The LGBT Sport Podcast25 Helmi 2021

The One with James Child

If you know rugby league, you’ll know James Child.

The Super League referee has been taking charge of games at the top-level since 2010, including the 2017 Super League Grand Final.

He’s also been a touch judge at the Challenge Cup Final (in fact, he was the youngest-ever touch judge to do it at the time) as well as at the World Cup Final – and to be honest, there’s not a lot in the sport that the Yorkshireman hasn’t done!

This is a conversation about all of that and more – how James got into refereeing; why his family thought it might be a fad; the dedication it takes; and officiating behind closed doors. We also talk about life in lockdown – and yes, this is the BBC’s LGBT Sport Podcast, and this is the first time that James has spoken publicly about the fact he’s gay.

To be clear, it’s not a coming out story – as his family, his friends and his colleagues have known James is gay for ages.

But it is the first time he’s chosen to talk about his sexuality – and his is, arguably, the most high-profile man in rugby league to talk about the fact he’s gay.

So, we’re grateful he’s taken the decision to do that with us – and as the chat goes along, you will hear more about why now was the right time for him to do that; why this was the right show for him to do it on; and the difference he thinks it might make.

It’s a top conversation with a great guy – and we really think you’ll enjoy it.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST? Instagram: @jimmycc

WANT TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE PODCAST? @jack_murley jack.murley@bbc.co.uk

PHOTO CREDIT: SWPix

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