slight change but associated thread: referee attire
It was decided in Sheffield that I had authority to continue my efforts in standardizing referee attire, so each WC is not different. It is time for a standard. I searched about and had found some 'tops' for water refs. Basically a rash vest - a rash vest, in US, is a skin tight lyra like long sleeved shirt worn by surfers to protect their arms from getting a rash. The term vest in US is far different than in other countries - we see it as something worn under a suit jacket - ie 3 piece suit - pants, jacket and vest. But I digress.

I had some rash vests (about 10) made by a company called Body Bagz. They found a great yellow gold material. Several USA refs have been wearing them for couple of years as has Murray, Simon and Neil Dixon. With a positive from all concerned, we now have official attire:
rash vest - with referee and first name on vest
red polo cap - supplied by ref
gloves - we are trialing some from Simon in Durban
black swim suit - supplied by ref
red swim cap if ref uses wrestling head gear which must be red (ie Duck Roth)

deck refs will wear a yellow/gold polo/gold shirt with referee and name on shirt
dark (navy/black) pants or shorts or swim suit
have whistle/lanyard

We are currently sizing rash vests - typically person wears size smaller than usual as these are skin tight, very snug, no drag. The vests do not ride up.

Any level 3 ref can order rash vests and polo shirts. Priority is those refing in Durban but all orders welcome. Sample shirts, in black, are making their way around the world. They start in Melbourne at Aussie Nationals were NZ and Oz refs will size. Then they travel to SA, on to France, then to GB, then to Holland, then to Canada and home.

Cost per vest and or shirt about $25 (US$) including personalization. Each ref will have set of 2 of everything or more if they like.

__________________
Carol Rose