Tara Jones celebrates Women’s History Month following international officiating debut in Vegas

Last week Tara Jones represented the RFL at the Women’s History Month reception at Parliament. 

This comes shortly after the former England hooker, and now Full Time Match Official & Women's Referee Ambassador at the RFL, made her international debut as a match official in Las Vegas. 

The St Helens veteran who has represented England as a player in 14 tests, was appointed as a touch judge for the historic women’s international between Australia Jillaroos and England Women at Allegiant Stadium at the beginning of March. 

The appointment followed after her decision to turn down an opportunity to be a member of the officiating squad for the last World Cup in 2022. After retiring at the end of the 2024 season, Tara became the first woman to join the RFL’s full-time panel of match officials. 

Tara has become a trailblazer for female Rugby League match officials and an inspiration for many supporters and young girls; making tremendous strides within her first year of full-time officiating already.  

Following International Women’s Day and during Women’s History Month – we celebrate women who push the limits and inspire change; not just this month but every day. 

Tara Jones Full Time Match Official & Women's Referee Ambassador, said: 

“It’s an incredible honour to celebrate Women’s History Month following my international officiating debut in Las Vegas recently. From officiating in Las Vegas to representing the RFL at Parliament, it’s a very proud moment for myself, and I hope to continue paving the way for more women in Rugby League officiating."