Winman Review into Match Officiating

Click here to access the report.

I am delighted to publish this Semi-Independent Review into Refereeing & Match Officials for your consideration, reflection and action.

May I start by stating that refereeing is a whole game issue. It is not the sole responsibility of referee societies to look after our referees, it is everyone’s responsibility. Referees come from our clubs, universities, colleges, and schools, as players, former players, coaches, parents, and spectators. That connection with the game should be maintained to enhance the role that referees play and strengthen the rapport that referees need to have with everyone in the game.

It is also important to recognise the revised purpose of refereeing that now includes responsibility for maximising the player experience. Referees will continue to uphold the integrity of the game through the correct application of law, but in these challenging times for clubs and players, the role of the referee has become even more important in contributing to players playing more often and for longer.

The quid pro quo is that players, coaches and spectators must now clearly recognise their responsibilities towards referees and match officials. If referees are to do the best they can to maximise the player experience, they can no longer be subjected to abuse. If refereeing is a whole game issue, so is match official abuse and it is incumbent upon all of us to challenge such behaviour.

The 30 recommendations contained within the review will be implemented over the next 3 years. Some will be relatively easy to implement and already have the refereeing community and the game behind them. Others will require changes to behaviour and process. The review groups have challenged the mantra “it’s the way we’ve always done it” to find better outcomes for referees, referee societies, the game and players.

It has been a privilege to work with the 56 volunteers and members of staff to produce this review and I wish to thank them all for their hard work and dedication. I am currently working with the RFRU and RFU to arrange a series of on-line and face to face meetings with referee societies in due course, but should you wish to get in touch before then please do so. 

To access a printable version of the report please click here.

Simon Winman

Chair, Semi-Independent Review Group

Council Member for Buckinghamshire

Member, Buckinghamshire Referees