Parramatta Referees Emerging Squad Announcement
The Parramatta District Rugby League Referees Association (PDRLRA) is proud to announce the members who will partake in the PDRLRA Emerging Squad Program, specifically designed to accelerate the skill and coaching development of our referees who have been earmarked for future pathway success. This program aims to guide participants towards progressing to junior representative officiating programs within a three-year period, equipping them with the tools and training they need to excel.
This year, the Emerging Squad boasts the largest ever number of officials in such a program within our district. It’s a testament to the Association’s rebuilding efforts, which have focused on developing and nurturing talented officials at the right age, ready to take their officiating to the next level. The journey to reach this point has been one of patience and strategic investment, and we are thrilled to see the program flourishing. This initiative not only prepares our referees for higher-level opportunities but also provides a clear understanding for our members, so they know exactly where they stand in their officiating journey and what steps lie ahead.
The program is structured for long-term success, with 16 additional match officials already flagged to join the Emerging Squad within the next 12 months and many within the emerging who will have the chance to be put forward to junior representative train on sqaud for season 2026. This forward-thinking approach ensures that our talent pipeline remains strong and that our referees are continuously supported as they strive for excellence. By investing in these development pathways, the PDRLRA is committed to not losing talented match officials and is setting up our Association for years of sustained growth and achievement.
The Emerging Squad allows Parramatta Referees to provide additional resources to members who have expressed a clear interest in advancing to junior reps. With an emphasis on targeted skill development, the program aims to hone the capabilities of our referees, preparing them for the next level of officiating. The comprehensive training regimen will focus on modern match officiating techniques and national standards, ensuring that participants are not only up-to-date but also ahead of the curve in their refereeing careers.
Commitment to Excellence and Development
The Emerging Squad is committed to expanding the knowledge and abilities of our referees through a well-rounded approach that integrates new ideas, advanced training programs, and skill development drills. This program is designed for referees who are ready to elevate their officiating skills, with a focus on critical areas such as fitness, strength, positioning, decision-making under pressure, game management, “6 more” and officiating techniques aligned with national methodologies & interpretations.
One of the key aspects of the program is its emphasis on fitness and conditioning. Participants will undergo training sessions tailored to improve their endurance and agility, crucial elements for on-field performance. The program also places a heavy focus on game management and decision-making, ensuring that referees can confidently make split-second calls under pressure while maintaining a strong presence and command of the game.
Mentorship and Holistic Training Environment
The Emerging Squad will be led by a team of experienced mentors who bring a wealth of knowledge from their own officiating journeys. These mentors not only provide hands-on coaching but also offer the opportunity for referees to learn in a dynamic environment alongside their peers. Additionally, this setting serves as a learning platform for the coaches themselves, who are able to refine their coaching techniques and gain new insights to better support the referees.
Education within the Emerging Squad extends beyond physical training and technical drills. Referees will also be educated on crucial topics such as hydration, nutrition, and the psychological aspects of officiating. Understanding the importance of these elements ensures that participants can perform at their peak while maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. The program is designed to foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork, creating a supportive environment where referees can learn and grow together.
Instilling Pride and Belonging
A unique aspect of the Emerging Squad is the exclusive gear each referee receives, symbolising their place in this program. This gear not only serves a functional purpose but also instils a sense of pride and belonging among the referees. Wearing this gear at designated training sessions and events reinforces the importance of their commitment to the program and highlights the high standards they are held to.
The success of the Emerging Squad over the past two seasons has been undeniable, with many of its participants achieving significant milestones and progressing in their refereeing careers. The stories of past members stand as a testament to the effectiveness of the program, and the PDRLRA is eager to build on this success as the program enters its next phase.
Announcing the 2025 Emerging Squad
As we announce our Emerging Squad for the upcoming season, we congratulate all the members who have been selected. This year’s squad includes Adam Allouche, Alessio Schiavone, Ayden Stewart, Benjamin Picone, Brooke Munro, Jackson Lamont, Jarrod McFarland, Lachlan Bradley, Marcus Rowe, Noah Barakat, Samuel Alkhatib, Thomas Sellers, Tony Fahd & Zion Semeatu. We are excited to see these members grow and thrive within the program.
Looking to the Future
As we prepare for the upcoming season, the Parramatta Referees Emerging Squad will return bigger and better than ever. We are committed to refining the program based on our experiences and feedback, ensuring that each year is more impactful than the last. Our ongoing dedication to creating a culture of personal growth, teamwork, commitment to our Association, and giving back to the community remains unwavering. These core values are the foundation of our vision and are non-negotiable as we continue to develop future leaders in officiating.
The Parramatta District Rugby League Referees Association (PDRLRA) is proud to highlight the significance of its Emerging Squad Program, as emphasised by key figures within the organisation. This program has become a cornerstone for the development of talented young referees and ensures they are well-prepared for future opportunities in officiating.
Director of Officiating Ethan Murray highlighted the significance of initiatives like the Parramatta Referees Emerging Squad, stating, “Programs like these are essential to ensure we retain talented match officials as they develop. Keeping them engaged both during the off-season and throughout the season is challenging, and it’s something I’ve worked hard to address. By providing structured training and continuous development, we not only maintain their interest but it’s a commitment to improve the skills of our broader membership, creating a stronger officiating community overall.”
President Mat Picone also praised the dedication of the coaching staff, saying, “The coaching staff put in a lot of work to ensure our referees are ready for the next step in their officiating journey. Investing in resources and assigning them to key areas is vital, not only for the growth of our referees and the Association but also for our valued partners, including the Parramatta Junior Rugby League. The program’s impact goes beyond just officiating; it builds a pathway that benefits the entire rugby league community.”
Both highlighted the Association’s commitment to developing referees through targeted training and strong partnerships. The Emerging Squad Program continues to set the benchmark for excellence in match official development, preparing referees to meet the demands of higher-level competitions.
The Parramatta Referees Emerging Squad is not just a training program; it is a pathway to excellence, preparing referees to meet the challenges of higher levels of competition with confidence and skill. With a renewed focus and enhanced strategies, the PDRLRA is excited to embark on this next chapter and continue fostering the future of officiating excellence.
