Rugby: Jackson now a pro referee

Well-travelled first five-eighth Glen Jackson is turning to the whistle, having been recruited into New Zealand's professional rugby referee ranks.

"We're thrilled that Glen Jackson has chosen refereeing as the next step in his professional rugby career," New Zealand Rugby Union high performance referee manager Lyndon Bray said.

"It's rare that professional players at Glen's level make the move into refereeing, but his skills as a player can only enhance his ability as a referee."

Jackson has played for Bay of Plenty, Chiefs, New Zealand Maori, New Zealand Barbarians and, from 2004, for London's Saracens in England's premiership.

He started refereeing age grade rugby in Tauranga while playing for the Chiefs, and has continued to develop his skills in England.

He has completed his English referee exams and is a member of the Hetfordshire Referees Society.

Jackson, being groomed to begin his new career in next year's Heartland national championship, is looking forward to the new challenge.

He said he would be working towards achieving test referee status where "I'll bring something different to the game, and I think players will recognise this".

- NZPA