Super League ref James Child speaks publicly about being gay - reveals he has received homophobic abuse and death threats

In an interview with the BBC’s LGBT Sport Podcast, Child revealed he has been the victim of death threats in the past.

He said he hopes by speaking out he can “help educate people and get us all to be a little bit more respectful to each other”.

Of the abuse aimed at him, Child said: “I do receive my fair share, including a couple of death threats over the past few years that have been referred to the police.”

He insisted: “I’m not saying that’s all to do with my sexuality, but I certainly think one, if not two, of those were homophobic.

“By me speaking about this publicly, there can’t then be a situation where somebody is homophobic, but denies knowing I’m gay.”

Child stressed: “I’m not denying people their opportunity to go to a game and shout at me as a referee - by all means, do it, carry on doing it, I’m used to it. But when you start bringing religion or disability or sexual orientation into it, we don’t need that level of personalisation.

“If this will help educate people and get us all to be a little more respectful to each other, then that’s great.”

Child, 37, is a member of Dewsbury and Batley match officials society and has been refereeing in Super League since 2009, including taking charge of Leeds Rhinos’ 2017 Grand Final win over Castleford Tigers.

The fact he is gay was no secret to fellow referees and others in the game, but he has not previously commented publicly.

“The way I’ve lived my life on social media, I’m pretty open about the fact I have a male partner,” he added.

“I don’t necessarily broadcast it, but just live my life normally and that’s the way I’ve chosen to deal with it up until now.

“In many ways, my sexuality and my job are completely separate and it’s irrelevant.

“When I run out there and make a decision, it doesn’t matter whether I’m gay or straight - what matters is whether the decision is right or wrong.”

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