ARL launches NCEA match official initiative

ARL launches NCEA match official initiative

The Auckland Rugby League has today announced a new initiative which will see students able to gain NCEA credits by completing ARL match official modules.

The programme will begin next year and gives students the opportunity to gain 33 credits at NCEA (National Certificate of Educational Achievement) level 3, through modules focusing on core officiating skills, managing their performance as a sport official, as well as tactics, strategies and risk management in relation to match officiating.

ARL referees development officer John McKeown said the initiative was an important step in getting more young people involved in rugby league as both referees and sideline officials.

“This is an opportunity for high school students to gain NCEA credits in rugby league officiating, something many students have an interest in or a link to,” McKeown said.

“Modules like this can be the start of a pathway in match officiating, which can lead to a career with organisations like the National Rugby League, and with 33 credits offered it helps students to gain academic achievements as well.

“Most referees currently in the NRL started at this level and recommend it as the first step.”

ARL CEO John Ackland said the NCEA credit scheme was about rewarding people for taking up match officiating.

“This is a great addition to our mini/mod training programme that was introduced this year,” Ackland said.

“It should see an increase in the number of officials in the mini/mod grade almost immediately.

“Another outcome should be that more officials are progressing through our systems to referee, or act as sideline officials, at international grade and in competitions like the Appliance Shed Fox Memorial Premiership.”

ENDS

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