The new IRB Directives that will have an impact on how the laws are refereed in 2009 were discussed by Mark Lawrence, IRB Panel Referee, at Friday's Discovery SharkSmart KZNRU Coaching Conference.

Attracting international interest, the Coaching conference which is now into its 30th year, brought school and club coaches closer to some important personalities both in local rugby as well as esteemed experts.

The conference had a record turnout of 500 delegates, demonstrating exactly how highly regarded this annual event is. The morning session included demonstrations from Swys de Bruin, Lawrence, Grant Bashford and Chris Boyd, while an informative afternoon session at the iZulu Theatre at Sibaya Casino had the audience enthralled and entertained by Hans Scriba (MD Sharks Academy), Professor Tim Noakes, Boyd, Bashford, Lawrence and finally an entertaining panel discussion.

As explained by Lawrence, the new directives in terms of how the game is refereed will address technical and safety issues. "Foul play in particular will be dealt with harshly and I urge you coaches, please coach it out of the game," he said.

In general, many of the directives are there to make an even contest out of the game. For instance, the early lift either as a dummy jump or defensive tactic will no longer be tolerated. However, the hooker may not delay the throw either. "Referees have been told to speed things up." The opposition may also not prevent the quick throw on pain of being penalised.

Crooked scrum feeds by the scrumhalf will also be monitored. "Hookers must hook, the referees want to see a contest," Lawrence pointed out. He also explained that the backrow players must bind correctly - a full arm on the lock and may not bind onto the prop to get closer to the action.

The tackle area will also be scrutinized for players going off their feet. This is not new, but will certainly be monitored carefully this year.