WHISTLER 2000/01 SEASON - Select the month required or scroll down

Another new season and new Laws to learn, interpret and talk about - so there is no excuse for not turning up at the monthly meetings - first Friday of every month at the Police Training Centre, Pershore Road.

APOLOGIES

NEW MEMBERS

Congratulations and thanks were passed to Allan Hughes who had organised so much training and recruiting during the close season.

YOU DO NOT HAVE TO PUT UP WITH IT'.

Sadly it is at all levels of the game. The South African authorities fined one of their players £1000 for comments he made about Ed Morrison on his Web Page after the recent Australia v South Africa game and warned another. They are not prepared to allow referees to be abused and nor should we.

They work at the top level in stopping cheating and defusing situations so now is our chance to use them lower down.

2) Once 'sin binned' that player must immediately leave the field of play.

4) Subject to the referees discretion it is suggested that the player should stand immediately behind the dead ball line at the end being attacked by his team and between the posts.

6) If the 'binned' player is a front row another player, in addition to the binned player may be replaced for the period of the 'binning' by a front row forward.

8) In RFU competitions if a team starts with less than the required number of players capable of playing in the front row and uncontested occur because of a 'binning' that side will be deemed to have lost the match.

Lost your cards? - Replacements can be bought at 50p a pair from the Society shop. New referees get theirs free and should contact John Burgum (0121 475 6702) when they receive their first appointments.

Mike Vaughan has produced a few copies of the IRB press release regarding 'legal' protective clothing. Those who have access to the Internet will find the details on WWW.IRB.org Only IRB marked clothing can be worn from 1^st October 2000

The Handbook is going to be given to Clubs so make sure you are familiar with the Clubs charter in particular it may be quoted to you. If you have any suggestions what should be in it next time around, or can help in its preparation please contact Kelvin Roberts.

North Midlands Union have said that home clubs MUST provide a Fourth Official for ALL League and Cup games. Although the official should find the referee well before kick off it is strongly recommended that referees do not leave it to the last minute to identify them..

Manage replacement / substitution movement

Keep the time of the 'binnings'

Be aware of the regulations regarding blood injuries etc (referees should ensure they are aware before the game).

We need more trainers to help Allan Hughes & Pete Morgan. If you can do it the next Train the Trainers course is 19-20^th November. Contact Allan Hughes for more details

If pitches are not roped off (League & Cup) games tell John Burgum.

EXPENSES

ECHANGE APPOINTMENTS

LAW BOOK ERRORS

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OCTOBER 2001

WHISTLER 2000-01

NEW MEMBERS

Craig Barclay - Birmingham Medics

John Woolmer (South Yorkshire Society), Stephen Johnson (Edwardians) and Adam Malin (O. Griffinians).

All were elected as members and welcomed to the Society.

REPLACEMENTS

The maximum number for LEAGUE matches is 3. A team must have 4 players capable of playing in the front row. The maximum number for TETLEY BITTER CUP & VASE matches is 4. See the Society Handbook for instruction regarding front row replacements.

LATE CRY-OFFS

Patrick Hooper, Society President, is helping out our Treasurer by writing to Clubs who call off games late. If your are a 'victim' of a late cry-off tell Patrick (01676 534295) so that he can chase the Club and get the fine paid.

SIN BIN UPDATE

At the request of the RFU Disciplinary Committee Societies are being asked tocollate the number of 'sin bins' If you sin bin a player contact Colin Davies on 0121 351 1284 and he will send you a form to complete which should be returned back to him.

IN THE EVENT THAT THE PLAYER MIGHT BE REGISTERED TO A CLUB PLAYING AT LEVEL 1-4 THE FORM MUST BE SENT TO THE RFU DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE AT TWICKENHAM WITH A COPY TO COLIN

During the season, a survey of clubs will be undertaken to ascertain the reaction of the game to this experimental law and to obtain views as to whether or not it is considered that the sin bin should become part of the permanent laws of the game. When the survey is undertaken, all clubs and schools will be encouraged to respond.

SIN BIN - PRACTICAL APPLICATION BY CLIVE LEEKE (RFU)

Think of the phrases that YOU are going to use not what others say and might not sound right from you.

Explain to the captains about how you may have to use it. Tell them that you need their help to avoid its use.

Use it sooner rather than later. Do not hope that thinks will get better.

If you have TJ's ask them to help you recognise patterns emerging.

Leaving it to half time can be unfair (playing against the elements in the 2^nd half).

During the match communicate with key players; captain, pack leader etc.

When you recognise persistent offences stop the game or delay any restart and tell the captain.

Use the word 'might' rather than 'will' when talking about the sin bin - do not commit yourself

Read the game. Is an offence in the 20^th minute repeated in the 60^th persistent?

Look to where the field offences are taking place. Be tighter in the 22's.

Is the level of the game a good indicator of deliberate offending or is it just incompetence.

Do not hestitate. Use the sin bin if the teams are not listening to you.

When you use it; call over the player + captain, remind them what you have said before, tell the player why.

On players return; talk to the player, remind him that repition means a red card.

It is unlikely that a penalty try and sin bin would be used on the same infringement.

Yellow is not a 'cop out' to red. If you keep players on who should have been sent off you could leave yourself open to litgation if a further incident occurs

It is not usually a good idea to send the captain 'as an example' unless he is actually inciting his team to cheat.

Finally; No situation will improve if left alone. Action is better than inaction.

WHEELING SCRUM U19 MATCHES

There is NO turn-over if the scrum wheels 45 degrees. If the wheel is deliberate award a penalty If the ball sticks at the number 8's feet tell him to use it and then if he does not give a free kick

SERIOUS INJURIES

It is essential that serious injuries WHETHER ACCIDENTAL OR NOT are reported to the RFU Serious Injuries Officer with a copy of the report to John Burgum. If at all possible obtains the name, address and telephone number of any independent witnesses. The Society takes the view that a serious injury is one where the referee becomes aware that a player has been taken to hospital.

££££££££££££££££££££££££££££££££££

The Finance Officer Ian Moreton is happy. The accounts balanced, the auditor agreed and nobody asked him a question when he presented them at Fridays meeting. And we are happy because Ian has promised that membership subs will not go up at theend of the season. Now what were you saying about Bank Managers!!!!!!!!

FITNESS - WHERE WERE YOU?

Very few referees bothered to turn up for the fitness tests pre-season. If you do not pass the test do not bother applying for re-grading. Contact Peter Morgan (0121 608 6557) to take one before Novembers deadline.

FOUNDATION COURSE

Allan Hughes (01902 882545) is running another of his very successful Foundation Courses on 5^th & 12^th November at Upton upon Severn RFC. Phone him for more details.

WHAT THE CLUBS ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR PERFORMANCES THIS SEASON (courtesy of Les Smith)

We are INCONSISTENT with wheeling scrums

We are INCONSISTENT with yellow cards

We are INCONSISTENT with over the top

We are INCONSISTENT with back row binding

Food for thought!

LAW 4 - PLAYERS’ DRESS - A REMINDER

The International Rugby Board (IRB) today reiterates that no player will be permitted to wear any padded clothing, i.e. headgear/shoulder padding/chest padding (women) that does not have the IRB Approval mark in any match after October 1st 2000.

The IRB has issued a Standard both to players and manufacturers so there is no doubt as to what padded gear is and is not permitted. The padded gear is tested in accordance with IRB Law 4 and Regulations are set down in the IRB Standard for specific items of players’ dress.

In order to control the use of padding of variable density and thickness, the specifications of Law 4 were carefully checked by the IRB’s consultant testing laboratory. Manufacturers and Unions were also contacted for feedback.

This Standard clearly sets out the procedure for testing products and gaining IRB approval. The Standard applies to all matches played under the jurisdiction of the IRB. Responsibility for enforcing this policy lies with the IRB Member Unions and their Referees. Referees will be obliged, in accordance with Law 4.6 & 7 and Law 6.3(b), to ensure that no player takes the field of play wearing the specified garments that do not have the IRB approval.

The list of the approved garments and further information on the Standard can be found on the IRB Website (www.irb.org)

With effect from 1st October 2000 all players wishing to wear items of Headgear/Shoulder Padding/Chest Padding (women) should be aware that these items must carry the IRB approval label as required by the Laws. This Law (Law 4.6 & 7 and Law 6.3(b)) applies to match situations only.

THIS SOCIETY RE-INFORCES THE I.RB. INSTRUCTION.

IF THE PADDING DOES NOT HAVE THE I.RB. LOGO IT MUST NOT BE WORN

EXTRACTS FROM NRDO BULLETIN

THE HIGH TACKLE

One of the many changes occurring in Rugby Union is the tackle. Since a change in the Law some time ago, with regard to "Turn Overs", the target for the tackler has changed. No longer do we witness a tackle being made by the tackler grasping the legs of the ball carrier. All too often the tackler targets the torso of the ball carrier, thus hoping to envelope their opponent and win a "Turn Over" at the resulting scrum.

This change of technique has led to the dangerous high tackle (above the shoulder) becoming a more prominent feature in matches.

As match officials we need to heighten our awareness of this form of Foul Play and punish guilty players severely.

TAP PENALTY AND FREE KICK

"A TAP PENALTY OR FREE KICK CANNOT TAKE PLACE UNTIL THE REFEREE MAKES A MARK AT THE PLACE OF INFRINGEMENT"

PROCEDURE TO DEAL WITH QUICKLY TAKEN TAP KICKS

Protect integrity of free kick and penalty kick.

Explain to both sides before commencement of the match that no tap kicks will be allowed until the referee has indicated the place of infringement.

When the referee has indicated the place of infringement, the non-offending team has the opportunity to take the tap kick quickly should they chose to do so. Should a player take a tap kick before the referee has indicated the pace of infringement, play should be halted immediately and brought back to the original place of infringement. Only then should the non-offending team be allowed to take the tap kick. Reinforce the message outlined pre-match.Once the referee has indicated the place of infringement, it is then the responsibility of the player taking the tap kick to ensure he does so in accordance with the law. Should he not comply, the referee will order a scrum and the opposition shall be awarded the throw into the scrum. Any consequent 10 metres mark will be made by the referee in accordance with the above.

CHANGES TO TOUCH LAW - LAW 19

The ball is in touch when a player catches the ball when having one foot on the touch line or the ground beyond it (Law book Page 80).

When this happens whose throw-in will it be? - The simple way to determine this is to consider whose throw it would be were the catcher to be completely beyond the touch line, and then apply the old law. Therefore if he receives a kick from an opponent during open play, the throw-in will be to the receiver’s team. If he receives the ball from a penalty kick by the opposition, the throw in will be to the kicking team.

LAWS

MINI MIDI

The new laws for season 2000/200 1 are not to be implemented in the Under 7 to Under 12 game. Later in the season the Continuum Laws Review Committee will meet to decide which, if any, of the new laws, plus other possible changes, will be brought in for the following season.

YOUTH RUGBY

The Under 19 variations contained on pages 12 1-122 in The Laws of the Game Made Easier,are the acknowledged world variations.

All Under 19 and Under 15 variations contained in last year’s RFU law book are still applicable.

The Referee Department will be producing a ‘slot in’ for the Law Book, section containing the full variations as soon as possible.

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NOVEMBER 2001

Stuart Terheege who was active with the Society until he moved to Hampshire has been appointed as a touch judge Wales XV v New Zealand 'A' and 5^th official at one of the pre Christmas England Internationals.

To try and get all round view of Society matters from this edition onwards an invited member will produce the majority of it for that one edition. That means, if we all take our turn, that it will come round once every 25 years!

James Minards volunteered to do the first one (oh yes he did). Ralph Francis volunteered Stuart Mills for the one after that and Gareth Rees-Smith after Stuarts attempt. Now when is it Ralph's turn?

SEX on the Rugby Pitch! By James

Yes the two words that bring excitement to most of our lives. Funnily enough the two are rarely linked (unless you are eagerly cavorting around after the WOMEN in the MUD - Mr. Guy - I am not referring to your good self!). I am trying to identify what it is that gets us cold, WET and un-appreciated most weekends.

‘S’ could be for Success - whether it's playing great advantage or getting a good report. We all Strive to do our best (given the current weather trying not to Sink is a major objective). ‘S’ is also for style, the quick whistle or the short sleeved shirt (even in winter!) Perhaps its that annoying tweeting that Australian Referees seem to adopt when blowing the whistle. But part of our game is developing our own style something that distinguishes us from the other whistlers out there.

‘E’ is for EXPERIENCE is perhaps the easiest to understand, as Mr. Burgum will testify. It is an essential ingredient in any referee. It is important to realise that our sport requires not just ‘Rugby’ experience but ‘life’ experiences and a willingness to learn. Every game offers something, whether it is an insight into tactics or even watching a game and picking up a NEW POSITION or expression. Most importantly ‘E’ is for ENJOYMENT, there is no point in spending hours in the gym, driving up and down the country with your ears still ringing from the last piece of advice you were offered, if you don’t enjoy it. I grant you when the rain is filling your boots and neither side has either the ability or inclination to play rugby, it is HARD. However the blend of your Experience, style and presence could be all that is needed to make the game.

‘X’ Well OK... you guessed it I can’t think of anything beginning with X. But I will say that apparently, when we are chasing around, trying to instill some order on the pitch. The Advisors, wise men (who are also sacrificing their weekends) searching for the ‘X’ factor! While we are preventing the players from treading on each other and administering the Law, these lonely individuals are counting penalties and trying to find that special factor that will transform the Sodden referee in front of them, into the next Ed Morrison or Steve Lander.

Perhaps we are the ‘X’ factor, for without our ‘Abilities’, two sides would not be able to play the sport we all love. We should try and appreciate, that often the frustration of the players is expressed at themselves or their colleagues, The Rugby pitch is no place for soft skinned individuals - let our experience and knowledge combined with deserved self belief carry us on. Lets face it we have spent hours (and many pints) moralising on the merits of the law but have still made mistakes in the Heat of the battle?

I intend to go out and have SEX this weekend! I hope that you will also go forth and INDULGE in the wonders of S.E and X in whatever order satisfies you!

Dave Wedderburn has taken over the running of the Society shop. All goods are sold at cost price so you will not do better. Dave can be contacted at Society meetings, telephone 01902 624668 or newzalien@aol.com

Upon returning to New Zealand I had the pleasure of doing 2 matches. The first, a senior 3rds, Martinborough v Carterton. Arriving an hour before kick off I felt pretty lonely and even 30 minutes before kick off it was not looking a lot better. Finally Carterton arrived, all 9 of them, with 2 of them arriving a bit later. The Martinborough players donated some of their reserves so a game could be made of it.

At one point I remarked to the Martinborough No8 as he threw his jersey to the side that I was not going to have him indecently exposing himself. The jersey soon returned. After 30 minutes each way a final score saw Martinborough win 19-17.

Travelling further north to Whangarei it was Whangarei City v Karmo. A second team match with not too many white faces in the Whangarei side and too many young faces in the Karmo side. Just prior to half time it was uncontested scrums (for golden oldies as one of the Karmo players called it but that’s more a reflection of the age of the Karmo side). I finished the game under blue skies, sweating freely and early to allow the first team game to begin.

Barbarians v South Africa - 3.30pm Sunday 10^th December at the Millennium Stadium - Credit Card hotline 0870 909 0390

29^th November - 6pm at Worcester RFC. A training evening watching Stuart Mills referee Worcester 2. Before the match, Kelvin Roberts, who is acting as a mentor to Stuart will go through what he is looking for and afterwards give his verdict on what he saw! (Buffet provided).

1^st December - the General Meeting. Most of the first round matches of the North Midlands Cup will be played on the following Sunday. The Society is trying to appoint a team of three to all the matches and Ralph Francis will give a talk on managing touch judges with Kelvin responding as to what he looks for from a referee and the art of touch judging.

Mike Gregory has now taken over the responsibility for not only collating but also distributing report cards, so if you need some contact Mike on 0121 471 1283

There are fewer quality games available to the Society so if your game is not as good as you think you deserve it probably reflects the overall standard of games in the North Midlands. If you do have concerns ring one of the three Appointment Officers and talk it through.

If you are unavailable tell the relevant Appointment Officers but if the Club still does contact you just ask them to phone Mike Spencer (Saturdays), Mick Fielding (Sundays) or Mike Lewis (Midweek). It may be that appointments went out before you were unavailable.

If you do not have a game on Sunday 3^rd December please try and make yourself available. Apart from the first round of the North Midlands Cup there are several junior games that need referees and Mick Fielding would be very pleased to use you.

Greater Birmingham Clubs have reported that there is a growing rift between referees and players. They cite too much interference from touch judges, referees not spending time with players and coaches after the match and assessors taking too long with the referee thus stopping above. Are they right?

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DECEMBER 2001

Welcome to the Christmas edition of the Whistler. After James’ superb effort last month, especially the way he thinks about sex, it will be difficult to follow, however, occasionally youth and innocence beats age and experience!!

With it being the festive season, I though that it was time to reflect upon what we can hope for from Santa’s sack.

Having had more games cancelled to bad weather than ever before I think that we would all like to have some sunshine. Not only has it been frustrating for ourselves and the players, spare a thought for the administrators who will have serious fixture congestion next year.

I think that we all hope that Santa’s sack brings us an appointment card that will give you some Xmas cheer. There has been a shortage of good fixtures as pointed out before, however, I am sure that everyone has at least one game they are looking forward to.

The final present I would like Santa to bring (it is more of a hope!) is that we should all stay fit and healthy. Several injuries are picked up at this time of the year, often through the cold but also through drink!

My proper contribution to the Whistler is through one of my best friends Jimmy Thorpe who is now the loose head prop at Rotherham. I met up with him and asked him for his opinion of referees and what he looks for from a good ref.

Age : 25
Club : Rotherham, RAF, Combined Services
Position : Loose Head Prop
Best Opponent : Paul Wallace (Saracens)
Toughest Game / Hardest Game : Gloucester at Kingsholm.
Best referee : Steve Lander
What do you think of the new laws?

re: scrummage - good - easy to implement for binding. With regard to the wheeling - thinks it is good because he can exploit the law to get turnover ball but for the spectator it is probably not so good.

Biggest thing for the referee is to pick up the pull from the props. You will find the props feet in front of his head. Touch judges should be able
to help to pick this up.

re: lineout - makes less of a contest but you can win cleaner and quicker ball which is only good for the game. No restriction on movement is also
positive.

What do you look for from a referee?

Consistency. Don't notice him. Does not like the ref who influences the game. The ref is not the main man. (Ralph!!!!)

Must have a talking ref, especially around the ruck, maul and tackle. Use it or lose it is a vital call - also assist as much as possible in preventing
offences.

Do you think the pre-match brief is of any use?

Yes - if only to let us know with regard to the engagement procedure.

Have you ever refereed a game?

Yes - U16 he thinks!!! Claims to be outstanding with the whistle!!!

Will you ever become a ref? - No chance - better at getting around the laws than enforcing!!!

Thanks Jim and good luck this season.

CONGRATULATIONS

At a the latest Grading Meeting the following were re-graded; Wayne Poluter & Gareth Rees-Smith - B1, Stuart Mills - B2, Martin Watson - B3 (subject to B grade course), Hugh Richards - C1, David Wild, James Looney, Gareth Masters - C2, Cillian Ryan & Ian McCrudden - C3.

And on the subject of grading Steve Hindson reported that the Grading Committee is recommending to the Executive a BV grade is created. The V stands for veterans and it is proposed will be those members who have achieved B grade but have failed to pass/take the fitness test. As an incentive Steve has agreed to take the fitness text next season, if he can …….

Every effort is being made to watch new referees as soon as possible but late changes to appointments do not help.

B & C grade courses are being held in January on 4 consecutive Thursdays in the Staffordshire area. If you are interested let Jeff Perkins (0121 308 1083) as soon as possible so places can be booked. Travelling expenses will be paid by the Society.

The following have joined the Society in the last month; Matthew Payne, Dean Mills (Birmingham Wyvern RFC), Nigel Ford (Old Halesonians RFC), Norman James, Mark Lightowler (Worcester RFC), Keith Gibbs (Woodrush RFC)

Two matters from the meeting held on Friday 1^st December.

Fred Copestake explained the recent IRB statement regarding the tackle area. It is reproduced in full below:

Joint statement by Vernon Pugh Q.C. (Chairman, International Rugby Board), Allan Hosie (Chairman, IRB Laws Committee) and Tim Gresson (Chairman, IRB Referees Committee).

Recent criticism of referees during International matches has highlighted the growing concerns of the International Rugby Board over the shape of the game. There is no doubt that Rugby Union, as a professional sport, has become more dynamic to play and more entertaining to watch. But these beneficial and welcome changes to the style and pace of the game have inevitably brought their own concerns.

The IRB believes that there is a need to address some of these issues, but the responsibility to retain the unique elements within the game, to maintain it as a game for all shapes and sizes and to ensure the twin goals of continuity and contestability, is a collective one. It cannot be the referees alone who are responsible for detracting from the spectacle. There can be no excuse and there should be no hiding place for referees who fail to apply the laws as they are written, but responsibility also rests with coaches and players to ensure that the game is played within the law. For example, coaches who instruct players to obstruct or deliberately to go to ground in order to protect and secure the ball, are equally responsible for the problems concerning the way the game is currently being played. The IRB Council fully endorses these sentiments.

Allan Hosie commented, "Continuity of possession does not always equate to continuity of play and does not necessarily guarantee the enhancement of the game as a spectacle. The trend toward defending space rather than contesting for the ball, is strictly limiting legitimate avenues for attack. This is aggravated by players going to ground at the breakdown, and further delaying the delivery of the ball. But if players are required to stay on their feet, it would go a long way to restoring the delicate balance between flowing continuity and fair contest".

Vernon Pugh added, "The IRB is wholly committed to maintaining rugby as a complex matrix of checks and balances where strength, skill, courage, intelligence, enjoyment and entertainment can co-exist and flourish, but in doing so it will require the appreciation, understanding and support of all who are involved in the game".

Because of the concerns being expressed, the IRB intends to convene meetings during the coming months to which distinguished experts from all areas of the game will be invited.

For further details please contact Chris Rea (IRB Communications Manager) Telephone: 00 353 1 2409 200. Email: crea@irb.ie.

Refereeing and Touch Judging. The Society appoints touch judges at North Midlands Cup matches. Recognising that most referees are not used to having qualified touch judges and most referees are not used to running touch the following points were made by Ralph Francis & Kelvin Roberts;

• It is a team of three but the referee is the leader.
• The referee briefs what he wants from the TJ's not the other way round.
• Reports of foul play should not contain a recommendation or emotive words such as headbut. If the TJ thinks the action proposed is wrong he should say "Let me tell you again what I saw"
• The primary responsibility of the TJ is touch, secondary foul play and anything else is a bonus
• 10m means 10m not 12m. Check how many paces 10m are for you.
• Look the part, match the referees shirt and try as a team to have a colour shirt that will stand out from any crowd.
• Remember most players are not used to referees acting as touch judges so encourage the wingers to pass messages on from you.
• North Midlands require replacements not to walk up and down inside the playing area.

The Club have written saying that they no longer require our referees. No reasons were given.

The Birmingham Northern Relief Road is to be built on some the land previously owned by the Club. The car park, which can still be used, is now owned by the contractors, Cambba Construction Group. Use of the car park is strictly at users risk and no liability will be recognised by the contractors.

A reminder that Dave Wedderburn has taken over the running of the Society shop. All goods are sold at cost price so you will not do better. Dave can be contacted at Society meetings, telephone 01902 624668 or newzalien@aol.com.

The Annual Dinner is on 27^th April. There are two possible speakers, Fran Cotton and Martin Bayfield. Let Geoff Murch (0121 308 6367 or GMurch9999@aol.com) which one you would prefer.

Patrick Hooper, Society President, is helping out our Treasurer by writing to Clubs who call off games late. If your are a 'victim' of a late cry-off tell Patrick (01676 534295) so that he can chase the Club and get the fine paid. This does not apply if the pitch is unplayable but try to encourage Clubs to inspect pitches early rather than later if there is a doubt as to its fitness.

It is hoped to have the first version of the Society's web page completed by the time of the next meeting. Suggestions for pages are; officers of the Society including photographs ugh!, the whistler, appointments but minus phone numbers, history of the Society, details of the shop and directions to clubs. If you want something extra or different tell Kelvin Roberts (07785 922672 or kelvin@rowlands2.totalserve.co.uk.)

The Executive wishes all members and their families a happy Christmas and prosperous new year

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JANUARY 2001

Chris spoke of his life as a full time referee and then the scrum. His PowerPoint presentation is reproduced in full. Each space/heading represents a new slide. Italics represent explanatory comments.

SCRUMMAGE ISSUES

• Two vital areas of the game - Tackle - Scrummage
• Expect 25 scrums per match
• Affects whole tenor of the match
• Lower skills increase number of scrums
•  
• A typical scrum takes 32 seconds
• There are 1-2 seconds between engagement and put in.
• There are 3-4 seconds between put in and exit.
• It takes 25 seconds to organise
• Therefore forwards contest for 6-8 seconds
• Based on 25 scrums = 154 seconds.
• Scrums take up to 15 minutes-18% of game
• The ball is in the scrum for about 4 seconds- yet scrums can take up over 25% of match time.
• 95% of scrums are won by the team putting in the ball.
•  
• ISSUES FOR REFEREES
• Safety
• Control via Law and Management
• Understanding the contest
• IMPROVING SCRUM REFEREEING?
• Talk to players, coaches and referees
• Video analysis - Tape and re-examine
• Have a positive picture of the scrum
• Develop a checklist of faults
• PRE-MATCH BRIEFING EXAMPLE
• Be brief - Tell them what you want, NOT what you don’t want.
• Make a mark
• Ask for a crouch (Legs slightly bent)
• Ask for a pause (Sighting is vital)
• Then engage on voice.
• Use of hands? Keep out of eye line
• ENGAGEMENT CHECKLIST
• Count front row
• Find scrum half
• Check locks in place
• Check binding
• Find ball
• Check distance
• ENGAGEMENT PROCEDURE
• CROUCH - (TOUCH) - PAUSE - ENGAGE
• CONSISTENT USE OF WORDS "WAIT" "HOLD"
• THOSE WHO STAND UP - WHO? WHY? NUMBER OF RESETS?
• QUESTIONS
• What are the teams trying to achieve?
• What are individuals trying to achieve?
• What is positive?
• What is illegal?

• HIGH, WIDE, STRAIGHT, STEADY
• "EQUAL HEIGHT AND EQUAL SPACE"
• Then if there is interference, go to the checklist
• SCRUMMAGE LANGUAGE
• If you do not understand it how can you know what is going on? Tight head/Loose head
• Get the lead on
• Right side up
• Crabbing
• Boring
• Stepping
• PROBLEMS CHECKLIST
• Not exhaustive
• Other factors include:
• Individuals (skill, attitude to scrum, history against that opponent)
• Ground conditions
• Match situation - 5 metre scrums
• Previous encounters
• CHECKLIST
• Dip (Hookers)
• Bore (Props’ angles)
• Bind (Check hand)
• Legs (Collapse upright or legs back)
• TIGHT HEAD - OWN BALL
• Tight head key to the scrum
• Takes 60% of the weight
• Locks scrum
• Sets the angle
• TIGHT HEAD
  OWN BALL - UNHAPPY
• Looks to deflect pressure
• Bore in to lose weight
• Go very low
• Collapse immediately if not comfortable
• Bind under loose head and pull round
• TIGHT HEAD
  OPPOSITION BALL
• Bore in on hooker
• Pull loose head around or down - elbow down
• Step left on engagement
• Step before engagement
• Have passive scrum to wait for ball to be turnover - win ball at next phase
• 6 shoulders scrummaging
• HOOKER
  OPPOSITION BALL
• Weight down at engagement
• Timing of crouch
• Legs bent?
• May close head space
• May reduce gap space
• Crab before engagement
• Pincer with TH on hooker
• Dip and drive with prop - binding?
• LOOSE HEAD
• Easiest to collapse on retreat
• May bore in (Following tight head?) - Law advantage.
• He may push out
• To wheel - destroy momentum
• To avoid contest
• To disrupt pick up option
• Step and pull with tight head
• TACTICS
• Up or down but not back
• Standing up - difficult
• Keep our ball
• Deflect weight
• Disrupt their ball/drive/options
• Passive scrum
• Back 5 scrummaging
• Gang scrummaging, 3 v 2, 3 v 1. Teams will deliberately target an individual, legally, at scrums.
•  
•  
• OTHER ISSUES
• 5 METRE SCRUMS ARE DIFFERENT AGAIN!
• DO WE BLOW 90 DEGREES AT 60?
• WHEN DOES COMPETITION BEGIN? AT THE HIT?, AFTER ENGAGEMENT?, AT THE PUT IN?
• STRAIGHT PUT IN -
• NO STRIKE BY DEFENCE
• FEET BACK
• CONTEST FOR POSITION NOT POSSESSION
• DEFENDERS SEEK POSSESSION CONTEST AT NEXT PHASE.
• REFEREES ARE INCONSISTENT.
• AUSTRALIANS FREE KICK DEFENCE At a conference an international player told Chris they expect referees to blow for not straight in a non-kicking area. They don't argue just accept it and get into a pre-planned defence position.

This year has seen a change of emphasise by the RFU on the subject of Insurance cover. Their approach has been to place more responsibility on the individual to ensure they have adequate cover. This applies particularly to the players, with the referees still retaining a comprehensive package in most areas including Public Liability cover of £5m.

However there remain a few areas that as individuals you may wish to consider you own circumstances.

So on match day when is cover provided: -

- Direct travel to and from matches by Car train or public transport.

- Acting as a referee or advisor.

- On business of the RFU (this applies mainly to administrators).

Keeping up to date with any changes in the laws is today even more vital and for this reason attendance at the monthly meetings at Tally Ho where we now discuss these issues becomes ever more important.

As I said at the beginning of this article whether this basic cover is sufficient will depend on your personal circumstances and I recommend that you should consider reviewing this on regular bases. Should you require further information please contact me.

Please do not forget to let Patrick Hooper know if your match is called off late (Saturday Morning) other than for bad weather. We do levy a fee to clubs when this occurs.

This month (at last) appointments will show referee and advisor. Referees must confirm the game with the advisor to ensure that they turn up.

The IRB Approval label has been altered slightly. The new badge is larger and the writing is dyed on rather than printed. BOTH THE OLD & NEW LABELS ARE IRB APPROVED.

Tackle:

a) Referees need to be crisper with their decisions, either by blowing earlier for a penalty or, if the ball is wrapped up fairly, by awarding a scrum. The intention is to produce quicker/better ball, lessen the temptation by players to use the boot/foul play, generate consistency, less direction from the referee to 'release or roll away' etc.

b) The tackled player who 'moves' the ball away from his body within an arms length without rolling or passing the ball is 'positively' exercising his options. In doing so the 'tackle zone' remains, arriving players are required to enter the tacked zone from their own goal line. Curling around the ball may result in a penalty being awarded.

c) When on the floor, the tackler must release the tackled player and the ball, making every attempt to move away.

d) Referees must be vigilant at the 'back foot of the tackle zone' to ensure that the acting scrum half is not impeded by bodies on the ground.

Sin Bin

Consistency regarding technical infringements and the professional foul is required.

When patterns of play emerge the referee must use 'penalise, penalise and warn, penalise and sin bin regime.

Scrum

The referee will call 'crouch and hold' provided the scrum is square and stable and that players are waiting to engage he will call engage. The engagement process will be controlled by the referee. Players engaging with permission of the referee may be penalised by the awarding of a free kick. Subsequent offences by be penalised by a penalty or other sanctions.

Prior to the throw in the scrum should be square and stable.

Referees will tell the 8 and 9 when the scrum is stationary and the 'use it or lose it' comes into force. Where possible the referee will also advise when the scrum is 90 degrees.

1) Dave Wedderburn still has some 75 anniversary shirts. Are you entitled to one and have not claimed? Speak to Dave (01922 624668).

2) Somebody left a shirt behind at Edwardians. Contact John Kelly (0121 608 6206) and convince him it is yours.

All ticket applications for the Italian match and all £40 applications for the other two internationals will be met. There is a shortfall amongst the cheaper tickets and they will be distributed in accordance with Society policy.

Bill Gates has a lot to answer for! We get the Web Page up and running (www.nmsrfr.co.uk) and then the appointment print our goes haywire. Sorry but Sunday appointments will be on a sheet per Sunday and not grouped together. You can always check on the Web Page though.

The Grading Committee is meeting in February. If you wish to be re-graded contact John Burgum (0121 475 6702) for a form.

To be held on 4^th & 11^th February at Old Halesonians RFC. Contact Allan Hughes (01902 882545) for more details.

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FEBRUARY 2001

WHISTLER 2000-01

Alan collapsed and died whilst refereeing at Harborne on Saturday 20^th January 2001. He joined the Society for the start of the 1996/97 season and was just 42 years old. He will be sadly missed. The funeral took place on Monday 5^th February.

Frazer Colley (Evesham RFC) was elected as members and welcomed to the Society.

A show of hands at the February General Meeting confirmed that referees are not completing forms every time they sin bin a player. The instructions are published below and a blank form is being sent to each active referee.

At the request of the RFU Disciplinary 

DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE AT

TWICKENHAM WITH A COPY TO COLIN 

E-MAIL

If you have e-mail and do not already receive messages from the Society PLEASE contact Kelvin Roberts -kelvin@rowlands2.totalserve.co.uk so you can be added to the list. It saves so much time and effort to communicate this way.

On a similar vein the following is a summary of what has been put to the North Midlands Union.

APPOINTMENTS - They will be posted on our web page www.nmsrfr.co.uk. We aim to phase out the monthly appointments letter by the end of season 2001/2002 at the latest. A discount will be given to those Clubs who use just the web page from the beginning of next season.

REFEREES HANDBOOK - Each Club will be given a copy of the Referees Society Handbook. Apart from useful information about other Clubs and competition regulations it will have the telephone numbers of all referees and advisors. For security reasons these telephone numbers will NOT appear on the web page.

Blue are attacking. Red put the ball into their own in goal area. Red player avoids tackle of blue player who goes to ground. A second blue player, who is in goal but behind the player on the ground, charges down the defensive kick. The ball bounces to the player still on the ground who touches down. DECISION? (Answer at the March General Meeting)

Q. A team lines up a second row in the scrum half position at a line out. Can that player join the line out?

A. Yes there is no restriction on the player joining the line out but players can only leave it after the ball has left the thrower in hands.

Mike Gregory and Patrick Hooper presented a summary of the above conference at the General Meeting. Apart from Patrick and Mike, Rod Blaine, 

Allan Hughes, David Thomas and Rob Lowe attended the Conference, which was held at the Allied Dunbar HQ Swindon.

If any Society is to maintain the number of referees and improve them they need to be providing on-going training for referees and advisors. The sessions included; communication methods, presentation styles, use of equipment and room layout.

All 6 have to return with 4 years to ensure that they are still capable of training.

Gareth Rees-Smith was on exchange with the London Society refereeing London Nigerians v Bishops Stortford.10 minutes from the end he had to stop play because a horse trotted onto the pitch with a young rider on board! The combined efforts of several players ensured the game was re-started several minutes later without harm. Apparently the advisor asked him why he hadn't checked the horses studs!

Notice is given that the Annual General Meeting will be held on Friday 6^th April 2001. At the meeting reports on Administration, Marketing, Development, Grading and Appointments will be given. The Financial report will be given at the beginning of the 2001/02 season to comply with the end of the Society Financial report. Elections for the posts of Chairperson, Administration Officer, Finance Officer, Marketing Officer, Appointments Officer, Development Officer and two ordinary members to sit on the Executive will be made. Nominations for any of these posts should be in writing and signed by the nominee, proposer and seconder. Nominations should reach the Administration Officer (John Burgum) by 3^rd April.

At the AGM a change to Society Constitution will be proposed vis;

There are no minutes of last years meeting. The below is a summary of the Administrators Annual Report to the North Midlands Union.

This 75^th Anniversary season of the North Midlands Society of Rugby Football Referees has been a very difficult season for the Society’s. About 3900 matches have been appointed to, and over 1500 of these have had to re-appointed to for various reasons. The Sunday and mid-week secretaries have had a particularly difficult task in covering all requests to them particularly, B.U.S.A. & Daily Mail Cup matches. The most disappointing and worrying aspect of the season has been the amount of abuse received by referees from coaches during and at the end of games involving youth and junior players. 9 cases have been referred to either the North Midlands RFU Disciplinary Committee, the Youth Committee or Head Teachers.

The society has appointed 135 active referees to matches some more regularly available than others; this however is not a sufficiently large enough number to cover all requests particularly during October and November.

It is pleasing to report that Ralph Francis has continued to make progress on the RFU National Panel of Referees and that James Minards and Fred Copestake have had successful seasons on the Midland B1 List. Kelvin Roberts and Roger Porter have retained their places on the RFU Touch Judge Panel.

The formation of the West Midlands Federated Society of Referees has been successfully completed with the Staffordshire Referees Society.

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MARCH 2001

WHISTLER 2000-01

The following were elected as members following another successful recruitment session by Allan Hughes:

James RICHARDSON, Keith SMITH, Stephen WRAFTER, Benjamin HOOKES (Bournville), Lee JOHNSON (Upton on Severn), Gareth MORRIS, Andrew NORDASS (Silhillians), Mathew HARTS (Bournville), Mark PAGE (Chaddesley Corbett), Richard SCUTT (Camp Hill), Ian FORRESTER (Staffordshire), Martin PEEL (Erdington) and Philip STOREY (Droitwich).

Alan Dunsbee was a long time member and administrator with the Society. The trophy is named in his memory and is our way of recognising the Club that has contributed the most to our enjoyment of rugby this season. The award is made at the Annual Dinner. You should nominate the top three Clubs in order. There are four ways to vote. At the AGM on 6^th April, by post, by telephone or by e-mail. In the latter three cases send your votes to Colin Davies 2 Oakenhayes Crescent, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B76 9RP 0121 351 1284 or coldavies@bushinternet.com

If you are intending to seek re-grading next season let Steve Hindson (01527 404248 or steve.hindson@aclautolease .com) know ASAP so that assessors can be allocated. Pete Morgan will be setting a fitness test.

The following were regraded at the recent Grading Meeting – congratulations:-

Geoffrey Murphy & and Martin Watson to B3 (subject to passing B grade course), John Lewis C2, Stephen Johnson C2, Gareth Masters C1, Stuart Mills B2*, John Silverwood C3, Ian McCrudden C2, Andrew Barlow C2, Paul Walker C2, Gary Mills C3 and Craig Barclay C3.

Do not shoot the messenger!! John is still hearing of abuse being given to referees YOU MUST REPORT ABUSE. There are still teams turning up with illegal studs and pitches are still not being roped off. If YOU fail to enforce the last two you may be liable in any future civil claims – you have been warned.

When you claim expenses from Clubs please put on the slip the number of miles and your starting point. The minimum claim is £3, the maximum £20. Anything over this should be claimed from Ian Moreton but please use a Bank Giro Credit form.

President David G. Thomas, Chairman Mike Vaughan, Treasurer Ian Moreton, Development Geoff Murch, Marketing Peter Evans, SADO, Rob Lowe, Grading Stephen Hindson, Administration Kelvin Roberts, Ordinary Members Hugh Richards and Paul Thurston

If a team chooses to lift a player to prevent a penalty kick from crossing the cross bar they accept all the consequences of that action e.g. the possibility that it could be interrupted as a deliberate knock on. In addition they must not lift the player before the ball is actually kicked.

Q. Blue are attacking. Red put the ball into their own in goal area. Red player avoids tackle of blue player who goes to ground. A second blue player, who is in goal but behind the player on the ground, charges down the defensive kick. The ball bounces to the player still on the ground who touches down.

A. Penalty against blue 5m from where the ball crossed the goal line.

Q. Blue kick into touch. A blue player who was in front of the kicker is retiring when red take a quick throw in. They throw the ball to the blue player who turns and grounds the ball.

A. A try should be awarded.

The onus is on the Clubs but referees should comply with any reasonable requests.

Its getting close, Friday 27^th April. Book your ticket from Les Smith (0121 747 6121) or les.j.smith@bt.com.

Those at the January meeting will remember Chris White saying that he was going to Argentina before the start of the Six Nations.

1. The referees have been told:-

To ensure that the ball goes into the scrummage straight.

2. At the ruck/maul the side in possession are being given less time to move the ball i.e. the ball is deemed to be out earlier than we have been playing it allowing the defensive side to come round.

3. At the tackle area, there is to be a greater emphasis on the side with the ball staying on their feet i.e. not bridge building. It is hoped that this will encourage the defence to challenge for the ball and not just 'fan' out across the pitch.

At the Monthly meeting held on Friday 2^nd March 2001 it was advising that came under the spotlight. There were two presentations given by Rob Lowe (SADO) and Mike Tremlett (Senior Adviser) on the subject, and below is a brief summary of what was said:-

Rob is his address endeavoured to give Members present a ‘Vision of Advising’ as he saw it. He spoke in terms of current structure and how this impacts on a weekly basis in terms of demands placed on his group. Rob urged that greater focus needs to be given as to where resources are used at present. He insisted that referees looking to go to Group or highlighted with potential must continue to receive written reports using RFU form 2. Similarly all exchange referees would also receive the same report. Rob suggested that everything below this was a matter for discussion and for referee’s as the ‘customers’ to indicate what service they would prefer. Rob suggested that this might take the form of an extended coach/mentoring system either utilising current advisors or willing referee’s perhaps without a game for a particular weekend. There would be no need for such referees to submit written reports, moreover to give verbal advice. Rob posed the question as to how this could be accommodated into a system which still required some feedback to the grading committee to aid their decisions.

Mike followed immediately with a succinct and excellent address about the role of advising. He gave members an insight into how he watches game and some of the more important aspects of refereeing. Mike put particular stress on match/management as being the most important facet of the individuals performance. He indicated the different interpersonal skills an adviser requires for the varied backgrounds that our referees have. He also placed emphasis on the potential section of the report form and how this should be used both for upgrading and demotion. Mike gave members an insight into the intricacies of the CBRDS booklet, which to advisors is the point of reference or ‘bible’. As an example Mike highlighted the fact by OHP that under Scrummage there were 20 elements of competence which may require comment. He illustrated the various sections of the report and some aspects he watches for. Mike was warmly thanked by members.

The group then split into two syndicates under Mike Gregory and Peter Morgan where the questions posed were discussed by members. There were two unequivocal points not available for change which were the RFU 2 form reporting of RWP/group and exchange referees. The below are some of the issues raised although not in any order or of perceived priority:-

• abandon RFU form 1 self-carbonating coaching report (period)

• referees at the lower grades to have more of a mentor/coach input and less reports
• advising needs to be more consistent
• a referee be posted to a game at a club where his mentor may also be refereeing particularly at lower grades
• to keep one form (RFU 2) throughout the grades to get referees used to this type of report
• that lower grade referees get a report with perhaps three highlighted areas for improvement with a mark only for potential and match management
• more steering provided by referee trainers and grading committee
• greater feedback for advisors
• an ‘MOT’ type report for referee who are not being upgraded or in B(V) grade

Rob closed the discussion and stated that the points would be taken to a meeting on 08/03/01 chaired by Geoff Murch where strategy for the forthcoming season would be thrashed out with key persons. He also gave an undertaking to try and host a Level 2 Advisor course before 01/06/01.

APRIL 2001

It is unusual to have a newsletter at this time of the season but the AGM saw the end of an era; John Burgum retiring after twenty five years as the Society's Secretary / Administration Officer.

John has been a member of the North Midlands Referees society for 55 years and Society Secretary/Admin Officer for past 25.

Has had his own entry in Guinness Book of records in 1983 as a referee for all seasons at that time holding the longest service on the old 'County Panel' for 29 years and refereeing continuously for 36 years.

A founder member of the RFU touch Judge panel touch judging France v England (in Paris) and Scotland v England (at Murrayfield).

JB has as secretary and our representative on North Midlands CB committees given most of his waking hours working in unpaid service administrating and dealing with 'the fall out' from the Clubs and members of the society we serve.

At the AGM he was made a life member and given an honorary position on this years Executive.

To mark his achievement Fran Cotton presented him with some engraved cut glass at the Annual Dinner.

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL

One of Johns many jobs was membership renewal. This season the Executive have decided to amend the system.-

You will automatically stay a member of the Society providing you pay the £10 subscription. Standing Orders will be collected as usual and if you pay by cheque sent it to Kelvin Roberts 2 Newmarsh Road Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 1XW. Make it payable to NMSRFR please.

If your details have changed e.g. you now have e-mail or you are retiring please tell Kelvin so that your records can be updated.

And on the same theme -HANGING UP YOUR BOOTS?

If you have had the sacrifical burning of the boots don't give up altogether - become an advisor. Allan Hughes is taking on the job of recruiting more advisors. You know how successful he has been attracting new referees so be prepared for that phone call or admit defeat now and contact him first at Nmidlandsypr-Rfu@btinternet.com or 01902 882545

The junior playing season has been extended until the end of May therefore YOU ARE INSURED if asked to take a game. Similarly you may have Mike Spencer asking if you are available for senior games as Clubs try to play outstanding league games.

FANCY BEING AN RFU TOUCH JUDGE?

You will need to prove;

• Recent experience of touch touching in adult matches and preferably refereeing experience at league 6,7,8.
• A regular attendee at Society meetings and a thorough knowledge of the Laws in particular Laws 6, 10 & 19.
• An ability to operate as a team of three
• The ability to maintain concentration in situations where outside pressures might apply.

If interested please contact Kelvin Roberts (kelvin@rowlands2.totalserve.co.uk or 0121 351 1473) for more details.

Sending offs were down during the season is it because we used the yellow card correctly or because it became a 'soft option'?

15^th August

7^th September

5^th October

2^nd November

7^th December

January to be fixed with a guest speaker

1^st February

1^st March

5^th April AGM

Kevin Woodham has rejoined the Society. As a former RFU Referee he is going to add his experience as an advisor. Welcome back. Alan John, another former RFU referee has dug out his old boots and will be refereeing for the Society again next season.

The advice below has been circulated Hertfordshire Referee Society, it is common sense advice that I would suggest that we
should all follow:

These notes are what not to do rather than what you should do:

1) Do not change in the same room as any youth team
2) Do not shower with any youth team
3) Do not allow any youth into your dressing room without another adult
being present
4) When checking studs or protective clothing, if this is done in a changing
room always make sure that another adult is present
5) If a youth player is injured whilst playing, only administer first aid if properly trained.

What you should do

If you see any person take a child and it appears to you that the child does
not want to go, challenge that person.

If you become concerned over the way any child is being treated by a coach,
parent or other person report the incident to your society secretary

The over riding thought must be for the welfare of the child

The law states that a child is unborn to 18 years

The new date for the Ireland v England Lloyds TSB Six Nations Fixture has been confirmed for Saturday October 20th. Kick off 3pm. Ireland will play their other matches against Scotland on 22 September and Wales on October 13th.

AGREEMENT REACHED ON PROMOTION AND RELEGATION

RFU Chief Executive, Francis Baron, today welcomed the agreement reached

between Premier Rugby and ESDR on promotion and relegation and an associated

funding package for ESDR.

"The agreed automatic promotion and relegation, of one up and one down, for the

next three years, preserves the criteria for competitive rugby supported by the vast

majority of clubs involved in the game. Although the talks have taken a great deal of

time they have resulted in an agreement, which will give the game certainty and

stability on this key issue.

"After three years have elapsed, a seven man panel comprising of three Premier

Rugby representatives, three from ESDR and the RFU Chief Executive will review

the promotion and relegation issue before making a decision for the longer term."

"The RFU’s own negotiations with Premier Rugby are continuing."

24 April 2001 A Media Briefing at Twickenham Stadium today with Chris Spice, Performance Director and David Shaw, Director of Academies

Chris Spice said that this was the appropriate time to meet now that he had got his feet under the desk and had made some assessments. He could not comment on any of the current negotiations with Premier Rugby but wanted to outline the new structure of the Performance Department and the roles within it.

He explained that his relationship with Clive had been excellent so far and continued to get better. Clive was looking after the present and it was Chris’ role to look after the future. "Clive’s role is very much focussed on 2003 my job is to focus on 2007.

He has a world class set of staff at the top end and we need to focus on the groups underneath."

Chris had attended the U19 matches in Chile, where England had come sixth and although this was the best they had ever done they were well below par and below the top four, both physically and mentally. As for 7s it was essential to decide whether we were serious about it and where it fitted in because nothing should be in the Performance Department unless it was about being World Class.

The ‘A’ group was a critical area for development and there were two essential elements to it, competition and development. Programmes for the next batch of England potential athletes were crucial and the As could evolve over time to become our ‘probables’ team with hopefully about two thirds knocking on the door for England.

The Under 21’s he saw as part of the development process and he would assess them in June at the SANZAR tournament.

Another critical area was elite coaching in which we had underinvested as a nation in most sports. This needed to be addressed in rugby in two clear areas: developing individual programmes for our current coaching staff and behind that identifying the next batch of England coaches. More specialist coaches needed to be identified to work with the younger age groups so that the players arrived at senior level with the required skill set and not having to be taught basics.

The number and location of Academies remained an issue on which he was unable to comment as it is part of the ongoing negotiation with Premier Clubs. Questioned by a journalist he did agree that it was open knowledge that 12 had been planned for. The two age groups would be 16-18 and 18-21, although the door would remain open longer for late developers.

No talented athlete should be missed regardless of where they lived or played. In addition to the 300 athletes being developed by Academies across the country, there would be a National Academy of some 60 players. A Talent Identification and Development Strategy would be developed and this would account for a major part of the Performance programme.

The best 60 athletes would access the England squad coaches, with additional coaching from the likes of Dave Alred and the other specialist coaches.

David Shaw explained that the Academies would be a process not a place and the process would be taken to the athletes wherever possible, working in partnership with the clubs and with flexible education opportunities, like extending degree courses over several years.

A small technical group from the clubs and the RFU would help to design core elements of the Academy programme. The clubs would benefit from the new funding and they recognised a need to produce their own players. Present Academies were very different from each other and there would be the opportunity to give consistency and set national standards.

Questioned by journalists Chris agreed that for the Academies to go ahead it was necessary to resolve present negotiations but that work had already started with the clubs and 12 regions were being identified, although an open bidding process would follow.

Sports Science and Sports Medicine would also be a major area for development. It was important to produce comprehensive fitness and to start changing the attitudes and behaviour of youngsters. "We want our elite players to see themselves as ‘athletes who play rugby’ not just ‘rugby players’" said Chris Spice. "We need the kids thinking like athletes first and foremost."

The Sports Science programme would nurture such essentials as decision making and the reproduction of skills under pressure and physiological profiling will target appropriate players as they develop. Longitudinal studies on injuries could also bring useful data for preventative strategies and athlete management.

Taking questions Chris was asked whether it wasn’t essential to have a group of centrally contracted England 7s players and he said that this was a philosophy embraced by the Long Form Agreement and stressed that 7s was regarded as an opportunity to develop players with the full co-operation of the clubs. He did not have the impression that there was any wavering from that. "We have said that 7s is important and this year we have only started the process."

David Shaw added that the philosophy going forward was that this was another group of potential international players. Players like Lawrence Dallaglio, Tim Rodber and Matt Dawson had played 7s for England as total unknowns.

Asked if everything hinged on agreement with the top clubs Chris Spice said "We have to have a partnership with the clubs. We need each other." The Sport England offer letter had arrived last month and the figure involved was £8million over a four year programme this is to be used for the Potential and Start elements of development, not on the senior squad.

Pressed as to why this did not involve the women’s game as well David Shaw said that there were certain financial advantages at present to the RFUW being separate but that their Performance programme was operating alongside that of the RFU. He believed that over the next 18 months the Women’s Union would have their own roadshows to see whether their members wanted to be part of the RFU. At present their Performance Department was situated alongside the RFU Performance Department’s offices.

Asked about the age range David said that the talent search would begin as boys moved on from the modified game Chris Spice said that in complex team games like rugby athletes would not potentially be playing their best rugby until their late 20s. Therefore the RFU would have a balanced programme of talent identification and development.

Asked whether players as young as 16 might become limited if they focused only on rugby and shouldn’t other things be part of their experience, Chris Spice said that at 16, kids could now see a professional career and know they needed to develop habits to ensure it was as long a career as possible.

As for the advisability of staying in education rather than concentrating solely on rugby, Chris said that managing the elite athlete going out was as important as managing the kids coming in. Entrance and exit points were crucial. There would be a real mixture of youngsters, some doing an extended degree course, some for whom this wasn’t appropriate. All had to be looked after.

AND FINALLY THOUGHTS OF GARETH REES-SMITH

REFS IN THE CITY : Recreation or Procreation?

Firstly, my thanks must go to Ralph Francis for the nomination, Kelvin for the ‘harassment’ and Sarah Jessica Parker/Channel 4 for the inspiration (my apologies are extended to you all).

We all referee for a variety of different reasons but fundamentally we must have the same purpose – enjoyment. What gives us enjoyment will differ (and I’ll stick to whilst we’re refereeing rather than Millsy’s private life!!), but do we do the most to ensure we do enjoy it.

I was asked by an adviser, whilst on my horse-dodging travels, "what did I most enjoy about the afternoon?" I paused for a while and realised that on that particular occasion it would be much easier to answer what would inevitably be his next question – "what didn’t I enjoy?" I equally predictably gave some clichés about flowing back play and loving rugby football but spent at least some of the lonely two hour drive home in the pouring rain (violins at the ready) thinking this through further.

Being of relatively tender years myself, I decided to ask a fellow probably well known to most of you, Martin "Edna" Head of my own club Old Halesonians a few questions about referees and whether he’d seen any changes over the years. Having plied Martin with the lubrication of his beloved Banks’s Bitter, he observed that whilst obviously some things were different, in the main the game was the same. Drink driving had reduced the post-match interaction greatly but it was good to know that props were still buying each other beers after the game – well the older ones at least, training was still attended when you had a cup run and you got more cry offs when it was raining or Luctonians away!! Having seen Martin ‘work’ referees both on and off the field, I asked if he was still passing on his experience to the modern breed – a huge grin came on his face which I took to mean yes!! Well done Martin, keep these exchange refs on their toes with those old tricks at least they’ve never seen before (and many in North Mids have fallen for over the years).

But are the likes of Martin a dying breed, players that simply love to play the game on and off the field and similarly enjoy the banter with the referee as part of the whole Match Day experience.

Each Saturday afternoon I’m always reminded that referees will be able to ‘procreate in the afterlife’ by the usual hordes of one eyed monsters that litter our touchlines. But it is the general increase in football type ‘appealing’ from players that concerns me. I was lucky enough to witness first hand Jacko Page advise the referee throughout the game from opposition scrumhalf what he was missing or should be considering. The difference here was he was polite, calm and generally successful in influencing for his team.

Unfortunately, literally days after speaking to Martin, my attention was brought by several colleagues at work to an interview they’d heard on Radio 4. Briefly, it discussed the number of referees in the Bristol area who were leaving the game due to abuse – and I was asked "is this common, I thought you didn’t get abuse in rugby". I recently had the misfortune to come across a couple of Nutters and was appalled to discover we have a ‘Abuse of an Official’ form ready for just such an occasion. As Jonathan Davies stated so well on Grandstand during the 6 Nations, the referee is not always right but he must remain the sole judge of fact.

So just who are we refereeing for? - a question I’m hearing more and more commonly and was the subject of a recent meeting of the Young Referees’ Luncheon Club (otherwise known as Millsy and I utilising our corporate expense accounts). As ‘development’ referees we are being told to referee for the advisers if we want to get on. "Look after number one" etc. We are now being asked to go on advisers courses so we can understand better what they are looking for. It is almost a bi-product that this may mean that the players also get to enjoy their afternoon. If the Martin Heads of this world are a dying breed then are too, without naming names, those referees who would enter into the ‘spirit’ of the occasion and would still be there, when full up on beer, to enter the spirits!! I have heard both Nick Green and James Minards say how much more they are enjoying their refereeing now - so have we got the balance right I ask myself?

As with the wheeling scrum, I offer my most learned colleagues the right to reply and leave you with a final example. Steve Walters, another former Old Halesonian who was forced to give up after suffering a broken neck in a colts match, now works and referees in London. He recently was sent on exchange to Carlisle only to be told on arrival the game was off. When I met him at Old Hales’ half way through his 6 hour return journey enjoyment certainly wasn’t the first word on his lips.

Fitness test dates will be circulated later. In the meantime get training.

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