NLD Referees are pleased to announce that Ross Tarnowski has joined as a member in the role of Strength and Conditioning (S&C) Coach for the 2025/26 season.

Ross brings extensive experience across rugby and high-performance environments. He is currently Head Coach of Lincoln RFC U16s and previously served as Senior Director of Rugby at the club. His professional background includes:

– Director of Strength & Conditioning for the RAF Rugby Union men’s senior squad

– Consultant to Cyprus Rugby

– Performance support for Leicester Tigers in strength, conditioning, and analysis

– Coach education with Strength & Conditioning Education, where he has tutored and assessed up to Level 4, as well as developing accredited courseware

Holding a BSc (Hons) in Sport Science, Ross is well placed to deliver a practical, referee-focused approach to athletic preparation. His programme for NLD referees will emphasise:

– Aerobic capacity and endurance

– Acceleration and change of direction

– Mobility and flexibility

– Robust injury prevention strategies

Across the season, referees will have access to structured training plans designed to fit around busy schedules, alongside opportunities for small-group and one-to-one support.

This appointment reflects NLD Referees’ ongoing commitment to supporting match officials in every aspect of their development — ensuring they are physically prepared to perform consistently at all levels of the game.