Why should I referee?

MAKE NEW FRIENDS ON AND OFF THE PITCH

EARN EXTRA MONEY

MAINTAIN FITNESS

GIVE BACK TO A GREAT COMMUNITY

COMPETE AT HIGHER LEVELS

DEVELOP COMMUNICATION AND DECISION MAKING SKILLS

What is there to enjoy about being a referee?

There are many answers to this question. The most common reason for refereeing is to remain active and stay involved when no longer playing competitively. You are the closest onlooker to the action. You can feel the atmosphere, the adrenaline still flows, and you get all the benefits of competitive exercise because you have to be where the play is at all times!

What does the training look like?

You will attend a Level 1 Referee Course. These courses are run 3-4 times during the year.  Your assignments will start at the lower levels of play, and you will be paired with a certified referee coach. As you begin to grow many additional resources will be provided to you, including:

  • Monthly Trainings

  • Online Videos

  • Discussion Forums

  • Structured Pathways

Is it very difficult to referee?

Sometimes it can feel like that, especially at the start. However, SWRRS stands behind all of our referees. Previous game experience will provide a rudimentary knowledge of what is required. As you become more experienced, the science and art of refereeing become easier.

 At what age can I start to referee?

The correct answer is any. There have been many referees who have started in their teens doing youth rugby. here are some referees who continue to referee and enjoy it into their sixties. However, if you wish to get to the very top, then it is advisable to start refereeing as early as possible.

I am worried about referee abuse, is this an issue?

SWRRS takes a zero-tolerance to referee abuse in all forms. There are rare cases of abuse, but USA Rugby, territorial, and local unions penalize very heavily any player or club member shown to be abusive. Overall, referees in this territory enjoy excellent relationships with clubs, coaches, players, and spectators and the core values of rugby are respected.

This all sounds great! How do I get started?

Feel free to contact SWRRS or ask a referee on the pitch how to get started.