WRRA referee profile: Jamie Fairmaid

The WRRA has been catching up with some of referees and finding out about them and why refereeing rugby is appealing.

Their latest profile is Jamie Fairmaid who started refereeing 10 years ago. This weekend he will be refereeing his first Premier club game at Ngatitoa Domain.

When did you start refereeing?

In my first year at Wellington College in 2005.

Have you belonged to any other associations?

In 2014 I spent the season with the Auckland Rugby Referees

Did you play rugby?

Yes I played all my junior rugby for Paremata-Plimmerton and played one year at Wellington College in Year 12.

Are you involved in other sport?

Yes I play football for Porirua City first team where I play occasionally as a goalkeeper.

Why did you get involved in Rugby Refereeing?

My father (Mark Fairmaid) was an active referee and I was never the best player so I thought that refereeing would be the next best thing. A decision I have never regretted!

What is the highest level you have refereed at?

Premier Reserve in Wellington and Auckland. I am currently a Level 2 referee.

What is the best moment of your refereeing career?

Would be refereeing 1A 1st XV rugby in Auckland in 2014. I had St. Kents and Otahuhu which was just an outstanding game of rugby – plus who doesn’t like a bit of a giant killer with Otahuhu winning the game on last play of the game with an intercept try.

What is your funnest moment while refereeing?

Sadly, I was concussed while refereeing. It was funny for the players but I can see the funny side of it!

What goals do you have for refereeing?

To take me as far as I can. I would love to referee on the International Sevens circuit one day.

What advice do you have for someone considering refereeing?

Just do it – It will be something you will enjoy. It is a very challenging and rewarding experience.

What advice do you have for someone that has just started refereeing?

A strong whistle is the best whistle.

What do you want to achieve from a game of rugby that you are refereeing?

Open flowing rugby that not only the players enjoy but the spectators enjoy.

What other things about refereeing do you enjoy?

There is a very good social aspect to refereeing as well. Lots of social events and the opportunity to travel the country and the world is an added bonus. You meet people who become your family for life.