Where Discipline Meets Respect – Thanks to Our Referees:
Want to Be at the Heart of Every Match? Become a Rugby Referee.
Rugby referees lead with discipline, fairness, and courage. Whether you’re a player, coach, or new to the sport, you can train to become one of the game’s most vital leaders.
New Referee Training Clinic – October 3, 2025 — Register Now!
Referees Are the Guardians of the Game. Could You Be One?
Every great match starts with great officiating. Referees don’t just enforce rules—they lead with fairness, control the game’s rhythm, and uphold the values that make rugby one of the world’s most respected sports. And now, we’re looking for the next generation.
Why Become a Referee?
- RLead With Character: Referees embody fairness, courage, and respect—values at the core of every great match.
- RControl the Rhythm of the Game: From the first whistle to the last, referees shape the game’s flow and safety.
- REarn Respect on and off the Field: Refereeing builds leadership, confidence, and recognition—both in sport and in life.
- RAccess Training and Support: No experience needed. Our clinics welcome athletes, teachers, students, and newcomers alike.
Their Impact on Every Game:
From the moment the whistle blows to the final score, referees play an instrumental role in shaping the flow of the game. Their decisions are made with fairness and precision, and they bring structure to an otherwise high-intensity contest. Thanks to our referees, SMA Rugby tournaments have earned a reputation for their competitive yet respectful atmosphere, where athletes grow not just in skill, but in character.
The Courage to Stand in the Middle:
It takes immense courage to be a rugby referee. Every decision is made in real-time under the intense scrutiny of players, coaches, and spectators. While many on the sidelines think they could make the call, very few would ever have the bravery to stand in the center of the field and take on the responsibility. Our referees are not only strong in their knowledge of the game but also in their ability to handle pressure, keep calm, and make decisions with fairness and clarity. They are the silent leaders who maintain order, knowing that their calls will always be judged, but remaining steadfast in their commitment to the integrity of the game.
Developing the Future of Rugby
At SMA Rugby Club, we believe rugby is a continuous journey of growth and learning. To ensure every player, coach, and referee has the tools they need to excel, we regularly host training clinics throughout the year. These clinics are designed to improve not just physical performance but also understanding of the game, strategy, and leadership.
Training Clinics for ALL:
- Player Development Clinics: Our player-focused clinics work on the fundamentals of the game, fitness, and advanced techniques. Young athletes and seasoned players alike have the opportunity to hone their skills, understand the importance of teamwork, and adopt the values of respect, discipline, and passion that are core to rugby.
- Coaching Excellence: We offer specialized training for coaches to enhance their tactical knowledge, team management skills, and ability to nurture talent at every level. By empowering our coaches with the latest strategies and techniques, we ensure that our teams play with confidence and skill, backed by knowledgeable leadership.
- Referee Training and Certification: Rugby thrives on fair play and integrity, and that starts with well-trained referees. We are proud to host referee training and certification programs, helping passionate individuals take on this vital role with confidence. Our courses cover everything from the laws of the game to managing the flow of a match and making fair, informed decisions under pressure. Whether you’re new to officiating or an experienced referee looking to sharpen your skills, our clinics offer valuable insight and preparation for game day.
Referee Certification Clinic – World Rugby Level 1
Dates and location:
• Friday, October 3 – 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Hotel Misión – San Miguel de Allende
• Saturday, October 4 – 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Viñedos de la Santísima Trinidad – Dolores Hidalgo, Gto.
Accreditation Requirements (Must complete before attending):
– Rugby Ready, Concussion Awareness, Safeguard, & Intro to Match Official Pre-Level 1 (free at Rugby Passport)
How to Register
Email: formacion@mexrugby.com
Include: Full Name, Club Name, FMRU Code, Phone Number, & Deposit Receipt
Deadline: Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Cost: $300 MXN (Minimum 7 participants)
Payment Info
Bank: BBVA
Beneficiary: Federación Mexicana de Rugby A.C.
Account #: 0194163362
CLABE: 012180001941633621
The Unsung Heroes of Rugby’s Spirit: Meet Some of Our Referees!
Behind every whistle is a dedicated professional with a deep passion for rugby. Our referees bring years of experience, training, and knowledge to the field. Each one has a unique journey in the sport, from former players to veteran officials. Below, we’re proud to present a brief resume of the talented referees who help make SMA Rugby Club tournaments successful, season after season.
Carlos Alberto Cordero
Carlos is one of Mexico’s top-level rugby referees, trusted with officiating the most competitive matches in the region. In 2024 alone, he served as the central referee for the FMRU National 15s Final and the prestigious RAN U19 Men’s Final between the Bahamas and the USA. Known for his calm leadership and precise calls, Carlos brings professionalism and integrity to every game he oversees.
“Being a referee means carrying the game’s integrity in every decision. I’m proud to serve the sport and help it grow across borders.”
You Can Be a Guardian Angel for SMA Rugby!
At SMA Rugby, we’re driven by passion, not just for the game but for creating a vibrant rugby community. As a self-funded organization, we don’t rely on state or local government funding. Instead, each member chips in with their dues. These contributions play a vital role in maintaining our fields, acquiring top-notch equipment, compensating referees, and fulfilling league dues.
Our mission extends far beyond the rugby field. We aspire to secure the necessary resources, both financial and material, to fortify the future of San Miguel Rugby Club. With our ever-expanding positive influence and growing community presence, partnering with us is a win-win proposition. Your support fuels our endeavors to spread the joy of rugby far and wide, while also propelling us closer to our vision of becoming the premier rugby club in the Bajío region.
Join us on this incredible journey, become a Guardian Angel for SMA Rugby, and let’s take this sport and our community to new heights together!
Join the Rugby Family
Please feel free to contact us if you have any inquiries about becoming part of our club.
