When Hollie Davidson took charge of a men’s Six Nations match earlier this year, she made history as the first woman ever to referee a fixture in the championship.
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Her appointment marked a landmark moment for the Six Nations Championship and underlined how far the sport has evolved.
Here are 10 things you might not know about the trailblazing Scottish official Hollie Davidson.
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Hollie Davidson facts:
1. She Made Six Nations History
In 2024, Davidson became the first woman to referee a men’s Six Nations match — one of rugby union’s most prestigious tournaments, featuring England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales. It was a watershed moment not just for her career, but for the sport itself.
2. She Didn’t Start Out as a Referee
Davidson originally played rugby growing up in Scotland and at university level. Like many elite officials, she transitioned into refereeing after her playing career — discovering a talent for leadership and game management.
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3. She Worked in Banking Before Rugby
Before becoming a full-time referee, Davidson worked in banking after studying economic history at the University of Edinburgh. She previously held a role with J.P. Morgan before committing fully to officiating.
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4. She Became Scotland’s First Full-Time Female Pro Referee
In 2017, she made history by becoming Scotland’s first full-time professional female referee — a major milestone in Scottish Rugby’s development pathway.
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5. She Officiated at the Rugby World Cup
Davidson was selected as an assistant referee at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, rugby’s biggest global stage. Selection reflects the high regard in which she is held by the sport’s governing body.
