Anyone who attends a rugby league match in Queensland in 2024 will see a new initiative this year to support junior referees. The message is pretty simple, “If their socks are green, they are under 18”.
The BRLRA are big supporters of the campaign. It aims to create a positive environment for referees under the age of 18 in the Queensland Rugby League. Referees in this age group wear green socks to signify their age and status.
The campaign advocates for treating these young referees with respect, refraining from abuse, and understanding that they are still learning, just like the players.
By fostering a supportive atmosphere, the campaign aims to enhance the experience for young referees and contribute to their development in officiating rugby league matches.
QRL State match officials manager Clayton Sharpe said the initiative would complement the QRL’s existing Positive Environment Program (PEP).
“While wearing green socks may seem like a small change, it represents a powerful message for the rugby league community,” Mr Sharpe said.
“Primarily, it is about treating young referees with respect, refraining from abuse, and understanding that our emerging match officials are still learning, just like the players.
“We’re putting all of our resources into this to foster a supportive atmosphere and enhance the experience for young referees who make an immense contribution to our sport every year.”
BRLRA President Marc Sauvage encouraged all rugby league supporters to get behind the campaign.
“Our members will be wearing green socks this year and we welcome this great campaign aimed at keep our younger referees safe and engaged with the game we all love,” Mr Sauvage said.
“Referees are no different to the players. They need to learn the game and they do their best each and every week, and many do it just for fun. Hopefully the spectators who might think it is ok to provide some vocal feedback to our young members will think twice when they seen the green socks and realise they are young kids who are learning too. It is all about building a positive environment for everyone in the game and we all need to remember that.”
The BRLRA congratulates the Queensland Rugby League, QRL Officiating, Rugby League Brisbane and SEQ – South East Queensland Rugby League for supporting our younger members and junior referees all throughout Queensland.