ON THE WAY UP

David Matthews hails a North of England Sevens initiative

(This piece was written for the recent North of England School Sevens at Birkenhead Park)

If ever there was a time for a referee to be “up and coming” this is it. Just as the game of Rugby Union prides itself on catering for all shapes, sizes and playing abilities so referee development allows all ages and talents to make their contributions. But, if you are young, fit and ambitious then you have got it made. This 26th North of England Schools Invitational Sevens Tournament marks a significant change in the appointment of today’s referees; it reflects the rapid progress currently being made nationally.

There is nothing worse than harking back to the “good old days” but throughout its distinguished history this competition has been able to enlist the support of national panel and international panel referees. Times change, arrangement and re-scheduling of Sunday fixtures proliferate, with the result that referees find themselves committed to a busy weekend from the RFU and sadly have to decline the chance to appear here at Birkenhead Park. The players, spectators and organisers have still been delighted to welcome quality officials in the last five years, heavily relying on the best available in the Northern Group, particularly the Liverpool and Manchester Societies.

So, this year brings an exciting new venture: thanks to the kind assistance of former International Referee Chris White, now working for the RFU in overseeing the ‘Academy’ for young referees, and Nigel Yates, ex Panel Referee who is supervising these advancements in the North West, thirty two of the best schools will benefit from the attendance of some of the North’s aspiring ‘whistleblowers.’ There is a precedent for this system; several years ago the Sedbergh Super Tens launched a similar cunning plan for appointing the referees, with conspicuous success.

In the programme notes written twelve months ago to celebrate 25 glorious years of these Sevens the message went out for the players to aim high and perhaps, in years to come, look back on their experiences here. It is still relevant for today’s participants, coupled with the same words of encouragement to the referees. Ian Tempest, a faithful supporter of this event over the years, is expected here, this time in an advisory role. He has travelled the world on rugby duties and, like Luke Pearce from the South West, is very much a product of the new wave of thinking. He might not put it all down to refereeing in the North of England Sevens but I am sure regards his involvement with respect and affection as he makes his way up the refereeing ladder.

Whenever there is reminiscence from the referees on previous tournaments, amongst the fond memories of getting soaked, just missing out on the excellent food or doing six games in succession, comes the most telling plaudit “Wasn’t it great to meet the others and share a bit of banter?” Yes, it’s certainly about raising standards but so much better if it can be done with that magic word – the reason for us all being here – enjoyment.