The former Royal Marine Jack Smith has joined the Rugby Football League’s full-time panel of referees. The appointment completes a remarkable climb up the ranks for Smith, 27, who took up refereeing only four years ago when he was forced to retire from playing after being shot by a Taliban sniper while on duty in Afghanistan. “I’m excited to be part of the full-time team,” said Smith, who made his Super League debut in June. “I feel the full-time environment will help me learn more and take my officiating to the next level. “As much as I enjoyed officiating, I never thought it would lead to being given such a fantastic opportunity,” said Mikalauskas.

Source: The Guardian October 04, 2016 12:02 UTC