Referees
White’s 50th Test
Richard Prescott, England Teams Media Director
RFU Elite Referee Chris White took charge of his 50th test match when Scotland lined up against Fiji at Murrayfield. In a 14 year international career, Cheltenham born White has officiated at three Rugby World Cups including taking charge of the New Zealand v Australia semi-final in 2003. White first picked up a whistle at the age of 17 when he wasn’t allowed to play on a Saturday due to school trials and was persuaded to be the referee for the Cheltenham Saracens 3rd XV fixture the next day. A centre for Cheltenham Grammar, Cheltenham Saracens, Cheltenham RFC he went on to play at Swansea University after previously representing Gloucester Schools at U16 and U18 levels. His first game as an international official came in November 1995 when Italy hosted South Africa and his test debut as a referee took place two and a half years later when Georgia faced Russia. White went on to act as touch judge in another 63 test matches and as a referee in three Heineken Cup finals including Munster’s win at the Millennium Stadium in 2006, two Premiership finals and one Tetley’s Bitter Cup final. He has currently been in charge of more Premiership matches than any other referee. Chris White said “I’m grateful for the immense support I have received from so many colleagues in so many places and roles over the years. I have been very fortunate to have witnessed many wonderful occasions and have been privileged to be on the field with the best players in the world. I am still enjoying all aspects of refereeing. IRB International Referee Manager Paddy O’Brien said, “Chris has been an outstanding contributor to international refereeing over the last 12 years and I would like to congratulate him on his 50th international. It is not just what Chris brings to the field of play but just as important is the respect and experience he brings to the international panel that has been a hallmark of a wonderful career.” RFU Elite Rugby Director Rob Andrew MBE said “Chris is a great role model for all elite referee’s and it’s a testimony to his ability that he has officiated at the highest level for such a long period of time and his 50th test match is richly deserved.” Ed Morrison, the RFU’s Head of Elite Referee Development said “Chris has made a significant contribution to officiating over a number of years both domestically and internationally. His 50th test appointment reflects the commitment he has shown. I’m sure that all his friends and colleagues will join me in congratulating Chris on this tremendous milestone.”
From Natal to Blackburn
Tony Simpson
Three South African referees on an exchange visit to the Manchester & District Society were happy to get involved in youth rugby. Blake Beattie, Stefan Gerber and Magnus Oosthuizen (pictured) from Natal Referees Union added an international flavour to the North Lancashire Year 8 Emerging Schools festival at Blackburn, accepting an invitation from organiser Greg Hodgkinson, the Fleetwood Community Rugby Coach. “The lads took advantage of the opportunity to taste a different rugby culture.” said Hodgkinson. “Their support for this local tournament was very much appreciated and they were impressed by the quality of rugby displayed. The festival proved to be another successful day for North Lancashire, their Rugby Development Officer Stuart Urquhart and the rest of his team. The Springbok referees were a hit with the players and teachers and this type of exchange can only benefit everyone and further strengthen the relationship with the Manchester Society, the Rugby Development Team and Natal Referee Union.”
