In Port Macquarie’s tournament, even the officials get a go.

Referees underwent a coaching course on Sunday, before the tournament tipped off.

Twenty whistleblowers turned up at St Paul’s High School for the course. Joining them were nine referee coaches.

They didn’t disappoint, according to Pacific Coast Slam referees commissioner Rod Bush.

Bush said

“It was terrific,” he said. “They’re a good bunch of kids who are keen to learn.”

The youngsters were shown videos of themselves in action

“We collect video clips,” Bush said.

Everyone gets a copy of a DVD after the event. They also fill out pre- and post-event surveys.

“They’re super-keen to improve,” Bush said. ”We teach them that it’s okay to make mistakes. It’s the best way to learn.

“As long as they don’t make the same mistakes over and over again.”

Kewming said it was a great experience.

“I’ve learnt heaps,” she said.

“I’ve learnt something new every day.”

She is officiating at her second slam. She has four years’ experience as a referee.