Registration with Rugby Canada (RC) is mandatory for all players, coaches, club administrators, and everyone else involved in Alberta rugby, rugby anywhere in Canada actually. Northern Alberta match officials, or ERURS members in general, need to register through the ERURS so that the match official is recognized as our “club” member. How to do this:

1. Get a Rugby Canada registration form from the ERURS Secretary or the on-line RC Registration form at the RC website.

The list will be available in a handy pamphlet as well, but as a quick and paperless reminder. Remember to bring:

• 2 whistles, 2 watches, 2 water bottles
• 3 different jerseys, shorts and socks
• cleats
• cards, score cards & many pencils
• coin for toss
• game journal
• 2 large zip-lock bags

Of course, this is only a suggested minimum. You will of course be able to referee successfully without some of the above; however, if you referee enough games, you will need all of the “extras” at some point.

This section will have the best practice game procedures for ERU games. But for now please consider the suggestions of:

• Arrive at the pitch at least 30min before scheduled kick-off.
• Check the pitch for painted lines, ropes, and possible hazards.
• Introduce yourself to the coaches and captains as soon as possible.
• Have the coaches complete the gamesheet with their team rosters.
• Collect each team’s player registration cards.
• Verify that each player on the gamesheet has a registration card.
• Put each team’s player cards in a zip-lock bag to protect them.
• Check all players’ equipment.
• Referee the game.
• If there are any red-card send-offs during the game you will have to complete and send-in a report within 48 hours. The forms are below.
• At the end of the game, shake the hands of the players and coaches.
• Complete the gamesheet by noting the score, including any bonus points. Sign and date the bottom, including the names of your empowered touch judges if you have some.
• Return the team’s player cards when you have both of the captains sign the game sheet.
• Distribute the gamesheet copies appropriately, reminding the winning team to be sure to fax the gamesheet in to the ERU within 48 hours.
• Retire to the changeroom after 5-10min of game question exchange.
• Excuse yourself and go to the officials’ changeroom, and have a shower.
• Take a few minutes to write in your game journal.
• Get changed, grab a beverage and something to eat.
• Hopefully you will be able to stay at the clubhouse for another 30min, making yourself available for conversation with the players and coaches.