History made as Japanese referees officiate at schools rugby game in Tipperary

On Wednesday of last week, Clonmel High School’s U19 Rugby Mungret Cup semi-final game against Midleton CBS was officiated by World Rugby referee Furuse Katsuki from the Japanese RFU. He was accompanied by his World Rugby referee and Japanese RFU collegue Namekawa Takehito and Munster Association Referee Chair of Rugby Kevin Maguire.

Namekawa Takehito went on to referee the Ireland v Scotland U20s in Virgin Media Park on Friday night, while Furuse Katsuki was a touch judge. Ireland defeated Scotland comprehensively on the night to finish their campaign unbeaten even if England were crowned champions with an extra bonus point over the five games.

It was a fantastic experience for the High School boys to experience a match officiated by professional World Rugby referees.
All at Clonmel High School wish them both the very best in their future refereeing careers.

Upcoming Fixtures
It will be a busy few weeks ahead for the Kickham Street school on the rugby fronts.
On this Thursday, March 21, they have an U16 Mungret Shield Final v Midleton CBS at Virgin Media Park, Cork, 12pm.

Two other big games to follow are:

U19 Mungret Cup Final
High School CBS v Colaiste Choilm Ballincollig,
Virgin Media Park,
Date and time to be confirmed.

U15 Cleary Cup Final
High School CBS v Colaiste Dun Iascsigh
Date, venue and time to be confirmed.