Referees

Do you like a challenge?  Would you like to have an impact on the game?  Keen to learn new skills which will help in the workplace?  Have you considered taking up the whistle and becoming a rugby referee?  For more details of how to become a referee and the opportunities available please explore these pages and links

Who wants to be a Referee?

For anyone, male or female who is seeking an alternative to playing; refereeing is a great way to get involved or give back to the game of rugby.  How far can you go? Could you referee in the Premiership? Could you become Gloucestershire's next International referee and follow in the footsteps of Ed Morrison, Chris White or Wayne Barnes?  We can help you realise your true potential.

Benefits to becoming a Referee:

  • Stay with The Game - Are you an injured or recently retired player? Refereeing is a great way of staying actively involved in rugby.  Members of the Societies are able to apply for International Tickets. 

  • Training - Details of the qualification courses and development opportunities, the on-line course and development booking system, and the subsidies available from the GRFU to offset costs are on the Training page of this website.

  • Referee Society - Ideally, you will join one of our Referee Societies, which will give you support and encouragement on your journey.  You will be able to share experiences and learn from like minded people. 

  • Ongoing Development - Each Society referee will have access to a coach and your performance will be assessed from time to time.  There is access to continuous personal development (CPD) modules.  Development of referees is also a key element of Society meetings, held monthly.  These sessions are targeted at all levels and are very important in developing referees individually while raising the standards across each Society.

What are the requirements?

  • Good level of fitness.
  • A strong desire to build your knowledge of the game or previous game experience.
  • Commitment -  To achieve your full potential you should be available for appointment most weekends throughout the season.

Interested?  Please have a chat with one of the points of contact below: 

RFU Area Training Manager [South West]: Tim Pickard 

Bristol and South Gloucestershire :  Tony Bowers 

North Gloucestershire and the Forest of Dean:  Geoff Cove 

Further information & resources can be found here on England Rugby's website