Archive - CARFU Referee Society

It was all fun and games at the Red Lobster Stadium yesterday. Sydney was laying down the law before running touch for the D1 Chicago Griffins RFC v Indianapolis Impalas game.

It was a hot one at the Chicago Blaze Rugby Club yesterday. Val was in the middle for the visit by the Northwest Woodsmen Rugby Club Division 3 game.

Thank you to Northwest Woodsmen Rugby Club for an invitation to today's training session. Today included a Q&A for laws and 'how to be a touch judge' at Kenosha Mammoths Rugby Football Club today. Thank you to Olga and Wayne for refereeing the sessions, and to Des Jones who came out for some referee coaching.

One of the recommendations that we shared with everyone today was to visit the World Rugby website and enjoy some of the Rugby Ready courses
https://www.world.rugby/the-game/training-education/elearning

And of course, to check out the World Rugby Laws.
https://passport.world.rugby/laws-of-the-game/

World Rugby is today announcing the next evolution of the international federation’s Six Point Plan on player welfare.

The new evolution of the Six Point Plan will ensure that rugby never stands still in this vital area.

🔗 https://bit.ly/4l7MzeJ

World Rugby law clarification. Scrum Halfs are not permitted to leap, jump, dive over a goal line ruck to score.

https://passport.world.rugby/laws-of-the-game/law-clarifications/2025/clarification-1-2025/?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwLJPodjbGNrAsk-PmV4dG4DYWVtAjExAAEe5hs2Jz07YN3sZLwEQ7tWnkBSmi70Mqj5kOHZI6ao6DaW2Go72_WhoGorJsw_aem_ukc01_qZwHlBJ7lXNWXKrg

Some pictures from last Saturday's Midwest Rugby Union Thunderbird Cup. CARFU was well represented with referees and coaches alike.

Attention all Rugby Referees in the Chicagoland area. Join our Sport Psychology Workshop on Wednesday, May 28 with the UIC! We’ve partnered with UIC to bring you an incredible, interactive session led by university professionals who specialize in sport psychology—expertise that’s not typically available through local referee societies or even national governing bodies.

This is a rare opportunity to gain valuable insights that can elevate your performance and mindset on the field. Whether you're a seasoned official or just starting out, this workshop is designed to benefit everyone.

🔹 Date & Time: Wednesday, May 28 · 6:30 – 9:00 PM CDT
🔹 Location: UIC – 901 Roosevelt Rd, Chicago (parking and transit info in the Eventbrite link)
🔹 Cost: Free
🔹 Eventbrite Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/whistle-strong-confident-composed-and-connected-refereeing-tickets-1363726575899?aff=oddtdtcreator

Important: This is a hands-on workshop, so please come prepared with your whistle, jersey, and any other gear you typically use. While I’ve requested a virtual option, it hasn’t been confirmed—so I strongly encourage you to plan to attend in person if possible.

"Whistle Strong": Confident, Composed, and Connected Refereeing. Whistle Strong is a unique, interactive skills-building experience for rugby union referees to enhance their officiating and enjoyment.

Some of the CARFU Refs in action from today's games. Katie, Laura, Andrew, Dave Z., Tim, Dave C., and Eoin. I was also made aware of Dave C.'s shenanigans involving somebody's water bottle.

Looking forward to summer 7s!

Midwest Announces 2025 Midwest 7s Series – Midwest Rugby Union Detroit Tradesmen celebrate their Plate Championship at the 2024 USA Club Rugby 7s National Championship Midwest Announces 2025 Midwest 7s Series February 26, 2025 Front Page News, News [Detroit, MI] – At the Union’s Annual General Meeting earlier this month, the Union detailed plans to redesign...