The local rugby union in Horowhenua has made the decision to postpone all club and college games this weekend due to serious abuse directed at a referee from members of the public -- including a threat of stabbing.
More than sixty percent of coaches and referees in Auckland have reported inappropriate behaviour from the sidelines at least once or twice a season.
Ben O'Keeffe is one of New Zealand's leading rugby union referees, and a spokesperson for sporting campaign 'Love Their Game', encouraging positive sideline support across all sporting codes.
He joins Mark Leishman.
Referee Ben O'Keeffe during the Super Rugby Pacific match, Moana Pasifika v Highlanders. Photo: ActionPress
