Today, we're joined by Graeme Bloom - a unique person in the rugby refereeing community.

Graeme's a keen supporter of match officials and, despite an MND diagnosis in 2019, he remains committed to staying involved in refereeing our great game.

During the conversation we hear about his story and his ambitions to be a referee. We hear a little about his experiences in match officiating so far around the world.

We also chat about what he's done since his diagnosis, and what he'd like to be doing while he's able. He's been a match official in Cardiff, London, Edinburgh and in Italy, as well as supporting referees in London, Oxfordshire, Bristol and Kent Referees' Societies.

This weekend (12 August 2023) he arranged and hosted a charity match raising funds for the MND Association. Do support them if you're able.

Links:

Graeme - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graemebloom/

Fundraiser website: https://www.rugby4mnd.co.uk/

Fundraiser link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/graemes-big-40-challenge

During the conversation we mention:

• Alex Lambe - Rugby referee with Autism: https://www.world.rugby/news/569717 & https://www.facebook.com/AutismInRugby/
• Mixed Ability sport - https://www.mixedabilitysports.org/
• International Mixed Ability Rugby - Cork 2022 - https://www.imartworldcup.org/

And some helpful resources to help understand Autism and Aspergers, and how we might communicate with players

• https://www.healthline.com/health/aspergers-symptoms-in-adults#takeaway
• https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/communication/tips

If you have any comments about this episode, or suggestions for future shows, then drop me a line at ref@rugbyreferee.net!

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