A 21-year-old referee, Ben Connor, who recently officiated his second United Rugby Championship game, is making waves in the rugby world. The young official, son of former Ospreys and Dragons player Shaun Connor, is set to referee the Ospreys vs. Cardiff match on Judgement Day. With a promising future ahead, Ben Connor has already achieved notable milestones in his officiating career.
In October, Ben Connor became the youngest referee in the United Rugby Championship when he officiated the Zebre vs. Lions game. His impressive skills were further showcased in 2023 at the renowned Craven Week in South Africa, where he became the first overseas referee in over 50 years to officiate the featured match. Amidst these achievements, Ben Connor is being touted as a rising star in the world of rugby officiating.
Since his debut in the United Rugby Championship, Ben Connor has also made a name for himself on the 7s circuit. Following his debut in Dubai, he continued to impress at the Cape Town Sevens Series, culminating in refereeing the final as the Blitzboks claimed victory on home turf. His rapid rise and consistent performance have garnered praise from rugby officials and fans alike.
Ian Davies, the WRU national elite performance referee manager, commended Ben Connor for his dedication to enhancing his skills and developing his game. Davies highlighted Connor’s commitment to continuous improvement and described him as a role model for younger referees within the sport. Ben Connor’s exemplary work ethic and down-to-earth nature have positioned him as a standout figure in rugby officiating.
On Judgement Day, Ben Connor will be joined by assistants Ben Whitehouse and Ben Breakspear, forming a trio of talented referees overseeing the Ospreys vs. Cardiff match. The collaborative efforts of these officials are set to contribute to the smooth running of the game and ensure fair play on the field. The presence of young and skilled referees like Ben Connor signifies a promising future for rugby officiating in the United Rugby Championship.
As Ben Connor continues to make his mark in the world of rugby officiating, his potential for growth and success appears limitless. With a supportive network of mentors and fellow referees, Connor is well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with officiating top-tier rugby matches. His upcoming role in the Ospreys vs. Cardiff game only cements his position as a rising talent in the world of rugby refereeing.