In episode 40 of What's Your Stori?, James sits down with professional rugby referee Craig Evans. Craig shares his journey from playing grassroots rugby to becoming a top referee, officiating games at the international level and even at the Olympics. He discusses the challenges and highlights of his career, the pivotal moments that shaped his path, and the personal loss that deeply affected him. Craig also touches on the mental and physical toll of refereeing, coping mechanisms, and the importance of mental health. Whether you're a rugby fan, aspiring referee, or someone interested in personal stories of perseverance, this episode has something for everyone.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:33 Welcoming Today's Guest: Craig Evans01:08 Craig Evans' Rugby Journey02:08 Refereeing at Different Levels04:53 Challenges and Experiences as a Referee07:47 The Importance of Consistency in Refereeing11:59 Handling Pressure and Criticism18:29 The Role of Referees in Modern Rugby26:43 Diverse Opinions in Rugby Refereeing27:25 The Importance of Performance in Refereeing28:40 Respect for Referees in Different Sports33:00 Challenges and Highlights of a Referee's Career35:48 Coping with Personal Loss and Mental Health40:33 Finding Support and Coping Mechanisms46:33 The Importance of Self-Care48:59 Reflections and Future Aspirations

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