inwith South African-t Referees uchEdition 2, 2009 Referees to lead the BokSmart charge With an average of 14 serious or ‘In many instances the medical catastrophic injuries in rugby every personnel at the side of the field year, something had to be done to aren’t suitably trained, and while we improve player safety. The recently aren’t aiming to make every referee launched BokSmart programme has into a paramedic, there are some identified referees and coaches as fundamentals they should know. One the people likely to have the most of them is the BokSmart Spineline influence and be the driving force in number: 0800 678 678.’ reducing injuries. Representatives from all 14 referee ‘Rugby by its very nature is a contact societies have undergone the initial sport that includes high-speed training workshop and the process collisions between players where of certifying trainers to instruct in the there’s always a chance of injury,’ provinces is in progress. says BokSmart project manager Dr Wayne Viljoen. ‘Countries like Dr Viljoen believes referees will New Zealand and Australia have embrace the initiative: ‘There’s significantly reduced the number no reason to be intimidated by of severe injuries to players since the certification process; there’s Gallo Images/ Getty Images they adopted similar programmes to no exam with a pass or fail. The BokSmart. only criterion for licensing is the ‘Interestingly, research has proven compulsory attendance of a three- The BokSmart programme aims to train players in safer that the safest best-practice techniques. Referees can do their part by ensuring hour workshop. The certification will techniques in the game are also the dangerous play is rooted out whenever it occurs. be valid for two years, after which most effective from a performance referees and coaches will need to perspective. This means a player ‘As the person in charge, we have attend a shorter workshop to receive doesn’t have to sacrifice anything a responsibility to ensure the game updated information. by playing safe. It’s a win-win is a fair contest and played safely. ‘Don’t be a follower, be a leader. situation for everyone. By following There’s no place for dangerous Show how you love the game of the programme, the player stands conduct on the field,’ says André rugby by becoming BokSmart- less chance of becoming injured and Watson. ‘When there’s an injury, the certified and make your games safer will likely enjoy a longer and more referee should be on the spot, and it for everyone.’ rewarding career, and there’s less makes sense that they have greater disruption to the team.’ insight into what should happen from * For more information on the While most of the 11 modules are that point. There’s no doubt that the programme visit www.boksmart. geared towards coaches and how first four hours of an injured player’s co.za or email your provincial they pre-qualify, train and manage treatment has a huge impact on referee manager for dates of their players, the role of the referee is the success or severity of the final courses in your region. also important. outcome. 12

9 6-8

Craig Joubert Paddy’s Patch Paddy’s Paddy’s Patch Paddy’s In this issue... Paddy’s Patch Paddy’s Wat’s on? 2 Wat’s A trip to the Orient

1 in-touch Wat’s on my mind? By André Watson Referee abuse takes its first still pockets of our communities that high-profile victim have not adapted and accepted our This season has seen a number of new democratic order. And this is highly publicised incidents of unruly not only a black-versus-white issue: and violent behaviour among players it spans all creeds, colours and and spectators, as well as verbal religions. However, I believe time and physical abuse directed towards will heal. Our society is becoming match officials at all levels of the more and more integrated and this game. And so, unfortunately, the leads to greater understanding of our differences and, importantly, resignation of National Panel referee often do we see people gassing on similarities. Willie Roos is a not-so-unexpected about a referee decision when, in outcome. fact, they are clearly wrong? This Another contributing factor is the behaviour incites those influenced intolerance shown by some people With nine test matches, 14 Super by them and it’s all from a wrong and this is frequently made worse Rugby games and more than 30 premise to begin with. We at SA when coupled with the abuse of encounters to his name, Referees need to do more on the alcohol. The recent incident in Willie – at the tender age of 34 – education front. was one of this country’s more Kimberly where Willie Roos was attacked after the / experienced referees and should In the same vein, there are about game, for instance, had nothing to have enjoyed a career spanning at three professional full-time rugby do with race at all but probably lots least 10 more years with the whistle. players in . There are to do with a psyched up individual Willie cited the abuse from players, unable to contain his disappointment coaches and spectators towards at losing the game and directing News Flash himself and his family – including all his anger at the referee. This is death threats – as the key factors a classic example of intolerance. An IRB Ruling on the Law relating to behind his decision. The fact that media reports suggest players entering a ruck will come into alcohol was involved only underlines operation in domestic South African Where are we going with this game? my theory. rugby from September 4. The IRB Rugby is a physically demanding ruling was based on the principle that sport. Bone-crunching tackles and In the Western Cape there was an ‘a player must not charge or knock high-speed collisions are part of incident where a young referee was down an opponent without trying to the package. The modern game is knocked to the ground, kicked and grasp that player.’ The ruling is as played at frenetic speed, governed hit in the face. The player involved follows: was a police officer – the very person by a Law Book that encompasses 1. If a team-mate is the hindmost almost 200 pages of text and is mandated to maintain law and order player in the ruck then a player must largely administered by one person in our everyday life! How can any bind onto that player in accordance with the whistle. sane person condone this type of with Law 16.5 (c) – Offside at the behaviour? What could that young ruck referee have done that was so bad We also understand that South 2. It is recognised in a dynamic game Africa has a unique past, one that it could possibly warrant that that rucks are not perfectly formed where inequalities were legislated type of reaction? Thankfully the and therefore to comply with Law into our everyday lives, and that player was banned for life – there is 16.5 - Offside at the ruck, contact as a result we all come from no place for that behaviour on any may have to occur with an sport field. opposition player. This contact diverse backgrounds with varying would require a bind to take place in experiences. accordance with Law 10.4 (j) Player, coach, supporter and In order to try and eradicate the media education is another area of 3. The bind onto another player when problems, we need to understand concern for me. How many people joining the ruck must either precede comprising this group have ever read or be simultaneous with contact with their root causes. any other part of the body including Yes, in some instances, racism is a law book? More importantly, have the shoulder of the joining player at the core. After 15 years there are they read the current law book? How

2 in-touch only four full-time, professional environment for players and referees. Every other panel match officials. In many referee is essentially a volunteer instances it’s the host school, Chairman’s – someone who offers their club or union that doesn’t time and services for minimal have adequate crowd control message compensation. Stakeholders measures in place where need to understand that referees we see the big problems It’s been another busy season but with most club and are human beings just like the occur. As referees, we have a schools rugby behind us rest of us. They are people responsibility to inspect the field we can begin to reflect on subject to feelings, good days before kickoff and approach the year so far. and bad days, successes and management with any concerns failures, hopes and aspirations. we may have. The regulations An area of concern for me They also go home to families, are clear in this regard. has been the incidents play with the kids and braai of violence across the on Sundays – they are not In a recent schools game it is country. What really superhuman robots that can alleged that an ex-Springbok upsets me is that it seems possibly get every call in every assaulted the touch judge to have infiltrated every game 100% correct. Which because his son’s team lost the level of the game, with of course spectators and game. Are we going to resort not even schools exempt commentators can, with the to erecting razor-wire fencing from shocking crowd and benefit of endless television to keep spectators out of the player behaviour. replays from 14 different camera playing enclosure? angles with the comfort of As referees we need to understand our role in this unlimited time. In most cases referees are problem and ensure that we are beyond reproach. capable of dealing with on- Our fitness levels, understanding and knowledge of At SA Rugby, we go to great field player problems. The the laws and management skills have to be honed to lengths to prepare up-and- disciplinary structures are perfection. The article on mental toughness on page coming referees for the big in place, transparent and – I four is an important tool for all referees. stage. Our processes are believe – effective. But refs transparent and multi-layered. have to do their job properly. The acceptance of a global set of Laws brings to an Each individual is carefully It’s tough out there; refereeing end the Experimental Laws which, while worthwhile, managed and monitored along is not for sissies. Refs need did contribute to a general misunderstanding of the the way so that we end up with to be fit, know their laws and laws by members of the public, but more importantly competent match officials for understand how to deal with by the players and referees. I’m sure the Laws will the respective game. But even people. Mental preparation is as now remain relatively untouched until after the 2011 the world’s most experienced important as the physical. In this Rugby World Cup. referee – our own Jonathan edition we’ve included an article Kaplan, with close on 60 Tests on mental toughness, to help Referees who participated at this year’s Youth Weeks to his name – will admit to referees cope with the demands acquitted themselves well and it was good to see making mistakes in a game. of the job. the quality of younger officials on their path to the Surely if we can cut some slack top. These are great opportunities to receive intense to a person of his capabilities, SA Rugby has condemned coaching and, as the story on page six outlines, they we can understand and be abuse and violence at every are also hard work. compassionate to someone instance and unions have We congratulate three new Currie Cup referees in this officiating in a high school taken strong measures against edition and wish them well for the future. I’m proud game? dissenters. Let’s make sure we of our grooming process for up-and-coming referees. as referees are up to the task It’s important that promotion to higher honours is The field arrangements often and let’s remove the scourge taken carefully, in line with an individual’s capabilities do not contribute to a safe from every level of the game. and experience.

We were fortunate to have IRB Referee Manager Paddy O’Brien visit us during the British and Irish Lions Tour and he made himself available for training The IRB Playing Charter sessions during his stay. We appreciate Paddy’s ongoing availability and commitment to the game. Spirit of the Laws (pg 13, The Laws of the Game 2009 While the amateur side of the game is winding down, there is still lots at stake on the professional Edition) front. The Currie Cup is into the second round of the competition and teams are vying for semi-final Rugby owes much of its appeal to the fact that it is positions. We can’t let our foot off the gas, and need played both to the letter and within the Spirit of the to ensure those match officials involved are on top of their game. Laws. The responsibility for ensuring that this happens lies not with one individual – it involves coaches, I hope you enjoy this edition of In-touch. captains, players and referees. Yours in refereeing

3 in-touch What is Genetic keeping all Brain Profiling? One way of determining how high- level performers control their stress channels open and emotions is through Genetic Brain Profiling. A Genetic Brain Organisation Profile assessment How can referees become predetermines a person’s innate intelligent performers and keep hand, eye, ear and foot operational functionality and coordination themselves mentally fresh? under normal circumstances, plus simulated compensations during times of stress. Stress functioning Mental toughness has been well Visualisation can take the ‘surprise’ defined and researched, with aspect out of a specific situation, can be explained according to your motivational speaker Ralph Jean- helping to alleviate emotions brain profile, allowing you to see Paul describing it as ‘a physiological of irritation and stress that will exactly when you’re stressed, what edge that enables people to be more accelerate the heartbeat. the possible causes are and how to consistent, focused, determined prevent or deal with it. and confident during high-pressure Another way to reduce stress before situations, so that they can perform a game is to use music, which Brain profiling can help us at their maximum potential’. can have both a physiological and determine which type of referee psychological effect, and also has would have the same blockages Stress, which involves demand on therapeutic qualities. Music can be a during stress and show us the physical or mental energy, has both very powerful medium for changing most likely causing factors. There physiological and psychological how we actually feel, and can be are 32 different combinations of effects. Stress during performance effective in producing a deep, dominances between left and right can result in a lack of objectivity, healing state of relaxation. brain, eye, ear, hand and foot. oversensitivity to verbal and visual Through the use of passive music Each of the combinations has its information, and missing important (eg, most classical music and details. Gregorian chant), it’s possible to own implications for the way that manipulate the heartbeat so that specific referee will perform. For Certain emotions cause the brain both hemispheres of the brain can instance, a person in whom stress to go into stress, leaving different perform to the best of their abilities. creates a ‘blocked’ left ear, say, genetic brain profiles (see box) may really not hear properly out on without some skills for a while. The Listening to passive music can the field, so it’s important to know brain can’t differentiate between help you to regain some skills that how to communicate messages. real stress and imagined stress, are blocked by stress or a high Referees also use this knowledge and the body reacts exactly the heartbeat. to mould their ear pieces according same way whether the stress is to the ear that remains open during perceived or genuine. This is the If you’re feeling excited, stressed stress. reason why visualisation works as or tired the evening before a game, a way of manipulating stress and listening to music can help promote Andre Watson said, ‘Genetic Brain performance. sleep so that you can rest properly. Profiling is very important and On the day of the game, you should definitely brings a new dimension Visualisation involves using your avoid listening to music with a quick imagination to reach your goals. rhythm or beat, especially if you’re to refereeing. It’s of vital importance When you visualise what might feeling nervous – this will accelerate to know when and why sight, happen during a rugby game, for your heartbeat and make you more hearing, communication, problem instance, as well as how you will prone to errors. But if you’re feeling solving, and right brain/left brain react in certain circumstances, tired and listless, listening to active thinking are affected or blocked you are familiarising yourself with music (‘hooked on Classics’ or Enya, during stress and how to prevent different aspects of the game. for instance) can lift your heart rate. this.’

4 in-touch Three new Currie Cup referees

Sindile Mayende Joey Salmans Sindile Mayende and Stuart Berry of KZN and Joey Salmans from Western Province refereed their first Currie Cup Premier Division matches recently. Sindile took charge of the Western Province clash at Newlands, Joey blew the Boland match at the ABSA Stadium and Stuart handled the Free State game in . In 2004, while at the South African who’s also a Western Province Rugby Institute (now the Sharks referee. Academy), Sindile Mayende was asked by Burton Hufkie, now the Joey completed his bachelor’s referee manager in KZN who was degree at UCT, and it was working at the Institute at the only once he went to work at Gallo Images/ Getty Images time, to coach and referee while Rondebosch Boys’ Preparatory Phillip Bosch taking a moment during the WP/FS he was bulking up. He took to School in 1999 that he seriously Absa Currie Cup clash at Newlands refereeing immediately and says, thought about refereeing. Since ‘I never went back to playing. I then, after working his way up bulked up all right, but with fat, the refereeing ranks, he was not muscle.’ appointed to the Provincial Panel last year and this year he has In 2004 Sindile joined the made the step up to the National KwaZulu-Natal Referees’ Society. Panel. Since then he ‘s gone from strength to strength. This year, Stuart Berry started refereeing he was one of the 12 referees on at school in 1999, then joined the South Africa’s National Panel. He Kwazulu-Natal Referees’ Society had his first Super 14 experience in 2001 and first made it onto a - on the line as an assistant South African panel in 2002. He referee to Craig Joubert, with was up in Johannesburg before Mark Lawrence being his opposite his fixture to discuss the coming number. He says, ‘I was so match with André Watson and nervous I think my heartbeat was Tappe Henning. Stuart was at 180.’ excited and looked forward to the 3 o’clock kick-off. He says Joey Salmans, who’s been that refereeing a Currie Cup was refereeing for eight years, has ‘something I aspired to from been on SA Rugby’s different the start. The Currie Cup is so panels since 2005 and has special.’ already travelled to many parts Valicia Groenewald is an Edu- of the world on refereeing In-touch congratulates Sindile, Profilogist and licensed consultant for business. For his fixture, he was Joey and Stuart on their Dr Annette Lotter and Associates (Pty) accompanied by his coach, achievements and hope their Ltd. If you’re interested in Valicia’s Neville Heilbron, and his main careers continue on upward research or have any questions, email her at [email protected] assistant Gareth Lloyd-Jones, paths.

5 in-touch SA referees enjoy successful Youth Week Period

The midyear school holidays have become synonymous with youth rugby, and while Craven Week has been the birthplace of many Springboks, it’s also where several top-flight referees cut their teeth.

‘The Youth Weeks – U13 Craven Week, U16 Grant Khomo, U18 Academy and U18 Craven Week – are used to blood up-and-coming referees and give them additional opportunities to feature on the national stage,’ says André Watson. ‘It’s a very intense period where each referee is under scrutiny by some of the best match reviewers and coaches available in South Africa.’ Francois Groeneweld waves play on while being at the heart of play

And intense it was. The 42-person team comprised referees, TMOs, match reviewers, coaches, video analysts, manager and tournament director. Everyone assembled on the Sunday and went through a detailed briefing session, where every minute detail of the tournament was discussed. With every game broadcast live on DSTV there was no margin for error, and André wanted to avoid any referee’s indiscretion being the subject of endless ‘kyk weers!’‘Some may think that participating at these tournaments is a jol, but it’s a demanding time, both physically and mentally,’ he points out. ‘Each ref’s performance is monitored and, with the aid of the Fair Play video monitoring program, Francois Veldsman didn’t trip up once during the week dissected in detail. But at the same time it’s a wonderful opportunity to receive important input and hopefully improve on-field performance.’

South Africa’s top referee, Jonathan Kaplan, was also on hand to offer insight. Speaking at one of the daily post- match debriefing sessions, he suggested that referees ensure they work hard all the time: ‘One area that needs constant attention is the hot ruck. This is where the tussle for possession is happening and no team has clearly won the ball. The ref must stay close and connected: remain focused. Do not move away from the ruck until you’re sure you know where the ball is going. Only then move into a position where you can scan for offside lines and ready yourself for the next phase of play.’

Luke Burger gets ready to initiate another scrum In no particular order, here’s a quick look at who participated in this year’s U18 tournament in East London.

Delbirth November may be small in stature but certainly not in heart. The 26-year-old traffic officer from Mossel Bay played in the U18 Academy Week while at school but realised that he was a bit on the small side for the physically demanding club-rugby scene. He took up the whistle in 2005 and was soon blowing at the U18 Academy week, Sub-Union tournament and SASSU Week. He was promoted to the Provincial Panel this year. Rob Pollock Photography A sports fanatic – he plays cricket when not on the rugby pitch – Delbirth believes referees need to be disciplined, take charge of the game and have the guts to make the tough calls. keeps his eye firmly on the ball during play

6 in-touch Luke Burger hails from country and played SA referees enjoy successful Youth Week Period rugby for his school first team and hostel at varsity. In retrospect he wishes he’d started refereeing earlier but also feels the extra years have probably brought him greater maturity and wisdom to deal with tensely charged match situations. While he feels very fortunate to have the opportunity to excel as a referee, he admits that anyone embarking on this path needs to be prepared to work hard and be patient and willing to make sacrifices.

This year’s finale between Western Province and Free State was officiated byArchie Sehlako, a privilege reserved for the stand-out referee of the tournament. But it was almost by mistake rather than design that Archie Sehlako refereed the final game of the 2009 U18 Craven Week Archie ever made it into the middle. While he played rugby at school, it wasn’t a sport that captured his interest. It was only after school, while completing his diploma in sports management, that he was required to complete the referee’s Level One course as part of his academic studies. Among his highlights are reffing one of the two Varsity Cup semi-finals this year, as well as his trip to Kenya as an assistant referee in the IRB Junior World Rugby Trophy tournament. Clearly, this is a referee with a future. When you see Archie on the international stage, remember you read it here first!

For provincial referee Tiaan Jonker, laying down the law on the field comes naturally. He is, after Delbirth November ensured player traffic wasn’t a problem whenb he was on all, a partner in a firm of Johannesburg attorneys. the field Tiaan’s career as a player saw him representing both Blues Rugby Club and Potch University. But it was when his brother Marius – now an IRB test referee – reffed at Craven Week that Tiaan realised his opportunities in the top league as a player were probably limited and that the whistle may be a better path to follow. Tiaan sees his primary role as creating a platform for a fair contest between the two teams and wants to focus more on making it an enjoyable experience for the players rather than blowing for every technical infringement.

Mlungiseleli Mdashe was on track for higher playing honours when a broken collar bone forced him to look at refereeing, and it’s a decision he wishes he’d made earlier. Mlungiseleli played and reffed most of

Mtheleli Msileni shadows the ball carrier as he charges towards the his rugby in the Eastern Cape but a move to the Valke line has seen him achieve higher honours and he is also Referee Manager in the province. He’s made steady progress since refereeing in the 2005 Grant Khomo Week and now has five Cup games under his belt as well as a stint as an AR at the IRB George7s. Mlungiseleli views refereeing much like a relationship – once you fall in love, there are disappointments, but the highs more than make up for the lows!

When not keeping the books balanced, 28 year-old accountant Richard Ingram – one of two refs from at Craven Week – sees his future very much with a whistle firmly in his grasp. He was a respectable Rob Pollock Photography club player but decided to take some time off after injuries and started to referee so as to keep his hand

Lusanda Jam had a good week in front of his home crowd in. In addition to this year’s Craven Week, he took charge of last year’s National Club Champs semi-

7 in-touch final. He firmly believes that controlled aggression that two highly For some, having a father as officiating at Test level is achievable charged teams put into the game a referee might be enough to but admits that enjoyment is also an when playing within the laws, and discourage them taking up the important objective. feels the referee plays an important whistle but not Ben Crouse who, role in keeping the spirit right. He’s at 26 years old, is on the fast track Apart from Border ending the week officiated in Club Champs and the to international honours. He lists unbeaten, the home crowd had Varsity Cup, among other Youth the trip to this year’s Sanix World another representative on the field Week tournaments, but lists his Youth Tournament in Japan as one in Lusanda Jam. Lusanda, who quarter-final game of the highlights of his career so currently sits on the Contenders as probably the highlight so far. far, especially considering he was Panel, started refereeing in 2003 Even when he’s not officiating, he selected to blow the final. Appointed after the referee for a 1st team still takes charge with a whistle – as to the National Panel last year, Ben game at his local club failed to coach at his school. tries his hardest to enjoy the journey arrive. A fullback during his playing he’s on. He makes a point of taking days, Lusanda says that the most Age-group provincial rugby isn’t pictures and keeping the contact important aspects of refereeing are really new territory for Francois details of people he meets, he feels to ensure a fair contest and officiate Groeneweld. As a player he the opportunities are endless if according to the Laws of the game. represented Eastern Province at you’re committed and listen to the the U13 Craven and U16 Grant advice of the seniors. His career highlights thus far was Khomo Weeks, but it was persistent officiating at the U18 Craven Week injuries that forced him to consider Francois Veldsman was probably this year and running touch during refereeing in the hostel league while the most experienced referee at this the Vodacom Cup when WP played at University. year’s tournament but this didn’t SWD. He advises anyone taking up detract from the meticulous way the whistle that first and foremost, His playing experience showed and he prepared for games. His motto they must enjoy what they are doing. Francois had progressed quickly of staying focused paid off in 2008 When not refereeing, Lusanda works through the club ranks and is now when he was running touch for fellow in the accounting industry and on the Contenders Panel. It’s been South African Willie Roos in the enjoys spending time with his family. a whirlwind year for the 24 year-old game between Japan and Tonga. He hopes to make it to Test level one originally from Graaff-Reinet and day. now resident in the Western Cape: Willie was injured and Francois had he’s officiated at the Easter Festival to take over, finishing the Test match For Eastern Cape-based teacher in Johannesburg and the U13 and in great style. He also officiated in Mtheleli Msileni, taking up the U18 Craven Weeks. He encourages the Cobra 10s in Malaysia in 2008 whistle seemed a natural progression aspiring referees to constantly work and would like to see himself cement to put something back into the hard and stay focused because a a place as a referee in the Currie game after playing first-team club lucky break to higher honours can Cup as well as make inroads on the rugby. He really enjoys the pace and come at any time. international circuit.

Richard Ingram making sure nothing gets past him. Tiaan Jonker making sure the ball goes anywhere Mlungiseli Mdashe shows that the players aren’t Rob Pollock Photography but forward the only ones with quick heels

8 in-touch Paddy’s Patch Paddy O’Brien is the IRB’s manager of referees. Here he shares some thoughts on he state of the game With increased IRB tournaments match officials wouldn’t have it any around the globe, the other way and will remember their opportunities for referees involvement in this series for the rest to develop, mature and gain of their careers. exposure has grown. Back to one set of laws When the IRB selection The IRB Council met in May and SA refereeing in good shape committee met in April, it made 10 of the ELVs were ratified for While in South Africa I had all its appointments for the June- implementation which commenced the opportunity to run a High September window. Two referees, in June 2009. The process involved Performance Seminar for the top Peter Fitzgibbon of Ireland and in the ELVs was an exhaustive one – referees plus attend the monthly from France, were from the early trials to final decision meeting of the Golden Lions Rugby promoted to the IRB International on what to retain – and debate Referees’ Society. Panel and received their first robust. international appointments. With four referees, two TMOs and Now that a final decision has been one AR on the IRB Panels, South Several referees outside the made, the game is again global, and African refereeing is in good shape. International Panel attended the IRB it will be interesting to watch what What’s more encouraging for Junior World Trophy in Kenya and impact the ELVs will have on the me, however, was to witness the the IRB Junior World Championships game at all levels. enthusiasm and knowledge of those in Japan, and with the IRB selectors referees currently sitting just below in attendance were able to either What’s the difference at the top? the ‘big’ boys. enhance or stabilise their reputations. Having attended the IRB Junior World Championships and the It’s so important for aspiring The Selection committee meets British & Irish Lions matches, I think international referees that they learn again in September to review the it’s clear that we have many very as much as they can from their last round of matches and to make talented referees. I’m convinced peers, and in South Africa you’re appointments for the November we have hundreds of referees with fortunate to have an outstanding internationals. what I call a flair and knowledge coaching system headed by Tappe to officiate at a high level. The Henning, and management headed One of the toughest Test series... reason only a small number of these by Andre Watson. Don’t lose the The main spotlight on world rugby referees actually then go on to make opportunity to tap into the years of in June was clearly the British & Irish it is, in my view, because of mental experience these people and others Lions versus the Springboks. I had toughness. have to offer. the privilege to be in South Africa for the games and I have to say it was Refereeing at the highest level isn’t IRB Update one of the most fiercely-fought series for the faint hearted. The referee needs vision, game knowledge I’ve ever witnessed. The IRB has made a couple of and understanding but, most rulings recently that referees should importantly, an ability to shut off Naturally, when games are as tight be aware of: as the first two internationals were, outside influences – he can’t be Mr Popular. He must be accurate and the attention falls on refereeing, A Mauls Working Group was set make decisions without fear, clear in and I’m pleased to say that our up after the IRB ELV conference in the knowledge that he’s refereeing team of four can hold their heads March.These conclusions can be what’s in front of him – even if high and go home knowing they’ve found at this address: www.irblaws. making the big calls means he could done themselves, the game and IRB com/EN/guidelines/ proud. be roundly criticised by those with a vested interest in the result. Having The IRB has also acted against the the courage of conviction to call it I’m not sure if many fans and scourge of uncontested scrums, as it is, rather than as you would those in the media have any real following the French experiment like it to be, could be the difference understanding of how difficult it is for of introducing a 23rd player to the between you and the next the match officials to get everything bench. Go to www.sareferees. person climbing a step higher on the right in such big games. Unless they co.za/home for more information get out in the middle themselves, referee tree. they never will. I know the team of

9 in-touch 40 years down, 40 to go The Mpumalanga Referees’ very important to engage with campaign Society celebrated its 40th communities that traditionally by SA anniversary this year. While see rugby as a secondary sport Referees is some would say such a history in relation to other pastimes. a positive The society’s association with step and in is a great achievement and the is, as the future rest on their laurels, the Pumas described by Dries, a ‘wonderful it can be have continued to work hard to relationship’. The CEO and expanded produce high-quality referees. president of the Pumas Rugby to increase Union, Koos Kruger and Hein Mentz awareness The Pumas, based in Emalahleni, is respectively, are very supportive of of what one of the smaller referee societies the society. Their open-door policy refereeing in South Africa, with 91 members. makes it easy for the two bodies is all However, what they lack in to cooperate and achieve their about.’ numbers they show in commitment interrelated ends. and dedication. The society is With their heart firmly in the right responsible for overseeing more The society has a tradition of place, the Pumas Referees’ Society than 1 200 games, from school to producing some of South Africa’s is showing that having the right club rugby. most promising whistlemen. Mark attitude is as important to referees Lawrence began his refereeing as knowing the laws of the game Dries Breytenbach, referee manager career at the Pumas and now sits back to front. With such dedicated at the Pumas, says that for this on the IRB’s International Panel. and hardworking officials such as season, their society focuses on Andries Retief officiated at the 2008 Dries Breytenbach and the rest of the recruitment of referees and U18 Craven Week and currently sits the Pumas refereeing management improving the existing refereeing on the Contenders Panel. Stefan team, it will be no surprise if standard. ‘We want to make Breytenbach is on the specialised 40 years from now the Pumas refereeing a sport that’s accessible Assistant Referees Panel and was Referees’ Society celebrates its to all parts of our province, while recently appointed to run touch for 80th anniversary. at the same time ensuring we can the Test match between Namibia feed top-class officials through to and Ivory Coast in Windhoek SA Rugby.’ and Kenya vs Uganda in Nairobi. Magda van den Heever sits on the SA Women’s Panel and, in Dries’s We’re very words, is ‘going from strength to strength’. On the administrative proud of these side, Schalk van der Merwe has been appointed by SA Rugby to sit referees and on the Provincial Panel of match reviewers. Dries himself sits on the they’re an National Panel of match reviewers. ‘We’re very proud of these referees inspiration to and they’re an inspiration to others Front row from left: Stefan Breytenbach, in the province,’ he says. Andries Retief, back row from left: Mark others in the Lawrence, Okkie van Zyl and Pieter White. With news of referee abuse province’ emerging from different parts of the country, Dries says, ‘The public needs to hold refereeing in high regard. That’s what all While financial restraints, a large referees deserve. This can only geographical area and unfair take place if the public realises the criticism of refereeing have always pressure referees are under during posed a challenge to referee a match. If they have a better recruitment around the country, the understanding of the laws and the Pumas have managed to recruit different aspects that contribute to 45 new referees over the last three refereeing, and the wider game for seasons. Pumas refree manager Dries Breytenbach (left) that matter, it will make a difference. and chairman Oubaas Coetzer (right) with a Dries also believes that it’s We believe the current media new recruit

10 in-touch Tap and Go Young guns join Early start for Blue Bull forces with WPRRS referees At the end of July, the WPRRS handed out The Blue Bulls Rugby Union runs one of the most 46 Level One refereeing certificates to high successful youth recruitment programmes in the school goers from SACS, Rondebosch Boys’ country. Two of their 200 plus crop of school recruits and Bishops. This is a result of the WPRRS’s have made it on to the Contenders Panel. continuing effort to encourage school goers to consider becoming referees. The WPRRS The secret to the Blue Bulls’ success begins at community hopes this is only the beginning of unearthing level. ‘We make use of the local media to publicise our more referee talent in the province. recruitment efforts and send information circulars to schools and clubs in the region explaining the benefits of becoming a referee,’ says referee manager Kosie Horn.

‘We only accept candidates over the age of 16 but once on KZN loses two referees board they follow the same training programme as any new recruit. Once they’ve completed their IRB Level One course, Recently two of KZN’s top referees, Dave Dell they’re eligible to referee school games. And once they have and Izak Wessels, passed away. They were some experience under their belts, we allow them to run touch men who made a great contribution to rugby for some of the lower club leagues.’ union in the province. Keeping the youngsters interested after leaving school is Dave Dell refereed Currie Cup rugby in the a challenge, as they tend to have more demands on their 1970s. He passed away in March and is time and greater exposure to other interests. But Kosie is survived by his wife Faye. Izak Wessels at one particularly proud of two who have gone on to higher honours, with Jan Venter and Andre Botha both being selected to sit on stage was one of the top 10 referees in South the Contenders Panel. Africa, refereeing at provincial level and serving the KZN Referees’ Society in a variety of ‘There’s no limit to what referees can achieve these days. And capacities. He is survived by his wife Magda, it’s important that anyone interested get off to an early start. three children and four grandchildren. Schools and universities offer great opportunities for anyone interested in taking up the whistle. I’m really keen to see how Jan and André get on’ said Kosie.

The International Rugby Board Anyone interested in helping with referee recruitment in their province should contact their local referee manager or the has announced its new panels of national hotline on 0861 referee (0861 7333 733) and email referees - 17 of them at the top, [email protected] a development panel, a panel of specialised assistant referees and TMOs.

South Africans on the different IRB panels: The IRB International Referee Panel: Craig Joubert, , Jonathan Kaplan, Mark Lawrence

The IRB Specialised Assistant Referees Panel:. Cobus Wessels

The IRB's panel of specialised Television Match Officials: Seven of this year’s crop of schoolboy referees attended an IRB Assistant Referees Johann Meuwesen, Shaun Veldsman. Course in . From left: MC Baartman, JJ Pretorius, Heinrich Mollentze, Kosie Horn (referee manager), Willem Maree, Jonty Coetzee, Corne Rossouw, Andre Roets.

11 in-touch A trip to the Orient Ben Crouse, a member of the Provincial Panel and a schoolmaster at Waterkloof High in Pretoria, went to Japan to referee at the Sanix Youth Rugby Invitational tournament.

The annual Sanix Youth Rugby Invitational Tournament runs from late April to early May in the Japanese city of Fukuoka, and Ben Crouse – who was selected to referee the final – represented South Africa. ‘The hospitality was outstanding, and we were so well looked after. All the officials from the Sanix Youth Rugby Invitational The climate is awesome, and the Japanese public treated all of the tournament officials and players with so much respect. It was experience that will forever be close to my heart.’ Ben’s roommates were Australia’s Damien Mitchelmore, New Zealand’s Nick Bryant and England’s Paul Knowles – three ‘very nice gentlemen’ who, says Ben, became good friends in just two weeks.

Professional ref Taizo Hirabayashi showed the visitors around Fukuoka City, where they enjoyed some delicious fare. ‘It was pig feet,’ laughs Ben. ‘Luckily, we only found that out after we’d eaten it all.’

Another highlight for Ben was a train trip to Hiroshima, something he Ben with Damien Mitchelmore (Australia), Nick Bryant (New describes as ‘an eye-opening experience’. Zealand) and Paul Knowles (England). Paddy in Joburg The experiment is over The ELVs passed from • The receiver at the line-out must be two metres back away from experimental to official the line-out laws on 1 June this • The player who is in opposition year. The conclusion of to the player throwing in the ball must stand in the area between the ELV experiment has the five-metre line and touch line led to the adoption of and must be two metres from a single set of the laws the line of touch and at least two metres from the line-out worldwide. • Line-out players may pre-grip a jumper before the ball is thrown The following ELVs were adopted in into the laws of the game: • The lifting of line-out jumpers is permitted Law 6 – Assistant Referees • Assistant Referees able to Law 20 – Scrum assist Referees in any way the • Introduction of an offside line Referee requires five metres behind the hindmost IRB referee manager Paddy O’Brien feet of the scrum attended the monthly meeting of Law 19 – Line-outs • Scrumhalf offside line at the • If a team puts the ball back the Golden Lions Rugby Referees’ scrum Society on at the start of July as the in their own 22 and the ball is guest speaker. subsequently kicked directly Law 22 – In-goal into touch, there is no gain in • The corner posts are no longer Paddy delivered a lecture on ground considered to be touch in the SANZAR High Performance • A quick throw may be thrown in goal except when the ball is Refereeing requirements. The straight or towards the throwing grounded against the post Golden Lions Rugby Referees’ team’s goal-line Society thanks Paddy for his presence and input.

12 in-touch