Top rugby referees, like Ben O’Keeffe and Andrew Brace, don’t just blow the whistle for a living. Away from the field, these officials juggle fascinating careers, proving their talents extend well beyond the touchline.
Here’s how some of the 2023 Rugby World Cup referees make a living when they’re not in the thick of the action.
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#1. Ben O’Keeffe – The Eye of the Game
Age: 34
Nationality: New Zealand
Occupation: Eye Doctor
Ben O’Keeffe isn’t just known for making sharp calls on the rugby field; he’s also a qualified ophthalmologist, focusing on eye health and disease. His medical expertise keeps him busy when he’s not in the rugby spotlight.
Ben O’Keeffe facts:
- Started refereeing at 19 and joined New Zealand Rugby Union in 2013.
- Grew up in Blenheim, New Zealand, and was head boy at Marlborough Boys’ College in 2006.
- His brother, Michael, represented New Zealand at the 2012 Olympics in football(Rugby World)(The Independent).
- Toughest player to referee: Ma’a Nonu. O’Keeffe says, “Players are a lot bigger, faster, and stronger now… It reminds me why I love refereeing – so I don’t have to take those big hits.”
#2. Wayne Barnes – The Law Maker
Age: 44
Nationality: English
Occupation: Barrister
Wayne Barnes balances life as an international rugby referee and a practising barrister. He has refereed more Premiership games than any other official, while his legal acumen helps keep control on and off the pitch.
Wayne Barnes facts:
- Began refereeing at 15 with Gloucester & District Referees.
- He and his wife Polly have two children, Juno and Beau.
- Toughest player to referee: Richie McCaw. Barnes says, “He knew the law book inside out and when he asked a question, he often had a point”(Rugby World)(The Independent).
#3. Jaco Peyper – The Legal Eagle
Age: 44
Nationality: South African
Occupation: Lawyer
Jaco Peyper continues to serve as an attorney while excelling as one of the world’s top referees. Balancing the law with rugby, he is a key figure in international matches(
#4. Andrew Brace – The Musical Maestro
Age: 35
Nationality: Irish/Welsh
Occupation: Musician
Andrew Brace’s talents extend beyond rugby into the world of music. He’s a grade eight violinist, nurtured by his teacher, who happens to be the mother of TV presenter Gethin Jones.
Andrew Brace facts:
- Toughest player to referee: Marcel Coetzee. Brace says, “He’s such a physical player who never takes a backward step.”
#5. Nigel Owens – The Farming Legend
Age: 53
Nationality: Welsh
Occupation: Farmer
Nigel Owens, one of rugby’s most beloved referees, has a passion for farming. Away from rugby, he and his partner Barrie manage a farm, home to a herd of pedigree Hereford cattle.
Nigel Owens facts:
- Born in Mynyddcerrig, Carmarthenshire, Owens began refereeing in 1987.
- Came out as gay in 2007 in an interview with Wales on Sunday.
- Toughest player to referee: Austin Healey. Owens recalls, “He always had plenty to say. He’s blocked me on Twitter, but I don’t think I’m the only one!”
Wayne Barnes and Nigel Owens name the worst players to referee
Two of the best referee’s to ever pick up an ACME Whistle, it’s interesting to see who give them the hardest time on the rugby pitch.
DID YOU KNOW? Nigel Owens started refereeing in 1987, after his sports teacher John Beynon suggested he take up refereeing after a poor performance in a school game.
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#1. Richie McCaw
BARNES SAID: “Richie always had the knack of asking the right question at the right time, sometimes it felt like I was losing a little bit of control. Contrary to popular belief, he didn’t talk a lot on the field. He knew the law book inside out and so when he asked a question, he often had a point.”
OWENS SAID: “If anybody had to pick the greatest player in history, it would surely be a difficult choice between him and Gareth Edwards.”
