The Bermuda Rugby Football Union is thrilled to announce the appointment of Deneka Borden as the new Chair of the BRFU Referees’ Society. This appointment marks another historic landmark for Bermuda Rugby, as Borden becomes the first woman to hold the position, reflecting her exemplary leadership and dedication to the sport.
Borden’s rugby journey began in 2009 with Mariners RFC, and since then, her passion for the game has driven her to excel as a player, captain, coach, and most recently, Bermuda’s first female referee. She is not only a celebrated athlete, having earned multiple Player of the Year titles and international caps, but is also an inspiring athlete and coach for the next generation of young women coming through the ranks and is playing a pivotal role in advancing women’s rugby in Bermuda.
“I am both honored and delighted to step into this new role to continue building on the solid foundation set by my predecessors who have dedicated years of service to rugby in Bermuda,” said Borden. “With the support of our team, we are committed to furthering the development and growth of the sport, and I look forward to the upcoming rugby season with great anticipation.”
Borden’s contributions to rugby in Bermuda are vast and multifaceted. As a former captain and coach of Mariners RFC, she has mentored and developed countless players, and her leadership was instrumental in the establishment of Bermuda’s first Women’s contact team – an achievement that laid the groundwork for the growth of women’s contact rugby on the island. In addition to her playing and coaching accomplishments, Borden has earned the respect of her peers in her transition to a referee, upholding the integrity of the game and promoting fair play on the field.
John Weale, a veteran international referee and former Referee Manager for Rugby Americas North, expressed his enthusiasm for Borden’s appointment. “I am really excited by Borden’s election as Chair of the BRFU Referees’ Society, as she will undoubtedly bring a new perspective and fresh energy to the role. I look forward to supporting her, particularly in the areas of coaching and the development of new referees.”
Outgoing Chair of the Referees’ Society, Jamie Baum, shared his confidence in Borden’s abilities, stating, “After four years in the post, I am super excited to pass on the reins to Borden. I know she will put her all into it and really leave her mark. I wish her all the success as she takes on this new role.”
Borden’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Bermuda Rugby, as the BRFU Referees’ Society continues its efforts to grow the referee pool and foster the development of the sport at all levels. Her leadership, commitment to inclusivity, and strategic vision make her the ideal person to lead the Referees’ Society into a new era.
Borden joins a growing number of women leaders in the sport – and as she steps into this significant role, the BRFU are confident that her passion for rugby and her dedication to its growth, particularly among women and future generations, will continue to elevate the sport in Bermuda.
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