The RFL has confirmed the dates for Match Officials Foundation Courses in the South of England in February and March.

The foundation award, if passed, allows all to officiate on any game outside of the professional ranks. In addition to anyone wanting to referee any players, coaches, spectators or parents are welcome to come along to enhance their understanding of the game.

Being a referee or a touch judge is great way to be involved and is often described as being in the best seat in the house. Over the last couple of years, there has been a huge increase in Rugby League in the South, especially in the junior game so now is an exciting to get involved.

Julian Critchley, one of the team of Match Officials who officiate in the region took to officiating after playing, “Once my playing days were over, it was the obvious way of staying involved in the game. It’s a different type of challenge – less physical and more psychological – but still testing.

“There’s a lot of satisfaction to be gained from helping a game run smoothly. Each team could drop a player and still compete, but without the ref, nobody plays.  What I particularly enjoy is the banter with the players on the pitch, as it helps keep the game flowing so everyone enjoys their experience.

“Refereeing a game well, and having players congratulate you on it afterwards, is really satisfying. I get as much of a kick from that as I ever did from scoring tries.”

The entry level award takes one day to complete and once achieved it does not expire. Cost of the course is only £25 for adults and £12.50 for Under 18s and students.

The courses coming up are on Saturday February 25 at Barking and Dagenham Bulldogs and Sunday March 18 at Hemel Stags’ Pennine Way ground.

For more information please contact the RFL Match Officials Development Officer Danny McNeice on danny.mcneice@rfl.uk.com or 07775 022800 or visit the RFL website at www.therfl.co.uk/referee/courses