BC Rugby is proud to celebrate a major milestone in Canadian officiating as Kristine Lovatt, a mainstay in the BC Rugby community, made her Test Rugby debut as a Match Official for the Brazil vs Netherlands international last weekend!
Kristine’s appointment underscores the incredible opportunities Rugby Officiating can offer – from local Club fields to the world stage. After completing her Level 1 in Saskatchewan, Kristine has risen through the ranks and has officiated at many BC Rugby and World Rugby events, including the BC Rugby Women’s Premier League Final, HSBC SVNS Vancouver, Vancouver Sevens Invitational, PRCs and finally her first International XVs Test Match!
To mark this milestone and continue growing the officiating pathway in BC, we are excited to launch several Level 1 – Introductory to Officiating Rugby Courses this September and October in multiple locations across the province.
“If you’re thinking about taking the course – just do it. No one says you must referee once you’ve done it; I had every intention of running touch casually when I signed up for the course, but it turned out I loved it enough to work hard for some cool opportunities. It’s another way to stay involved in the game and, in the end, isn’t that why we all show up to play, coach, and officiate? Because we love the game and we want to be a part of it. Sometimes, we see the not so glamorous side of officiating but trust me, there’s a lot to love and enjoy when you’re in the middle of it all.” BC Match Official Kristine Lovatt
Whether you’re a former player, a coach looking to broaden your skillset, or a parent keen to support community rugby, becoming a referee is a rewarding way to stay involved in the game. The Level 1 course provides the fundamental skills needed to start officiating rugby safely, confidently, and enjoyably.
Why become a Rugby Official?
- Stay active and connected to the game
- Give back to your community
- Learn more about the laws and spirit of rugby
- Access development pathways at the provincial, national and international levels
BC Rugby will be offering Level 1 Courses in Surrey, Victoria, Salmon Arm, Comox, Vancouver and Abbotsford throughout September and October. Courses are open to participants aged 14+ and include both classroom and on-field components. Courses will take place on the following dates and locations:
- September 7, 2025 – Surrey – Bayside Rugby Club (South Surrey Athletic Park)
- September 7, 2025 – Victoria – James Bay AA (MacDonald Park)
- September 14, 2025 – Salmon Arm – Yeti Rugby Club
- September 14, 2025 – Comox – GP Vanier
- October 5, 2025 – Vancouver – St George’s School
- October 19, 2025 – Abbotsford – Abbotsford Exhibition Park
Courses cost $100 plus taxes.
Inspired by Kristine’s journey? Start your officiating journey this fall!
BC Rugby
A: 2015 Main Street, Vancouver, BC | V5T 0J8
T: 604.737.3065
E: info@bcrugby.com
BC Rugby gratefully acknowledges that its offices reside on the traditional and unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
