Referee Pathways
Whether you are a junior or a senior and have never refereed a game of rugby before, or, you are an experienced referee new to the Sunshine Coast, we are keen to have you on board. On the Sunshine Coast we have schools games (girls and boys), junior club competition and senior club competition to referee, and we look after an area from Caboolture in the south, to Hervey Bay in the north – so that keeps us busy. To make contact, and work out how to get involved, please call or email Noel Stockall 0407 140 213 or njstockall@bigpond.com or Rob O’Donnell 0404 076 899 rob@stratogenfp.com.au .
Become a Referee
It’s easy to become a referee and start refereeing! The first step is to attend one of the two courses below, and you’re on your way. The minimum age to become a rugby union referee is 13.
If you wish to start refereeing U8 to U12…
You need to attend a course called “Refereeing Kids Rugby”. It takes 3 hours and is usually held on a week night evening. This course incorporates SmartRugby and its minimum age is 13.
If you wish to start refereeing U13 and above…
You need to attend a course called “Foundation”. It’s the same course that people wanting to be a player coach of players U13 and above attend, although the group is split into coaches and referees at some points. It takes 8 hours and is usually held on a weekend, often a Sunday. This course incorporates SmartRugby and its minimum age is 15.
Details of course dates, course costs, how to register and other information can be provided by your local State Union, as all courses are co-ordinated and delivered by State Union staff and their volunteers.
After the course…
You will need to join a Referee Association. There are many referee associations across Australia. Your State Union can give you more information on which Referee Association it would be appropriate for you to join once you have completed your course.
If you wish to become a Touch Judge / Assistant Referee…
You need to attend a course called “Level 1 Assistant Referee”. It takes 3 hours and is usually held on a week night evening. This course does not incorporate SmartRugby, and its minimum age is 13.
Details of course dates, course costs, how to register and other information can be provided by your local State Union, as all courses are co-ordinated and delivered by State Union staff and their volunteers.
If you need more information or have any questions, please contact the ARU here and select “Match Officiating” in the Reason for Contact.
Source: http://www.rugby.com.au/referees/BecomeaReferee.aspx
Umpiring Pathways
The diagram below shows the levels from starting to referee all the way to international matches, and the various refereeing opportunities that exist at each step along the way.
Source: http://www.rugby.com.au/referees/ARUReferees/Pathway.aspx