The world's first female professional rugby referee, who is now combining officiating with her studies at Edinburgh Napier University, has been presented with an MBE for her services to the sport.
Sara Cox is currently studying for ENU’s MSc Performance Enhancement in Sports Officiating degree while she continues a stellar whistling career, which has seen her blaze a trail for other female officials.
Her achievements in the sport saw her appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 2023 Birthday Honours, and she was given the medal by the Princess Royal this week.
Reflecting on the day at Windsor Castle, Sara said: “It was brilliant. A bit surreal, a bit all over the place, a bit of everything, really. It was enjoyable, but it also a lot to take everything in.
“You're told how it all works - how to curtsy and all that - and before you know it, you're in.
With the investiture ceremony led by Princess Anne, who has been patron of Scottish Rugby for nearly 40 years, there was plenty of shared interest to discuss.
“We had a bit of a natter about rugby,” added Sara. “She's a big fan!
“I had the family with me, so it was really nice for them to see it all.”
It is the latest accolade in a decorated career for the Exeter-based ref. She turned pro in 2016, before officiating at the Olympics and the World Cup – and was the first woman to take charge of a match in the English Premiership.
Last year she also overtook Edinburgh Napier graduate Clare Daniels in becoming the most capped female referee in World Rugby history, after overseeing her 35th test match.
So where does the MBE rank? “Pretty high to be honest!”
Sara continued: “It's nice that all the hard work to get here has been recognised, and it's a lovely thing to tell the grandkids one day.
“Being among the first female referees, it’s amazing knowing that you leave a pathway that they'll never have to fight in the same way.
“We're in a position now where everything is better for female officials than it was when I started.”
Sara is the latest elite sports official to join the MSc programme – which previous graduates have credited with transforming their performance.
“My reasons for starting it were two-fold,” Sara said, “to shine a light on officiating a bit more, and also to challenge myself and push myself academically.
“The body can only go on for so long, so it means I have an achievement I can use in future.
“I've already learned a lot about myself and my abilities. I've really enjoyed it and met some fantastic people.
“There needs to be more of a light shone on referees as they do such an important job.”
Picture: PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo