Females take charge of the 2023 Nationals for the first time.

At this years Australian Elite/Qualification event in Perth, marked a milestone for women in boxing as this was the first time in our history that we have had four (4) women officiating at a national event in a stand-alone capacity. All ladies from all over the country Jemma Dale (NSW), Nagluenga Mataela (QLD), Siona Fernandez (VIC) and Uschi Artym (SA).

The representation of women at national event which is held with much significance in a sport that is primarily male dominated is a step forward in the female space. This moment in time looks to encourage more women to become referees, judges in the years to come with a strong indication that women can play a major part in the sport during or after their careers.

Nagluenga Mataela spoke highly of her experiences in this year’s Elite Nationals saying.

 “I never knew how much fun it was to be a part of the R&J team and wanted to learn more and I would highly encourage all ladies / boxing mums/Grandmothers/ young athletes in this sport to jump on board. We also have an important job to keep improving and keep learning to better this sport in every way. As athletes have pathways so do R&Js and that is very exciting”.

Siona Fernandez an elite boxer and NZ Olympian stated her experiences of stepping into the role as an RJ “Stepping up to the opportunity as an R&J would keep me involved in boxing and build friendships with different people and cultures. It is a positive environment that also teaches me to live through challenges, overcome fears/failures, and cultivate hard work and grit not only at the physical but also at the mental and emotional levels”.

"There is no price too high to stand up for who you are and where you ought to be. Take the opportunity, and do not judge. But ask questions, be curious, and continue to learn”.

Each year during the Australian Championships referees and judges are selected by the Technical Delegate of the Championships to receive the John Davies Trophy which is awarded to the best referee/judge of the tournament. At this event the John Davies Trophy for the first time was awarded to Jemma Dale. A significant moment and recognition in the female space.

After winning the award Dale touched on why she decided to become a referee and gave some advice too future female referees

 She replied with “What interested me in becoming and R&J was seeing the sport from another side, I wanted to better understand the sport and the scoring system. It gave me a life after competing where I could still be in the ring but also give back to the sport that had given me so much.

“I would tell other females to try it, just give it a go and do not feel intimidated or nervous the R&J family here in Australia is filled of some of the best people I have ever met, who all have a deep love for the sport. Women are taking boxing to new levels in Australia, so be a part of that.”

Her story is one that is inspiring and trailblazing. Dale’s career as a fighter was short but impactful. Dale donned the referee’s uniform and now had a different view of the sport. Dale’s choice in becoming a referee was one of staying part of the sport she loves with the hope of giving back to the sport that had given her so much in return. With emergence of an all-female referee and judging at this year’s event it highlights the importance of being inclusive and inspires younger girls that they too can be a part of the sport of boxing not just as a fighter but in an officiating role.

Boxing Australia’s Chair of the RJ Committee Wayne Rose OAM said “I am proud of your involvement and work, and proud that a female boxer became the first ‘Best Boxer’ (Arthur Tunstall trophy) and Jemma the first Australian female R&J to be awarded the Best R&J”.

 Boxing Australia’s Director and chair of the Women’s Committee Julia Felton said in a statement.

“It is my dream to see more women RJ at these events maybe to the point there is an equal number of men and women. One day it would be great to run a women’s only event such as the Queen of the Ring with all women RJ. All four performed extremely well with Jemma winning the John Davies trophy for best RJ. They are all great ambassadors for the sport.”

If you want to get involved in officiating, speak to your Member Association and State RJ Coordinator.