Grey socks initiative backing our new referees

Grey socks are the new look for in-training match officials around the grounds, as the Canberra Region Rugby League (CRRL) and the Canberra & District Rugby League Referees Association (CDRLRA) ramp up their support for learning referees.

For Rugby League supporters attending CRRL fixtures in 2024, a match official wearing grey socks signifies that they are first year referees who are still learning their craft. 

The grey socks initiative aims to attract more referees and boost retention by creating a positive officiating environment. This includes treating these referees with respect, refraining from abuse, and understanding that they are still learning, just like the players.

By fostering a supportive and encouraging environment, the campaign aims to enhance the experience for new referees and contribute to their development in officiating rugby league matches.

The CRRL's General Manager Mark Vergano said the grey socks represent a strong message to the rugby league community and aims to mitigate prominent behavioural issues from spectators.

"The grey socks initiative sees a number of sports in the ACT actively identifying the newer referees so spectators, parents and coaches understand that we have a young person in training and learning their craft," Vergano said. 

"The main messages for the rugby league community is that a less experienced referee needs time, support, positive reinforcement and understanding from those not in the centre, so that we help nurture them and not drive them away by negative sideline reactions, criticism and abuse. 

"Unfortunately, across many sports there are supporters who seem to forget that the match officials are also participants doing a job to the best of their ability and just one instance of bad behaviour on the sidelines with criticism or being disrespectful does cost sports match officials.

"We are hoping that with a visual cue, that spectators, parents and coaches will be reminded that young referees need nurturing and support not criticism and abuse."