This year’s winners of the Jason Harper Award are Joshua Musonera and Julian Noster.
Both match officials were nominated and recommended by their peers at the largest
rugby tournament in the Americas – The North America Invitational 7s (NAI7s) in
Salt Lake City, Utah.
Joshua came to us from Nigeria and has a very special way on describing himself on his social media platforms, "Just a lad with dreams". His peers noted a constant positive dialogue and messaging for the referee teams he worked with as well as his high energy. Joshua was also recognized for his work effort along with comradery and socialization, including his first experience at a rodeo – Pioneer Days ’47 Rodeo.
Julian hails from Germany and is a rising young referee who travelled specifically to
NAI7s for the experience. Following excellent performances in the pool and knockout stages, Julian was awarded the U18 Elite Boys Final. In his recognition speech in both German and English, he acknowledged working with his colleagues over two days in very hot conditions. His peers noted his work ethic and consistency on the pitch and teamwork both on and off the pitch.
Phil Klevorick -The CEO and Co-Founder of TRF and B10P commented, “In 2020 we lost a great rugby referee, coach and friend. Jason was very supportive of rugby in many facets, especially in providing support to new match officials. The Jason Harper award is firstly voted upon by match officials and recommended by their peers at specific events. It is very much the referees’ referee and knowing Jason, it absolutely reflects a very positive message because that is who he was on and off the pitch."
His personality was very special to anyone around him and for us, including Jason’s wife Tereza and daughters, it is very important to keep his memory and legacy alive. I think it
is wonderful that in the first two years of his award, we have had two winners each
year, and this year both winners are international match officials.”
Both B10P and TRF have an established partnership since 2018 with a focus on match
official development, education, and training throughout their events around
the world. They both look to provide opportunities to help young referees in
achieving greater success while supporting their personal objectives.