Blowing the Whistle for a Great Cause: Veterans Rugby at Allianz Stadium Twickenham in Aid of the Injured Players Foundation
By Ben Stone
On Saturday 24th May, I had the incredible opportunity to referee at Allianz Stadium Twickenham during the Veterans Rugby Tournament, raising funds for the RFU Injured Players Foundation. Alongside fellow London Society referees—Gavin Nichols, Matt Isherwood, and Ben Allanson—we proudly flew the LSRFUR flag on one of the most iconic rugby stages in the world.
Walking out onto the same turf graced by legends of the game was a surreal moment. But it wasn’t just about the pitch—it was the full Twickenham experience. We had access to the official referee changing rooms (space for 10 referees, a fridge, tea-making facilities, two toilets, and six warm showers), which added an extra layer of excitement to the day.
Veterans, Spirit, and Serious Rugby
The tournament brought together veteran players from across the country—many carrying old injuries and even better stories. Each game was 15-a-side and lasted 15 minutes, with referees rotating across multiple fixtures throughout the day. The rugby was physical, passionate, and played in the true spirit of the game. Despite the light-hearted jabs about creaky knees and forgotten laws, the energy and camaraderie were unmistakable. A standout moment was the Super Vets (50+) match—a brilliant reminder of everything grassroots rugby stands for.
Meeting a Legend
Another standout moment was meeting Wayne Barnes, a legend of our profession and an ambassador for the Injured Players Foundation. He was generous with his time, reminding us how connected the refereeing community is at every level of the game.
Giving Back to the Game
What gave the day real meaning was the cause behind it. The Injured Players Foundation supports players who have suffered catastrophic injuries and works tirelessly to make rugby safer at all levels. Refereeing at the event wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was a chance to give back to the game we all care so deeply about. The event raised over £100,000, which will go directly to supporting injured players and their families.
A Day I Won’t Forget
This was something I’d hoped to achieve ever since first visiting Twickenham as a referee two years ago. To referee on that pitch and be part of a day that combines sport and purpose—that’s a great memory.
Huge thanks to the RFU for organising such a brilliant event, and to the Injured Players Foundation for the vital work they do. I’m proud that we, as London Society referees, could play a small part in such a special day.
