intouch with South African Referees Edition 1, 2011 www.sareferees.co.za

3 Cheers for the Ref

he man in the middle often gets it ‘The campaign is a simple one: we’re Watson. ‘Our intention is to emphasise the in the neck from the supporters of asking school and club teams to shout sportsmanship aspect of the game, and we Ta losing team. ‘We lost – the ref had ‘‘Three cheers for the ref!’’ in unison at the hope that if the players show appreciation a shocker!’ is an all-too-frequent refrain. end of the game, irrespective of whether of the referee this will cascade over to the However, when you consider a referee they won or lost,’ says SA Rugby’s referee rest of the audience.’ must process and adjudicate on around manager André Watson. ‘We hope that this 600 incidents in a typical game, the few public demonstration of appreciation for The campaign has received the unanimous errors that may occur generally have little the ref will make all those present take note support of the South African Schools’ influence on the final outcome. of the positive reaction of the players and Rugby Association and will roll out follow suit.’ nationally during the season. The ‘3 Cheers for the Ref’ or ‘3 Hoera’s vir die Skeidsregter’ campaign There’s a shortage of trained referees in ‘If the old adage ‘‘rugby is a hooligan’s is intended to change negative attitudes South Africa, which is why SA Rugby has game played by gentlemen’’ is true, towards referees and place the emphasis embarked on several initiatives to recruit our goal with the 3 Cheers for the Ref firmly back on sportsmanship and candidates. ‘One of the obstacles we often campaign is to bring some of that old- camaraderie – characteristics that separate encounter to candidates signing up is fashioned sportsmanship back to the and brand rugby union as one of the the negative attitudes displayed by some game, especially at school and club level,’ greatest team sports. coaches, officials and spectators,’ says concludes Watson.

What’s on Stu Berry: off No whistle- my mind the cuff man left behind Craig Joubert Craig Joubert Paddy’s Patch Paddy’s

In this issue... pg 2 pg 5 pg 10 SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREE SOCIETY NEWSLETTER 1 NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION www.sareferees.co.za What’s on my mind By André Watson

hen I’m asked what personal qualities make a good referee, answers Winclude fairness, impartiality, calmness and control. These aren’t wrong but what makes ‘the ideal referee’ are characteristics that best serve players, coaches and spectators. These include knowledge, consistency, communication and temperament.

These four terms have dictionary definitions, but also have specific meaning in the context of refereeing.

Knowledge

Dictionary definition: ‘awareness or familiarity caused by experience’. Watson’s definition as it pertains to refereeing: ‘Knowledge’ relates to knowledge not only of the laws but also of the game. Knowledge of the laws only and not the other areas is as dangerous as no knowledge at all. Without the knowledge of the laws, the game, the needs of the players, the aim at scrums, attack, defence, etc, the referee cannot conduct the orchestra smoothly.

We’re teaching our Provincial Panel and Contenders Squad referees to give the game of the day what it deserves, ranging from technical and ‘tight’ to free-flow and ‘loose’. This is a ‘deep’ message for the very best (top-level) refs, whose knowledge also entails experience.

Consistency applications, attitudes and general Communication Dictionary definition: ‘conforming with other behaviours. There also needs to be a or earlier practices’ similar (compatible) application between Dictionary definition: ‘act of imparting news, Watson’s definition: ‘Consistency’ is the referees – for example, all referees should information’. word on everybody’s lips; for a referee, use the same cadence in calling the scrum Watson’s definition: Poor communication it means starting and ending the game engagement. Consistency in refereeing can be the biggest killer of referees’ with the same application, attitude and means steadiness and harmony with the reputations. We in South Africa strive demeanour, and not contradicting earlier game and oneself. to communicate in a respectful and

2 www.sareferees.co.za NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION approachable manner, yet firmly and displaying control of the situation at all times. Communication is not limited Chairperson’s report to words but also entails body language – a crucial component of refereeing. Refereeing is off to a flying start in 2011. Our Panel match officials have already seen Temperament duty in Super Rugby, Six Nations and, closer to home, the Varsity Cup competition. Dictionary definition: ‘a person’s distinct nature and On the whole, things have gone well and character’. I commend everyone on a job well done Watson’s definition: Temperament is something you’re so far. born with, and a good temperament is a boon to a referee. Three South African match officials, Craig Does the referee’s inherent temperament cause him to Joubert, Jonathan Kaplan and Shaun Veldsman, have been selected by lose his temper or become flustered? Does he behave the International Rugby Board (IRB) to officiate at the Rugby World Cup erratically or come across as moody? Does he take later this year in New Zealand. Joubert and Kaplan are on the referees’ personally actions or non-actions by players? panel of 10, while Veldsman is one of the four dedicated television match officials (TMO). As referees, we’re there to service the game, to provide a consistent service to the players through good This time of the year is also exciting for our up-and-coming referees. communication, with a suitable temperament and The plethora of school tournaments in and around Easter and the school holidays provide a number of opportunities for the Academy Squad – the correct knowledge for the sake of the game. If we under the watchful eye of Eugene Daniels – and the Contender Squad can achieve this, the game will truly be enjoyed by all to be put through their paces. Consistent good performances at these stakeholders. games often leads to call-up on the bigger stage.

Happy reffing! I’m proud of the clear career path open to all South African referees. I believe André and his team of coaches and selectors are doing a fantastic job of identifying and nurturing our young talent and helping them make the various steps up as they develop their refereeing career. Progress from beginner level to appointment on the IRB’s Test Panel is largely in the hands of each individual referee; it’s just a matter of how hard you’re willing to work for it.

I’m pleased to report that referees throughout the country have embraced the need to become BokSmart accredited. This programme Without a fit and trained referee, is all about making the game safer for every player and this is a principle that we can only support 100%. Remember, it’s a programme that needs we can’t play rugby – but referees to be repeated every two years where participants will be updated with are often unfairly blamed for the the latest developments on player safety. losing team’s poor performance. There’s lots on the go and lots of opportunities to referee. Make the most of every game and do your utmost to be knowledgeable about the Laws Let’s change these negative and consistent in their application, communicate clearly and conduct attitudes. Let’s acknowledge the yourself with good temperament. important role referees play in On behalf of all referees in South Africa I would like to extend our the great game of rugby. Wear condolences and best wishes to the rugby fraternity in New Zealand the wristband with pride. And at affected by the devastating earthquake earlier this year. the end of the game, shout ‘3 Have a great season CHEERS FOR THE REF!’ Regards

Steve Meintjes

3 NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION www.sareferees.co.za Recruitment takes a step up The Varsity Cup competition early in the season has been the motivator behind a record number of people interested in becoming referees.

A number of tools have been developed to try and boost recruitment this year, including branded water bottles, information brochures The large inflatable rugby ball has become a familiar sight at Varsity Cup matches across the country. and posters.

‘The Varsity Cup has become a rugby Cup panel referee Rasta Rasivhenge, Another tool in the recruitment arsenal is inspiration for many,’ says SA Rugby ‘but once the first question was underway a publication entitled Take charge: referee manager André Watson. ‘The on- it all slipped into place. I do think this become a referee. The full-colour A5 campus hype generated by the various type of initiative, where we have a few booklet answers some frequently asked marketing campaigns has created a huge minutes to explain an aspect of Law or the questions about becoming a referee and is following for students and the broader game to the broader rugby public, should available from all provincial referee community, and our recruitment efforts be pursued.’ societies or online. have also benefited. By the end of March we’d already received more than 300 This focus on universities takes a The National Panel referees are busy at this enquiries; the challenge is to turn each one significant step forward this month time of the year with Super Rugby and Six of them into a trained referee.’ with the establishment of the first on- Nations duties. Each person on the Panel campus satellite referee group at the has been given a stack of personalised Several recruitment initiatives coincide University of Cape Town. Referees in most Referee Cards, which are styled along with the Varsity Cup. These include the provinces meet monthly, and also more the concept of the popular player cards placement of a huge inflatable rugby ball at frequently in smaller groups on a regional sports often use to distribute to fans. The all televised games, the distribution of free basis. The rationale for the campus session cards contain some interesting information branded sports bottles to the crowd and, is to make it easier for students interested about the referee and carry a recruitment on the Tuesday following the game, adverts in becoming referees, many without easy message on the back. The idea is that the and interviews with the referee on each of access to transport, to meet and go through Panel referees will hand these out to people the participating universities’ radio stations. the same programme. they meet on their travels around the globe. The Tuesday evening advert and interview slot has become a favourite for many and Another benefit of this programme is its ‘Recruitment is a never-ending campaign, it has been a great learning experience for proximity to the hostel league tournament. and we’ll always need new candidates the referees too. Once the recruits have completed the coming into the system,’ says Andre. ‘I’d IRB Assistant Referee and Level One like to encourage every active and retired ‘The thought of being live on air to programmes, they will be able to refine their referee to do their bit on this front. Our goal hundreds or thousands of listeners was a skills in this competition before venturing is to have more than 8 000 trained referees bit intimidating at first,’ admits Varsity out into the bigger school or club system. in South Africa.’

44 www.sareferees.co.za NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION STU BERRY: off the cuff

Adrenalin junkie Stu Berry attributes his success as a referee to the physical and mental honing that are an intrinsic part of his day-to- day life.

Canoeing, like refereeing, is not always plain sailing: Stu Berry and ex-referee Andrew Nicholson tackle the Fish Canoe Marathon in 2008.

‘My work entails a lot of active exercise,’ the afternoon,’ he recalls. ‘After school, I IRB Sevens final in Las Vegas last year, says Stu Berry, shareholder of Durban- started to progress a bit in the reffing ranks New Zealand vs Samoa. ‘It was only my based Impi Concept Events, a company under Phil Botha and Roger Hay, and second tournament, and I hadn’t really that manages large sporting as well as made the then SARFU C Panel in 2002. I expected to get the final,’ he says. ‘I love music events. ‘I love the sea and rivers had my Currie Cup debut in 2009, Lions vs Sevens, and am proud of the fact that I’ve as well, and do a lot of surf-ski and river Cheetahs in Johannesburg, and have been managed to perform and get appointed to paddling.’ on the Sevens circuit for two years now and four finals out of the eight tournaments I’ve am loving it!’ reffed.’ And while fitness, endurance and agility are vital attributes for a referee at top level, Stu, Stu, who’s 28 and single, and lives with While Stu’s main goal at the moment is who’s been on the National Panel since three friends, enjoys the travelling reffing to finish off the IRB Sevens circuit 2004, does plenty of mental prep as well. at this level entails. ‘I don’t have a direct well and have a solid Currie Cup, a ‘Visualisation is a vital component for me,’ family to have to worry about back home, World Cup final is definitely in his sights. he says. ‘It’s a huge part of my prep from a which helps a lot, but my events company ‘I think at Currie Cup level every referee’s game and confidence perspective.’ is flying at the moment so that does need goals must be to make a World Cup at some juggling while I’m away,’ he says. some stage. The ultimate is to ref a World Stu, who grew up in Hillcrest and went Cup final, and along the way, good Super to Maritzburg University where he did an He also enjoys the social aspect. ‘With Rugby and Currie Cup performances are M.Sc in Hydrology, began playing rugby Sevens there’s a huge amount of socialising key as well.’ in primary school as a loose-head prop. with players and management, and it’s ‘I progressed to flank in Grade 8, then great. We all fly on the same planes, stay Stu takes in his stride the pressure of trying eighthman in Grade 9, then fly-half.’ in the same hotels and eat in the same to make the right decision on the field restaurants, so you spend some good time every time. ‘I think at this level most of that His reffing career began in tandem with his forming friendships and relationships with comes naturally – you’ve built up the skills playing. ‘My school coach, John Caffeterio, everyone else on the circuit.’ to think rationally and be able to make took me on a reffing course, and I used these kinds of decisions off the cuff, with a to ref games in the morning and play in Stu’s career highlight so far was his first large degree of confidence.’

5 NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION www.sareferees.co.za TECHNICAL INSIGHT... It’s scrum time

In the first of our technical review columns we’ve asked one of the world’s best referees, our very own Craig Joubert, to give us some insight into what goes through his mind at scrum time. Once you go through this checklist you’ll realise this set piece is more complex than many think.

IRB statistics indicate that 60% of all scrums in the total playing time devoted to scrumming – not really what the Tier One internationals collapse and 40% need to be spectators want. Ireset. This has led to the average time taken to complete a scrum rising from 42 to 53 seconds. With an Craig uses this checklist to ensure he’s on top of this phase of average of 20 scrums per game, this means almost 18 minutes of the game.

Make the mark • Make sure all four props are set up with their head and • Make sure the mark is at least 5m from the touchline and shoulders above their hips goal line • Ensure both hookers set up over the mark Call Touch • Ensure all props and hookers are correctly bound to each • Make sure all props touch the opposite prop on the shoulder other • Make sure they return to the pre-touch position • Make sure both locks are correctly bound in law • Make sure the gap between the two packs is the correct • Make sure both 8th men have their shoulders attached to distance based on the touch their locks and are not ‘slingshotting’ • Make sure both backlines are 5m back from the scrum Call pause • Make sure the scrumhalf putting the ball in is in the middle • Make sure both sets of packs are stationary and waiting for of the scrum and is holding the ball with two hands the ‘engage’ call • Make sure the opposing scrumhalf is his direct opponent if he wants to take advantage of the offside laws governing a Now the fun begins… scrumhalf at the scrum Call engage Okay, we’re now ready to begin… • Make sure neither pack beats the engagement • Make sure all the props engage with their head and Call Crouch shoulders above their hips • Make sure both packs come down to a fully crouched • Make sure both the props bind within law – it must be on position the body, with no hand on the ground • Make sure the front rows are interlocking and not head • Make sure the scrum doesn’t engage with a ‘slingshot’ from to head the 8th man

6 www.sareferees.co.za NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION • Make sure the scrum is square and steady prior to the ball • Make sure the attacking flanker does not obstruct the being fed defending scrumhalf • Make sure the scrumhalf stands one metre from the scrum • Make sure the defending scrumhalf is behind the ball and feeds the ball in straight (onside) • Make sure all props are not pushing in on individual angles • Make sure the defending scrumhalf stays in close proximity • Make sure neither front row collapses to the scrum behind the ball, or takes up a position across • Make sure neither front row breaks up out of the scrum the field behind the 8th man’s feet, or retires 5m to the • Make sure the defending tighthead does not pull back; the backlines’ offside line. feet of each front-row player must be in a normal position to • Make sure the backlines remain 5m back while the ball is make a shove forward still in the scrum • Make sure no hands are used to win or channel the ball • Make sure the loose forwards are fully bound While Craig acknowledges this is a long list of things to keep in • Make sure the 8th man trapping the ball is fully bound mind, he emphasises that they’re all equally important if there is • Make sure the attacking scrumhalf does not obstruct the to be a fair contest for the ball. defending scrumhalf Gallo images

The ‘Touch’ command should see all four props extend How slow is slow? their outside arm and touch their opposite number on the shoulder and retract their arm to the starting he speed, or cadence, at which the calls position. ‘Crouch’, ‘Touch’, ‘Pause’ and ‘Engage’ are T called are critical to the successful completion Once the arms are retracted, the ‘Pause’ command of the scrum. One of the IRB’s goals for 2011 is to again sees both teams stationary. Eugene suggests that slow down the process so that both teams are fully referees then insert, without actually saying it aloud, an prepared for the engagement, which should lead to additional word – ‘Hold – before saying ‘Engage’. This fewer collapses, less chance of injury and less wasted brief additional pause creates an environment where no time on resets. team should anticipate the engagement and should lead to a more consistent approach by referees at all levels. Former Test referee Eugene Daniels advises referees to strive for consistency, to ensure that teams don’t An important part of achieving success with scrums encounter different cadences on following weekends on the pitch is to properly discuss the engagement from different refs. The ‘Crouch’ should see both teams sequence with both packs of forwards in the pre-game crouch and remain stationary. briefing.

7 NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION www.sareferees.co.za Some focus points for referees in 2011 Gallo images The ruck is one of the areas that referees have been asked to become more vigilant. Joining the ruck from an onside position and through the gate, defending players lurking offside and players sealing off are just some of the points refs need to watch like hawks.

While 2010 revealed worked well to improve the game and this at the breakdown, variance in the scrum was in spite of some critics who argued that cadence, front row infringements, accuracy some positive increased vigilance by referees would lead and consistency at the tackle, receiver at to more penalties and more kicks at goal,’ the lineout and ‘red zone’ decisions. trends, the 2011 says national coach Tappe Henning. ‘Two season brings new real positives for me were the policing of Tackle the scrum, where responsibility has shifted • A tackled player brought to ground focus areas of the to the players to ensure they operate within must exercise his options immediately game that need Law, and kicks in general play. Ensuring • A tackled player does not have to be that players following up from a kick ahead held on the ground improvement. start from behind the kicker has created • Once tackled, the player must release more space and options for the receiving the ball before getting back on his feet eedback from this year’s round of player. This has resulted in more creative and becoming involved in play Law discussions revealed a number play and him not having to make a forced • The tackler must release the ball and Fof positive trends from the 2010: return kick, leading to the game of aerial ball carrier reset scrums were down, kicks in general ping-pong which no-one likes.’ • The tacklers must get up on their feet play were down, total penalty and free kicks or roll away from the tackled player were down and tries scored were up – an Refereeing is a constant quest for • The tackler assist must clearly release indication that the shape of the game perfection, though, so the 2011 season the tackled player before he plays the is changing and becoming more of an brings with it a focus on the areas of the ball entertainment spectacle. game that need improvement. These • The tackler assist must play the ball ‘Our focus on the so-called ‘‘big five’’ include offside at the ruck, fair contest from an onside position

8 www.sareferees.co.za NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION ‘Earlier, tougher action by the referee will • Sealing off of the tackled player by soon see behaviour change by the players. either team must be penalised This will ensure that teams playing within the • Low clean-out of the opposition is Law will be rewarded and referees achieving fine but players off their feet must this will be recognised. At the end of the move away and not interfere with the day it’s about getting it right as often as availability of the ball possible.’ – Tappe Henning

Ruck • Ensure players join the ruck from an onside position and through the gate • Watch for attacking players blocking defenders beyond the one-metre radius • Clean-outs must be safe; the head and neck are no-go zones • Pay attention to defenders who stand in the pillar position – the last man’s feet are the offside line

Maul • Watch for players sealing off the ball carrier, especially at kick-offs and lineouts • The ball carrier must be available to the opposition • Allow a contest so that opposition players can get to the ball carrier legally • Players must join from behind the Gallo images hindmost foot of their team mate Consistency in applying the Laws is an absolute must, the concept of a ‘red zone’ in proximity to the try • Attacking players creating a rolling line has no substance in Law and sanction for any infringement in this area must be treated the same

Gallo images maul must ensure they do not seal as anywhere else in the field. off the ball carrier; when breaking off, the opposition must once again have • Keep scrumhalf one metre to help with the five-metre and 15-metre line and access to the ball carrier a straight put-in of the ball the 10-metre offside line ‘Red zone’ Scrum Offside at the kick • The ‘red zone’ has been a creation and • Consistent cadence in the engagement • Be diligent about players in front of the does not exist in Law sequence kicker • Infringements near the goal line must • Crouch – both teams crouched • Ask advancing players once to be treated as the same as the rest of and stationary stop; if they don’t, penalise the playing area • Touch – all four props to touch • Players in front of the kicker and within • Warnings and yellow- and red-card their opposite and retract a 10-metre radius of the receiver must decisions must be consistent with the • Pause – both teams stationary be penalised entire field • Engage – both teams commit at the same time (see the article on Lineout Some final points p7 for more information on the • The receiver must be positioned two • Players are now allowed to fend off an cadence) metres from the lineout opponent using the open palm of the • No ‘sling shot’ by the eightman • The receiver must remain within the hand • Correct binding by the props five-metre and 15-metre lines • Spear tackles are definitely out – if • No hands on the ground for • The receiver may enter the lineout a player is lifted off his feet he must additional support once the ball has been thrown be brought safely to ground. If that • No props touching heads during the • Participating players in the lineout may player is brought to ground such engagement sequence change places before the ball is thrown that his upper body or head comes • Head and shoulders above the hips • Players peeling may only move when into contact with the ground first, • No sideways movement before ball the ball leaves the thrower’s hands it is clearly dangerous play and an • All players to push straight • Peeling players must remain between automatic red card

9 NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION www.sareferees.co.za About Eugene Daniels No whistle-man Convenor of the Academy Squad Eugene Daniels has worked his way through the ranks to left behind international status. He took up the whistle at age 32 after retiring as a player. Initially plying his trade in Western Province, it was a transfer to Bloemfontein that sparked his refereeing career and in 1996 he was appointed to the Provincial Panel. Three years later he made it onto the National Panel and then proceeded to blow in 72 provincial games, three Super Rugby games and five Tests. His daughter Eugenia is currently ranked number two on the Women’s Panel and officiated at the Honk Kong Sevens. Eugene and his daughter also made world history by being the first father/ daughter combination to be awarded national colours in rugby.

How successful has the programme been? Several members of the Squad have gone on to bigger and better things; up-and- coming referees such as Rasta Rasivhenge, Rametsi Oregopotse and Petros Sambo

Gallo images have come through the Academy ranks. We have eight Academy Squad members who’ll The Academy Squad was under 30 years old. If there are candidates be undergoing additional evaluation in the established in 2007 to fast- who are older and good enough, they will next few weeks. If they’re successful, they’ll track referees of colour who also get an opportunity. However, they will be appointed to the Contenders Squad; if had the potential to achieve have to be better than their peers who are not, they’ll revert to the Academy for further higher honours. Today it younger and have age on their side. development. monitors 92 refs of all races and its numbers are still In addition to blowing in their What about recruitment? growing. In-touch spoke to province, what other opportunities We actively recruit while out on our convenor Eugene Daniels. are there? coaching duties. At the Heritage It’s SARRA’s policy to use Academy Tournament in Alice in 2010 we signed Squad referees in a number of second-tier up 18 youngsters who are now on various How does the Academy Squad work? tournaments around the country – events training programmes, and we recently Provincial societies nominate referees like Defence Force Week, Imgas Week signed up 81 high-school learners in with potential, who are then monitored [rugby tournaments involving the mines], Bloemfontein. by coaches from the Academy Squad, Special Schools, Amajuba, and the Easter including Louis Mzomba, Marius Franken, and Heritage tournaments where the What about the future? Mandla Dakuse, Yamile Fumakile, Ndobego country’s top black rugby clubs come The Academy Squad plays a valuable Ndayi and myself. We also do scouting in together. These tournaments provide an role. There are those referees who shine the provinces and if the coaches come ideal opportunity for focused coaching and gain early attention, and will follow a across other referees who appear to be and feedback sessions to groups and conventional career path. The Academy worthy of attention, we invite them to join individuals. We also try to ensure that Squad acts as a safety net where those the Squad. reports are sent to the provincial coaching who miss the initial wave can get seen and structures so that there’s consistency in have a second chance to make it to the We try to ensure that all participants are approach from all levels. Contenders Panel and higher.

10 www.sareferees.co.za NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION Start ’em young and keep ’em keen

WP referee manager Ben Theron pioneered the first scholar referee ‘Scholars are perfect candidates to become in their capabilities is astonishing. I really camps in 2010 with over referees,’ says WP referee manager Ben feel convinced that one or two of this group Theron. ‘Most have experience of playing are going to make it to higher levels if they 140 attendees. He’s well the game, and they tend to be quite fit and continue with the sport.’ on track to exceed that eager to learn. They also have a built-in number of recruits this training system because they are able to All provinces are encouraged to approach hone their skills by officiating in the lower scholars and emulate the programmes year, with three camps age groups in their own school. being successfully undertaken in Western already completed and a province. If you would like more fourth scheduled for the ‘Nine of the group who completed our information on the WP programme, give course last year are involved in an intensive Ben Theron a call on 021 659 4500 or July school holidays. three-day tournament and the improvement email him at [email protected]. Gallo images

111 NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION www.sareferees.co.za Make your Law book 2011 compliant Take a moment to Law 7 – Mode of Play New paragraph: A ball carrier may hand update your 2010 Law off an opponent.

Book with the few minor New definition: The hand-off: An action adjustment listed below taken by a ball carrier to fend off an opponent by using the palm of the (all already in effect) hand.

and ensure you’re in Law 10 – Foul Play tune with the latest Amend 10.4 (f) to read: Playing an opponent without the ball. Except in a adaptations. scrum, ruck or maul, a player who is not in possession of the ball must not Law 5 Time – Half Time hold, push or obstruct an opponent not Delete paragraph 5.2 and replace with new carrying the ball. paragraph: After half-time the teams change ends. There is an interval of not more than 15 Law 10 – Foul Play minutes. The length of the interval is decided Amend 10.4 (j) to read: Spear tackle. Lifting by the match organiser, the Union or the a player from the ground and dropping or recognised body which has jurisdiction over driving that player into the ground while that the game. During the interval the teams, the player’s feet are still off the ground such that referee and the assistant referees may leave the the player’s head and/or upper body come into playing enclosure. contact with the ground first is dangerous play.

You can’t keep a good man down! It’s not uncommon for a referee to inadvertently get caught up among the players but not everyone can keep focused on the task at hand. At the 2010 Club Champs nothing was going to prevent Provincial Panel referee Tiaan Jonker from carrying out his duties. Gallo images

2 12 www.sareferees.co.za NEWSLETTER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION