Between the September 2024 tackle-height rollout, the January 2025 Global Law Trials, and the newest maul guideline this June, it’s been a busy two years for the law book. Here’s a working reference for MSRRS members — what’s changed, how to call it, and the stock answer for the coach who wants to know why… Continue reading What’s Changed Since 2024 — And What to Tell Players When They Ask “Why Don’t You Call It Like TV?”
Law Changes for July 2024
On 9 May 2024, World Rugby Council agreed to law changes in three areas covering: The following are the areas of law with the new law wording. They come into effect on 1 July 2024. From that date, they will be reflected in World Rugby’s digital law content. Offside in front of a kicker Rationale: Teams… Continue reading Law Changes for July 2024
2025-2026 USA Game Management Guidelines
These Game Management Guidelines are created upon the principles and spirit of the game, to clarify law application and to provide all rugby participants direction, and a foundation for the game to be played. This is published and distributed by USA Rugby.
Technical Zones Explained
The technical zone is crucial for player safety, event organization, and spectator enjoyment. It is easy to mark the areas with a rope/divider, cones, pain, and good communication amongst all participants. The following are features of an adequate technical zone: The technical zone is defined as the space in front of the rope/barrier between the 10 m… Continue reading Technical Zones Explained
Referee Coaching Reports
The Midwest Rugby referee Society referee development committee, chaired by Billy Koval and assisted by to Tim Enos and Dan Frankenfeld, have published a referee coaching report. This report aids in communication between the referee and coach, and also documents a referee’s progression, when compared across games and seasons. In order to advance from C3… Continue reading Referee Coaching Reports
Effective Referee-player Communication
Much of referee training centers around knowing the laws, knowing where to be to see the game, and being sufficiently fit to transition along the best positions through the game. Early in one’s referee development, communication is limited to “whistle, signal, talk.” It is the all important aspect of signaling and stating why we blew… Continue reading Effective Referee-player Communication