The newly formed Women’s Division I will implement the National Collegiate Rugby’s Referee Development Pilot Program for the 2025 season.

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Launching this season, the pilot program is designed to improve referee development and elevate officiating standards across collegiate rugby. With an emphasis on coaching, evaluation, and consistent feedback, the initiative aims to create a stronger pipeline of high-level referees while improving the on-field experience for teams and players.

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“These programs are setting the standard on the field, and now they’re helping set the standard for officiating as well,” said Women’s Director, Alycia Washington.

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Through the Referee Development Program, Women’s Division I matches will benefit from enhanced referee support, including match assignments coordinated with referee coaches, in-game assessments, and post-match feedback sessions.

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Division I enters its inaugural season with six dominant teams. Referees will be assigned from the development program for all in-conference matches hosted by the following schools:

• Aquinas College
• Pennsylvania State University
• Southern Nazarene University
• St. Bonaventure University
• Walsh University
• Wheeling University

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Learn more about the Women’s Division I expansion and the Referee Development Pilot Program.