six Nations seamless.
Becky is part of a cohort of young referees put forward by their Unions and Federations to officiate at this year’s Women’s Summer Series. After today’s match, it will be the turn of the FFR’s Bérénice Loubet-Bralley to take charge of England v Ireland, followed by the IRFU’s Shane Gaughan for Italy v Scotland.
“It’s a great learning opportunity for all of us,” believes Becky. “I’m really looking forward to the rest of the series.”
