A referees workshop will be held on 03rd of May and 8th of May, 2025 for local referees showcasing the commitment of the incumbent committee of Sri Lanka Society of Rugby Football Referees (SLSRFR) to excellence and development of local match officiating. This will be a massive opportunity for local referees to absorb skills and game management at match officiating from one of the best veteran referees in the world rugby arena.
Last year, SLSRFR hosted four officials including three highly experienced referees from New Zealand representing the Bay of Plenty rugby union to elevate the match officiating standards. Outcome of the efforts was clearly visible during the recently concluded Inter-Club tournaments, even the spectators and clubs praised the level of match officiating.
It can be seen that off late Sri Lankan referees are being invited to officiate overseas tournaments quite regularly. This trend definitely reflects the match officiating skills of local referees are improving day by day and they are marching towards the next level.
Bryce Lawrence is a former top notch World Rugby Referee from the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. He featured in many international and super rugby games during 2005 to 2012. He officiated during Rugby World Cup 2011, and refereed the crucial Quarter Final game between Australia and South Africa which was a close tussle. At the present he provides his service in the Was High performance Referee manager 2018-2023 and capacity of the Head of Training and Education for the New Zealand Rugby Union.
The expertise and experience of the veteran Bryce Lawrence will be invaluable for local referees with valuable insights into the game, modern refereeing techniques, and the latest rule interpretations. By learning from a highly skilled referee like Bryce, Sri Lankan Referees will be better equipped to officiate at the highest levels of rugby in the near future.
Last but not least, it should not forget His Excellency Mr. David Pine, the High Commissioner of New Zealand to Sri Lanka, who has been a pillar of support towards local rugby referees developing programs. From patronizing referee training events to providing other supports such as the visa process, his support has been immeasurable, and will always be remembered.
#Rugbyreferees.lk #RefereePride #SriLankaRugby #rugbyreferees #srilankarugby #OnTheWhistle
