Sara Cox's journey in the world of rugby union is not just a tale of personal triumph but a beacon of inspiration for women in sports and beyond. Her story is one of breaking barriers, challenging norms and achieving remarkable "firsts" in a field traditionally dominated by men. As a motivational speaker, specialising in female empowerment and women in sports, Sara Cox brings a unique perspective, combining her experiences as both a player and a referee.
Sara's early career on the rugby pitch, playing for teams such as Cullompton, Plymouth Albion, Exeter and the Saracens, laid the foundation for her deep understanding of the sport. Her aspirations to join the U-17 England squad, although curtailed by injury, did not dampen her passion for rugby. Transitioning from the field to a marketing role and eventually back to rugby as a referee, Sara's journey exemplifies resilience and adaptability. Her time with World Rugby, officiating at prestigious events like the Commonwealth Games, the Olympics and the Women’s Rugby World Cup, showcases her excellence and commitment to the sport.
Sara's groundbreaking achievements in rugby are unparalleled. She has set records as the first woman to referee a Premiership Rugby Union match, officiate a Premiership Rugby Cup match and oversee a match between two Premiership Rugby teams. Her appointment as the first female to referee a Men’s Premiership Rugby match and her selection for the 2022 Rugby World Cup further cement her status as a trailblazer. Her recognition with an MBE in the 2023 Birthday Honours for Services to Rugby Union Football is a testament to her impact and dedication.
As a motivational speaker, Sara Cox brings this rich tapestry of experiences to the fore. She talks not just about her achievements but the challenges and obstacles she faced in a male-dominated arena. Her narrative is one of perseverance, courage and breaking glass ceilings, resonating deeply with audiences, particularly women striving to carve their niche in their respective fields. In events ranging from sports-themed gatherings to corporate seminars, Sara's presence as a keynote speaker is both empowering and enlightening. She shares insights from her career, offering lessons in leadership, tenacity and the pursuit of excellence. Sara Cox, as a motivational speaker, is not just recounting a personal success story but is actively inspiring and paving the way for future generations of women in sports and beyond.
In January 2024 we sat down virtually with Sara Cox and discussed the common traits of high performance teams and the key lessons from rugby that can be applied to business. Watch our Exclusive Interview with Sara Cox.
