For many young people, getting involved in rugby usually means joining the action on the field. But there’s another meaningful way to take part in the sport, by becoming a referee. That’s exactly what Sebastion and Benjamin Trouw decided to do.
At just 14- and 13-years-old, Sebastion and Benjamin recently joined the ranks as junior referees. From Harlequin Rugby Club, the brothers have grown up playing the game, but now they’re stepping into a new role. To enhance their gameplay, they figured there’s no better way to deepen their understanding of rugby and sharpen their skills than by becoming referees, Sebastion says.
“My Dad said we can only become better players if we know the rules better than others,” he says.
While stepping into the role of refereeing certainly comes with its challenges, it also offers an abundance of benefits. Sebastion shares how becoming a referee has changed the way he views the game, giving him a deeper understanding of how referees make decisions. Along with giving teenagers a new perspective on the game, it opens up endless possibilities for getting involved in sport in meaningful and rewarding ways. In fact, over the past few years more and more teenagers across different sports are taking on the whistle, which is what inspired Benjamin to get involved.
“We saw a lot of young players in other sports [basketball, soccer] getting involved in refereeing, and asked ‘why can’t we also do it in Rugby?’," he says.
For many young people refereeing isn’t just a way to stay connected to a sport they love, it’s often their first job. It offers the chance to be part of a community, earn money and gain valuable life skills along the way. This kind of experience helps build confidence, leadership, communication, conflict resolution and decision-making skills, all while giving back to the game.
As Benjamin puts it “without referees there is no rugby”.
The Harlequins Rugby Club highlighted on Facebook the “courage and maturity” it takes to become a referee, praising the boys for their decision and the excellent job they’re doing.
If you’re looking for a fresh way to get involved in the rugby community, consider following in their footsteps. Becoming a referee is not only a great way to contribute to the game, but also an opportunity to grow as a player and a leader.
Email Greg.Fergus@vic.rugby to get involved!
