Mitchell Stone Set to Reach 500 Game Milestone
A remarkable chapter in one of Parramatta Referees’ most enduring journeys will be written tomorrow, as Mitchell Stone, affectionately known as Stoney, officiates his 500th career game in the NSW Cup clash between South Sydney and Canterbury-Bankstown at the iconic Accor Stadium on the touch line.
From humble beginnings in the early 2000s, Mitchell has built a career defined by dedication, consistency, and passion for officiating. His journey began with Parramatta Referees, where he first donned the uniform and quickly demonstrated the qualities that would shape a long and decorated refereeing career. In 2004, Mitchell took a significant step forward, entering the NSWRL Junior Representative Pathways, a system that would lay the foundation for the next two decades of his involvement in the game.
Featured: Mitchell Stone back in his Parramatta Referees days
It didn’t take long for those around him to notice his potential. A key early milestone came in 2008 when Mitchell was awarded the Bob Jones Senior Most Improved – a highly respected accolade voted on by the Association’s Coaching and Development Committee. Recognising growth across all aspects of officiating, this award has become a launching pad for many officials who have gone on to reach elite levels. Mitchell joined a list of past recipients, five of whom have later officiated in the NRL.
In 2012, Mitchell achieved another significant milestone when he was graded as official #960 in the NSWRL referee ranks. Fast forward 13 years, and Mitchell continues to operate at the highest level as fit, sharp, and reliable as ever.
Featured: Mitch featured with current NRL official & Parramatta Referees life member Daniel Luttringer back in their Parramatta Referees days.
His excellence was formally recognised once again in 2024, when he was awarded the Doug Wintin Award. This honour is presented to a graded official who has made an outstanding contribution to the NSWRLRA, not only through service and dedication but also through professionalism, leadership, and integrity qualities Mitchell has exemplified throughout his career.
As Mitchell Stone approaches his remarkable 500th officiating appearance, we caught up with Stoney to reflect on some of the defining moments, challenges, and motivations that have shaped his outstanding career.
500 games is no easy feat. What’s been your favourite memory so far?
Mitchell shared a powerful and honest reflection:
“About 12 years ago, I’d been in the squad for three years. The ‘gloss and shine’ of being newly graded had worn off. I was just turning up, going through the motions, and to be honest—my attitude stunk. One night at training, the late Phil Cooley pulled me aside and gave me an absolute baking – and I deserved it. He told me that being graded meant being professional, and I needed to decide whether I truly wanted to be in the squad, because it looked like I had one foot out the door.
That conversation was a turning point in my career. From that moment, I committed to being professional in my preparation, my training, my recovery – everything. I’ll always be grateful for that tough but much-needed feedback.”
Featured: Mitch Stone being awarded the Doug Wintin Award from the NSWRLRA
Career Stats Snapshot:
Mitchell’s body of work speaks volumes, with high-level appointments and consistent service across multiple competitions:
• NSW Cup – 198 appearances (Touch Judge)
• Ron Massey Cup – 157 appearances
• Sydney Shield – 94 appearances
• Jersey Flegg – 45 appearances
• Presidents Cup – 6 appearances
And when it comes to major fixtures, it includes some of the states biggest representative and finals contests:
• U16s State of Origin Touch Judge – 2015
• Junior Kangaroos v Junior Kiwis Touch Judge – 2017
• NSWRL Challenge Cup Final – 2018
• U20s State of Origin Touch Judge – 2019
• Sydney Shield Grand Finals – 2017, 2020, 2023
• Women’s City vs Country Touch Judge – 2021
• Men’s City vs Country Touch Judge – 2022
• Ron Massey Cup Grand Final – 2016
Featured: Mitch Stone being awarded the Doug Wintin Award from the NSWRLRA
What keeps you coming back year after year?
“Being graded means living an active and healthy lifestyle, maintaining a professional mindset, and being part of a team. Fifteen years ago, when I was first graded, I didn’t value those things as much – but today, they’re some of the most important parts of my life.”
These appointments are a testament to the trust and regard placed in Mitchell by his peers and the NSWRL community. He has been a constant in the officiating team sheets for nearly two decades and is recognised not only for his technical ability but also for his professionalism and calm presence on the field.
A Touch of Humour – Stoney Joke of the Week
No milestone story about Mitchell Stone would be complete without mentioning the legendary “Stoney Joke of the Week” a beloved tradition that became a weekly highlight at High Performance training. Known for his quick wit and classic dad jokes, Mitch would deliver a new gag each week to the squad’s amusement (and occasional groans). But in true Stoney style, he decided to spice things up by passing the baton challenging graded referees, starting from the most recent, to come prepared with their own joke.
Of course, there were rules. Mitch, acting as the self-appointed adjudicator, laid down a set of humorous “guidelines” and judged each attempt with a simple gesture: a thumbs up meant the joke passed the test, while a thumbs down meant one thing push-ups in front of the entire squad. What started as a bit of fun soon became a cherished part of the culture a reflection of the camaraderie, good humour, and leadership Mitch brings both on and off the field.
Your fitness levels are elite. What does your training routine look like outside of High Performance sessions?
“For me, a strong endurance base is key. I do a weekly 10km base run, and within that I include 1 to 2 one-kilometre efforts at lactic threshold. Every morning starts with a routine of mobility work, stretching, yoga, and core exercises.
It’s a great way to prevent injury, improve my mindset, and set the tone for the day. I’m also a big fan of hot and cold recovery baths – nothing better to freshen up after a tough session!”
Featured: Mitch featured with NRL Referee & Parramatta Referees Life Member Zbigniew Przeklasa-Adamski
Celebrating the Milestone
As Mitchell prepares to run out for game number 500 at one of Australia’s most recognised stadiums, the entire Parramatta Referees Association stands proudly behind him. His commitment, longevity, and exemplary service continue to be an inspiration to all from rookies taking their first step into the game, to seasoned officials striving for excellence.
On behalf of everyone at Parramatta Referees, congratulations, Mitchell. You have earned every moment of this milestone, and we look forward to many more memorable games to come.
