NSWRL’s High Performance Referees program will celebrate another two milestones this weekend with Blake Williams and Gage Miles to make their debuts as lead referees in Round 25 of The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup.
With just two rounds remaining in the regular season and a finals spots on the line, the appointments reflect the pair’s development and readiness to officiate in the state’s premier Rugby League competition.
Williams will take charge of Saturday afternoon’s clash between Newcastle Knights and Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles. A member of the High Performance squad for the past four years, he has steadily progressed through the ranks and earned his opportunity through consistent performances.
“Blake has continually worked hard to master his craft, and this is a reward for that,” NSWRL Referees High Performance Manger Stuart Raper said.
“He is very diligent with his training programs and is always one of the first to arrive at training each week.
“I am so happy for Blake because I know how much this means to him and how hard he has worked to earn this opportunity. I’m sure he’ll do an outstanding job.”
Miles’ journey has been equally impressive as he prepares to take the whistle for the Canberra Raiders and Parramatta Eels game on Saturday. Based in the nation’s capital, the second-year squad member has regularly travelled to Sydney for training and game appointments, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his development.
More recently, the introduction of a training hub closer to home has reduced his travel demands, allowing him to continue building strong performances in NSWRL competitions.
“Gage has had a different path to most,” Raper said.
“He has overcome a number of challenges to reach this point, with the biggest being the six-hour commute to and from Canberra for training and matches. Thankfully, being able to bring in a training hub has eased that load and that has been reflected in his performances.
“To earn this opportunity is a real testament to his tenacity and perseverance.”
