Become a rugby referee in 2012

Want to experience the action from the best vantage point on the field? Then become a referee.

The Wellington Rugby Referees Association (WRRA) is one of the biggest and best referee associations in the country, producing numerous top referees such as Lyndon Bray, Chris Pollock, Garratt Williamson, Mike Fraser, Jonathan White and Brent Murray - with several of these appointed to Test, Junior World Cup and even Rugby World Cup level fixtures.

The WRRA controls all Wellington secondary school and senior club matches as well as representative fixtures. This totals approximately 2,500 - 3,000 games each year. Rugby World Cup in 2011 has seen an increase in the number of players for 2012 which means that the WRRA needs to recruit more referees willing to take up the challenge.

If you love rugby, but you're unable to play or coach anymore because of injuries, time commitments to weekly trainings and games, travel hassles, or perhaps you simply want a new challenge then consider refereeing rugby as an alternative option.

Whether you want a light run every couple of weeks or want to challenge yourself to go as far as you can with your refereeing, the benefits are considerable. Here's a few:

• Full uniform provided including bag, tracksuit, whistle, flags, etc.
• Subsidy on the purchase of rugby boots or running shoes.
• Full training/education programme provided weekly during the season, including coaching reports and assessments.
• Flexibility - you tell us what weeks, times and locations you are available for. You referee when work, family and other commitments allow.
• Opportunities to progress through the grades to representative rugby, regional and national squads and first-class and Test match levels.
• An extensive referee exchange programme with many New Zealand provincial unions and numerous overseas destinations.
• Social events and opportunities, guest speakers, etc.
• Match ticket opportunities including Test Matches and IRB Sevens
• Networking opportunities.
• Off season and pre season fitness training available.

Whether you have refereed before or are completely new to it, if you want to join rugby's elite list of referees or simply want to give it a go, challenge yourself and give something back to the game, all while having fun, then call Referee Education Officer David Walsh on 0800 REFEREE (0800 7333733) for more details.

Alternatively, visit their website here