IT was slightly ironic that Ron “Rocky” Davis did something on Sunday he rarely does.
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In his 1000th rugby league match as a referee, “Rocky” banished two players to the bin in Port Macquarie Sharks’ 40-6 win over Taree City Bulls.
The well-respected Group 3 and Hastings League referee had to wrestle back control in a match where tempers frayed, particularly in the second half.
One player was sent to the sin-bin for a high tackle, while the other was binned for running in to join the ensuing melee.
He said controlling players in the heat of battle was one of many challenges he had to overcome in the last three decades.
“When I played I always respected the referee,” he said.
“I didn’t care if I was right or wrong – even though players always think referees are wrong – I never argued with him because he’s never going to change his mind.
“The main challenge for a referee is to keep control of yourself and keep the temper of the players down. Keep them cool.”
Davis admitted that was easier said than done, but said being an official was character-building among many things.
“You’ve got to let all the water run over the back of your neck and not worry too much about what is said on the sideline,” he said.
Upon reflecting on his 30 years as a whistle-blower, Davis said the main changes he had seen was mainly the move from a one-metre rule to the 10-metre rule currently in effect.
Prior to his 1000 games with the whistle, Davis played 248 games for Manly-Warringah and played in five grand finals, winning four.
With all the technology currently available to National Rugby League referees, Davis said he was glad he never had the opportunity to call on help from the man in the box upstairs.
“The bunker is there and they get it wrong sometimes,” he said.
“I don’t know how, but they do. Usually your first instinct when something has happened is the right one.
“I’m happy I haven’t had the chance to use it.”
And did the man who currently calls the Mid-North Coast home have any plans on hanging up the whistle?
“I’ve set myself a target of still doing it at 70 and I’m 67 now,” he said.
“Three more years might be about it because then arthritis will have set in.”
The Sharks proved too good in Sunday’s reserve grade encounter, winning 40-6.