The ‘Same Game, Different Shirt’ campaign showcases how match officiating can become a rewarding part of anyone’s rugby journey.

As part of the campaign, the Game Development team at Scottish Rugby has created a condensed format of the Introduction to Match Officiating course. The new format allows new referees to complete the first part of the course digitally, followed by a one-day practical workshop, where previously the qualification would be gained across a two-day workshop.

It’s hoped that this new format will allow participants to begin their journey as a match official in a timely fashion.

Anyone over the age of 15 with an interest in match officiating in the East region is now invited to register to attend one of the four available courses on offer over the next month. More information can be found on SCRUMS under the ‘Browse Courses’ tab.

• (27 Nov) Selkirk RFC, 10am – 1pm
• (21 Nov) Winchburgh Astro, 6pm – 9pm
• (28 Nov) Lasswade RFC, 6pm – 9pm
• (4 Dec) Currie RFC, 10am – 1pm

Click here for more information on Match Officiating.

Here’s what others have to say about refereeing

“I was really keen to stay involved in rugby. I’d done some coaching, I was enjoying it but not hugely so I ended up going to an Introduction to Match Officiating course and was sold from then on in.

“Refereeing is the closest thing to playing you can do without taking all the contact. You’re still running on the pitch, you’re part of the game, you shape the game. It’s mentally absorbing, physically testing and fun!”

Liz Gilchrist, Heriot’s Rugby Club & Edinburgh Referee Society

One of the benefits of becoming a referee is joining one of Scotland’s six referee societies, providing match officials with support and a sense of community throughout their journey behind the whistle.

“Going out every Saturday as a referee, you’re flying solo, so being part of a referee society and being around other officials makes things a little bit less daunting, and it’s really social.

“The society is great fun, there’s a great atmosphere and it’s a great group of people. You’re part of a team, although it’s not with 14 other people on the pitch, it’s with 40 or 50 people in the local area who are all pulling out the whistle too.”

Gregor Whiteman, Lasswade Rugby Club & Edinburgh Referee Society

About Referee Societies

There are six referee societies throughout Scotland supporting recruitment, development and deployment of referees within their region. Each referee society plays a pivotal role in the enjoyment and well-being of players of all ages and abilities in our sport. Click HERE for society contact information.