Bailey Clark Makes History with Back-to-Back Junior League Referee of the Year

Bailey Clark has achieved yet another significant milestone by winning the Junior League Referee of the Year award for the second consecutive season. His consistent performance and unwavering dedication have firmly established him as a leader within our Association. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it comes in a year that marked his debut season in the highly competitive NSWRL Junior Representative squad, where he was challenged to adapt and excel in a new environment.

When asked about becoming the first referee to win back-to-back Parramatta Junior Rugby League Referee of the Year, Bailey shared “Being the first referee to achieve this honor is a huge achievement and an incredible feeling. Having been part of the PJRL all my life, being recognised by the clubs and fellow referees as Referee of the Year is massive. It really highlights the hard work that has been invested in me, and receiving this recognition makes it all the more special. Over the past two years, I’ve always felt welcome and supported whenever I step onto a field, and for that, I can’t thank the people and volunteers enough. I also want to express my gratitude to the PDRLRA for their ongoing support and dedication in making refereeing such a positive experience.”

One of Bailey’s standout accomplishments this season was his debut as a center referee in the Tarsha Gale Cup. Refereeing in the middle requires a high level of confidence, decision-making, and an in-depth understanding of the game. Taking on this challenging role so early in his representative career is no easy feat, and it’s especially remarkable given that referees in their first season rarely reach this level. His appointment to this role is a clear testament to his exceptional skill, rapid development, and the trust placed in him by his mentors and colleagues. This achievement underscores his ability to rise to the occasion and perform at a high level in high-stakes matches.

When asked how playing compares to refereeing, Bailey reflected “Playing footy and refereeing are extremely different experiences. Playing is highly physical; you’re constantly taking hits. Being a part of the spine my whole life, getting tackled and needing to think two plays ahead was never easy, but you’ve got 12 other players on the field who support you. The joy of winning and the lessons in losing as a team make footy truly enjoyable.”

“Refereeing, on the other hand, has been about developing mental resilience. Standing firm with your decisions while facing criticism can be tough, and maintaining physical fitness to manage the game’s standards is challenging. However, that sense of accomplishment when you walk off the field after a good game is unmatched. Whether I’m officiating alone or with fellow referees, the camaraderie and support make it a great experience.”

Beyond his debut in the Tarsha Gale Cup, Bailey was also selected as the in-goal referee for the Lisa Fiaola Cup at the NSWRL Junior Representatives grand finals, held at CommBank Stadium. This high-profile appointment highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and adapt to the challenges of officiating on a larger stage in his first season, further validating his reputation as a rising star within the Association. Bailey’s expertise was further recognised when he represented Parramatta Referees at the U15’s National Championships, where his strong performances on the national stage earned him widespread praise and admiration from officials and peers alike. His consistent excellence at such a young age signals a promising future in refereeing at higher levels of competition.

Bailey’s journey in officiating began with a promising start, winning Rookie of the Year during his first season in junior reps. This early recognition laid the foundation for the accolades that followed, motivating him to strive for greater heights. His calm and decisive approach to officiating, combined with his leadership qualities, has not only earned him respect within the Association but has also showcased his potential for growth and success in the sport. Bailey’s ability to manage the pressure of key finals matches this season has been a defining aspect of his success, allowing him to demonstrate his resilience and poise in challenging situations.

Commenting on Bailey’s achievements, Ethan Murray, Director of Refereeing & Development at Parramatta Referees, stated, “Bailey has consistently demonstrated professionalism, passion for the game, and a strong desire to continually improve. He has grown into a leader within our Association, setting a great example for our entire refereeing team. His accomplishments are an inspiration to all our referees, encouraging them to aim for excellence and to celebrate one another’s successes.” This recognition from the Association’s leadership speaks volumes about Bailey’s contributions and the positive impact he has had on his peers.

When asked what distinguishes Parramatta Referees from other Associations, Bailey emphasised “The sense of community and support. Even though refereeing demands mental toughness and fitness, especially when facing criticism or tough decisions, you always feel backed by the association. The culture here fosters growth and inclusivity, and that makes a big difference. The support network within Parramatta Referees is exceptional, and it’s that sense of belonging that keeps us striving to be better each time we step onto the field.”

Bailey Clark’s remarkable journey, highlighted by his outstanding performance in his first season with the NSWRL Junior Reps and his back-to-back Junior League Referee of the Year titles, signals a bright future ahead. His ability to break through barriers and set new benchmarks within the Parramatta Referees Association exemplifies his dedication and commitment to the game, paving the way for other aspiring referees to follow in his footsteps. His journey is a testament to the value of hard work, resilience, and the support of a strong community, showing that with the right guidance and dedication, even the highest achievements are within reach.