Dubai: Two rugby referees have returned from the Asian Games richer in experience and revealing that referees in the UAE have a bright future in international events.
Two match officials from the Arabian Gulf Rugby Referees (AGRR) Alan Whitcombe from Al Ain and Scott Herbert from Dubai were the referees in the final of the rugby sevens event at the 16th Asian Games in Guangzhou in China.
"It was a huge honour to referee in the final of the Asian Games and a proud moment for me personally. It's also a tribute to the quality of refereeing in the Arabian Gulf that two of our members officiated in the final. We are extremely fortunate to be given these sorts of opportunities," remarked Whitcombe
Memorable
Herbert, who assisted Whitcombe, said: "I was delighted to be appointed as assistant referee for the final of the Asian Games and to be there supporting Alan [Whitcombe] made it even more memorable. He had a great tournament and can rightly feel proud of his achievement."
Whitcombe believes that the honour is a feather in the cap of AGRR.
"We are fortunate to receive some excellent support from our sponsor, Power Developments International, which enables the association to send its members on experience-gaining trips to tournaments and training camps all over the world," said Whitcombe.
Proud
"What Alan and Scott have achieved in China reinforces the belief that the standard of rugby refereeing here in the UAE and right across the Gulf is second to none," said an AGRR spokesperson.
"They both work extremely hard to stay at the top of their games and we are proud of their achievements."
For those who are interested in taking up refereeing, they can write to ray.flower@rocketmail.com