Match Officials are an integral part of any sport and Rugby League is no exception. Whether it be an under 12s fixture or Leeds v Wigan there would not be a game without the brave men and women who pick up the whistle or flag.

Being a referee is a highly rewarding and enjoyable experience. Previous experience, age, gender are no barrier to becoming a match official (all we ask if that you are over 12 years old). In the professional game there are officials ranging from 18 years old through to 55 year olds and both men and women.

To become a referee could not be simplier and you will be supported from the day you first engage as a match official right through to the day you retire.

How to become a match official:

1) Enrol and attend a course, all Midlands courses will be published on this website but if you want to attend a course elsewhere they can be found by clicking here. Registration forms are available by clicking here

2) Join your local match officials society. They will look after you as an official and provide support and development. Joining a society also means you are fully covered should anything go wrong.

3) Referee or Touch Judge your first game

For more information contact the Match Officials Development Officer, Danny McNeice on danny.mcneice@rfl.uk.com or 07775 022800