In partnership with the RFL Match Officials and Referees Department and Leeds Rugby League Referee’s Society, Leeds Rhinos Foundation are delighted to announce that the charity’s Ref with the Rhinos programme is back, invented to develop the next generation of Rugby League referees.
The programme is aimed at those aged 14 to 18 and links to the newly formed Leeds Rhinos Foundation Match Officials Development Academy.
This day will be an introduction to the programme, providing the participants with an overall insight into how they can benefit from taking part and how it can positively impact their refereeing career.
The topics of conversation will include an overview of the programme, our aims, participant benefits and on completion of the course, where this could lead them on their journey.
The specific discussion points will be as follows:
Overview
An opportunity for individuals to access free refereeing development workshops and to be involved in unique Leeds Rhinos events, such as opportunities to officiate here at AMT Headingley Stadium.
Aim
To develop and support the next generation of referees through continued training, providing an exclusive pathway through both the RFL and the Leeds Rhinos.
Participant Benefits
· Match Officials RFL qualification
· Leads to other National Accreditations
· Invaluable work experience
· CV builder
· Social development opportunities
· Valuable transferable employment skills
· Opportunity to work with the Rhinos
· Involvement in the professional sporting industry
· Doing your bit to help the community
· Continued CPD and workshops.
Where could it lead?
· Become a valued member of your Community Club
· Opportunity for paid work with the RFL’s referee society
· Work opportunities within the community sport industry
In the past, these points have been reinforced through real-life case studies, including Tom Grant, Liam Rush, and Jack Broadbent. We will also benefit from the support of Ben Thaler, the RFL’s Development Manager. Ben will assist with the programme and qualification, collaborating with Ryan Cox. Following the course, Ben will continue to support the Ref with the Rhinos Academy by conducting CPD workshops in partnership with the Leeds Rhinos Foundation.

Sam Horner, Community and Rugby League Development Officer here at the Foundation, commented on the programme:
“We are so pleased to announce that the Ref with the Rhinos programme is running again this Year. We offer chances for the education and growth of young individuals, encouraging their involvement in Rugby League. This involvement extends beyond playing, encompassing roles in officiating as well.
“We look forward to engaging with the young referees and nurturing them for the future of our game.
“It is brilliant that we will be supported by the RFLs first grade referee and newly appointed Referees Development Manager, Ben Thaler, on the Ref with the Rhinos Programme.
“Ben’s experience will add to the programmes professionalism and experience the young referees will have. We also look forward to Ben`s ideas and support on the Ref with the Rhinos CPD Academy, post course.”