Old Cryptians RFC were happy to welcome Ryan Wilden (Referee Development Officer for Gloucester and District Referees Society) on a fresh Monday evening at the Memorial Ground, to deliver the RFU Introduction to Refereeing Course.

With healthy Mens, Ladies and Junior Sections a diverse mixture of ages, genders and experience was guaranteed. This included Senior Coaches, Senior Players, Junior players and coaches, totalling 19 participants.

The course was a mixture of both internal classroom based and external practical exercises (where all attendees had the opportunity to referee). Although lasting three hours, it really was a worthwhile and enjoyable evening.

This was the start of a programme of such events which will be planned including the ELRA (Entry Level Referee Award), Coaching Events and more Introduction to Refereeing Events.

Chairman Martyn Langbridge commented "This really demonstrates how seriously this fine club takes all aspects of Rugby and how we are prepared to invest time and effort into developing our members in any capacity. I would like to thanks Ryan for taking the time to deliver this course and to those who attended (ages range from 14-56). The fact we had two girls who are involved in coaching at the club was amazing"

We are always looking for players for Senior Mens and Ladies sides as well as our junior section which covers all age groups. If you are interested in playing or contributing please contact Chairman Martyn Langbridge, Senior Mens Coaches James Allen or Josh Flounders, Club Captain Rob Trigg, Ladies Coach Eric Reddy and Junior Chairman Brian Higgins for further information.