Parramatta Leagues Club’s Ongoing Support Drives Success for Parramatta Referees

The Parramatta Referees Association continues to thrive, thanks to the invaluable support of Parramatta Leagues Club, whose generous grants have been instrumental in ensuring the success and development of our referees. Their ongoing commitment has enabled us to make key investments in essential areas, allowing our referees to excel at all levels of the game.

When asked about the relationship with Parramatta Leagues Club, the Parramatta Referees President Mathew Picone stated, “The partnership between Parramatta Referees and Parramatta Leagues Club continues to strengthen. There is mutual respect between both parties, and that respect is consistently growing.”

Parramatta Leagues Club has provided significant financial support and some of these include;

1. Match Fees for Referees: Covering the match fees ensures our referees are fairly paid at a competitive rate.

2. Coaching and Development: These grants have been vital in funding specialised coaching & development programs that enhance the skills and knowledge of our referees, helping them reach new levels of officiating.

3. Training Venue: The support we have received has allowed us to secure a state-of-the-art training facility, ensuring our referees have access to the ideal environment for skill development.

4. Pre-Season Seminar: The financial assistance has allowed us to host comprehensive pre-season seminars, giving our referees the opportunity to prepare thoroughly for the season ahead through practical and theoretical sessions.

5. Communications Gear: The acquisition of state-of-the-art communications gear has greatly improved the on-field performance of our referees, ensuring clear and effective communication during matches

Our on-field jerseys and training shirts, including those worn by coaches, prominently display the Parramatta Leagues Club logo front and center. This logo is proudly showcased on hundreds of pieces of gear, worn by over 70 members each weekend as they officiate in the Parramatta Junior League and support other districts facing referee shortages—something encountered weekly this season and last. Additionally, our referees manage numerous mid-week school and pathway games for the Parramatta Eels and other junior leagues with limited officiating resources. This demonstrates the Leagues Club’s vital role as our major supporter.

When asked about the impact of Parramatta Leagues Club’s support, Director of Refereeing & Development Ethan Murray said, “We are incredibly thankful for the generous support from Parramatta Leagues Club. Their backing is the foundation of our success, enabling us to provide the essential resources our referees need to develop and excel.”

The Parramatta Leagues Club plays a pivotal role in supporting the next generation of referees by providing essential resources and funding that enable Parramatta Referees to continue thriving as a powerhouse in the sport. The grants received from the Club help us to invest in crucial areas such as training, development, and technological advancements, which are fundamental to maintaining high standards of officiating and enhancing the skills of our referees.

Without this vital support, many referees would miss out on opportunities to access key resources, professional coaching, and advanced training programs. This backing has not only allowed us to create inclusive environments for all members but has also contributed to breaking barriers. A prime example of this is Olivia Lawne's historic appointment as the first-ever female referee for the number one game in the Parramatta Junior League—a significant achievement made possible by the Club’s ongoing commitment. Additionally, Parramatta Referees now proudly have the highest number of female referees, showcasing the progress made in inclusivity and development within our ranks.

Parramatta Referees Executive Officer Harrison Bayssari stated, “The support from the Leagues Club is crucial not only for the development of our next generation of referees but also for our experienced officials who contribute to senior games and mentor our younger referees. The Leagues Club’s backing helps create an inclusive and equitable environment for everyone involved.”

Moreover, the ongoing support from the Parramatta Leagues Club directly contributes to the growth of our referee numbers. By providing funding for recruitment initiatives, educational seminars, and cutting-edge equipment, we can attract and train new referees while fostering a culture of continuous learning. This comprehensive support structure helps build confidence and motivation among current and prospective referees, promoting better retention rates.

Pictured: Our next generation of referees thrive in their officiating roles, thanks to the support of the Parramatta Leagues Club.

Our partnership with the Leagues Club enables us to deliver high-quality development programs that prepare referees for all levels of competition, from junior leagues to representative pathways. The Club’s contributions allow us to establish a strong sense of community and provide a rewarding environment, helping us retain our experienced referees while welcoming and nurturing new talent.

In essence, the ongoing support from the Parramatta Leagues Club does more than just provide financial backing—it empowers us to inspire and develop the next generation of referees. Their commitment has been instrumental in our progress, making inclusivity and growth possible, and creating a thriving community that benefits the entire Parramatta Junior League

Our relationship with Parramatta Leagues Club is both strong and fruitful, built on mutual respect and a shared vision for the future of officiating in the Parramatta area. We thank them for their continued support, which has been integral to the growth of our Association, and we look forward to further collaboration in the years to come. Their contributions have played a significant role in shaping the future of refereeing at Parramatta.