Tara Jones will make history this Saturday as the first woman to referee a men's Super League match, adding to a remarkable week that saw her receive an MBE. The milestone comes after a year of officiating in the men's game, with Jones having previously won multiple trophies as a player before retiring in 2024.

Jones began her officiating journey after being told she could no longer play rugby with boys beyond under-11s level. "I was a bit stubborn and was told I couldn't do something within the sport I love," she recalled, deciding to find "a different avenue" to stay involved. Her playing career included a Women's Super League title and multiple Challenge Cup victories.

Players have shown respect during her refereeing, though some still address her as "sir" out of habit. Jones encourages them to call her "ref" or "Tara" and takes no offense. She hopes to serve as a trailblazer for young women in rugby league, having already inspired at least one aspiring female referee who reached out after her MBE announcement.