Former Waratahs halfback Brendan McKibbin is set to become a referees coach after announcing his retirement overnight.
McKibbin, who is currently playing with London Irish in England, confirmed his retirement on Twitter and plans to return home.
The scrumhalf will join fellow ex-player Mitch Chapman as a Rugby AU referees coach, appointments made as part of a move to get more former players involved in officiating.
The pair will help referees at all levels of the game develop their skills.
"It’s time," McKibbin wrote in a post.
"From the bottom of my heart I’d like to thank the entire rugby community for what this great game has given me. The experiences throughout my career have been invaluable and the friendships will be ever lasting. I Can’t wait to start my new chapter @RugbyAU."
It’s time. From the bottom of my heart I’d like to thank the entire rugby community for what this great game has given me. The experiences throughout my career have been invaluable and the friendships will be ever lasting. I Can’t wait to start my new chapter @RugbyAU https://t.co/p6Iq8XA1P7
— Brendan McKibbin (@brendanmckibbin) February 28, 2019
Rugby AU head of refereeing Scott Young said McKibbin would be a welcome addition.
“Brendan is highly regarded player and student of the game and will be an excellent addition to our high-performance refereeing team," he said.
“Brendan will be working directly with the current and next generation of officials to ensure that Australian Rugby continues to produce world class referees that can contribute to the game and the domestic and International stage."
McKibbin won the title with the Waratahs in 2014 before moving to England after the 2015 season to play with the Irish.
