How to Be a Rugby Referee

If you love the game of rugby, becoming a referee is a great way to stay in the game. Just about anyone with a love of the game should be able to be a rugby referee. Just follow a few simple steps and you'll be on the field in no time.

Things You'll Need

• Whistle
• Set of touch flags
• A law book (usually provided at referee training)
• A jersey that does not match the clubs that are playing

Instructions

1. Take the Level 1 Referee Course. This basic course covers the referee's priorities and an introduction to the laws. It also takes a look at scrums, ruck/mauls, tackles, line-outs, offside and advantage, focusing on the how to referee them. The USA Rugby Team site provides a list of available courses.

2. Study for the test. You will receive a laws book on the day of the course, but it will be up to you to study. The test contains 100 questions, 15 of which are designated as "safety related." To pass the test, you must get all of the "safety" questions correct and an overall score of 95.

3. Take the test. Remember to send it to the national office for processing within 90 days. If you don't pass the test the first time, you will be given an opportunity to retake it.

4. Join a local referee organization. This group will provide you with more learning opportunities as well as your refereeing assignments. Find these societies through the USA Rugby Team website.

5. Take the Level 2 Course. This intermediate course is designed for full-time referees and includes an in-depth analysis of all phases of the game, as well as fitness, preparation and game management. The course takes a day and a half to complete and is usually held on a weekend. Referee for a year before you take this course.

6. Prepare for your first game. Make sure that your uniform is clean and that you've made the proper arrangements. It helps to have a cell phone in case there is a communication problem. You might also want to watch a rugby game during the week and reread the laws book so you are ready.

Tips & Warnings

• Some rugby organizations have fitness requirements for their referees. There is also a grading system for referees; as you move up through the ranks, you are able to referee a wider range of games.

Resources

• You'll find information about courses and local organizations for referees at the USA Rugby Team site.
• The Rugby Referees of NY is an organization for referees that offers a range of services.