Lee Bryant: From Multi-Sport Athlete to Match Official

Lee Bryant’s journey into the world of sports began in Reno, NV, where from the age of five, sports became a central part of life. Starting with soccer, Lee’s athletic journey evolved through basketball and track, but it wasn’t until discovering rugby that a lifelong passion was ignited. The competitive spirit that drove Lee was nurtured by significant figures in her life, most notably her father. His constant presence at every game, match, and meet provided the foundation of support that allowed Lee to excel. High school track coaches also played an instrumental role, pushing her to achieve new heights while providing the necessary support.

Lee’s love for sports wasn’t just about competition; it was about belonging. Growing up, Lee felt more at home in workout clothes on the pitch or in the gym than in more traditional settings. The camaraderie and support from teammates were where Lee felt truly accepted, a place where she could excel without worrying about fitting into societal norms.

Rugby entered Lee’s life later, spurred by the desire to experience the same physicality that was present in her upbringing. When the opportunity to join a rugby team in college arose, it was a no-brainer. Lee’s rugby career took off, but it was in officiating that she found a different kind of fulfillment. Mentored by Don Pattalock, James Crenshaw, Matt Eason, Dana Teagarden, Marc Nelson, Lee navigated the tough early years of refereeing, overcoming the challenges that come with the role. This mentorship was crucial in keeping Lee in the game, as it provided a source of guidance and support.

Balancing a career as a Health Inspector with the demands of rugby and refereeing was no easy feat. Lee’s training regimen involved not only physical workouts but also a focus on mental fitness. The calm found in travel, particularly in airports, became a surprising source of relaxation. This mental preparation was key to maintaining focus during high-stress matches, where Lee viewed the game as a task to be executed with precision rather than a personal challenge.

One of the most significant moments in Lee’s rugby career came in 2017 during the Women’s Premier League (WPL) final. The journey to that final was grueling, marked by personal and professional upheavals. Yet, on the pitch, Lee performed at the highest level, officiating one of the most intense matches of her life. The experience was a culmination of years of hard work and resilience. After the final whistle, the emotional weight of the year and the match itself hit hard, but it was also a moment of immense pride and release.

As Lee’s career evolved, so did the challenges, particularly with managing injuries and the demands of life outside of rugby. Learning to say no and being honest with her partner became part of the balancing act. Lee’s approach to setbacks was methodical—control what you can and always have a plan.

For young athletes, Lee’s advice is straightforward: Work with a sports psychologist and be realistic about the sacrifices required to meet your goals. As Lee looks to the future, she sees the growth potential in rugby, particularly at the club level, and hopes to continue making an impact as an educator and referee trainer. Lee also continues to contribute to the WPL as a Referee Coach, helping to shape the next generation of referees and ensure the sport’s integrity.