So officials dont' use this power because they are afraid to up the ante?

No, but you have to gauge carefully when and where to use it.

In my opinion it should be used in anything U16. Zero tolerance simples

A colleague of mine took his son (age around 12 or so) to both the local League team and the Union team. He was appalled at the level of abuse from the touchline at the league game and the parents encouraging foul play on the pitch. That’s just one kid lost to our game, but it could well be many more

It needs to be resolved quickly

Quite right.

Tim2 you shouldnt let people walk all over you.

I agree. However all refs have to do it and all leagues have to back it up.

I'm not afraid to do it but once you start you are then expected to do the same to anybody from either side who says anything. You have enough to worry about on the field (remember player safety is paramount, not the ref's feelings).

It's very disconcerting when refs take a stand and then are not backed up by disciplinary action.

Man up a bit Tim.

If some parents give you a hard time use whatever powers are available to deal with it effectively.


If everyone in your position did then we wouldnt have the problems you have mentioned.

Perhaps you should give it a go. There is a shortage of refs!

Too bloody right you should do it to anyone on either side! as for safety surely people on touch line actively encouraging and praising foul play could cause a situation leading to a serious injury?

I'm too busy at weekends.

That's easier to say than to do. I've been at U16 games in the past where the ref has been chased from the pitch by "fans"/coaches/players of one side. I've also seen U16 games where the ref has been in his changing room with players of 1 team attempting to break down the door, fortunately he managed to leg it to his car.

It all stems from an incredibly aggressive and intimidating atmosphere that is allowed to develop at some clubs and which is never adequately challenged and punished by BARLA.

On the VT we often talk about how we expand the player pool that we can pick from. Getting rid of the ridiculous, backward, pathetic scenes like these at all levels of the amateur game is the best way we could "expand" rugby league.

Referee's should get rid of any idiots shouting foul and abusive language on the touchline, especially coaches. If it's the parents, then tell the coaches to sort them or else you'll abandon the game. Be strong with your words and strong with your actions.

If a referee feels it necessary to run away from a bunch of spotty school kids who probably haven't even started shaving yet then he really ought to find a more suitable hobby.

I would suggest curtain making, knitting or gardening.