Northland requires more referees to meet demand

During the 2011 season rugby referees were appointed to more than 800 rugby games in Mangonui, Bay of Islands, Rodney, Northern Wairoa, Hokianga and Whangarei regions.

There are usually 60 or more games each weekend and referees provide a fundamental service for more than 2500 rugby players and Northland Rugby is making a desperate plea for more referees to help out.

Rugby referee education officer for Northland Kyal Collins said to maintain the highest level of refereeing and enhance the enjoyment and safety of rugby in the area, the union needs more whistle blowers.

"Referees get 'the best seat in the house', you stay involved with rugby, keep fit and become part of a great referee team," Collins said.

With women's sevens being an Olympic sport for the first time in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, participation in women's rugby and also in Ripper Rugby and Sevens is increasing, so the need for referees grows.

There are opportunities for referees, just like for players and coaches, with exchanges national and international within the refereeing fraternity.

For school-age students Northland Rugby, in conjunction with schools, runs a referee programme U make the Call, which allows students to learn to be a referee and, at the same time, gain NCEA credits.

Northland has more clubs than any other provincial union in New Zealand and is proud of this. Operations manager for Northland Rugby Greg Shipton said rugby clubs are very supportive of referees.

"We can't play the game without a referee, and a quality ref means a quality game," Shipton said.

He works closely with local clubs and referees to maintain high standards of behaviour, from both players and the rugby public, in accordance with the Northland Rugby Union Code of Ethics. He and the union are encouraging all clubs and the community to become more involved with rugby and referees.

Northland Rugby Referees are holding their Open Day at Marist Rugby Club, Whangarei on March 4, from 10am to 1pm. Call or text 021 NEW REF (021 639-733) or contact Northland Rugby Union.