Victoria’s premier rugby competition will play host to a number of firsts this weekend, with Amber McLachlan to lead the VAILO Dewar Shield Grand Final for the first time.
Breaking new ground, McLachlan will become the first female referee to take the reins of a Grand Final in the competition’s 114-year history.
McLachlan’s appointment comes following her display of skill, expertise and poise under pressure throughout the VAILO Dewar Shield Preliminary Final, in in a seesawing affair between Endeavour Hills and Power House.
Speaking on her appointment to the VAILO Dewar Shield Grand Final, McLachlan said she is extremely honoured to be appointed to the VAILO Dewar Shield Grand Final.
“It’s recognition for the hard work I have put in this year and over previous years,” McLachlan said.
“There have been other females in Victoria that paved the way to allow me to receive this appointment, showing me firsthand that it was possible and hopefully this shows any females coming through the ranks that they can be in the middle come Grand Final time.”
For those young up and coming referees, McLachlan said success doesn’t happen overnight.
“Hard work is required, but if it is something you truly enjoy, keep striving to be the best,” she said.
“Try to learn or take something away from every game you are involved in, that you can build upon for the future.”
Joining McLachlan on Grand Final Day will be Oliver Kellett and Shannon McLachlan as assistants, becoming the most experienced trio to referee a Grand Final with 233 caps.
Following the conclusion of Victorian Premier Rugby Season, McLachlan will turn her attention to the international refereeing scene, taking part in internationals as well as the exciting new World Rugby WXV tournament.
On behalf of Rugby Victoria, we would like to congratulate Amber on this amazing achievement!
Catch Amber in her element from 3:15PM this Saturday 26 August at RHL Reserve, Box Hill or tune into Rugby Vic’s Facebook page for a livestream from 3:10PM of the VAILO Dewar Shield Grand Final.
To learn more about how you can become involved in refereeing, email vrraed@gmail.com or head to the link: https://bit.ly/3GzokCg
