Faye Lehane has been in love with rugby league since her childhood but her daughter’s relationship with the game started before she was even born.
Lehane, from Engadine, will return to officiating this season after taking a season off to give birth to her daughter, Rory.
The 28-year-old’s return coincides with a new NSW Rugby League initiative to increase respect for referees.
The NSWRL has introduced procedures to ensure players and coaches build a strong relationship with referees as well as respecting their opponents, officials and spectators.
In a move to eliminate offensive behaviour, captains and coaches across all competitions are now required to sign a respect pledge to act in a manner that displays the core values of the game.
Players, coaches and referees will shake hands before every match, with captains to wear armbands to signify their leadership.
Lehane said she was supportive of the respect campaign.
“I actually think it’s a really good and positive thing for rugby league,” she said.
“It’s not just about respect for players but the game as well.
“Everyone involved in the game loves it and if there is going to continue to be a game everyone needs to show respect for referees and officials because without them there is no game.”
Lehane has officiated for 15 years and, after starting as a referee and tough judge, decided to ‘take the flag’ and become a specialist touch judge.
Since then she has officiated at NSW Cup and Ron Massey Cup level for three years.
Lehane said she had returned to full fitness and was itching to get back on the field this season.
“It’s been difficult, I had some hip issues as well while I was pregnant,” she said.
“I still refereed up until 18 or 19 weeks [of pregnancy] in NSW Cup.
“I don’t think the players or anyone caught on.
“But it’s definitely good to be back.”