“I started playing in 1976 when I gave up rugby league to play touch.”

“I decided to become a referee as I just love the movement of the game and the game itself, more than I loved actually playing.”

Croft refereed in the ACT for over 35 years three to four times a week, two or three games a night. 

“It was easy to clock up the games when you look at it that way.” 

“There has always been a demand for referees in the sport. Eventually this came back to bite me.” 

Last year Mr Croft broke down and couldn’t get back up. Seeking medical advice he found that he had worn out the cartilage in his upper tibia and required an  osteotomy, where the bone is cut, so that the leg can be straightened.

“They put plates in my leg and told me at the age of 64 i can’t run anymore.” 

“It has been a wonderful 27 years. I have been coming to this Yass Tournament for 15 years and it’s one of the best. I think it’s a great event and have loved coming along to referee, now I guess to watch.”