Referee Q&A - Stuart Douglas

When did you decide to take up the whistle and why? In my final year at RBAI, I couldn’t play schools rugby, so I played for Instonians in the afternoon and refereed Inst school games in the morning after participating in the then schoolboy referee scheme. I was fortunate to have insightful rugby coaches at Inst encouraging me and I soon realised I had more potential as a referee than a player! What is the biggest thing you have learned since you started refereeing? To enjoy each game and not to worry about my reputation as referee. I have learnt the hard way, that players, coaches, assessors and fans will respect me much more when I have confidence in my own ability and decision making. What was the initial process like to become a referee? I had a unique start with such a strong investment from the rugby department at RBAI added to the coaching support from the USRFR, resulting in a relatively quick progression through the society ranks. What is the process like now that you are a senior Level 4 referee? Support from both the IRFU refereeing department and USRFR develops me through coaching reports and assessments of my games. Level 4 workshops alongside USRFR society and area meetings create a framework to be critically reflective and adapt new rhythms to my refereeing. However personal and peer reflection on games in my own time has been essential to my development over the years. Have you had any setbacks along the way? If yes, how have you overcome these? Yes! We all make mistakes in games and sometimes we can find ourselves going through a difficult patch of games where we aren’t ‘on the money’. As my refereeing performances mean a lot to me, I have had to take a step back, stop self-criticising and trust in my ability. It’s been important that I have clarity in how I intend to adapt and move on! What is your training regime like? I’m currently injured this season, so I’m in the gym rehabilitating from an ACL reconstruction 5 times a week. When fully fit, I try to be in the gym twice a week and have a couple of cardio sessions. What is your favourite thing about refereeing? For me refereeing is an opportunity to focus fully on rugby and be refreshed mentally in a unique environment with a great sporting ethos. I love the atmosphere pre and post-match at all levels. What is the most memorable game you have refereed so far?’ I was lucky enough to be appointed to an end of season friendly between Ulster Ravens and Munster A a few seasons ago. It’s the highest standard I’ve refereed at and I really enjoyed being comfortable at that level. I had two great mates Jonny Erskine and Stuart Gaffikin on the line that day, which is one I won’t forget. What is your pre-match routine like? I used to be religious about what food I ate and what time I arrived in the city of the game, however I have relaxed over the years. I like being at the ground at least an hour before kick off and getting changed into my gear straight away before I make contact with the captains and coaches. What is your ambition as a referee? To referee to the best of my ability and enjoy it, keeping the team spirit of rugby at the core of IRFU refereeing. I would love to add to my experience of officiating in the professional game. Who is your favourite referee and why? I enjoy watching Angus Gardner, as he has a great way in gaining ‘buy in’ from the players and everyone watching the game in his decision making. What could make you improve as a referee? Greater confidence in my own ability and generally throughout each season continuing to thrive for greater clarity. Sometimes my communication can be a weakness and honestly that can stem from a lack of clarity. What advice would you give to someone thinking about taking up refereeing? Watch a game, put yourself in the referee’s position, attempt to be aware of what’s going on and consider what decision you would make. You will be surprised how enjoyable it is, it’s even better on the pitch!