🏉 Referee Pre-Match Duties – 60 Minutes Before Kick-Off
🔍 1. Arrive at the Venue
Ensure you are at the venue no later than 60 minutes before the match.
Check in with the match organiser or ground official.
📋 2. Inspect the Field
Walk the field to check safety:
No foreign objects, holes, or dangerous conditions.
Properly padded goalposts and clearly marked lines.
Ensure technical zones, team benches, and spectator areas are correctly set up.
🧍♂️ 3. Meet with Team Managers
Collect team sheets and confirm:
Player jersey numbers match the team sheet.
All players have valid ID and BokSmart accreditation (mandatory in South Africa).
Front row players are properly identified and meet safety requirements.
📖 4. Conduct the BokSmart & ID Check
Confirm that:
All players and team officials have valid BokSmart numbers.
IDs or registration cards are available for verification.
Note any discrepancies and report if necessary.
👥 5. Meet with Assistant Referees (ARs) or Touch Judges
Go over:
Roles and responsibilities (e.g., foul play, offsides, lineouts).
Communication signals and positioning.
Confirm radios or flags are working (if applicable).
📣 6. Pre-Match Talk with Captains
Clarify expectations on:
Discipline, respect, and communication.
Specific rules (e.g., scrum engagement, contesting kicks).
Water breaks or heat-related protocols, if applicable.
📝 7. Final Paperwork and Game Cards
Ensure all necessary match forms are completed.
Double-check team sheets, especially for late changes or substitutions.
👟 8. Personal Preparation
Warm up: jog, stretch, and mentally prepare.
Check gear:
Whistle, cards (yellow/red), coin, watch(es), pen.
Proper kit in line with match regulations.
📲 9. Contact with Match Commissioner (if assigned)
Confirm kickoff time, disciplinary procedures, and any special instructions.
Address any issues identified during field or team inspection.
🕒 10. Countdown to Kick-Off
Be on the field 5–10 minutes before kickoff.
Confirm both teams are ready and conduct the coin toss with captains.
