Jessica earns her stripes as a Wembley referee
Nine-year-old Wigan fan Jessica won the Rugby Football League’s ‘fifth official’ competition for Saturday’s cup final.
Her dad Jonathan Lumb, who takes Jessica to games at the DW Stadium on a regular basis, saw the competition on social media and entered Jessica’s name, who wanted to use the experience to better her knowledge of rugby league and its rules.
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Hide AdShe was notified that she had won the competition by Super League referee Chris Campbell, who surprised her and her dad at their home with tickets.
Jessica said: "I feel so lucky to have been picked, it was a dream come true. I have the best dad for helping me enter the competition."
Jessica was given a private guided tour of Wembley Stadium and presented with an authentic referees match day kit, bag, and even red and yellow cards.
Jonathan, 35, said: "Jessica absolutely loved it.
"I was in tears at how proud I was of her; the whole experience was just amazing.
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Hide Ad"It was unreal to see so many people at Wembley Stadium watching and chanting whilst she was on the pitch."
Jessica said: "I love rugby and go to watch Wigan play as much as I can. Even though we didn’t win I am still proud of the team for getting as far as they did."
As well as receiving a signed match programme by referee Phil Bentham, touch judges Chris Kendall and Jack Smith and video referee, James Child, dad Jonathan got Jessica a match ball signed by an array of Wigan legends including coach Shaun Wane.
Partnerships Manager for the RFL, Bobby Bahadori, said: "We hope Jessica had a fantastic experience and enjoyed her day."
The 2017 Challenge Cup Final saw Hull FC beat Wigan Warriors 18-14 to secure back-to-back titles for the Yorkshire club.