STAFFORDSHIRE REFEREES

In a bid to further strengthen the standard of rugby in Staffordshire, SRUSR are looking to recruit volunteers as referee developers in preparation for the 20/21 season.
We will all recognise that an important element of training and progression, either as a player or a referee, is analysis. The society encourages referees to actively seek out feedback and advice from players, coaches or anyone with a passion for and understanding of the Game. However, referees can’t exist in a ‘bubble’ and self-analysis is fine up to a point. Therefore, the society wants to hear from those of you who feel that they can contribute to the development of Staffordshire referees.
This important contribution can be made in one of two ways –
Club watcher. An informal chat at the bar, giving three good points and three areas that the referee may choose to reflect upon, is a good starting point. The society can provide a simple ‘tick box’ assessment form that can be completed and sent back to the society (and the referee) for evaluation. The club watcher would not receive SRUSR appointments; merely give feedback (usually at their own club) on an occasional basis to suit them.
Society watcher. Again this can be an informal chat at the bar but a slightly more detailed report with again three good points and three areas for development. The question of society appointments would be decided between the society and the watcher but a certain amount of travelling to other clubs (travelling expenses paid) would be required.
For both club and society watchers SRUSR would arrange a training day in the summer followed by the ‘shadowing’ of a society watcher at a game. Aspiring society watchers would have, after a trial period, a radio mic communications kit to enable them to give enhanced feedback on the referee’s performance.
Despite being a small referee society, we have an outstanding track record of match officials progressing from the lowest levels as far as the Premiership (and beyond). They have all been supported at the early stages of their journey by knowledgeable and enthusiastic watchers, and we need as many volunteers as possible to help and support the next generation of Staffordshire referees as they develop. Enthusiasm and love of the game are more important than qualifications or experience at higher levels.
Those who are interested in trying out as a watcher, please contact in the first instance society secretary Steve Bowden on 01902 764 854 or email secretary@srusr.co.uk.