Of the 234 schools signed up to participate, nearly a quarter delivered new or rekindled rugby activity.

Whilst many pupils were picking up a ball, others picked up a whistle and completed Scottish Rugby’s ‘Mini Referee’ course!

36 pupils from Robert Burns Academy and Grange Academy completed the course delivered by Scottish Rugby’s Match Official Development Manager, Colin Brett, on Monday 20 September.

Jason Weir, who is completing a Modern Apprenticeship with Kilmarnock RFC and took part in the course said: “The course was excellent and highlighted the importance of clear communication when refereeing. The development of clear communication has help me to identify areas of personal development that will help me in my current role and in the future.”

The pupils from Grange Academy have been quick to put their new knowledge to the test linking up with Kilmarnock RFC to referee at their Mini’s training sessions.

“I enjoyed the refereeing course so much today and it’s been great to get involved at Kilmarnock RFC and support the mini players. We have developed our communication and worked really hard on our positioning to help the mini players improve in fun and flowing games.”
Kayla, pupil from Grange Academy

Alan Falconer, Regional Manager for Glasgow South was also in attendance at the course to support the newly qualified referees, adding: “It was brilliant to see these young people enjoy the active nature of the course, and follow that up by getting stuck in to support their local rugby club. I have no doubt that that support will really enhance the experiences of the mini players at their club, as well as their own.”