Namibia Rugby Offers Referee Training Program

The Namibian Rugby Referees Society (NRRS) and Namibian Rugby Union (NRU) have partnered to launch a referee training program aimed at developing new referees. The program, set to take place on November 20-21 at Windhoek Gymnasium's clubhouse, is open to anyone 16 years and older, including coaches, teachers, parents, and children. The program is led by SA Rugby's Deon van Blommenstein and Cwengile Jadezweni.

The program aims to equip aspiring referees with the fundamental skills and knowledge required to officiate rugby matches. According to Jannie de Beer, NRRS deputy chairman, the program is an excellent opportunity for individuals to learn the basics of rugby refereeing. De Beer, a legendary Springbok scrum-half, was inspired by a similar training session he attended in South Africa, which he described as "excellent".

The two-day program is facilitated by experienced instructors, including Deon van Blommenstein, SA Rugby's head of amateur referees, and Cwengile Jadezweni, SA Rugby's talent identification manager. Jadezweni has been a member of SA Rugby's elite referees panel for over a decade and has officiated multiple Currie Cup finals.

The program is part of a broader initiative by the Namibian Rugby Referees Academy (NRRA) and King Price, the main sponsor, to develop rugby referees in Namibia. The NRRA also offers a mentorship and feedback program to provide young referees with practical experience in school matches, with opportunities to progress to senior club rugby and higher levels.

Interested individuals can register for the program by November 15, with arrangements available for travel and accommodation costs for those from outside Windhoek. Meals will be provided on both days. De Beer encourages interested individuals to contact him at [email protected] or [email protected] , or cell 081 396 5555.

The program aims to address the need for more referees in Namibian rugby, particularly at the school level. According to de Beer, the program is not just for aspiring referees but also for those who want to learn more about the game and its rules. The program is expected to have a positive impact on the development of rugby in Namibia.

The NRRS and NRU are committed to supporting the development of rugby in Namibia, and the referee training program is a key part of this effort. With the support of King Price and other stakeholders, the program aims to produce a new generation of referees who can contribute to the growth of rugby in the country.

Key points

• The program is open to anyone 16 years and older.
• The program is led by experienced instructors from SA Rugby.
• The program aims to equip aspiring referees with the fundamental skills and knowledge required to officiate rugby matches.