Te Awamutu Rugby Referees Association Awards Recognize Outstanding Service and Improvement
Te Awamutu Rugby Referees Association (TARRA) recently held their annual dinner and prizegiving ceremony at the Te Awamutu RSA, where they recognized and celebrated the exceptional contributions and improvements made by their referees. The event was a joyous occasion that brought together referees, their families, and the association’s officials to acknowledge the dedication and hard work put in throughout the season.
TARRA expressed their gratitude to the Te Awamutu RSA for hosting their event and providing a space for their weekly meetings. They also extended their appreciation to the RSA for generously donating two referee communication sets, which have significantly enhanced the referees’ ability to communicate and officiate matches effectively.
During the awards ceremony, several deserving individuals were acknowledged for their remarkable achievements. Aaron Leppard, who consistently displayed improvement throughout the season, was awarded the prestigious title of Most Improved Referee of the Year. Leppard’s active involvement in weekly meetings, combined with his extensive knowledge as a former rugby player and coach, has proven to be a valuable asset to the association.
Grant Knight received an Acknowledgement of Participation certificate in recognition of his services to the association and the significant progress he has made this year. Starting with younger college rugby matches, Knight gradually worked his way up to officiating a First XV match. His dedication and commitment to improving his skills have not gone unnoticed.
Andrew Young, a longstanding member of TARRA, received a certificate for his remarkable twenty years of service to the association. Young’s involvement with Ōhaupō Junior Rugby, where he served as a regular assistant referee, along with his willingness to officiate various other games in the Waikato region, exemplify his passion and commitment to the sport. Additionally, Young has held the role of president for the past few seasons, further highlighting his dedication.
Grant Cotterell was presented with a certificate for Leadership and Service, acknowledging his life membership from the Waikato Rugby Referees Association. With nearly four decades of service, Cotterell’s years of referee experience in the Waikato province have made a lasting impact on the sport.
The awards ceremony also gave a special mention to Jesse Head, who received the most improved referee of the year award from the WRRA (Waikato Rugby Referees Association). Head showcased exceptional growth and was entrusted with officiating the Under-85 kilogram final, furthering his reputation as a talented young referee.
TARRA members reflected on the successful season and attributed their growth and camaraderie to the weekly banter and support they received from one another. As a small association, their tight-knit bond strengthens their abilities as referees both on and off the field, ultimately benefiting the sport they love.
The Te Awamutu Rugby Referees Association Awards and Prizegiving ceremony not only celebrated the outstanding service and improvement of their referees but also highlighted the importance of teamwork, support, and dedication within the association. These individuals play a crucial role in fostering fair play and upholding the spirit of rugby.
