Mike Whittaker
Referees in England
- Joined
- Mar 5, 2005
- Messages
- 1,778
- Post Likes
- 2
It is unfortunate that argument still continues on the rights and wrongs of a red card which, it would appear, is now accepted as a correct decision by most referees and those who manage and administer the game of rugby. So why does the controversy continue and what can be done to prevent a recurrence of such misunderstanding?
The IRB was responsible for the original directive issued. The intent of the directive is clear even if the precise wording leaves something to be desired. Those concerned with applying it have had no difficulty in understanding it and yet even at the highest level it has not been fully applied by all on every occasion.
Among the fans who watch our game there is clearly a sad lack of understanding of the law or its application.
The IRB and constituent bodies should be concerned by this - such ignorance based controversy should not overshadow our game in this way. The time has come for the IRB etc to address the issue of awareness of the laws and guidance directives issued across the globe. For players and referees, ignorance of the law is no excuse, but for the wider audience a bit of publicity and promotion would surely not be out of order? How this is achieved is a matter for PR professionals and the sooner they begin to look at it the better.
On a slight aside there have been comments as to whom the game of rugby 'belongs'. Is it players, fans, etc? I would suggest that it belongs to nobody - it is there for us all to enjoy in whatever capacity we wish, and it is for all of us to ensure that it continues to the benefit of all.
The IRB was responsible for the original directive issued. The intent of the directive is clear even if the precise wording leaves something to be desired. Those concerned with applying it have had no difficulty in understanding it and yet even at the highest level it has not been fully applied by all on every occasion.
Among the fans who watch our game there is clearly a sad lack of understanding of the law or its application.
The IRB and constituent bodies should be concerned by this - such ignorance based controversy should not overshadow our game in this way. The time has come for the IRB etc to address the issue of awareness of the laws and guidance directives issued across the globe. For players and referees, ignorance of the law is no excuse, but for the wider audience a bit of publicity and promotion would surely not be out of order? How this is achieved is a matter for PR professionals and the sooner they begin to look at it the better.
On a slight aside there have been comments as to whom the game of rugby 'belongs'. Is it players, fans, etc? I would suggest that it belongs to nobody - it is there for us all to enjoy in whatever capacity we wish, and it is for all of us to ensure that it continues to the benefit of all.