THE HIDDEN PRESSURE IN GRASSROOTS RUGBY | REFEREES, RESPECT & PLAYER SAFETY

Описание: THE HIDDEN PRESSURE IN GRASSROOTS RUGBY | REFEREES, RESPECT & PLAYER SAFETY

Grassroots rugby is the foundation of the game — but behind the whistle lies a level of psychological pressure few truly understand.

In this episode of Trauma, Training & Transformation, Dr James Alder sits down with Keith Lewis, Hampshire rugby referee and founder of RugbyReferee.net, to explore the hidden mental and emotional demands placed on referees, match officials, and community rugby leaders.

From referee retention and sideline abuse to player safety reforms and tackle height law changes, this conversation examines the reality of officiating in modern rugby union. What does sustained performance pressure do to confidence, identity, and mental health? How do respect, accountability, and leadership shape grassroots rugby culture? And why is supporting match officials essential to the future of the sport?

This episode explores:

• Mental health in rugby and community sport
• Psychological pressure on rugby referees and match officials
• Grassroots rugby culture and referee retention
• Performance anxiety and decision-making under scrutiny
• Player welfare and tackle height debates
• Respect, accountability, and sideline behaviour
• Leadership under pressure in sport
• The disconnect between elite rugby and grassroots realities
• Identity, resilience, and belief in officiating

Whether you are a rugby referee, coach, player, parent, administrator, or supporter, this conversation provides insight into the human side of the game — and why sustainable grassroots structures matter.

Because without respect, there is no trust.
And without referees, there is no rugby.

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