Club Touch Judge Course

Touch Judges play an important role in supporting match officials and helping games run smoothly at club and school level. Whether you are new to the role or looking to refresh your knowledge, this course provides a practical introduction to the responsibilities and duties of a club/school-appointed Touch Judge.

Designed as both a learning tool and an ongoing reference resource, the course can be revisited at any time to reinforce key principles and build confidence in carrying out the role effectively. The module takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, and successful participants will be awarded the IRFU Club Touch Judge Badge.

Click here to access the IRFU Club Touch Judge Course. 

Branch Appointed Assistant Referee Duties

Primary

  • Raise flag when ball is in touch. Signal with non-flag holding hand which team throws in.
  • Keep flag raised when a quick throw in has been taken incorrectly.
  • Signals the success of kicks at goal by raising the flag in the air.
  • Hold out flag horizontally to signal to the referee that foul play has been seen. Report the foul play to the referee at the next stoppage.

Secondary

  • Assist referee with decisions regarding grounding of the ball in in-goal.
  • Subtle and discrete assistance with clear and obvious knock-ons and forward passes when the referee is unsighted.
  • Advise referee at appropriate times, usually during an injury stoppage, on trends in the game.
  • Assist referee in the management of replacements and technical zones.

Club Appointed Touch Judge Duties

  • Raise flag when ball is in touch. Signal with non-flag holding hand which team throws in.
  • Signals the success of kicks at goal by raising the flag in the air.
  • Focus on the match, keep up with play.

 

Club appointed Touch Judges have no role in the identification, management, and sanction of foul play.