The USRFR have been busy in recent weeks preparing for the new season.
Many members took the opportunity to participate in weekly Strength and Conditioning sessions where they were able to prepare physically for the season ahead. Peter Hughes and James Douglas put the referees through their paces and we thank them both, along with Lisburn RFC for allowing the use of their pitches and the IRFU Referee Department for funding the sessions.
As well as the on pitch work, the USRFR also held their AGM and pre-season conference on the week beginning 16th August. First up was the annual AGM at which Mr John Adams was elected as the new President of the USRFR. John takes over from David Napier who served as President for two years due to the Covid 19 pandemic. Eamonn Whelan takes over from Roger Cleave as the Chair of the Operations Committee. The incoming President thanked all post holders for their efforts during what has been a most difficult period and paid particular thanks to those who are stepping down from their posts.
One of the biggest events of the USRFR calendar was held on Thursday 19th August. The annual pre-season conference took place via Zoom due to the current Covid 19 pandemic. The main focus for the evening was the Global Law Trials which are now being used at all levels of rugby. Chris Busby and Richard Kerr led the session which included an interactive presentation along with an opportunity for some Q&A. Other topics discussed were Foul Play and scrums, along with looking at other focus areas for the season ahead and a reminder of some administration tasks. With most referees being out of action for 18 months, there is a general enthusiasm and desire from everyone to get back out onto a pitch.
Whilst mistakes will be made and some decisions may not be agreed with by both teams and sets of supporters, the USRFR are keen to remind all stakeholders involved in the game that respect for the referee is one of the core values of Rugby Union. Referee abuse in any form will not be tolerated.
We wish all our referees and evaluators all the very best for the season ahead.
A guide to the Global Law Trials which will be introduced to all levels of the game with immediate effect can be found at: https://www.world.rugby/the-game/laws/global-law-trials
If interested in refereeing, please contact Richard Kerr (Referee Development Manager) at richard.kerr@irfu.ie
Whilst mistakes will be made and some decisions may not be agreed with by both teams and sets of supporters, the USRFR are keen to remind all stakeholders involved in the game that respect for the referee is one of the core values of Rugby Union. Referee abuse in any form will not be tolerated.
We wish all our referees and evaluators all the very best for the season ahead.
A guide to the Global Law Trials which will be introduced to all levels of the game with immediate effect can be found at: https://www.world.rugby/the-game/laws/global-law-trials
If interested in refereeing, please contact Richard Kerr (Referee Development Manager) at richard.kerr@irfu.ie