Smithtown's Brooke Daniels, who is in the midst of her first season as a Group Two Rugby League referee, has been inspired by the appointment of the first ever women's NRL official Belinda Sharpe.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Brooke had never imagined officiating an NRL match, but after hearing of Ms Sharpe's history making promotion to on-field referee, it has now become her dream to follow in her footsteps.
Brooke watched on as history was created when Ms Sharpe was the referee of the Broncos and Bulldogs clash last Thursday night and pictured herself one day being an NRL referee.
"When I first found out Belinda was going to be the referee of an NRL match, I thought to myself that anything is possible if you put your mind to it," Brooke told the Argus.
"I had never thought of it before but I now want to pursue it as a career in the future."
The 14-year-old has been involved in rugby league since a young age and played three years of tackle for the Smithtown Tigers before entering league tag this season.
Brooke claims the experience of playing the game has helped her transition into her new role.
"I knew the majority of the rules after playing the game for a few seasons," Brooke said.
"But there was still so much more to learn."
The Melville High School student is determined to improve her skills and knowledge as a referee and fortunately has two role models to follow in her life.
Brooke's father Geoff and brother Braiden are both rugby league referees.
"I will ask them for advice on a scenario or to clarify a ruling. Having them there has made it easier," she said.
"I go through the rule book the night before I am refereeing and try to learn more each week."
Brooke looks forward to taking the field each week as a referee but admits she has discovered how difficult the job can be.
"Being in the middle isn't as easy as what everyone thinks," Brooke said.
"Refereeing the younger juniors is more challenging as they will question calls but the older juniors know I am not going to change my mind.
"I definitely get a lot of respect on the field."
Brooke is hopeful it won't be long until women refereeing NRL matches is a regular occurance.
"When I am old enough to be an NRL referee, I hope that there are a lot of girls already involved," she said.
"I love refereeing and I encourage other girls to jump in and give it a crack, they will enjoy it."
Brooke referees at least three matches each week when she plays at home for the Tigers.
Stay ahead with local news by signing up for the Macleay Argus newsletter here.
Also making the news:
