The Penrith Referees’ Association is set to expand and offer young referees more opportunities following a new partnership with Seven News.
The local association, which has been running for more than 50 years, announced this week that the top rating Channel Seven news service had come on board as its major sponsor for 2019 and beyond.
The new partnership will allow the association to offer all new referees their on and off-field gear at no cost, as well as zero fees to undertake the Level 1 referees course.
“When the Penrith Refs put the call out for help, we jumped at the chance to be involved with the game in rugby league’s heartland,” Seven News Sydney Director, Jason Morrison said.
“Seven News has always enjoyed great support from Sydney’s greater west and we are glad to be able to do our little bit to say thanks.”
Mel McLaughlin, Seven News sports anchor, said it was a great partnership.
“I get excited about anything to do with grassroots sport and particularly in Sydney’s west, where I grew up,” she said.
Nathan Taylor
Nathan Taylor is the Weekender's Deputy Editor and Senior Sports Writer. He also compiles the weekly Chatter on the Box TV column. Nathan is an award-winning journalist, who has worked at the Weekender for a decade.