Are you a Major League Rugby (MLR) fan curious about who selects the referees for each game? This article dives into the process of Rugby Football League Referee Appointments, highlighting who’s responsible for choosing the officials and the criteria they consider. Find out more about the MLR referee selection process and the team behind these crucial decisions. For reliable and comprehensive information, turn to CAUHOI2025.UK.COM. This article will cover match official selection, referee qualifications, and game officiating.
1. Understanding Rugby Football League Referee Appointments
In Major League Rugby, ensuring fair play and upholding the laws of the game falls squarely on the shoulders of the match officials. But who decides which referees take charge of which matches? The responsibility rests with the MLR management team.
1.1 The MLR Management Team
The MLR management team, comprised of David Wilkinson, Alain Rolland, and Dave McHugh, is entrusted with selecting the referees, assistant referees, and Television Match Officials (TMOs) for each MLR game. This team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring that the best-qualified officials are appointed to each match.
1.2 Composition of the Referee Pool
The MLR referee pool is a diverse group consisting of both domestic and international talent. It includes 12 US and Canadian referees and 4 international referees. This blend of local and international experience contributes to a high standard of officiating across the league.
2. The Selection Process for Match Officials
The selection process for match officials in Major League Rugby is a carefully considered process, emphasizing impartiality and competence. The MLR management team evaluates several factors before making their decisions.
2.1 Key Considerations in Referee Appointments
When appointing referees, the MLR management team considers factors such as:
- Experience: The referee’s experience at various levels of rugby.
- Performance: Recent performance evaluations and feedback.
- Neutrality: Ensuring no conflicts of interest or biases.
- Team Dynamics: Selecting a team of officials who work well together.
2.2 The Role of USA Rugby and Rugby Canada
Match officials are appointed from a pool of qualified individuals from USA Rugby, Rugby Canada, and selected international referees. This collaboration ensures a broad selection of experienced and capable officials.
2.3 The Four Officials: Referee, Assistant Referees, and TMO
For each match, four officials are selected:
- Referee: The primary decision-maker on the field, responsible for enforcing the laws of the game.
- Assistant Referees (2): Assist the referee in observing play and making decisions, particularly regarding touch and foul play.
- Television Match Official (TMO): Uses video replays to assist the referee in making critical decisions, ensuring accuracy and fairness.
3. MLR Referee Appointments: Weeks 1-14 (2025 Season)
Below is a detailed list of the referee appointments for the first 14 weeks of the 2025 Major League Rugby season. Each entry includes the teams playing, the venue, the date, and the names of the referee, assistant referees, and TMO.
3.1 Week 1
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Miami Sharks v. Old Glory DC
- Venue: Baptist Health Community Field, Fort Lauderdale
- Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 2: Tom Ciampa
- TMO: Mike Kelly
-
NOLA Gold v. Anthem Rugby Carolina
- Venue: The Gold Mine, Metairie
- Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025
- Referee: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 1: Jacob Gonzales
- Assistant Referee 2: Allen Alongi
- TMO: Cam Russell
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Houston SaberCats v. Chicago Hounds
- Venue: SaberCats Stadium, Houston
- Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025
- Referee: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 1: Kat Roche
- Assistant Referee 2: Jono Cooper
- TMO: Chris Assmus
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RFC LA v. New England Free Jacks
- Venue: Wallis Annenburg Stadium, Los Angeles
- Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025
- Referee: Derek Summers
- Assistant Referee 1: Mike Lawrenson
- Assistant Referee 2: Austin Reed
- TMO: Saro Turner
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San Diego Legion v. Seattle Seawolves
- Venue: Torero Stadium, San Diego
- Date: Sunday, February 16, 2025
- Referee: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 1: Mike Lawrenson
- Assistant Referee 2: Will Nelson
- TMO: Chris Assmus
3.2 Week 2
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Anthem Rugby Carolina v. San Diego Legion
- Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium
- Date: Friday, February 21, 2025
- Referee: Kat Roche
- Assistant Referee 1: Jarrod Ford
- Assistant Referee 2: Alex Hedquist
- TMO: Derek Summers
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Chicago Hounds v. Utah Warriors
- Venue: Seat Geek Stadium, Bridgview
- Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025
- Referee: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 1: Pete Pender
- Assistant Referee 2: Shanda Assmus
- TMO: Mike Kelly
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Miami Sharks v. NOLA Gold
- Venue: Baptist Health Community Field, Fort Lauderdale
- Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025
- Referee: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 1: Amelia Luciano
- Assistant Referee 2: Tom Ciampa
- TMO: Amanda Cox
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RFC LA v. Houston SaberCats
- Venue: Wallis Annenburg Stadium, Los Angeles
- Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025
- Referee: Moe Chaudhry
- Assistant Referee 1: Kaklil Harrison
- Assistant Referee 2: Kirk Swanner
- TMO: Greg Gilliam
3.3 Week 3
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Anthem Rugby Carolina v. Miami Sharks
- Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium
- Date: Friday, February 28, 2025
- Referee: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 1: Mike Lawrenson
- Assistant Referee 2: Dave Edwards
- TMO: Derek Summers
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Old Glory DC v. San Diego Legion
- Venue: Maryland Soccerplex, Germantown
- Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
- Referee: Amelia Luciano
- Assistant Referee 1: Chris Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Aaron Davis
- TMO: Cam Russell
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Utah Warriors v. NOLA Gold
- Venue: Utah Warriors, Herriman
- Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
- Referee: Ben Connor
- Assistant Referee 1: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 2: Kahlil Harrison
- TMO: Mike Kelly
-
Houston SaberCats v. Seattle Seawolves
- Venue: SaberCats Stadium, Houston
- Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Kat Roche
- Assistant Referee 2: Juan Parra
- TMO: Derek Summers
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Chicago Hounds v. New England Free Jacks
- Venue: Seat Geek Stadium, Bridgeview
- Date: Sunday, March 2, 2025
- Referee: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 1: Shanda Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Miles McIvor
- TMO: Mike Kelly
3.4 Week 4
-
Miami Sharks v. Chicago Hounds
- Venue: Baptist Health Community Field, Fort Lauderdale
- Date: Friday, March 7, 2025
- Referee: Peter Pender
- Assistant Referee 1: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 2: Tom Ciampa
- TMO: Greg Gilliam
-
Old Glory DC v. Anthem
- Venue: Maryland Soccerplex, Germantown
- Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
- Referee: Ben Connor
- Assistant Referee 1: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 2: Allen Alongi
- TMO: Derek Summers
-
Utah Warriors v. Houston SaberCats
- Venue: Utah Warriors, Herriman
- Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
- Referee: Kat Roche
- Assistant Referee 1: Kahlil Harrison
- Assistant Referee 2: Kage Green
- TMO: Austin Reed
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San Diego Legion v. RFC Los Angeles
- Venue: Torero Stadium, San Diego
- Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
- Referee: Chris Assmus
- Assistant Referee 1: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 2: Kirk Swanner
- TMO: Austin Reed
-
Seattle Seawolves v. New England Free Jacks
- Venue: Starfire Stadium, Tukwila
- Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
- Referee: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 1: Shanda Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Will Nelson
- TMO: Saro Turner
3.5 Week 5
-
Chicago Hounds v. New England Free Jacks
- Venue: Seat Geek Stadium, Bridgeview
- Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
- Referee: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 1: Shanda Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Will Nelson
- TMO: Cam Russell
-
New England Free Jacks v. NOLA Gold
- Venue: Veterans Stadium, Quincy
- Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Amelia Luciano
- Assistant Referee 2: Jarrod Ford
- TMO: Derek Summers
-
Miami Sharks v. Utah Warriors
- Venue: Baptist Health Community Field, Fort Lauderdale
- Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
- Referee: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 1: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 2: Dave Edwards
- TMO: Austin Reed
-
RFC LA v. Seattle Seawolves
- Venue: Wallis Annenburg Stadium, Los Angeles
- Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
- Referee: Peter Pender
- Assistant Referee 1: Chris Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Austin Reed
- TMO: Cam Russell
3.6 Week 6
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Old Glory DC v. New England Free Jacks
- Venue: Maryland Soccerplex, Germantown
- Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
- Referee: Chris Assmus
- Assistant Referee 1: Eanna O’Dowd
- Assistant Referee 2: Matt Lake
- TMO: Greg Gilliam
-
Anthem Rugby Carolina v. Houston SaberCats
- Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium, Charlotte
- Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
- Referee: Kahlil Harrison
- Assistant Referee 1: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 2: Ian Seaton
- TMO: Greg Gilliam
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NOLA Gold v. RFC LA
- Venue: The Gold Mine, Metairie
- Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
- Referee: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 1: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 2: Elvy Ansonye
- TMO: Saro Turner
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San Diego Legion v. Miami Sharks
- Venue: Torero Stadium, San Diego
- Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
- Referee: Derek Summers
- Assistant Referee 1: Will Nelson
- Assistant Referee 2: Fernando Garcia
- TMO: Austin Reed
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Seattle Seawolves v. Utah Warriors
- Venue: Starfire Stadium, Tukwila
- Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 2: Morris Fuller
- TMO: Mike Kelly
3.7 Week 7
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NOLA Gold v. Chicago Hounds
- Venue: The Gold Mine, Metairie
- Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Jarrod Ford
- Assistant Referee 2: Tom Ciampa
- TMO: Cam Russell
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Houston SaberCats v. San Diego Legion
- Venue: SaberCats Stadium, Houston
- Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
- Referee: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 1: Moe Chaudhry
- Assistant Referee 2: Blair McClure
- TMO: Derek Summers
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Utah Warriors v. New England Free Jacks
- Venue: Zions Bank Stadium, Herriman
- Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
- Referee: George Myers
- Assistant Referee 1: Kahlil Harrison
- Assistant Referee 2: Kevin Duran
- TMO: Mike Kelly
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Seattle Seawolves v. Anthem Rugby Carolina
- Venue: Starfire Stadium, Tukwila
- Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
- Referee: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 1: Jacob Gonzales
- Assistant Referee 2: Morris Fuller
- TMO: Chris O’Malley
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RFC LA v. Old Glory DC
- Venue: Wallis Annenburg Stadium, Los Angeles
- Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
- Referee: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 1: Mike Lawrenson
- Assistant Referee 2: Austin Reed
- TMO: Cam Russell
3.8 Week 8
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Old Glory DC v. Seattle Seawolves
- Venue: Maryland Soccerplex, Germantown
- Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
- Referee: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 1: Aaron Davis
- Assistant Referee 2: Matt Lake
- TMO: Amanda Cox
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Anthem Rugby Carolina v. NOLA Gold
- Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium, Charlotte
- Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
- Referee: Moe Chaudhry
- Assistant Referee 1: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 2: Lindsey Oliver
- TMO: Mike Kelly
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Houston SaberCats v. RFCLA
- Venue: SaberCats Stadium, Houston
- Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
- Referee: George Myers
- Assistant Referee 1: Mike Lawrenson
- Assistant Referee 2: Jono Cooper
- TMO: Chris O’Malley
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San Diego Legion v. Chicago Hounds
- Venue: Torero Stadium, San Diego
- Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
- Referee: Peter Pender
- Assistant Referee 1: Jacob Gonzalez
- Assistant Referee 2: Kirk Swanner
- TMO: Mike Kelly
-
New England Free Jacks v. Miami Sharks
- Venue: Veterans Memorial Stadium, Quincy
- Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
- Referee: Derek Summers
- Assistant Referee 1: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 2: Amelia Luciano
- TMO: Greg Gilliam
3.9 Week 9
-
New England Free Jacks v. San Diego Legion
- Venue: Veterans Memorial Stadium, Quincy
- Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
- Referee: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 1: Jarrod Ford
- Assistant Referee 2: Aaron Davis
- TMO: Derek Summers
-
Miami Sharks v. Utah Warriors
- Venue: Baptist Health Community Field, Fort Lauderdale
- Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
- Referee: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 1: Moe Chaudhry
- Assistant Referee 2: Tom Ciampa
- TMO: Derek Summers
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NOLA Gold v. Old Glory DC
- Venue: The Gold Mine, Metairie
- Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
- Referee: George Myers
- Assistant Referee 1: Kat Roche
- Assistant Referee 2: Ben Dickenson
- TMO: Cam Russell
-
RFCLA v. Utah Warriors
- Venue: Wallis Annenburg Stadium, Los Angeles
- Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Chris Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Austin Reed
- TMO: Cam Russell
-
Chicago Hounds v. Anthem Rugby Carolina
- Venue: SeatGeek Stadium, Bridgeview
- Date: Sunday, April 13, 2025
- Referee: Amelia Luciano
- Assistant Referee 1: Kahlil Harrison
- Assistant Referee 2: Chris O’Malley
- TMO: Amanda Cox
3.10 Week 10
-
Anthem Rugby Carolina v. New England Free Jacks
- Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium, Charlotte
- Date: Friday, April 18, 2025
- Referee: Mike Lawrenson
- Assistant Referee 1: Peter Pender
- Assistant Referee 2: Lindsey Oliver
- TMO: Derek Summers
-
Seattle Seawolves v. Chicago Hounds
- Venue: Starfire Stadium, Tukwila
- Date: Friday, April 18, 2025
- Referee: George Myers
- Assistant Referee 1: Kahlil Harrison
- Assistant Referee 2: Juan Parra
- TMO: Mike Kelly
-
Old Glory DC v. Miami Sharks
- Venue: Maryland Soccerplex, Germantown
- Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025
- Referee: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 1: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 2: Matt Lake
- TMO: Amanda Cox
-
Houston SaberCats v. NOLA Gold
- Venue: SaberCats Stadium, Houston
- Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 2: Fernando Garcia
- TMO: Derek Summer
-
San Diego Legion v. Utah Warriors
- Venue: Torero Stadium, San Diego
- Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025
- Referee: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 1: Shanda Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Kirk Swanner
- TMO: Mike Melly
3.11 Week 11
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New England Free Jacks v. RFCLA
- Venue: Veteran’s Memorial Stadium, Quincy
- Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Jarrod Ford
- Assistant Referee 2: Miles McIvor
- TMO: Cam Russell
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Anthem Rugby Carolina v. Seattle Seawolves
- Venue: Sportsplex at Matthews, Matthews
- Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2025
- Referee: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 1: Cam Russell
- Assistant Referee 2: Lindsey Oliver
- TMO: Derek Summers
-
Houston SaberCats v. Old Glory DC
- Venue: SaberCats Stadium, Houston
- Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
- Referee: David Vosalevu
- Assistant Referee 1: Kat Roche
- Assistant Referee 2: Ben Dickinson
- TMO: Derek Summers
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Utah Warriors v. Chicago Hounds
- Venue: Zions Bank Stadium, Herriman
- Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
- Referee: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 1: Kahlil Harrison
- Assistant Referee 2: Alex Nunnally
- TMO: Mike Kelly
-
RFCLA v. San Diego Legion
- Venue: Wallis Annenburg Stadium, Los Angeles
- Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
- Referee: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 1: Shanda Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Will Nelson
- TMO: Chris O’Malley
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NOLA Gold v. Seattle Seawolves
- Venue: The Gold Mine, Metairie
- Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
- Referee: Peter Pender
- Assistant Referee 1: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 2: Juan Parra
- TMO: Mike Kelly
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Miami Sharks v. Anthem Rugby Carolina
- Venue: Baptist Health Community Field, Ft Lauderdale
- Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
- Referee: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 1: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 2: Kyle Martinovic
- TMO: Derek Summers
3.12 Week 12
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Utah Warriors v. San Diego Legion
- Venue: Zions Bank Stadium, Herriman
- Date: Wednesday, April 30, 2025
- Referee: David Vosalevu
- Assistant Referee 1: Kahlil Harrison
- Assistant Referee 2: Alex Nunnally
- TMO: Chris O’Malley
-
Seattle Seawolves v. RFCLA
- Venue: Starfire Stadium, Tukwila
- Date: Friday, May 2, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 2: Saro Turner
- TMO: Derek Summers
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New England Free Jacks v. Houston SaberCats
- Venue: Veteran’s Stadium, Quincy
- Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
- Referee: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 1: Amelia Luciano
- Assistant Referee 2: Miles McIvor
- TMO: Derek Summers
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Old Glory DC v. Utah Warriors
- Venue: Maryland Soccerplex, Germantown
- Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
- Referee: Peter Pender
- Assistant Referee 1: Eanna O’Dowd
- Assistant Referee 2: Dave Edwards
- TMO: Amanda Cox
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Chicago Hounds v. Miami Sharks
- Venue: SeatGeek Stadium, Bridgeview
- Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
- Referee: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 1: Mike Lawrenson
- Assistant Referee 2: Matt Lake
- TMO: Cam Russell
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San Diego Legion v. NOLA Gold
- Venue: Torero Stadium, San Diego
- Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
- Referee: David Vosalevu
- Assistant Referee 1: Jacob Gonzales
- Assistant Referee 2: Kirk Swanner
- TMO: Austin Reed
3.13 Week 13
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NOLA Gold v. Miami Sharks
- Venue: The Gold Mine, Metairie
- Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
- Referee: Peter Martin
- Assistant Referee 1: Kat Roche
- Assistant Referee 2: Mike Lawrenson
- TMO: Mike Kelly
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New England Free Jacks v. Chicago Hounds
- Venue: Veteran’s Stadium, Quincy
- Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
- Referee: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 1: Amelia Luciano
- Assistant Referee 2: Jarrod Ford
- TMO: Mike Kelly
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RFCLA v. Anthem Rugby Carolina
- Venue: Wallis Annenburg Stadium, Los Angeles
- Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
- Referee: Derek Summers
- Assistant Referee 1: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 2: Kirk Swanner
- TMO: Cam Russell
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San Diego Legion v. Houston SaberCats
- Venue: Torero Stadium
- Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Chris Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Jacob Gonzales
- TMO: Austin Reed
-
Utah Warriors v. Seattle Seawolves
- Venue: Zions Bank Stadium, Herriman
- Date: Monday, May 12, 2025
- Referee: Peter Martin
- Assistant Referee 1: Chris Assmus
- Assistant Referee 2: Alex Nunnally
- TMO: Cam Russell
3.14 Week 14
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Old Glory DC v. NOLA Gold
- Venue: George Mason Stadium, Fairfax
- Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025
- Referee: Luke Rogan
- Assistant Referee 1: Peter Pender
- Assistant Referee 2: Aaron Davis
- TMO: Cam Russell
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Miami Sharks v. New England Free Jacks
- Venue: Baptist Health Community Field, Ft Lauderdale
- Date: Friday, May 16, 2025
- Referee: Mike Lawrenson
- Assistant Referee 1: Peter Martin
- Assistant Referee 2: Kye Martinovic
- TMO: Derek Summers
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Houston SaberCats v. Utah Warriors
- Venue: SaberCats Stadium, Houston
- Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
- Referee: Federico Anselmi
- Assistant Referee 1: Marquise Goodwin
- Assistant Referee 2: Jono Cooper
- TMO: Mike Kelly
-
Seattle Seawolves v. San Diego Legion
- Venue: Starfire Stadium, Tukwila
- Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
- Referee: Lex Weiner
- Assistant Referee 1: Kahlil Harrison
- Assistant Referee 2: Will Nelson
- TMO: Austin Reed
-
Anthem Rugby Carolina v. Chicago Hounds
- Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium, Charlotte
- Date: Sunday, May 18, 2025
- Referee: Peter Martin
- Assistant Referee 1: Mike Lawrenson
- Assistant Referee 2: Marty Steffens
- TMO: Austin Reed
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Chicago Hounds v. RFCLA
- Venue: SeatGeek Stadium, Bridgeview
- Date: Monday, May 19, 2025
- Referee: Robin Kaluzniak
- Assistant Referee 1: Miles McIvor
- Assistant Referee 2: Matt Lake
- TMO: Chris O’Malley
Alt text: Major League Rugby match official appointment announcement banner, featuring referee and game details.
4. The Importance of Qualified Match Officials
The integrity of Major League Rugby depends on the competence and impartiality of its match officials. Qualified referees ensure that games are played fairly, safely, and according to the laws of the game.
4.1 Upholding the Laws of the Game
Referees are responsible for enforcing the laws of rugby, making split-second decisions that can impact the outcome of a match. Their knowledge and understanding of the rules are critical to maintaining the game’s integrity.
4.2 Ensuring Fair Play and Safety
Beyond enforcing the rules, referees play a crucial role in ensuring player safety. They must be vigilant in identifying and penalizing dangerous play, protecting athletes from unnecessary harm.
4.3 Promoting the Spirit of Rugby
Qualified match officials also promote the spirit of rugby, emphasizing sportsmanship, respect, and fair play. Their conduct on and off the field sets a positive example for players and fans alike.
5. The Impact of TMOs in Modern Rugby
The introduction of Television Match Officials (TMOs) has had a significant impact on modern rugby, providing referees with valuable support in making critical decisions.
5.1 Enhancing Decision-Making Accuracy
TMOs use video replays to review incidents such as tries, foul play, and other game-changing moments. This technology helps ensure that decisions are accurate and fair, minimizing the impact of human error.
5.2 Reducing Controversial Calls
By providing referees with additional information and perspectives, TMOs help reduce controversial calls and improve the overall quality of officiating. This leads to greater confidence in the integrity of the game.
5.3 Streamlining the Game Flow
While TMO reviews can sometimes disrupt the flow of the game, efforts are made to streamline the process and minimize delays. The goal is to enhance accuracy without sacrificing the pace and excitement of the match.
6. The Future of Refereeing in Major League Rugby
As Major League Rugby continues to grow and evolve, the role of referees will become even more critical. Ongoing training, development, and support are essential to ensure that MLR match officials remain among the best in the world.
6.1 Investing in Referee Development
MLR is committed to investing in referee development, providing opportunities for officials to improve their skills and knowledge. This includes training programs, mentorship, and performance evaluations.
6.2 Embracing Technology and Innovation
As technology advances, MLR will continue to embrace innovation in officiating, exploring new ways to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and fairness. This may include the use of wearable technology, advanced video analysis, and other cutting-edge tools.
6.3 Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
MLR is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in officiating, creating opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to participate in the game. This includes initiatives to recruit, train, and support female referees, as well as officials from underrepresented communities.
7. FAQ: Rugby Football League Referee Appointments
Here are some frequently asked questions about referee appointments in Major League Rugby:
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Who appoints the referees for MLR games?
The MLR management team, consisting of David Wilkinson, Alain Rolland, and Dave McHugh, is responsible for appointing referees.
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What is the composition of the MLR referee pool?
The pool consists of 12 US and Canadian referees and 4 international referees.
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How many officials are selected for each match?
Four officials are selected: a referee, two assistant referees, and a Television Match Official (TMO).
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What factors are considered when appointing referees?
Experience, performance, neutrality, and team dynamics are considered.
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What is the role of the TMO?
The TMO uses video replays to assist the referee in making critical decisions.
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Where do the match officials come from?
Match officials are appointed from USA Rugby, Rugby Canada, and selected international referees.
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How does MLR ensure fair play through referee appointments?
By carefully selecting experienced and qualified officials and providing ongoing training and support.
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Why is it important to have qualified match officials?
To uphold the laws of the game, ensure player safety, and promote the spirit of rugby.
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How is MLR investing in the future of refereeing?
Through training programs, mentorship, and embracing technology and innovation.
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What is MLR doing to promote diversity in officiating?
Initiatives to recruit, train, and support female referees and officials from underrepresented communities.
8. Need More Answers?
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