Steve Ganson will left his role with the RFL on 31 December 2023 by mutual consent after the former Super League official had been in charge of match officials.
Ganson was appointed Head of Match Officials in 2016, having previously been the RFL’s Match Officials Coach and Technical Director.
Before that, he was one of the sport’s leading match officials. In total, he took charge of more than 400 professional games between 1995 and 2013, and was one of Rugby League’s first group of full-time officials when they were appointed in 2007.
His major match appointments included two Super League Grand Finals, three Challenge Cup Finals and two World Club Challenge fixtures, and he was the video referee for the 2008 World Cup Final between Australia and New Zealand in Brisbane. He was then appointed to the role of Head Coach of match officials in the Covid-delayed Rugby League World Cup tournament in the UK in 2022.
Steve Ganson: “The role of Head of Match Officials is a challenging and rewarding one but not always in equal measure. However, I will miss working day to day with the Referees and the staff, alongside the clubs.
“I have had the opportunity throughout the departmental review to consider the future direction I wish to take personally, and I have reached the conclusion where I feel it’s the right time to pursue some other options in my career in 2024.”
The RFL officially thanked Steve for his commitment to the game and wishes him all the best for the future.
Former Super League officials lined up for major role
Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com – 10/07/2022 – Rugby League – Betfred Super League Magic Weekend – Huddersfield Giants v Salford Red Devils – St. James’ Park, Newcastle, England – James Child, referee, official, Ronseal, branding.
According to broadcast journalist The Game Caller, three former Super League officials have applied to replace Ganson.
Among them is Phil Bentham who has been working in the Premier League with VAR in recent times gaining a lot of wider experience which would be beneficial for this role.
James Child is also among the applicants according to the Game Caller. Child had an excellent career in Super League.
Lastly, Ben Thaler is the other applicant for the role after a superb Super League career.
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