Boulder, Colo. – USA Rugby has again opened the application process for scholarships from the Shanagher Morrison Referee Fund.

The Shanagher Morrison Referee Fund (named after two of USA Rugby’s most storied referees) was created to encourage more young people to become referees and is completely donor funded throughUSA Rugby Trust. The fund covers all costs, including travel and lodging and living expenses, for the recipient to travel and spend an entire season refereeing in a major rugby country.

This year, the fund will allow an aspiring referee (aged 20 to 27) to spend the entire 2016 season (late March through August) in Christchurch, New Zealand as a full-time member of the Canterbury Referee Association or participate in the Maties Academy: a “Referee University” based in Stellenbosch, South Africa.

While abroad, the recipient will have the opportunity to learn from and train with some of the best referees in the world. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that offers full immersion in one of the world’s top rugby nations!

To apply for this prestigious scholarship, please complete the application by December 23, 2015. Click here to apply.

Application requirements:

• 20-27 years of age
• Current membership with USA Rugby
• Two recommendations
• Rugby and officiating resume
• Essay questions