Trailblazing rugby league duo awarded MBEs in New Year Honours List
Two rugby league pioneers have been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours List, with Tara Jones and Julia Lee both made MBEs.
Born in Hull and a childhood Hull KR fan, Lee became the first woman in the UK to ever officiate men’s rugby league matches and has been awarded an MBE for her services to rugby league, having taken the whistle for more than 500 games.
Lee said: “Rugby league has always played an important role in my life, from my early days on the terraces at Craven Park watching Hull Kingston Rovers, where I found my tribe.
“I feel incredibly fortunate that, for the majority of my career, I have been able to volunteer and work within rugby league and play a part in making a difference for so many people.
“I realised early on that sport, particularly rugby league, has the power to reach communities that are often neglected or disenfranchised.
“I have had the privilege of leading and contributing to many projects that have created real and lasting impact.
“I am especially proud of the Women in Rugby League projects, which have finally brought recognition to women who were hidden in the sport’s history."
Meanwhile, Warrington-born Jones has received an MBE for her services to rugby league. Having hung up her boots following an impressive playing career with St Helens, she took on a full-time role as a match official with the Rugby Football League, and earlier this year, took charge of a League 1 men’s fixture, becoming the first woman to do so, whilst operating as a touch judge in the men’s Super League.
Jones also made further history in October when she became the first woman to referee a Women’s Super League Grand Final, when Wigan Warriors beat St Helens.
Jones said: “Receiving an MBE is an absolute honour and a status I never imagined holding. I am truly humbled and accept it with immense pride, but this is not just for me personally. It represents the wider game gaining further recognition, particularly the growth and development of women’s and girls’ rugby league over the years. That progress reflects the collective efforts of everyone involved, including all at the RFL, players, coaches, match officials, staff, and all advocates of women’s sport.
“As a former international and Women’s Super League player, current coach and now full-time match official, I hope to continue paving the way in rugby league by showing that you can pursue your aspirations and that opportunities exist for everyone, regardless of role or background. In particular, I hope this encourages females to not only take up officiating but to do so with the belief that it is possible to officiate at the highest level in both the men’s and women’s game.
“I would like to thank all my family, friends, both current and past coaches, teammates, colleagues and all those who have supported me over the years. I am deeply grateful for this honour, which inspires me to continue striving for progress within the sport.”
Meanwhile, dual-code Welsh legend Jonathan Davies has been made a CBE for services to people with cancer and for broadcasting.
Elsewhere, Kevin Sinfield wasn’t knighted due to rules surrounding the honours system, having been awarded a CBE in 2023, which cannot be upgraded for three years.