Rugby league referee James Child announces his retirement
The 39-year-old officiated in 333 Super League matches, four World Cups, the 2017 Betfred Super League Grand Final and the 2022 Challenge Cup final.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Rugby league referee James Child has announced his retirement as a full-time official with immediate effect.
The 39-year-old officiated in 333 Super League matches and four World Cups, plus the 2017 Betfred Super League Grand Final and the 2022 Challenge Cup final.
In February 2021, Child earned widespread praise when he spoke about being gay for the first time on the BBC’s LGBT Sports podcast.
Child, a qualified chartered surveyor, said: “I’ve been refereeing since I was 11 so this was a tough decision to make, but it’s the right time for a variety of reasons.
“I’m not sure at this stage whether I’ll be staying involved in rugby league in an active capacity but I will remain a passionate supporter of the sport I have always loved, and will always bang the drum.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments