Local referee Alana Kerr has recently returned from the Rugby Europe Women’s Sevens Trophy event in Chisinau, Moldova.
In what was her first major refereeing appointment at this level, Alana travelled with the hope of gaining some experience and finding her feet at this level.
After refereeing three group stage matches and a ranking semi-final over the first day and a half of the tournament, Alana obviously impressed as she was then appointed to the main competition semi-final between Ukraine and Moldova.
After another very pleasing performance in a very tight match, Alana was appointed to the final between Italy and Ukraine, which went all the way to sudden-death extra-time.
Despite her inexperience, Alana showed great composure to keep a tense contest under control before the Ukranie claimed victory with the decisive score.
Congratulations to Alana who surpassed all expectations and performed exceptionally at this event.
Alana now takes a well-earned rest before preparing for the IRFU National Referee Camp in mid-August before getting back on the pitch for a Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial match Connacht v Munster on 22nd August.
This is all the more remarkable as Alana only started refereeing 3-years ago but clearly demonstrates the opportunities and pathway available to any aspiring young referee.
If you are interested in refereeing, USRFR will be holding a New Referee Course at Affidea Stadium on Saturday 5th September.
For further information about refereeing or to register your interest in the course, please contact Richard Kerr (Referee Development Manager) for more details.
Tel: 07493 868388
Email: richard.kerr@irfu.ie