Legendary Aussie ref hangs up the whistle
NEWS: Rugby Australia referee and a long-time servant of the game, George Ayoub, has decided to call time on his long career as a Match Official.
One of the great characters in the game, Ayoub has refereed four Test matches, 20 Super Rugby games as well as in Sydney’s premier Rugby competition, the Shute Shield with a staggering 180 matches.
From 1999 to 2003 Ayoub worked at NSW Rugby as Referee Manager. 2003 also saw Ayoub be selected as an Assistant Referee at Australia’s home World Cup and in 2006 he was selected as a Referee at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in Canada.
In more recent years, Ayoub was known to the Rugby community with his efforts as a Television Match Official, where he officiated Rugby Championship and Six Nations matches as well as at the Rugby World Cup in 2015.
Rugby Australia, Head of Referees, Scott Young said: “George has been a tireless servant of the Australian refereeing team and has been an inspiration in the refereeing community, especially in Sydney.
“His character, style and manner was highly regarded by players, coaches and administrators alike which has seen him remain at the top level for so long.
“When he left his on field role, George continued as a Television Match Official where he was a part of some of the biggest Test matches in recent years.
“George continues to inspire young referees coming through the pathway and he has helped guide many young officials at both the community and professional level.
“On behalf of Rugby Australia I’d like to thank him for his many years of service to officiating, in many different capacities.”
Ayoub said: “I’d like to thank Rugby Australia for the opportunities that have been afforded to me through refereeing that has allowed me to participate at the highest levels of the game.
“Refereeing is a great pathway for young men and women who want to contribute to the game with the whistle in hand.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time and look forward to watching Rugby as a fan for my next chapter and seeing more young refs come through the pathway.”
