Karl Dickson is a globally acclaimed figure in rugby, celebrated for his dual roles as a professional Rugby Union referee and a former England and Harlequins player. His illustrious refereeing career reached new pinnacles during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where he officiated the quarter-final between Wales and Argentina and served as the assistant referee in the final between South Africa and New Zealand.
Karl's professional career took off with Bedford Blues, where he made 107 appearances before signing with Harlequins in 2009. Over his time with Harlequins, he became an integral part of the team, making 169 appearances and sharing the scrum-half responsibilities with Danny Care. His contribution was pivotal in the 2012 Premiership final victory over Leicester Tigers. During his playing career, Karl was known for his quick decision-making, agility, and leadership on the field, earning him respect and admiration from teammates and opponents alike.
In 2017, Karl transitioned from playing to refereeing, joining the Rugby Football Union's Professional Game Match Officials Team (PGMOT). His dedication and understanding of the game quickly earned him respect in his new role. Karl's refereeing career saw him rise through the ranks, culminating in his appointment to key matches during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, a testament to his skills and commitment.
Off the field, Karl has been involved in various initiatives to promote rugby at the grassroots level. He has worked with young players, sharing his knowledge and experience to help develop the next generation of rugby talent - actively contributing to the game’s growth and development.
Hire Karl Dickson as a keynote speaker for his unparalleled insights into teamwork, mental resilience, and leadership. His extensive experience as both a player and referee give him a unique perspective on the game, which he shares through engaging and inspiring talks. Karl discusses crucial topics such as handling pressure, maintaining physical and mental health, overcoming setbacks, and the importance of communication and confidence. These themes are not only relevant to the world of sports but also resonate deeply in corporate environments, making his speeches valuable for a wide range of audiences. Karl's ability to relate his experiences to real-world challenges makes him an exceptional speaker who can motivate and educate his audience effectively.
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How to hire Karl Dickson
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Karl Dickson for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
Karl Dickson's Official Speaking Topics are listed below
- Handling Pressure
- Maintaining Physical and Mental Health
- Overcoming Setbacks
- Importance of Communication and Confidence
- 2023 - Officiated at the Rugby World Cup, including the quarter-final between Wales and Argentina
- 2022 - Made his Six Nations refereeing debut in the match between Scotland and France
- 2020 - Made his international refereeing debut in a friendly game between France and Wales
- 2017 - Announced retirement from professional rugby playing and joined the Rugby Football Union's Professional Game Match Officials Team (PGMOT)
- 2017 - Officiated the Championship clash between London Irish and Richmond
- 2014 - Began refereeing qualifications and made his refereeing debut at the Reigate School 7s
- 2012 - Named in the England Saxons squad and called up for the England Squad for the Six Nations and South Africa tour
- 2011-2013 - Part of Harlequins' most successful period, winning the Amlin Cup, the Premiership, and the LV Cup
- 2009 - Joined Harlequins, making over 100 appearances until 2017
- 2004 - Promoted to the senior team of Bedford Blues