GLRU Referees Make Huge Step Up

The Golden Lions Rugby Union is pleased to announce that Pieter de Villiers and Rasta Rashivenge are the GLRU’s Referees newest additions to be selected to join SA Rugby’s Provincial Panel of Referees.

After being selected for the contender’s panel at the start of the 2009 season, they officiated in different National Weeks, such as the U16 Grant Khomo and SA Student Weeks – both rating in the top three at the tournaments. Rashivenge officiated in the U16 Grant Khomo final between Western Province and Free State, while De Villiers officiated the final of the Amateur League between Griquas and Eastern Province.

Having excelled at this level, it was only a matter of time before they were earmarked for higher honours. De Villiers, a businessman and an experienced first league referee, has been officiating in top class matches since 2003, and has received numerous accolades during his short career, the last being the Best Pirates Referee for 2008. This has earned him a reputation amongst players and coaches as a consistent referee.

Rashivenge, a current teacher at Jeppe Boys High, took up refereeing in recent years, and it has been clear from the start that he possesses a very special talent, and a way of adding to the game of rugby. He received the most promising referee award at this year’s annual function and prize giving.

It is no surprise that these two men were noticed by SARU’s selection panel, and the GLRU wishes them every success in their future endeavours. Your union is incredibly proud of you.

From Left to right: Stefan Breytenbach (AR2), Pieter de Villiers (referee Amateur Final – EP vs. Griquas) en Rasta Rasivhenge (AR 1)