The RFL have confirmed that George Stokes has resigned as a full-time referee, a story that was in League Express’ online edition last night.
Stokes was appointed to the list of full-time match officials alongside Sam Ansell this year, taking the number up to nine for the new season. However, that has now been reduced following Stokes’ resignation which, according to referees boss Steve Ganson, was due to the commitment and demands of the role “proving too much for him”.
“As part of our commitment to improve the standard of refereeing across the professional game, we increased the number of full-time referees to nine this year,” said Ganson.
“George was one of those selected and only commenced his role with us as a full-time referee in January. This was a huge opportunity for George but it became apparent throughout the opening weeks of the season that the commitment and physical demands of the role of a full-time match official were proving too much for him.
“George therefore offered his resignation last week which was accepted, as we felt that it was the best outcome for both parties.
“George does of course have the option to continue his role as a referee in a part-time capacity in the Championship, providing that he reaches the standards set for part time officials.”
