Why Become a Society Referee?

There are a whole host of reasons why people decide to pick up the whistle and begin refereeing. Refereeing Rugby matches is a challenging occupation that will keep you mentally as well as physically fit. It is a unique way to be just about as involved in the sport of Rugby as it is possible to become. Many games could not go ahead without a referee. Being part of rugby whether a player or a referee you will make new and lifelong friends in the game. Refereeing is challenging, rewarding, and above all can be great fun.

Joining Kent Society means that you will receive expert support and training as you pursue a career in refereeing. We are here to help you get the best out of the game.


Benefits of Joining the Society

On joining the Society all referees receive:

  • Your first year’s membership for a £1 (for insurance purposes) subsequent years are £25 / £1.00 for students)
  • A free referee shirt annually 
  • After you complete your first 6 games for the Society, you receive our free standard kit package of shorts, socks, shower proof jacket and trousers.
  • Feedback cards and score card books
  • A set of flags
  • Reimbursement of mileage costs to games
  • Training & further development
  • Allocated to games of appropriate level

Join Us

To become a Society referee you will need to complete either our referee course or the England Rugby Referee Award. If you have already done a course and want to become an active referee within the Kent Society, fill out our online form here:

Join Us

Qualifying As a Referee

The Society runs an Introduction to Refereeing course and the RFU run an  England Rugby Referee Award – both courses enable you to referee the 15 a side game, and are designed to provide new referees with the core skills to be able to referee rugby union.

For more Information on courses see our Qualifying as a Referee page.

Qualifying as a Referee