University of Gloucestershire and RFU Launch Officiating Hub for Young Officials

A new initiative aims to identify and cultivate the next generation of referees and assistant referees. The University of Gloucestershire and the Rugby Football Union’s (RFU) Officiating Hub is the first of its kind in the UK, targeting match officials aged 16 to 25 across all sports. Professional football and rugby referees, including Christophe Ridley, a current international and Premiership official, are set to contribute to the project. Mr. Ridley, an alumnus of the university, stated: “It’s about enabling an environment for referees to succeed as well for them to grow.” The hub’s primary goal is to promote the retention of young match officials. Its curriculum is designed to develop, mentor, and provide continuous learning opportunities to support their ambitions. Additionally, eight psychologists will be available to assist participants in enhancing their resilience during games. “The beauty of refereeing is that you’re not sidelined. You’re still in the mix,” Mr. Ridley commented. He added: “I have no doubt this program is going to make them better referees, better umpires and more employable when they come out of university. I have this real hunger to make sure that their experiences are positive.” Emily Hope, who became an official rugby referee six years ago, has joined the programme with the intention of inspiring more women to follow in her footsteps. She remarked: “It’s very eye-opening for me. I’ve been in refereeing and around the culture for a number of years, but to be on the other side of it to bring people in and get them involved, it’s quite rewarding.” Hope acknowledged: “As a female myself, I know the struggles.” She indicated that “more work to do” is still required to increase the number of women and girls involved. She concluded by advising: “You never know if you never try, just give it a go, keep working hard and enjoy it.”