North Midlands Society of Rugby Football Referees: Est. 1920
Ross Hanbury of Hanbury Training has kindly provided the society with a set of training plans for members to use in preparation for Season 2018/19. Ross has been working with the London Society for some time as well as having had other roles within rugby. He has confirmed he is happy for members to contact him if they want further advice with regards to their fitness training.
There are three levels of plans – “Ref Fit in 30” is an entry level plan designed to get any referee fitter with just 30 minute training sessions over 10 weeks. Above that, there is an Intermediate and an Advanced plan (each has two documents).
You might note that the intermediate/advanced training plans are over thirteen weeks, and the season starts in 11 weeks… meaning the best time to start was a fortnight ago. But the next best time to start, is now!
Ref Fit in 30 – Download NM Ref fit in 30 – 2018
Intermediate Plan
NM Intermediate Training Plan 2018/19 (Excel file with timetable/planner)
North Midlands Intermediate Level Pre Season Fitness Programme 2018-19 (PDF Info)
Advanced Plan
NM Advanced Training Plan 2018/19 (Excel file with timetable/planner)
North Midlands Advanced Level Pre Season Fitness Programme 2018-19 (PDF Info)
Thanks to Ross for his help with this, and if any members have any questions or queries then please email ross.hanbury@virginactive.co.uk. There are also videos of exercises/routines on the Hanbury Training YouTube Channel.
The society has received confirmation from the RFU that the new “Smart Power” studs present no greater risk of injury to another player than the stud/cleat shown in World Rugby Regulation 12 Schedule 12. Therefore, they can be allowed providing that in the referee’s opinion, they are in good condition and that wear has not made them unsafe – for example, edges have become sharp.
See photos below for more information. The studs currently retail at around £25 for a set of 16 so they are not cheap. The marketing blurb claims they are worn by England’s Joe Marler and Ben Franks of the All Blacks.


Mike Vaughan has been appointed as the North Midlands Society of Rugby Football Referees Safeguarding Offer.
The Society has also released its Safeguarding Policy which can be accessed via the Policies and Procedures page.
Society members are often in a position of trust with regards to Under 18s and vulnerable adults. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility whether acting as a referee, advisor, assessor, or coach.
If any Society member has further questions, they should contact Mike Vaughan – m.vaughan@blueyonder.co.uk