About

Devon Rugby Referees is the home of rugby union refereeing in Devon

We support referees at every stage - from first whistle to performance rugby - through training, coaching, development opportunities, appointments support, and a friendly community that genuinely wants you to succeed.

We work closely with clubs, schools and competitions across the county to help ensure matches are safe, fair, and enjoyable for everyone involved.

What we do

We provide practical, week-in-week-out support for referees and the Devon rugby community, including:

  • Referee training & entry routes for new referees
  • Ongoing development: workshops, law updates, fitness support, match management skills
  • Coaching & observation: feedback, assessments, and tailored improvement plans
  • Appointments & availability guidance (where applicable)
  • Welfare and safeguarding support for referees
  • Discipline support and guidance on reporting and process
  • A community network—mentoring, peer support, and shared learning
  • Pathway support for referees aiming for higher levels

Why join DRR

Joining DRR means you’re not doing it alone. You’ll get:

  • Better games, sooner: structured support that builds confidence fast
  • Real development: coaching and feedback to help you improve every season
  • A pathway: opportunities to progress to higher-level competitions
  • Connection: meet other referees, share experiences, and enjoy the social side
  • Support when it matters: safeguarding, discipline and welfare guidance
  • Credibility: being part of the official refereeing community in Devon

Whether you want to referee once a month or push for performance rugby, DRR helps you get there.

History

DRR was founded in 1908 to support and develop rugby referees across Devon—promoting consistent standards, referee welfare, and a strong community culture.

Landmark achievements

Over the years, DRR has helped to:

  • Build a strong referee training programme for new starters
  • Create a culture of coaching, observation, and continuous improvement
  • Support referees progressing into higher-level appointments
  • Strengthen relationships with Devon clubs, competitions, and rugby partners

Our referees in high-profile matches

We’re proud that DRR members have gone on to officiate at significant levels of the game—proof that with the right support and commitment, Devon referees can progress to the very top.

International referees Luke Pearce and Sara Cox – officiating at English Premiership, Champions Cup, ECPR, PWR and Rugby World Cup are examples of the heights Devon referees can reach.

The people who make it happen

DRR is run by volunteers who care deeply about refereeing in Devon - directors and officers, trainers, coaches and administrators who keep the wheels turning and support referees at every stage.

From organising training nights to mentoring new referees and supporting match appointments, it’s a genuine team effort - built around shared standards and mutual respect.

Our People

Core Values

Teamwork

We help each other improve, share knowledge, and work together with clubs and players to make match day better.

Respect

We treat everyone - players, coaches, supporters, and fellow officials - with fairness and professionalism.

Enjoyment

Rugby refereeing should be challenging, rewarding, and fun. We support a culture where people want to stay involved.

Discipline

We uphold standards, manage games calmly, and support clear processes that protect the game and its people.

Sportsmanship

We believe in rugby’s values: teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discupline and sportsmanship.