5 things about Nigel Owens MBE

The world-renowned rugby referee joins our alumni community of honorary graduates.

1. Referee turned Doctor of Health

“The last time I was in Bath refereeing I was booed not clapped so it’s very much appreciated,” Nigel told graduating students at a ceremony in Bath Abbey. Donning a gown himself, Nigel received an honorary degree of Doctor of Health for his incredible rugby career and tireless work to raise awareness of mental health issues. “Thanks for this great honour here at this wonderful venue and from the wonderful University that is Bath as well.”

2. Breaking down defensive lines

Nigel was the first openly gay referee in rugby and has spoken openly about his struggles with mental health and addiction. “I don’t like normalising mental health, I wish it wasn’t normal, but it is,” he said. “It will touch a lot of people at some stage in their lives and the more we talk about it and embrace those challenges, the more we help ourselves and others who find themselves in similar situations.”

3. A career worth scrumming over

As one of the most respected referees in rugby history, Nigel officiated over 100 test matches, including the pinnacle: the 2015 World Cup final. He told us: “If it wasn’t for the great sport that rugby is, but more important than that – the people in the sport – then I wouldn’t be who I am today.” Nigel retired from rugby in 2020, swapping lineouts for livestock on his cattle farm in his home village Mynyddcerrig, Wales.

4. Whistle and wisdom

Nigel began refereeing in 1987 after his sports teacher suggested he might make a better referee than a player when he missed a crucial conversion. He went on to convert hearts and minds in his 17-year career. “Sometimes opportunities come along when you least expect it and when they do, grasp them with both hands and give it your best,” says Nigel. “That’s what refereeing was for me – taking those opportunities, and I enjoyed it. It’s important you do something you enjoy, where you’re allowed to be yourself."

5. Advice to Bath grads

As well as seizing opportunities, his advice to new graduates was to remember those who had supported them along the way, and not be afraid to ask for help when needed. “Don’t try to be perfect because if you do, the perfect will become the enemy of the good,” Nigel added. “What is achievable is to become a good person. To create a loving and caring home, a workplace where people can be themselves, a university where people take their authentic selves to work, to study.”