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Ever wondered what the next step in your rugby career could be? Well, new referee Aaron O'Connor from Tuam RFC gave his insights, "Having stopped playing at 21 due to medical advice, I coached with Monivea RFC and Tuam RFC until being a dad of 3 took me from coaching to their sideline. Refereeing was an avenue that allowed me to keep in touch with the sport I love".
When asked what he has gotten from refereeing so far Aaron had this to say, "up-to-date with rules, closest spot to the action and less of a time commitment - that's what I thought I would get, but what I really got was so much more. Friendships, support, opportunities and comradery have been the highlights so far. Since qualifying in September I have refereed 15+ games for the Connacht ARCB from U13 non-competitive up to two League finals at Youth age. [I] even [got to] Assistant referee in the Cawley Cup Final and AIL too".
Want to be like Aaron?
Well, the Association of Referees Connacht Branch (ARCB) is hosting an Introduction to Refereeing Course over two parts.
Part 1 will be an online element on Wednesday, 29th January at 7:30 PM.
Part 2 will be an on-pitch practical session at one of two locations:
- University of Galway RFC, Dangan on Wednesday, 5th February at 6:30 PM OR
- Castlebar RFC on Tuesday, 10th February 7:00 PM
"For a lad who grew up in the heartbeat of Gloucester and Kingsholm, I didn't think my love for rugby could grow more, but under the Connacht ARCB umbrella... it really has," says Aaron.
If you are interested in attending, contact: Andrew Fogarty on 0863490818 or email andrew.fogarty@irfu.ie
