The Ontario Junior A League had 18 teams from Southern Ontario ranging from the Southwest Wolfpack (London) in the west to the Lindsay Gryphons in the east. The age limit was "Under 20" although each team is allowed a limited number of over-age players. Matches were played on most Monday evenings starting on June 8 and running through to mid-August.
A new Junior A Panel was named, consisting of all the Ontario Panel and Promising list referees in the T&DRRS and NRRS plus 9 referees nominated by their Branch Society - Jon Butcher, Steve Gasparek, Costa Nicolaides, Joel Symons, John Woolley, Brian Chapple, Eric Ciezar, Thomas Krebs, and Marty Taylor.
The League was played with Senior Laws except that each team could name 25 players and substitute them into the match at any time when the ball was dead and the referee had given permission. A substituted player could return later in the match without limitation. Referees managed this replacement so that there is no undue delay to the match.
Game sheets were to be completed prior to the match with proper identification of front row players. The coaches were responsible for ensuring that only designated front row players actually play in the front row. This was reinforced by the referee pre-game.
In order to serve this level of competition, ORRS Development Director Steve Scott made referees be aware of :
1] The need for fitness.
- play will be very quick and referees must be able to get to breakdown and perform for full 80 minutes
- awareness of quick throw ins and taps at PK time
- an upgraded fitness regime and diet may be required
2] The need for continuity
- this is a 'show case' competition and an important development opportunity for our best young players
- use management skills with emphasis on preventative communication particularly at down time
- referees should be looking for opportunities to play advantage
- focus on materiality
3] The need for fair contest
- emphasis is on rewarding positive play - keep players on their feet and onside
- move the tackler / recognize and manage first offence
- allow front engagement and put in without unnecessary delay - step in and manage when required
This League presented a challenge and an opportunity for the ORRS. It presented a challenge because it introduced more matches into an already busy schedule. Above all, it presented an opportunity to young players (and referees!) to test themselves in a highly competitive environment just below full Senior Club play.
There were a few glitches en route but overall the first season was a huge success. Congratulations to all who made a contribution.