Comparative Analysis of the Physical Activity of Rugby Referees in International and National Competitions

Abstract

The study aimed to diagnose and compare the physical demands specific to rugby referees in international and national competitions, to support the integrated preparation of rugby referees. The research material included official matches from the Rugby World Cup 2023, the Rugby Europe Championship 2022–2023, and the Romanian National Rugby Championship. Data analysis was carried out through systematic observation and video analysis, recording speed-running sequences and gestural activity separately for the referee and the assistant referee. The results showed that the referee is predominantly required to perform repeated short- and medium-distance movements, whereas the assistant referee is characterised by a relatively stable frequency of long-distance running and signalling. The data obtained support the need for an integrated preparation model in which the physical and decision-making components are developed in a convergent manner and adapted to the actual demands of competition.