Two games last weekend in Sydney Shield and Leagues Clubs Australia Ron Massey Cup have brought up John Woods’ 500th match as a NSWRL game-day official.
Ringrose Park was the venue for the Round 13 games in those two Major Competitions between Wentworthville Magpies and St Marys Saints – and Woods officiated in both of them.
NSWRLRA (NSW Rugby League Referees Association) Executive Officer Greg McCallum presented Woods with a specially embroided jersey marking the milestone.
Woods (pictured below with his parents) began his refereeing career out in the Penrith district, but now lives in Wollongong and clocks up the kilometres each week to attend training and matches.
“He’s one of our officials who has to do a lot of excessive travelling both to training and matches,” said NSWRL Referees High Performance Manager Stuart Raper.
“But that’s the measure of the professional he is.
“John’s experience has benefited the whole squad. It’s the consistency of his performances which is also something noticed and admired by his peers.
“Working hard on his officiating week-in and week-out has also helped with his longevity.”
Woods has been involved in many Major Competitions grand finals in The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup, Ron Massey and Sydney Shield.
NSWRL referee No.942, Woods’ breakdown of 500 games is: 282 in NSW Cup, 107 in Ron Massey Cup, 66 in Sydney Shield, 33 in Jersey Flegg Cup, and 12 in Presidents Cup.
Woods took to his social media page to acknowledge the milestone.
“To do one game at this level was a dream when I started but to now have done 500 is something that was beyond my imagination.
“Thanks to all that have been a part of the journey. Still more games to do.”
