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Kenyan rugby referee opens up on challenges of being a female match official
Reading Time: 4min | Sun. 15.09.24. | 14:57
The referee has made a significant mark on the rugby scene, officiating several Kenya Cup and National Sevens Circuit matches.
The name Marylynne Injehu is already a hit among Kenyan rugby fans as she is one of the most revered female referees in the country.
She has made a significant mark on the rugby scene, officiating several Kenya Cup and National Sevens Circuit matches.
What sets her aside is her dedication and knowledge of rugby rules which many struggle to comprehend.
Her inspirations and profound experiences over the years have shaped her career.
Mozzart Sport caught up with the trailblazing referee who opened up on her rugby journey, and the hurdles she faces in the traditionally male-dominated field.
Her love affair with the sport began at an early age, before enrolling at Eregi Girls High School, in Kakamega where she started playing rugby.
However, it was not long before she realized that her true calling was not to play but to officiate the game.
“My high school teacher Mr. Mugera played a key role in my transition from player to referee, he saw potential in me and advised me to venture into officiating.
I owe him much respect. I remember spending most of my game time on the field, trying out new rugby drills. This later on led me to pursue officiating seriously," she recalled.
Her passion was further fueled by senior match officials who encouraged her to join in. She enrolled in referee training programs, attended workshops, and spent countless hours studying the rulebook.
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Soon, she began officiating local youth and third-tier Kenya Rugby Union Western regional nationwide competition.
As a referee, Injehu admitted that making tough decisions, such as issuing a card, can become career-defining moments that require immense courage, clarity, and composure.
"Refereeing a championship decider is undoubtedly a pinnacle moment. The intensity, the crowd, and the weight of every decision can be overwhelming yet exhilarating," Injehu described.
The world of rugby refereeing is intense, and as a female referee, Injehu has been through it all.
According to her, women referees often face scepticism about their ability to control a physically and demanding game.
This doubts sometimes manifests as sexist attitudes from players, coaches, and fans, which can undermine the referee’s authority.
Additionally, opponents may underestimate a female referee's physical capabilities, leading to more aggressive play.
As if not enough, rugby refereeing is physically demanding, and she has had to overcome injuries and fitness challenges.
"Overcoming these obstacles and returning to the pitch is a significant personal victory," she noted.
Despite these hurdles, she strives to develop strong relationships with players, coaches, and fellow officials.
"Fostering mutual respect is a rewarding experience," she added.
Every referee makes mistakes, and Injehu refuses to let her mistakes define her. She instead views them as opportunities for growth.
"Learning from errors and improving decision-making is a continuous process,” she acknowledged.
For Injehu, the rewards of refereeing extend beyond the challenges, "Intervening to prevent a serious injury or diffusing a tense situation creates lasting memories," she shared.
Opportunities and Support
Injehu revealed that there is a disparity in opportunities for women compared to their male counterparts. The lack of female role models in rugby refereeing can limit inspiration and mentorship.
Additionally, balancing refereeing with other commitments such as family and career adds another layer of complexity.
Despite these obstacles, the few women who have successfully navigated these challenges and made significant contributions to the field serve as lighthouses for future generations.
The Positive Impact of Officiating
Injehu finds great value in the sport beyond the field.
"Rugby is a game of physicality, strategy, and offers a wealth of life lessons. The sport instils teamwork, collaboration, discipline, focus, mindful decision-making, leadership, and accountability," she asserted.
She encouraged newcomers in the field to start wherever they are, with whatever they have, and trust that everything will eventually fall into place.
“A journey of great mileage starts with a single step, actually by just an effort to lift your leg or move a part of your body," she averred.
The trailblazing referee concluded by mourning the death of Rift Valley Region Rugby Referees (RVRRS) Chairman Daniel Chibata who passed away on Tuesday 9 September after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
She admitted that Chibata taught him invaluable lessons, and he would be missed by the entire rugby fraternity.
“He was supportive, and a great man. Since the wound is still fresh, the less we talk about him the better. May he rest in peace,” she concluded.
