91Èȱ¬

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 91Èȱ¬â€™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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