Renowned for his tenure in Rugby League, Phil Bentham is poised to make a comeback as he departs from his role as a VAR coach with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) to assume the position of the Rugby Football League’s new head of match officials.
As a former Super League official, Bentham brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. His return to rugby league follows a period of success as a referee and video referee.
The role of the head of match officials at the RFL was vacated by Steve Ganson late last year, following a critical internal review into the culture and environment in the referees department. The review was reportedly prompted by allegations of a bullying culture within the department raised by former referees. The departure of several officials further emphasized the need for change within the RFL’s match officials department.
The new appointment aims to address these issues, with the RFL expected to confirm Bentham’s new role on Thursday. Bentham is highly regarded for his ability to lead and inspire, and his return has been met with widespread approval within the rugby league community.
Throughout his illustrious career, Bentham officiated in several major finals, including the Super League Grand Finals and Challenge Cup finals. His experience and passion for the sport make him a notable choice for the new position.
In addition to his achievements on the field, Bentham has also worked as a match officials coach at the RFL, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on the sport and its officiating.
As the new season kicks off, there is much anticipation surrounding Bentham’s appointment and the positive impact it is expected to have. With a remarkable 20,000 tickets already sold for the season’s opening game, the sport is set for an exciting new chapter.
The appointment of Bentham comes at a time of increased visibility for rugby league, with the BBC set to cover 15 Super League games this season. This move is a significant milestone for the sport, providing it with a level of exposure unprecedented since its inception.
Overall, the arrival of Phil Bentham as the head of match officials heralds a new era for rugby league, one that promises positive change and growth for the sport. His appointment is a testament to the RFL’s commitment to creating a supportive and empowering environment for match officials, ensuring a bright future for rugby league.