ARURS 53rd Annual Dinner
ARURS held its 53rd Annual Dinner in The Indian Army Memorial Room of RMA Sandhurst on the eve of the Army vs. Navy fixture. Former Team GB badminton mixed-doubles World Champion and Olympic silver medallist Gail Emms MBE was the guest of honour and after dinner entertained members of the Society and their guests with amusing tales of her journey to Olympic success and some of the (not so) subtle methods she employed to influence and win over Referees.
The Society’s Chairman, Lt Col Gary McDade gave a short review of the season in which he recognised and congratulated the outstanding achievement of two ARURS members, Iain Kiy and Nikki O’Donnell on their selection to the 2019/20 National Panel before thanking the Society’s principal guests for the evening, Ian and Allyson Robinson from Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group, for the company’s generous shirt sponsorship for next season. The evening culminated with the presentation of the Society’s awards for the 18/19 season: New Referee of the Season was awarded to Jack Kingman, who regrettably in true SPOTY tradition wasn’t at the Dinner to collect his award but who no doubt has a promising future with the Society; Martin Bentley was rewarded for the huge amount of work he has done for the society this year with the ARURS Award for Commitment before the Chairman then presented Nikki O’Donnell with her award of ARURS Referee of the Season. Huge congratulations to all three award winners. Members and their guests then retired to the bar to swap BBC Question of Sport and Radio 5 Live Fighting Talk anecdotes with Gail and take selfies with her Gold and Silver medals.
ARURS 53rd Annual Dinner and Awards
ARURS members and guests assemble for pre-dinner drinks
ARURS Referee of the Year, Nikki O’Donnell receiving her award from ARURS Chairman Lt Col Gary McDade
Martin Bentley receiving his ARURS Award for Commitment from ARURS Chairman, Lt Col Gary McDade
Gail Emms MBE recounting her life as an Olympian
Athens 2004 Olympic Silver Medal
RFU referees to make Six Nations bow
Please view the full article on the England Rugby Website
Value the Volunteer 2018-19 WO1 (ASM) Martin Bentley REME
On the Saturday 3 Nov Martin Bentley was invited with Alison (his rugby widow) to the home of rugby. The day commenced with a visit to the England rugby changing rooms, continuing with visits to hear from the groundsman (look at the pitch but don’t touch), the Sky sport studio to meet Alex Payne and a visit to the royal box. There was then enough time to have lunch and then watch England narrowly beat South Africa. This was followed by yet more food and a post-match dinner which concluded by being presented with a value the volunteer award by Eddie Jones. This was the end to amazing day and a fantastic experience.
ARU Referee Nikki O’Donnell First Senior International Fixture
ARU Referee Nikki O’Donnell has had a great run of games recently. Lt O’Donnell is a regular Nursing Officer working at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC) which recently moved from Headley Court to Stanford Hall. Nikki has been refereeing civilian (RFU) and Army games (ARURS) for the last 6 years. She is amongst the top three female referees in England and this weekend officiated her first senior international game.
This international game follows a superb start to the 2018/19 season. She refereed her first Men’s National Two game at Henley at the start of the season, followed by the UKAF vs South Africa at Rosslyn Park RFC midweek and then Wales vs South Africa at Cardiff Arms Park stadium in front of a large crowd at the weekend.
In the next few days she will preside over England Academy vs USA Academy. In refereeing terms she’s one to watch for the future. We wish her luck in the future and are very grateful for her military Chain of command for their support.
Nikki is a fantastic example of the opportunities available to military referees both male and female. For more information on becoming a referee please go to https://www.armyrugbyunion.org.uk/aru-referees/
Sadly, we say goodbye to
William Oliver Davies
One of life’s characters to the game and will be sadly missed by many who have had the privilege to have known him.
ARURS would like to pass on our condolences to his family and friends for the loss of a great ambassador to the game who passed away last month after a long fight.
RIP Soldier/Brother – thank you for your service and friendship
Lt Nikki O’Donnell QARANC takes charge of the men at Twickenham
On the 5th May our very own Nikki O’Donnell lead the team of five officials to referee the annual Twickenham fixture between the UK Armed Forces U23 v Oxbridge U23 which is the show opening fixture before the Army v Navy game. Congratulations also goes to Maj Marcus Monier-Williams appointed as AR4 for the fixture supporting Nikki. Congratulations to you both from ARURS on your appointments and your professionalism.
Proud team of five before the UKAF fixture.
WHISTLE BLOWING IN ABUJA FESTIVAL OF RUGBY
Our very own Col Tim Harper put his boots back on to officiate in the “Festival of Rugby” on 18 Mar 18, comprising of three teams from the British Forces Nigeria, Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), and the local Rugby Club, Abuja Rugby Club (ARC). This was a Rugby Union 10’s Tournament held at the Guards Division Headquarters, located just outside of Abuja. After fierce competition in the afternoon sun, the NASI emerged victorious, with British Forces Nigeria taking second place. Prizes were awarded by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Harriet Thompson, and a BBQ held for the crowd that turned out to watch. This was the first of it’s kind playing rugby – the tournament further strengthened bonds between the British and Nigerian Military, and the local population, and was deemed an overall success. For ARURS, this was another location our referees officiating across the globe promoting our positive standards and core values, Max Marsden (Appointer for the Global locations) stated “this was an iconic moment for the society seeing one of its members lead on officiating in a growing rugby location within Nigeria.
Teams, officials and management for the first Abuja Festival of Rugby
Col Tim Harper showing his refereeing skills in the sun
ARMY REFEREES ENJOY A WEEKEND OF TOP CLASS 7s RUGBY
Referees of the Army Rugby Union Referees Society (ARURS) have been busy in recent weeks over the summer officiating at several Army representative appointments within the close season, is the season truly a closed season! The weekend of the 15 July 17 saw the South West Regional Play-Offs for the 24/7 RFU Series taking place at Exeter the home of the current Premiership Rugby Champions at the same time of the European 7s Series.
Keen to represent the Army at this prestigious event, a team of referees travelled to Exeter which included Rob Melhuish, Rich Smith, Toby Rowe, Pauli Namasta and Iain Kiy. With excellent weather and the RFU’s core values on display from all participants, a spectacular day of Rugby was had by all, some superb matches displaying local talent in abundance from teams which included the Royal Marines, Royal Navy Sharks, University of Exeter and South West Wales.
Our referees delivered on the day and was rewarded by being selected for two finals, Toby (or Tobias to his friends) and Pauli were selected to referee the Elite Men’s and Women’s Finals on the main pitch at Sandy Park Stadium in front of Europeans best 7s teams. A great day not only for rugby but also for our ARURS contingent who performed outstandingly well throughout the day, great ambassadors for the society.
Pauli, Toby, Jack and Iain enjoying the media attention!
The Army’s A Team
Toby trying to get selected for Exeter for the coming season, sadly he was informed he was getting too old to play!
Referee Top Brass Supports the Cadets Annual 7s Competition
Saturday 8th April saw the annual Army Cadet Force 7s take place at spectacular Christ College, Brecon where 13 teams from across the UK embraced the 7s game in blazing sunshine with a team of 8 ARURS referees officiating over the 4 pitches.
Keen to show ARURS and ARU support for the ACF as a member of the rugby family and also to support one of our own referees (Brigadier Matt Lowe in his role as Deputy Commander Cadets in HQ Regional Command), ARURS Chairman Colonel David Wakefield and Lieutenant Colonel Charles Bromley-Gardner were among those who answered the call along with Andy Locke, Stu Kiddie, Ioan Evans, Graham Neal and Jimmy Fraser.
With the RFU’s core values (Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, Sportsmanship) all on display throughout the day from players, coaches, officials and supporters, a wonderful and memorable day for all was the inevitable outcome: a privilege for all of us to be involved. Overall a great display of rugby for everyone involved.
Keeping a watchful eye on playing standards our own ARURS trio on guard – Col David Wakefield, Brig Matt Lowe, Lt Col Charles Bromley Gardner
MATT DUNCAN ON DUTY FOR THE 6 NATIONS 2017
On the 18th March 2017, one of ARURS top officials was on duty at Murrayfield, Edinburgh for the final game for Scotland in the 6 Nations against Italy.
Being selected for his commitment to the game and continued performances on and off the field, it was a pleasant surprise being selected for a prestige appointment by the SRU.
We would like to congratulation Matt not only on his appointment but also leading ARURS in Scotland developing the new referees in their careers.
Outstanding achievement – Well Done Sir
JIMMY FRASER LEADS TO MATCH OFFICIALS FOR THE NAT BT BOWL SEMI FINAL 2017
ARURS Jimmy Fraser had the pleasure of leading the team of referees for the Nat BT Bowl Semi Final on Saturday 25th March 2017 in Scotland. This is a proud moment for Jimmy as he juggles his military commitments with his beloved sport. However, his enjoyment didn’t stop on the park, later in the day during the Highland Rugby Referees Association Dinner, Jimmy was awarded the “Referee of the Year” for his commitment and dedication shown throughout the season. This is an outstanding achievement for a true stalwart to the game and I know that everyone within ARURS congratulate Jimmy on his achievements – well done Sir
Jimmy Fraser before he takes charge of the semi final supported by two veterans of the game Ben Evans and Bill Mitchell both SRU.
Jimmy Fraser receiving his “Referee of the Year” Award from Highland Rugby Referees Association
NEVER FEAR ‘ROY IS HERE’ – WELL THAT’S WHAT EDDIE JONES SAID TO THE PRESS
During last Novembers Autumn Internationals, our very own Hon Sec obtained a golden ticket to watch England in training at Pennyhill Park prior to the England v Fiji match where another serviceman was selected for his second cap and gaining man of the match – Semesa Rokoduguni.
“Rocket Roy” as it we later found out was ready to lead from the front during the S&C phase of training, with his camera and clip board taken from his civil engineering background he produced strategies and plans to beat the others in getting as many photos of his favourite Bath players he could – trust me he didn’t fail!
That said, it was an amazing experience which the RFU Volunteer Awards Team delivered for a group of rugby enthusiasts which embraced the cores values of our sport, for ARURS, we have an extremely happy Hon Sec not only seeing the training and facilities but also seeing some of England’s International players.
Well done Roy Serevena, much deserved for your hard work and dedication.
Roy slyly asking if he can see the Bath players next!
Roy with his kicker heroes George Ford, glad he moved to Bath to play his rugby
JJ as we are now close mates ☺
JP Doyle, its true you are taller than Rocket Roy!
“GOOD NEWS STORY”
One of the leading members of ARURS, Referee Max Marsden is taking a break from training as a surgeon for the next three years to focus on an academic adventure as a research registrar at the Centre for Trauma Sciences at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel. Being selected on merit through his drive and passion evident in his career as a military Doctor and Sportsman, he has taken up the challenge on studying how to predict a complication that affects some injured casualties called “Trauma Induced Coagulopathy”. Trauma induced coagulopathy affects about 20-30% of injured casualties and slightly higher in battlefield injured patients. These patients have a much higher mortality and require more resources to treat them. The hope is that this research will have a direct impact on the care of our injured service men and women in the future. During his studies he will be working with London Air Ambulance and two leading experts in trauma care and research; Colonel Nigel Tai and Professor Karim Brohi. There is a silver lining to this news, Max will have more time to blow his whistle and lead on some if the ARURS projects for the coming season.
Congratulations Max on being selected for the studies, a true ambassador for the medical profession, the military and sport in general.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ARURS APPOINTMENTS TEAM
Massive congratulations to the ARURS Appointments Team on being formally recognised in the recent RFU Presidents Awards held at Twickenham during the recent England v Wales match before the southern hemisphere tours.
“As a Welshman, it was a great honour to be in Twickenham for the Awards” said Southern Appointer Nick Jones, “the team has worked hard over the season and we are all excited for the start of the next but I will need to enjoy the summer first”.
Well done team for all the members of ARURS, keep up the great work.
The Appointments Team receiving their award from
RFU President Jason Leonard OBE
ARURS ANNUAL DINNER 2016
ARURS held its 50th Dinner at the home of military leadership; Royal Military Academy Sandhurst hosting a number of members, guests and most welcoming the President of the RFU – Jason Leonard OBE.
The night was a great success embracing the remarkable achievements over the past decades and current season which included a number of match officials supporting the game all over the globe in various events from Brunei, Falkland’s, Canada to the home nations.
First of the prize winners was the ARURS Referee of the Year, this year unanimously Matt Duncan took the award for his performances and commitment to the game.
Matt receiving his award from the RFU President – Jason Leonard
New Referee of the Year went to one of the stalwarts in Corps Rugby, Toby Rowe who only took his course in Sep 15, he is now a leading member of ARURS and his local civilian society, a true credit to the game and its core values.
Toby Rowe enjoying the first of many awards at the start of his refereeing career
Also, 3 special awards were given out this year for commitment to rugby and ARURS for over 20 years; Des Chapman, Sid Goodall and John Voss all received ARURS Golden Whistle, an achievement that only a few will achieve. All 3 have been great ambassadors to the game and we have all in some way be supported by them during our playing, refereeing and coaching careers.
Also, 3 special awards were given out this year for commitment to rugby and ARURS for over 20 years; Des Chapman, Sid Goodall and John Voss all received ARURS Golden Whistle, an achievement that only a few will achieve. All 3 have been great ambassadors to the game and we have all in some way be supported by them during our playing, refereeing and coaching careers.
Hon Sec Handover
Col Dave Wakefield, ARURS Chairman, met with Maj Justin Sampson at Army HQ on 12 May 16 when he was able to present Justin with two tokens of ARURS’s appreciation for Justin’s time as ARURS Honorary Secretary: an ARURS plaque and a glass trophy, both with engraved plaques expressing the Society’s gratitude.
Justin was ARURS Hon Sec for four years, handing over to Maj Roy Serevena at the end of last season. For much of his time as Hon Sec he was based in Germany in a particularly demanding staff job, and as a Society we are all indebted to him for the work he was able to do on all our behalves throughout his time as Hon Sec but especially during those “Germany years”.
This past season though has been a frustrating one for Justin with injury keeping him out of refereeing both for ARURS as his civilian society. However, we hope to welcome him back into active ARURS officiating for the start of next season, either on the pitch or, if still recovering from injury, supporting assessing/coaching; in either role there will be many ARURS members and ARU players who will benefit from it.
Congratulations to Iain Kiy
Iain at the recent Inter Services as an Assistant Referee
Today we received great news that Iain Kiy has been selected to the South West Group of referees after this seasons promising performances at Level 5. Iain who you will find normally with his head in the clouds (after all he is an Army Pilot!) has been tested this season in many ways and performed above the standards expected. ARURS wish him well for the future which we know is promising, all the very best Iain.
Still going at retirement age!
As they say the show must go on, well this is the case with our very own master of refereeing – Des Chapman.
After retiring from the Army after a long number of years, retiring as a civil servant he still hasn’t retired from picking up the whistle and having a blast not only from his lungs but also with the banter from the players and spectators at his local club in Long Eaton, Nottingham.
Regimental to the end, standing upright and neck in the back of the collar!
Always ready to play advantage, many could take his lead as some senior coaches would and have said over the years
It is said, the secret to having a long career in refereeing is to have your own protection team looking after you, he is Des being escorted to a game in Cyprus, no one told them he was only going to watch them play!
Assisting the training on a local course.
Training how it should be done, in the sun, relaxed and everyone enjoying themselves!
ARURS are would like to thank you for your support over the years and we look forward to your continuous support for many years to come. See you on the side of a pitch soon or supporting your favourite team Baff!!
Congratulations to Richard
The 2014-15 ARURS Commitment Award was presented to Richard Shore for his tremendous support to the development of referees for a number of years. Never shy to the elements and personal fitness, Richard has been on the sidelines of many pitches watching games within the military and civilian societies. Many have been developed by his selfless dedication and ARURS is privileged to have a committed member amongst its team of assessors – well done Richard from us all.
Richard receiving his award during the ARURS Training Day by Chairman Col Dave Wakefield
Chairman teaching England the way forward
Chairman of ARURS met up with some of the Bath Players celebrating 150 years of Bath Rugby, team talks and playing strategies were discussed along with the one on one advice on Jonathan Joseph running lines and side step.
It has been said that they look like last years auditions for X-Factor but we are not going to say the ARURS Sec passed this comment!
Training in Aldershot
Mar 15 saw the Training Team deliver in Aldershot at the School of the Physical Training. Training included both practical and theory with the final day putting what was taught into practice either refereeing a game or running the line in support of a referee.
Master of the Scrum, Martin showing the correct way to manage the engagement.
All trained and ready for the action!
Warminster Training
The ARURS Training Team went to Warminster to deliver the southern November 15 course in the hurricane weather which hide the poor attempts of the moustache competition which some were trying to grow!
Another great course which was blessed by our own student an Army Vicar made the training much fun and enjoyable. Congratulations to all those who passed and good luck in your refereeing and coaching careers.
The Yorkshire Gunners Referee Training
The home of the Yorkshire Gunners hosted L2 Referee course in November 15 to promote the game played in the North of the UK and beyond. The wind swept Marne Bks kept the training outside limited, not due to the course being all Army – the wind and rain didn’t let you stand in one place! However, thanks to the Gym, training took place with all enjoying the non contact style of the forwards and dynamic running of the backs.
An enjoyable course had by all with many students already been out refereeing not only for the military but also for the civilian societies in the local area.
Training in Germany and NO snow!
December in Germany is normally cold with snow and frost, however, this year the L2 Referee course held in Sennelager, Germany went well with all players, coaches and enthusiasts enjoying the 3 day training.
The course had a mix of experience from ex professional players, coaches and military police that keep everyone on time and in the correct place at all times. Thanks must go to Col Ritson Harrison and Tyke for the support as always in supporting training and referee development. If you are in Germany/Europe and wish to referee, please don’t hesitate contacting ARURS TDO for contact details.
Army Sports Awards in London
Roy and Matt prior to the awards, family jealousy clearly on show as Matt had to hide his medals!”
Two members of the ARURS (some would say father and son) attended the prestigious Army Sports Awards on 25 November 2015 at the Guildhall in London. Representatives from all Army sports were in attendance and the event was hosted by the Chief of the General Staff General Sir Nicholas Carter and Sky Sports presenter Hayley McQueen. Also in attendance were a number of international sportsmen and women including World Cup Winner Maggie Alphonsie, Matt Dawson and Garth Crooks.
World Cup Winner Maggie Alphonsie promoting the ARURS membership pin badge or is it Roy asking her to buy him a drink?
Following on from a photo call for all junior ranks with CGS the evening opened up with a video montage of Army sports that had taken place throughout the year, this included Army rugby at the IDRC and the Inter-Services where ARURS members delivered some excellent performances both on and off the field.
Members of the Society were in good form, mingling with celebrities and sponsors alike as well as issuing out ARURS pin badges to both international athletes and TV personalities, as well as some of the most Senior Officers in the British Army; rumour has it that CGS took a pin badge away in his pocket – swift and bold!
We were fortunate to have Karl Dickson of Harlequins Rugby on the ARU table who is training as a referee as well as being a very accomplished scrum half. Karl has established himself as a competent referee with a view on officiating professionally once he retires from playing.
Matt, Karl and Roy talking referee tactics for the season
Official of the Year was won by Capt Chris Roberts, RAPTC, for his efforts in boxing…the question being asked by a number of senior officers and sports stars on the evening – “how long before an ARURS official is going to be included on the shortlist?” It’s only a matter of time with the abundance of talent in the Society right now at all levels of the game.
Overall it was a great night promoting the best of the British Army’s Sports Personalities and Achievements which ARURS has been involved on the journey, it is said that next year Sir Roy (some say Matt’s Dad) will start supporting a real team as in Harlequins or Ospreys, we will see as he was going to buy the drinks but that never happened.
The thing to remember is that “Rugby was the Winner”
ARMY REFEREES SHOW A STRONG DISPLAY IN THE IDRC 2015
Army referees where amoungst the starting referees opening the second International Defence Rugby Cup held within England from the 5-29 Oct 15. Teams from around the world over the next few weeks will be playing to be crowned the International Champion which is currently held by the British Army.
Congratulations to those who supported a great first leg of the competition.
SELECTION TO THE NATIONAL PANEL OF ASSISTANT REFEREES
The Army Rugby Union Referees Society would like to congratulate Maj Andy Scott QARANC on his selection to the RFU National Panel of Assistant Referees.
Andy who normally spends his time in or near an operating theatre balences his civilian career with his military career as a Reservist in the Queen Alexandra Royal Army Nursing Corps as a Threater Nurse where he has recently returned from operations.
His latest tour assisted him in training for the testing regieme which opened the doors to his selection to the National Panel of Assistant Referees. This is an exceptional achievement which we all wish him the very best for the coming season.
ROYAL SIGNALS LEAD THE CORPS IN TRAINING REFEREES
At the beginning of the season during pre season training, the Royal Signals lead the charge in the development of coaches and players in conducting the first L2 Referee course held at Blandford early September. 11 members of the Corps led by Capt Toby Rowe undertook the training both on and off the field to gain the qualification to referee within the Army. The course was delivered by the Army Rugby Union Referee Society experienced trainers who enjoyed the challenges of teaching the course but also the development of understanding for the game with the Corps Coaching Staff.
If you are interested in becoming a referee, please go to the following link:
https://www.armyrugbyunion.org.uk/aru-referees/arurs-training or email johnvoss1@hotmail.com.
Have a great season, remember “Rugby is the Winner”
ARMY COMMUNITY 10’s – 2nd Sep 15
Was that seriously a knock on and a yellow card?
On a sunny Wednesday morning, a horde of ARURS officials descended on Staines RFC to what was hoped would be a great opportunity to blow out the cobwebs at the start of the season; that’s not what happened though. A low turn out of teams across the community leagues (7 in total) meant that game time was limited to a single match in the middle each as the ARURS could have fielded their own 10’s team and continued to officiate the tournament. That said, there was the opportunity for some of the more junior refs to get some guidance from the senior refs present and the training value was a worthwhile trip up the M3. Special mentions for the day should go to Adam McRae for going to ground far too easily and Robert Melhuish for receiving ref of the tournament from a James Cook after only completing his initial course in the summer.
Embracing the core values of the game – Respect
Roy Serevena and Adam Hughes showing the new Landing Point Commanders signals on the rugby field.
Tyson, a new referee showing he can control the game in a Fijian relaxed style.
CORPS FESTIVAL – 16th September 15
The corps festival was well represented this year giving ample opportunity for time in the middle for most of the referees who braved the incoming storms. After a bright start to the day the weather deteriorated by lunchtime into a dark and wet afternoon, challenging the referees to keep their scorecards dry and the AR’s to keep warm!
How dare an RAPTC Rugby Player beat me at sprints!
The games were of a particularly high standard and with the army selectors present their were definitely some points to prove from the players. The infantry turned up with a strong squad, as did the Gunners and Sappers. After some tight finishes to games the Corps 1 final ended up being between the Gunners and Infantry with the Gunners coming out (just) on top.
Refereeing can at times be a lonely job, especially when the rain comes down!
Special mentions go out (again) to Adam McRae for another spectacular dive to the floor and Adam Hughes who managed to take the women’s final all the way to the end of extra time but was saved by a sudden death score in the final minute of the game! Likewise, Matt Duncan was relieved not to have refereed yet another draw at the end of regular time in the Corps 1 final with a last minute try winning the game.
Matt, not another extra time finish, can I get a penalty out of this scrum somehow?
Adam McRae staying on his feet for the morning, can say the same for the afternoon.
Who’s idea was it to ask for rain? CBG sporting the new dry headgear for the season.