Vancouver, BC: Over 200 teams will scrum down in Las Vegas this week in one of North America's largest rugby tournaments. Featuring 21 divisions, the Las Vegas Invitational Rugby Sevens tournament will run February 9th-11th, building up to the Las Vegas Sevens, a stop on the International Rugby Board (IRB) Sevens World Series. While BC will be sending three age grade teams to Vegas to compete against international competition, this tournament will also serve as an amazing development opportunity for 17-year-old Toby Mustill, one of British Columbia's up-and-coming referees.
Mustill's passion for rugby began when he first started watching the Leeds Tykes, his local club side in England. Shortly after, Mustill began playing for North Yorkshire side Selby Rugby Club before moving to Canada where he has suited up for the Maple Ridge Bruins and United Rugby Club.
A series of concussions ruled Mustill out of playing rugby, but his love for the sport never faded.
"One of the coaches at my school, Greg Brock, thought [refereeing] might be something I would be interested in. I wanted to become a referee to carry on being involved in the game," said Mustill. "My first game refereeing was in March of 2011, with my school, Westview Secondary School Juniors versus Port Moody Secondary School Juniors."
Mustill earned his IRB Level One certification in January of 2011 and will soon complete his Level Two, having already completed the first half of the course. The young referee says he looks up to Nigel Owens, a highly respected official with several Test matches and World Cup games under his belt.
"I try to emulate him in terms of performance and in the manner of which he handles situations," added Mustill. "I have also been in contact with him via Twitter for advice from time to time."
The opportunity to referee in Vegas came about when Mustill heard of the Invitational tournament while watching the Sevens World Series on TV. Wondering if there was a way to get involved, Mustill approached BC Rugby Referees Society President Dave Pue who put Mustill in touch with the right people.
Mustill's assignments this weekend will be mostly with the youth divisions, but tournament organizers have said there is the possibility for him to ref senior men's and women's games if the need arises.
"This is my first international event," said Mustill before adding, "and if I can do anything about it, this won't be my last."
For more information on the Las Vegas Invitational Sevens visit
www.usasevens.com/las-vegas/las-vegas-invitational/-30-
