Glenda Mellon, with nine years of rugby refereeing experience, is leading the way in inspiring more women to take up the whistle. After 12 years of playing for Derry and Ulster, Glenda switched to refereeing and is now a World Rugby Educator. "I wanted a change, and rugby provided that," she recalls. "I found an amazing group of women to play with."
"I loved the sport and wanted to stay involved," she explains. "Refereeing offered a way to contribute to the game while pushing myself mentally and physically." When Glenda began refereeing, she was one of only two women in the province, and has paved the way for female inclusion in the refereeing set up.
She officiates matches at various levels, from youth rugby to adult competitions. Beyond refereeing, Glenda actively mentors younger referees, sharing their knowledge and experience to nurture the next generation of officials.
“I love the challenge of making quick decisions under pressure,” Glenda explains. “It’s also incredibly rewarding to help develop young players and coaches. Refereeing is a fantastic way to give back to the sport I love.”
When asked about the necessary experience for volunteering in her role, Glenda is clear: "You don't need to have played rugby to become a referee. Passion for the sport and a willingness to learn are key."
Glenda's dedication has not gone unnoticed. She has been recognised for her outstanding service and has mentored numerous young referees. Her commitment to the sport inspires other volunteers, making her a true role model.
Glenda's story exemplifies the power of volunteering. By dedicating her time and energy to rugby, she has made a significant impact on the Ulster rugby community. Her unwavering commitment makes her a volunteer hero, and we are grateful for her contributions to the sport.
If you would like to get involved in refereeing, please contact our Referee Development Manager, Richard Kerr for more info.