Anna 
Rugby referee Aimee Barrett-Theron made headlines during a men’s U20 Six Nations match in February 2024 with a moment that quickly went viral. Addressing the captains of England and Wales after repeated infractions, she didn’t yell or scold. Instead, she delivered a line that resonated far beyond the pitch.
“I’m not mad, I’m just really disappointed,” she said, pausing before adding, “You both gave me buy-in before the game in the changing room that you’d be able to control your players. So did you lie to me, or is it something you can fix from now?”
The players quickly responded, promising to fix the issue, bringing a knowing smile to many who recognized the familiar tone of parental disappointment.
Reflecting on the moment in an interview with Olympics.com ahead of the Women’s Six Nations tournament, Barrett-Theron explained her reasoning. “I knew they were in their 20s, and—I’ll give away my age—I was nearly double theirs. So I felt that was the best way to get the message across, as a ‘disappointed mum.’”
Her approach worked. “The players bought into it, which I’m very grateful for, and we had a smooth game after that,” she said.
A former player at the 2010 Women’s Rugby World Cup and Rio 2016 Olympics, Barrett-Theron has brought her own style to officiating. “When I first started reffing, I thought I had to be this strict policewoman. But I’ve learned you get better player buy-in when you’re just yourself on the field.”
Her goal is clear: “I want to bring that human factor, the ‘Aimee factor.’ I know I’m different from other referees, and I hope that authenticity resonates with the public.”
As she prepares to officiate in the Women’s Six Nations, Barrett-Theron continues to prove that respect and authority can go hand in hand—even with a touch of humor.
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