Mui Thomas remembers watching the Hong Kong Sevens from her father’s shoulders. Years later, she was on the pitch herself, making calls as a referee. She took her Level 1 refereeing course in 2012 and started officiating soon afterward. Rugby Journal interview
Growing up in Hong Kong
Thomas was born with harlequin ichthyosis, a rare genetic skin condition that requires ongoing care. Rog and Tina Thomas met her through volunteer work and went on to foster and adopt her. Growing up, Mui dealt with bullying and unwanted attention about her appearance. Sport gave her a place to participate and connect with others. Tatler Asia profile
Learning to referee
Her first match was a children’s game at Hong Kong Football Club. Thomas recalled feeling so overwhelmed that she left the field crying at halftime. She kept officiating. The South China Morning Post profiled her as the first rugby referee known to be living with harlequin ichthyosis. Rugby Journal interview · South China Morning Post profile