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![Not allowed!](images/buttons/down_dis.png)
![Not allowed!](images/buttons/up_dis.png)
So I got the news last week from my ophthalmologist, I'm not allowed to play rugby.
Basically I've been legally blind since I was 16, when I got keratoconus in both eyes. Last Sept I got a corneal transplant in my right eye which has improved my vision significantly, and after getting glasses even more but high impact sports could lead to the cornea being rejected at any time which means I won't be able to fulfill my destiny of doing a Donald and sucking for 3 years then kicking the all blacks to the RWC trophy in a single match.
So I do want to get back into the game and just need some info. Now this may sound extremely stupid, but do they do eye tests for referees? (even I laughed at that)
Currently I'm just on the level of passing for a driver's license (got my learners last week!) and I know my sight will improve after I get my left corneal transplant towards the end of the year but I'd rather start ASAP.
It really does shit me that I can't play again but I see reffing as a way to stay involved, even though as my mates say I destroyed my chance at being an international ref by getting my sight fixed.
This not legal or with any knowledge.
If you are wearing glasses, lenses etc, so that your eye sight is as good as the average person ther should be no reason why you shouldn't become one of the hated!😄
I feel for you I hope you do get your card.
PS Marto has got his and he wears glasses, and maybe lenses for a game.
If you get Blue lenses you could be very popular!
May the FORCE be with you!
are you okay with everyone thinking or saying that you're a tosser?
maybe become a TMO....
"12 Years aSupporter" starring the #SeaOfBlue
If you have heaps of rugby loving friends telling them you're a qualified ref will sort the problem out quick smart!
C'mon the![]()
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I reckon you are a walk up start for a SupeRugby Assistant Ref (touch judge) job.
All you need to do is watch if the ball goes into touch and stand about where you estimate it crossed the line (usually within about 5-7metres is the current standard) and raise one arm (just alternate arms each time).
For penalties or conversions, raise your flag if there is a cheer and the home team is kicking and leave it down if there is a cheer and the away team is kicking.
The only other thing you need to know is the phrase "I could not see from my position" to any question that the match referee asks you. (Even if a player lands multiple punches on his opposite number three feet in front of you with their number square in front of your eyes this is the standard reply).
You're all set!
Good Luck!
Good on you for wanting to keep in the game new refs are most needed in Perth the current ones are totally useless well done and hope all goes well with your eye sight
Rugby WA suck please quit
A good suggestion would be get into training as a ref now before your next corneal transplant as this will possibilly start you on an even par with the entry level of touch judges ( Not to over quailified for the job) after making a few appearances on the side line you could get promoted to western force games at super rugby level.. Then get the second corneal transplant done and while you are wearing ya glasses and a patch on the affected eye you will qualify for upper level jobs but don't ever take the patch off as this will make you over qualified and your career could be in jeopardy.. Good luck with your career
And your finance will grow as all ya friends will have pissed off and life will be like living in a morgue ..
getting chilly feelings most weekends
All the best Jombi, I hope all goes well with your aspirations.
Hey Jombi, here is hoping that your second Cornea transplant is a success. And that this allows you to watch the greatest game in the world in comfort.
Exile
Sydney
"Pain heels. Chicks dig scars and Glory lasts forever." Shane Falco
being blind is a major KPI for a ref
you are a shoe-in![]()
To be a good ref change your name to Will Genia
There is another, very important, series of qualifying questions before you could be considered for intake to The Dark Side:
- Are your parents married?
- If 'yes'; to each other?
- (this one is already partly answered): Did you quit playing rugby due to injury?
- (also partly answered): Do you currently provide advice to the referee in the matches you watch?
- Do you find it easier refereeing a game from the sidelines/stand? (NB from the couch watching a broadcast match does not qualify, unless you ALWAYS have the sound turned down)
In your playing days:
- Were you an All Blacks triallist?
- Were you a really good player (in fact, as the years roll on, you get better and better)?
There may be some supplementary questions, depending upon your responses thus far
I've answered yes to all the above,except being an allblack triallist,cant believe i missed out
I must be about ready to ref my first test match![]()