Referee Grades

The following referee grades apply to the local referee society. Territorial ("T") level grades are assigned at the territorial level.

Level: L4 (or D)

This is the entry level referee.  To be an entry level (full-time or part-time) referee within SERRS you must have be USA Rugby (CIPP) registered, Rugby Ready certified, and be either a Full-time or Part-time referee in good standing. Referees at this level may referee any match NOT leading to a national championship.

For promotion to the L3 level, an L4 referee must have completed and passed the L1 Referee Course and be Rugby Ready certified.

Level: L3

A L3 referee is still learning the game and in a given match may have problems with any aspect of the game.

The L3 referee has completed the L1 Referee Course and has an understanding of the Laws of the Game and the referee's role.  At this level the referee should be capable up to Match Level 6.

For promotion to L2 level, an L3 referee must have completed and passed the L1 Referee Course, L1-3 Touch Judge/AR course, be Rugby Ready certified, and demonstrate L2 competencies.

Level: L2

A L2 referee should be able to manage the safety aspects of the game.  He should be able to apply the whistle/signal sequence of communication.  He should be positioned correctly at scrums, lineouts and situations that occur near the goal line.  He should be able to prevent pileups after tackles, but he will have problems in dealing with the initial players arriving at a post-tackle situation.  He should conduct himself with good demeanor both on and off the playing enclosure.

The L2 referee has completed the L1 Referee Course and is well versed in the Laws of the Game and the referee's role.  At this level the referee should be capable up to Match Level 5.

For promotion to L1 level, an L2 referee must have completed and passed the L1 Referee Course, L1-3 Touch Judge/AR course, be Rugby Ready certified, and demonstrate L1 competencies.

Level: L1 

A L1 referee should be able to manage all of the above items as well as those aspects of the game that relate to offside.  He should be able to manage the participants arriving after a tackle, but he may have problems ensuring the ball is immediately available.  He should provide concise and specific explanations for penalties that are clearly understood by players.  He should be fit and in proper position for all aspects of play with the possible exception of faster-paced tackle situations.  He should be confident in his management of the players, and he should establish clear priorities for the players.

The L1 referee is fully capable in applying the Laws of the Game. The L1 referee can apply many techniques to manage and control the game.  At this level the referee should be capable up to Match Level 5 and for AR duties at higher match levels. Completion of the L2 Referee Course is needed for promotion to T level.