Reference is requested to the article that appeared in the Sunday Times of 19th June titled “The game that nearly got grounded”. As some unwanted and unacceptable statements which have been damaging to the referees society has been made we seek space in your newspaper to give our comments.
The referee’s society notes with regret the comments that are attributed to the Principal of Trinity on the referees and the standard of refereeing. The Principal by his first letter interfered in the appointment of referees for a tournament which should not have been done.
The comment “to put to rest purported allegations of unethical factors, biasness and vested interest that could tarnish the significance of the Bradby Shield," we believe is totally uncalled for when it is he by his action of naming individuals who has brought the system into disrepute .
The principal we think is neither qualified nor trained to pass judgment on referees but by proceeding to do so have ridiculed the members of this society. This society has two members in the ARFU (Asian Rugby Football Union) referees panel. They are appointed on a merit based system and are independently evaluated by competent individuals who are not from the referee’s home country. One of the members of the panel was appointed to referee the first leg. It is strange that the principal has passed judgment even on such persons.
In recent days this society has had a feedback system where coaches have made comments for clarification and improvement which have been factually based. Similarly there has been feedback of praise where it has been due made by knowledgeable coaches who have exposed to the game in other countries.
While no comments have been made by this school during the season the present unwanted attack is unacceptable and is mischievous in intent.
Nizam Jamaldeen
President,
22nd June 2011 |
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