1. Community Rugby 2013 Refereeing Priorities Game and refereeing priorities in New Zealand in 2013 are similar to 2012 Priorities are consistent with those advocated by the IRB and being applied in the Investec Super Rugby competition

2. The Big 5 Game Needs Application of the Global Law Trials Scrum Accuracy & Completion Quick Ball at Tackle/Ruck Space on the Field – Offsides Maul Formation

3. Application of the Global Law Trials A major focus for us all to get right The application of the Global Law Trials are fully covered in a separate session / presentation Some components where relevant, will be briefly covered as part of this presentation.

4. Scrum Accuracy & Completion Referees to own scrum call. “Crouch”, “Touch”, “Set”. Ref to call “crouch” when both packs are ready. Locks in/flankers and No.8’s ready. Ref to require both packs to crouch on that call Touch – referees to require/see the touch Steadiness – this is key/trigger. Referee will only call “Set” if scrum is steady. Do not rush “Set” call.

5. Scrum Accuracy & Completion Practical Refereeing Referee is key driver to a successful engagement/completion. Must be a noticeable gap between calls of “Touch” & “Set”. Aim for 1. 5 sec gap. Post hit/engagement. - Height above hips - Legal bind (no TH on elbow) - Get the TH straight - No walking around by back 5

6. Quick Ball at Tackle/Ruck Tackler – must roll clear quickly and not impede ball availability. Need to roll to side (east/west) and NOT onto opponents side. Tackler Assist – players need to clearly separate/release Taking out players in front of the ball. Deal with players taking space past the tackle and taking out defenders. Also players grabbing, holding, obstructing others. Difficult for a referee to manage – normally requires punitive action.

7. Space on the Field - Offsides Referee needs to establish standards early Do not over manage by communication – move quickly to sanctions if communication not effective Ruck: players to be behind offside line Players in front of kicker: STOP means STOP Scrum & Lineout: ensure defensive lines are held/enforced

8. Maul Formation Lineout lifters may not subsequently position themselves in front of catcher to obstruct defenders from contesting for ball or player in possession of ball. Defenders holding ball carrier up in general play is now a common tactic. Once maul is formed, all other players must join from the back/hindmost feet. Watch for players joining ‘late’, coming in from the side.