The spring is here and it’s time for fitness testing again! Fitness standards have been in place for a year now, but please feel free to review. RATO feels that this allows for a more realistic pathway and holds the referee accountable for their development and fitness.
As a reference the TRRA Fitness standards were based on the current USA Rugby Fitness Standards [Beep Test]:
National Panel: Level 12
B Panel refs wanting to be considered for USA National Appts: Level 11
C1′s wanting to be considered for national appointments/B Panel: Level 10
TRRA Fitness Standards [Beep Test]:
C1s wishing to pursue USA B Panel – Achieve a minimum of Level 10
C1 – Level 9
C2 – Level 8
C3 – Level 7
NOTE: Here is the beep test audio or you can download the “Beep Test Trainer” App and it can be downloaded from iTunes here.
If a referee chooses not to take a fitness test (i.e. comply with a requirement for refereeing) then they may only receive matches well within their scope of experience related to their grade. They would also not be afforded any further opportunities for advancement/promotion and unavailable for exchanges.
Spring testing is due by Feb 15th, once completed send your results to rato@texasrugbyunion.com.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the TRRA Chair or TRRA Vice Chair with any questions.
For information about nutritional supplements for rugby referees to use during the fitness testing, please contact Tim Howard @RuckScience who will be able to provide further guidance.