We are very lucky in Naas RFC to have the support of not only former Naas RFC players but also people living in the area who continue to share their love of our game through refereering. The rugby referee adheres to high standards in our game and achieving recognition not only from your peers but also externally has to be applauded. One of our referees - Mark Scoyne is one such referee.

Mark not only referees Union but also Tag and Touch Rugby and he has been refereeing tag rugby for about 8 years. Mark has refereed at Touch World Cups, Europeans and also Home Nations.

Recently in University of Limerick (23rd and 24th of October) there was an International Tag Competition for the British and Irish Cup, with referees selected from Europe and Ireland. Mark was lucky enough to be selected as one of 6 Irish referees. After two very tough days of refereeing, where in a tag rugby game lasting 40 mins you would cover about 5.5km to 6km, compared to a Union game of 6 to 8km in an 80min game. All the referees were continually assessed and coached over the 2 days and on completion of the last day, Mark had the honour of being ranked as Europe’s Number 1 Tag Referee and also referee of the tournament. What an honor for Mark after all his hard work and training. Mark missed out on the recent World Cup due to injury. Next year sees the Confederation Cup being held in Ireland where teams from as far as Japan and Canada, Italy, France, South Africa and British teams will travel. Marks' aim for the following year is to referee at the World Cup and look to be ranked in the Top 10 tag referees in the world. Well done to Mark. Next time you see him pass on your congratulations.

Starting off to referee is a great way to give back to the sport that you love. If you are interested in getting involved speak to any of the referees in the Club or specifically to Barry Redmond.

Continued best wishes to Mark.