Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association appeals to Referees to reconsider move

Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association (SLSRFA) President Kamal Ariyasinghe in a statement said it is deeply concerned and saddened by the untoward incidents that occurred during the Schools ‘A’ Division League Rugby match between S. Thomas’ College, Mt. Lavinia and Science College, Mt. Lavinia at Sri Lanka Air Force grounds, Ratmalana, on 30 June and profusely condoned the incident.

SLSRFA expressed its unconditional apology to Sri Lanka Society of Rugby Football Referees (SLSRFR), and victimised Match Officials in particular, on this unfortunate incident, and assured that all measures will be taken to ensure that such incidents shall not be repeated in the future. In fact, on 3 July, during exclusive discussions with the President of SLSRFA, the Inspector General of Police assured that written instructions have been issued to all Senior Deputy Inspector Generals of Police in the respective Provinces to ensure safety and security at all Rugby match venues in the future. Director, Police Sports Division has been appointed to be the Coordinator in this regard. 

Prior to the commencement of the tournament, SLSRFA ensured the safety and security of  players, match officials and spectators by giving foremost priority in consultation with all stakeholders in respect of tournament rules, technical, discipline and security. According to tournament rules, the host school bears complete responsibility to ensure the safety and security at the match venue.

In this instance, Science College, Mt. Lavinia has de-relicted in performing assigned roles, duties and responsibilities leading to this gross violation of the rules of the tournament.

SLSRFA commenced an Independent Investigation into the incidents on 30 June concurrently with the ongoing criminal investigations by Mt. Lavinia Police. 

SLSRFA implemented numerous measures to augment the quality and safety of the Schools Rugby  League 2024, having organised a series of technical training sessions for masters-in-charge, team  captains, coaches, medics, referees, and match commissioners for all the 84 participating schools.

On 18 May, a full-day session covering the tournament manual, match rules and regulations, refereeing, security, medical arrangements, and discipline was conducted where every School was instructed to appoint a Security Liaison Officer.

SLSRFA in its statement humbly appeals to the President and Referees of Sri Lanka Society of Rugby Football Referees SLSRFR) to reconsider their decision to abstain from officiating matches for the next two weeks until 15 July in the larger interests of the Students and the glorious game of Rugby Football. Together, we can ensure the continuity and integrity of the Schools Rugby League, fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and safety.