Volunteer Profile: Peter Martin

Peter Martin: Ulster Rugby Referee Peter Martin is one of Ulster Rugby’s rising referee stars. He is 27 years of age and recently won the 2018/19 Ulster Rugby Referee of the year. Peter began his refereeing career as a volunteer 7 years ago when he decided to do the online referees' course through Ulster Rugby after he realised that he wasn't going to be an elite Rugby player. He still has a passion for the game and saw refereeing as a way to stay involved in the sport. Career: Peter started off refereeing schools and youth rugby and still enjoys it when he gets the opportunity. He is working hard and has now progressed to the All Ireland League where he has started to referee international matches. He recently travelled to Russia where he refereed the final in the Europe U18s' Final. Skills needed to be a referee:

• You need to be able to learn from your mistakes because you are going to make mistakes.
• You must be able to take constructive criticism from your coaches and mentors.
• You have to be dedicated to the role and have confidence in your abilities.

Challenges:

• Keeping the game safe.
• Making good decisions under pressure.

Advice for new/potential volunteers:   Just give refereeing a go; you might just like it and could be the beginning of a fantastic hobby. You will be part of the Ulster Referees' Society which is a club in itself. When you are a referee, you are part of the action and have the best seat in the house to see the match. Opportunities and positive impact:

• Lots of personal development opportunities.
• Potential to travel.
• You just never know where your volunteering will lead to and what doors it might open for you.
• Having great support and being mentored by great coaches and players.