Deneka Borden has become the first woman to occupy the position as head of the Bermuda Rugby Football Union Referees Society.

Borden, a former Bermuda captain, took over the position from Jamie Baum, who stepped down after serving in the role for four years.

“I am both honoured 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,” Borden said.

“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 rugby journey started in 2009 with Mariners and her passion for the game has since driven her to excel as a player, captain, coach and most recently Bermuda’s first female referee.

After earning multiple Player of the Year titles and international caps, Borden is also heavily involved in coaching the next generation of women and plays a pivotal role in advancing women’s rugby in Bermuda.

In 2016, Borden was involved in a serious car accident that left her with multiple injuries, but she made a remarkable recovery and resumed her rugby playing career, with Baum expressing confidence in his successor’s abilities to make an impact in her new position.

“After four years in the post, I am super excited to pass on the reins to Deneka,’’ he said. “I know she will put her all into it and really leave her mark, and I wish her all the success as she takes on this new role.”

John Weale, a former international referee who served as referees manager for Rugby Americas North, welcomed Deneka’s appointment.

“I am really excited by Deneka’s election as chairperson of the BRFU Referees Society, as she will undoubtedly bring a new perspective and fresh energy to the role,’’ Weale said.

“I look forward to supporting her, particularly in the areas of coaching and the development of new referees.”