Retired rugby player to become professional referee

Harlequins’ Karl Dickson to become a professional referee
The 34-year-old began his qualifications in January 2014
He’s already one of the best 55 referees in the country

Karl Dickson will join the Rugby Football Union’s Professional Game Match Officials Team (PGMOT) next season following his retirement from Harlequins.

The 34-year-old began his refereeing qualifications in January 2014 and continued to play for Harlequins while gaining experience officiating.

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“Over the last two years any time that I have had – a free Saturday or Sunday or even during the week – I would referee as many games as possible to get as much practice as I could,” said Dickson. “Every game you learn something new and gain increasing match sharpness.”

Through the London Society of Referees he made his refereeing debut at the Reigate School 7s in March 2014 and since then has taken charge of a range of matches including schools, club juniors, sevens as well as local and national league clubs.

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Last season he became a member of the National Panel as one of the best 55 referees in the country and was appointed to his first National League One fixture in October when Old Albanians played Loughborough Students.