Andrew reports that "We had our first RO Dev Squad meeting last night we focused on "The Base" - which was looking at developing PDP's, Match Action Plan (game plans) and the mechanics of the scrum. It was great meeting except for some technical issues and directionally challenged people. But the turn out was good with people traveling from Guelph, London, Kingston and Ottawa. The next meeting is on July 15. We are going to look at the use of Skype for that meeting to save on traveling - we "played" with it last night as Ben Wood was at home due to a previous commitment - it worked well so we will be developing that further. Just be aware that if you are coaching a dev squad member they may present you with a MAP prior to the game - please use these as what they are working on through their match."

The Development Squad focuses on referees who have been refereeing 1- 3 years and have the potential to make the ORRS Promising list within 1 - 5 years. The intention is to give the squad members extra professional development opportunities such as sessions with fitness trainers, sports dieticians, sports psychologists, physiotherapist, massage therapists, and where possible contact with professional referees.

Referees from around the province were invited to apply for the Development Squad and a selection was made from the applicants.  Congratulations to the following successful applicants - Ben Wood (NRRS), Marty Taylor (NRRS), Adam Wilhelm (NRRS) Lauren MacDonald (NRRS), Petar Jokic (NRRS), Scott Fleming (NRRS), Thomas Krebs (NRRS), Nathan Robb (TDRRS), Jeff Kloosterman (EORRS), and Nathan Abdelnour (EORRS)

The number of referees on this squad will generally be capped at 10-15. The group will meet on a monthly basis at a central location for a development session. The sessions will range from practical, theory, fitness and other activities that will build confidence and foster team environment. Where distance is a factor, technology will be used to try and accommodate referees across the province.

The group will also be required to complete personal Match Action Plans and Personal reflections submitted to the RDO before and after each game they referee.  They will receive extra materials such as video clips and training exercises via email or CD to complete their own development between sessions.

Their coach or branch development director will also be invited to attend and participate as a way of monitoring individuals progress.

This pathway will hopefully see referees develop faster and reach the ORRS Promising List and Panel with more focused development and quality of refereeing.