Sport
1 April, 2021
FNQ RL: - Making the call
For many footy is all about the players, the skills, and the outcome, but for ten young Redlynch Razorback players, footy is much more.
For many footy is all about the players, the skills, and the outcome, but for ten young Redlynch Razorback players, footy is much more.
Footy obviously is about playing, but these 10 players play a vital role for FNQ Rugby League, they are the new generation of referees coming through the ranks.
For them, the love of playing is still very strong, but there’s a passion to develop and tip back into the sport by helping younger players enjoy their game experience more.
“I wanted to do the course to help the younger players have a good time and enjoy their game,” said Ray Haddock, a newly qualified FNQ RL Referee from the Razorbacks.
Along with four of his teammates they all sat through a combination of classroom presentations, study, on-line presentations as well as exams to qualify this year as referees.
Already keeping busy on a weekend, they have controlled 3-4 games as well as Touch Line Judging a further 5 games.
“You get to know the rules as well as understanding the game better, make you a better player,”
Whilst these young referees love the game and have been playing for many years, they all acknowledge that officiating helps their own game.
“You get to know the rules as well as understanding the game better, make you a better player,” said Kye Bryant, another of the Razorbacks’ junior officials.
For many young referees, this is their first taste of work. Redlych Razorbacks’ Referees Coordinator, Madison Stammers believes many of the skills they learn both on and off the field will help their footy career and prepare them for their future work life.
“They need to develop good job skills. Turning up on time, wearing the correct uniform, knowing that others are depending upon them.
“Then doing their job correctly, wearing their uniform with pride and developing discipline as well as analytical thinking, all skills that will help with their work life,’ she said.
“They will also become a better player because of their refereeing. Their perspective changes, they see the game and officials in a different light.
“When they sideline the older teams on a Friday, watching the skills and approach the older players have to their game allows the younger refs to observe, absorb and learn and then transfer those skills to their game on Saturday.”
Referees play an important role in the development of Junior Rugby League in our region.
All games need qualified referees, both in the middle and on the sidelines. It is a great way to participate in the sport you love as well as get fit. A referee can run further than most of the players on the field and will develop great fitness as well as enjoying being a part of this great game.
If you want to find out more contact your local club or FNQ Rugby League.
