Young Free State rugby referee Griffin Colby is quietly building an impressive career away from the spotlight – and his latest performance confirms he is on the right track.
Colby has been selected to the Elite Referees Panel for the second year in a row, a significant milestone that underlines his steady rise in a demanding and often unforgiving side of the sport.
Being a rugby referee is rarely glamorous. The person blowing the whistle is often the first target of frustrated supporters, yet referees remain an essential part of the game. Without them, rugby simply cannot exist.
For Colby, however, the criticism and pressure come with the territory – and so does the pride of performing at the highest level.
A product of Gray College and the University of the Free State, Colby comes from strong rugby stock. He follows in the footsteps of his father, Selvyn, and brother, Darren, who have both made their mark on rugby in the county over many years.
That Free State pedigree makes his progress even more special, especially in a province known for producing top-class referees who are as consistent as players.
Colby was confirmed to the Elite Panel late last year, but this time he does so as a more experienced referee, putting him firmly in line for more playing time and bigger appointments.
His most recent highlight came in Cape Town on Saturday, when he took charge of the North-South derby between the Stormers and Bulls. It was a tense United Rugby Championship match, ultimately decided by a late Stormers try for a 13-8 victory – a high-pressure match that reflected the growing confidence in him.
Speaking to Bloemfontein Courant, Colby described his selection as one of the most important goals that every referee works towards.
“It is a great honor to be selected for the Elite Panel. This is the second year in a row since the inception of the new high-performance group, and it is honestly a tremendous privilege,” said Colby.
“It’s something every referee works towards, but you never take it for granted. Being from the Free State makes it extra special. We’ve had so many quality referees over the years, and it means a lot to represent the province at this level.”
He added that the journey was long and demanding, but very rewarding. Like players, referees are always chasing opportunities – and the Elite Panel selection brings plenty of them.
“This selection definitely opens new doors, with more regular URC appointments, more travel and the opportunity to learn from and work with the best referees in the sport,” said Colby.
“The goal is always to continue to grow and improve, and contribute at the highest level I can.”
He also paid tribute to those who have supported him from the beginning of his refereeing journey.
Free State rugby boasts a proud refereeing tradition, and Colby’s name is now a permanent part of that conversation. With more hard work ahead, it’s not unrealistic to imagine his next big goal will be Test match status.
And who knows, maybe in the coming years, Griffin Colby will follow in the footsteps of another great Free State and become the next Jaco Peyper.
Morgan Peak
Morgan Piek
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