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James Child became the sport’s first openly gay rugby league match official in the UK when he came out in 2021.
James accomplished the rare feat of officiating at four consecutive World Cups – including as touch judge for both the 2008 and 2013 finals – and in 2021, he became the UK’s first openly gay rugby league referee when he opened up about his sexuality on the BBC’s LGBT Sport Podcast. In 2022, James also appeared in a Pride edition of the long running BBC panel show, Question of Sport.
For seventeen years, James combined his refereeing career with his work as a chartered surveyor at Leeds City Council; and after hanging up the whistle in 2022, he joined the world’s largest commercial real estate company CBRE.
A passionate advocate for inclusion, James offers a rare and fascinating insight into the highs and lows of life as a professional referee – including how the skills he learned about performing under pressure at the highest levels can be applied to other situations.
He speaks with openness and honesty about his own journey with his sexuality, and how his willingness to open up about being gay squared with the ‘macho’ environment of professional sport.
James’s story was inspirational. It’s awesome that he bravely went public to help clear a path (nobody should have to), but I’m most inspired by his self-awareness, accountability for mistakes and desire to improve. Too rare today.”
Noelle Gumm, Vice President, Global HR Operations
James was a fantastic speaker and is a very special person. His openness, self-reflection and resilience were evident as he very willingly shared his story. James’ sexual orientation was almost an aside as he explained his journey, sharing challenges and successes along the way, and how he has used both platforms on which to grow and build strength.”
Representative of Incora
Inspirational Speakers has been providing high profile keynote speakers and entertainers for over 25 years.
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Sporting Champions introduces world class Inspired Athletes for the Schools and the education sector.
Inspirational Speakers has been providing high profile keynote speakers and entertainers for over 25 years.
Sporting Champions introduces world class Inspired Athletes for the Schools and the education sector.
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