'Inspiring' rugby referee awarded honorary degree

Nigel Owens MBE receives an honorary degree from the University of Bath

An "inspirational" rugby referee, who devoted his career to supporting people with mental health issues, has received an honorary degree.

Nigel Owens MBE was awarded the degree at University of Bath on Tuesday.

Speaking at Bath Abbey, he said: “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 able to be who I am today."

Professor Roland Jones said "he has proven to be an inspirational figure" to the "millions who can relate to his fight with mental health issues".

Owens received the honorary degree for his rugby career and mental health awareness work

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Mr Owens added: "The last time I was in Bath refereeing I was booed not clapped so it’s very much appreciated."

Addressing the crowd of graduating students, he said: "Don't try to be perfect because if you do then the perfect will become the enemy of good.

"What is achievable is to become a good person."

Mr Owens, originally from Wales, is well-known for his 17-year career as a former international rugby union referee and is the most-capped referee in world rugby.

He was awarded an MBE for services to sport in 2016, before retiring from international duties in 2020.

Owens addressed a crowd of graduating students at the University of Bath

Away from the rugby field, Mr Owens has spoken candidly about challenges he faced including depression, an eating disorder and addiction.

The sports star battled to come to terms with his sexuality before becoming the first openly-gay professional referee.

He often speaks publicly about mental health issues, and advocates for ending stigma and discrimination towards people with mental health struggles.

Delivering the oration at the ceremony, Professor Roland Jones said: “Nigel has a unique status within rugby, but hearing about how even legends can struggle with challenges in their lives has informed, inspired and guided many others to learn how to deal with adversity far beyond the world of rugby.

"He has proven himself to be an inspirational figure, in rugby undoubtedly, but also off the field, to millions who can relate to his determination, his pride and his fight with mental health issues.”