The IRFU’s Affiliate Referee Course has moved to an online platform, providing adults with an interest in refereeing easier access to certification as a match official.
Affiliate referees typically officiate age grade matches for the club or school they are associated with and provide an important service to rugby at that level.
For more on affiliate referees, download the IRFU Affiliate Referee Policy 2020/21.
Previously those wishing to take the course would have attended a 2.5 hour workshop in addition to completing modules on laws and concussion.
Now, those wishing to become affiliate referees can complete their certification through GAINLINE – the IRFU’s online education platform.
The new course is a self-contained product with automated knowledge checks, video examples and tutorials.
The course aims to educate prospective affiliate referees on:
- The Laws of the Game
- The Role of the Referee in Safety and Concussion
- The Key Fundamentals Principles of Refereeing including Communication and Control
- Technical aspects of the game including, breakdown, scrum, lineout and maul.
You can sign up to complete the course at any time. Cost of completion is €15.
Click Here To Learn More About Affiliate Referees And Access Online Course
Speaking about the news, IRFU Referee Development & Education Manager Peter Fitzgibbon said:
“The Affiliate Referee scheme provides an excellent opportunity to gain an IRFU accredited refereeing qualification.
“We placed the learner at the centre of our thinking when creating the course content. In doing so we have put together a series of modules which are interactive, educational and enjoyable.
“Taking the course will be beneficial to anyone with a role in the club and school game, particularly those with an interest in the laws of the game and the role of the referee.
“Completing it will equip the individual with the necessary knowledge to safely and fairly referee a game of rugby.”
