Eastern Counties Rugby Union

We have received seven red card reports from last weekend - 1st October

This is an unprecedently high number.

Most seriously, one of the incidents reported related to physical abuse of a referee.
Note therefore that until further notice all red card matters for adults will be dealt with by way of a hearing in person, at which we will expect to see the player, at least one senior club officer and the team coach.

It is likely that there will be further steps taken to curb what on the face of it looks like an outbreak of mass idiocy, and we will keep you informed.

Meanwhile, speak to your players, coaches and supporters and let them know to expect the most stringent penalties we can properly impose if they appear in front of the panel.