When Jarryd Logan runs onto Ernie Calland Field in Gateshead this weekend, he’ll join an elite club in the Hunter Rugby ranks.
The Premier 1 referee will take charge of his 200th first grade match when Southern Beaches hosts Maitland in round 16 on Saturday 5 August, an incredible feat for someone who’s officiated solely in the region.
Logan initially picked up the whistle at age 13 in 1999, overseeing junior games.
He quickly progressed through representative fixtures, adjudicating encounters at the NSW State Championships and national school tournaments.
By 18, in 2004, he debuted in the top tier in Newcastle.
“Reaching 200 first grade matches as a rugby referee is a special milestone and an achievement I’m extremely proud of,” he said.
“I’ve been fortunate to be involved in this great game for so long, doing something I’m passionate about.
“I have learned so much from legendary referees like Bruce Cook, Harold ‘Tank’ Saunders, Keith Hole, Sandy McNeil and many others who helped mentor me as a youngster starting out.
“Their wisdom and advice have stuck with me throughout my career.
“I’m thankful for my family’s support, too, especially my wife who allows me to continue enjoying my Saturday afternoons on the rugby field.
“I’ve also appreciated the respect from players and coaches I’ve encountered over the years.
“Refereeing has given me opportunities to travel, meet new people, and continually challenge myself.”
Over the past 19 years, the Newcastle Rugby Union Referees Association member has officiated finals at all levels of the game, from juniors to firsts, seconds, colts and women’s.
Logan’s also represented his region and state, at Country Championships and other competitions.
“I guess my highlights include refereeing the first grade grand finals in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2018, being named Zone Referee of the Year in 2014, and exchange programs to New Zealand and around Australia,” he said.
And, now, after 24 years of refereeing – and a mix of highs and lows, Logan is encouraging young players to follow his lead.
“Don’t hesitate to pick up a whistle,” he said.
“It presents so many terrific experiences and challenges.
“But, it also requires dedication, fitness, knowledge of the game, and composure under pressure.”
Key attributes Logan has demonstrated in spades.
Jarryd Logan’s refereeing history
Seasons = 22 (lived in UK 2007, 2008)
Junior grand finals:
- Under-12: 2 (2000, 2001)
- Under-13: 1 (2002)
- Under-15: 1 (2003)
Senior grand finals:
- 1st Grade: 5 (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018)
- 2nd Grade: 4 (2009, 2010, 2012, 2022)
- Div 1, A Grade: 1 (2006)
- Div 1, B Grade: 1 (2011)
- Women’s: 1 (2005)
Col King Medal recipient: 4 (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022)
NSW Country Referee Junior Panel: 2003-2006 & 2009
NSW Country Referee Senior Panel: 2010-2022
Country Championship finals:
- Colts: 2 (2013, 2015)
- Caldwell Cup: 2 (2014, 2017)
- Country Final: 3 (2016, 2019, 2021)
ARU Scholarship Program: 2004
NRC Division 2 Adelaide: 2019
NRURA Referee Exchange Program: Palmerston North 2005, Brisbane 2004
Hunter Rugby
Premier 1 round 15 results:
- Wanderers d Southern Beaches 55-20
- Hamilton Hawks d Southern Beaches 38-32
- Maitland d Merewether Carlton 33-14
Round 16 draw:
(Saturday 5 August)
- 3pm: Wanderers v University of Newcastle (No.2 Sportsground)
- 3pm: Merewether Carlton v Hamilton Hawks (Townson Oval)
- 3pm: Southern Beaches v Maitland (Ernie Calland Field 1)
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