New Referee Spotlight: Sarah O'Rourke

06 November 2023

New Referee Spotlight: Sarah O'Rourke

Want to become a Referee? The ARCB are holding a course for new Referees being held in Galway this Saturday, 11th November. If you would like to find out more about becoming a referee, or want to attend the course, the Referee Development Manager for Connacht, former international referee Peter Fitzgibbon is waiting to hear from you. He can be reached at peter.fitzgibbon@irfu.ie or 086 8322 987.

 

New Referee Sarah O'Rourke attended the referee course in Galway back in September. Sarah took some time to talk about her experience at the course and her time as a Referee in Connacht so far.

Introduction:

My name is Sarah ORourke, I'm 23 years old from Athlone Co. Weathmeath. I'm a trainee referee, nearly up to level 1. I was affiliated with Galwegians last season.


What made you sign-up for the referee course?
 
I decided to referee to stay active and involved in rugby after having to retire from playing due to injury. 


How did you enjoy the course?

The course was very enjoyable. It was very useful and informative while being almost self led. You got what you put into it. 


What does being a referee mean to you? 

Referees are extremely important to rugby as a whole. They allow both kids and adults to play the sport in a safe and enjoyable manner. A referee to me is someone who is fair and selfless - while they are key to matches being played, they should never be the main character. Referees should ensure the laws of the game are upheld but shouldn't interject and disrupt play unnecessarily.