{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/637edd2f571c7c0011b83a32/6854c6a6412e0f0fbf8baab4?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Rugby Ref Ben O'Keefe on Abuse from Chiefs Fans following Crusaders 2023 Win **RE-RELEASE**","description":"<p>Dr. Ben O'Keeffe is one of the best rugby referees in the world—and he's also a fully qualified doctor, specializing in ophthalmology.</p><p><br></p><p>This episode first dropped in 2023, shortly after Ben made headlines for the intense backlash (including death threats) he received after officiating the Super Rugby Final between the Crusaders and the Chiefs. Since the Super Rugby 2025 final is again between these two fierce rivals, I thought I'd re-release the episode ICYMI the first time </p><p>round.</p><p><br></p><p>In this conversation, we unpack Ben’s unique double life as a top-level rugby referee and an eye surgeon. </p><p>We talk about his journey through medicine, his passion for the game, and how he deals with pressure, criticism, and the spotlight that comes with both careers.</p><p><br></p><p>I originally invited Ben on the podcast after his honest Instagram post went viral—calling out some of the horrific messages he received post-match. But beyond the drama, he's just a bloody inspiring Kiwi, doing incredible things with humility and focus.</p><p><br></p><p>If you missed this episode the first time around, now’s the perfect time to catch up.</p><p><br></p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Bens Dual Career</p><p>02:55 The Journey Through Medicine</p><p>05:48 Transitioning from Medicine to Refereeing</p><p>09:10 Balancing Rugby and Medicine</p><p>12:00 The Life of a Professional Referee</p><p>14:52 Understanding the Game and Its Rules</p><p>18:00 Decision Making Under Pressure</p><p>20:52 The Impact of Refereeing Decisions</p><p>23:56 The Role of a Referee in the Game</p><p>27:09 Refereeing as a Career Choice</p><p>30:00 Training and Preparation for Referees</p><p>33:01 The Importance of Experience in Refereeing</p><p>36:16 Understanding Referee-Player Dynamics</p><p>39:25 Accountability in Refereeing</p><p>43:38 Review Processes and Continuous Improvement</p><p>49:14 The Impact of Social Media on Referees</p><p>54:57 Navigating Public Criticism and Mental Health</p><p>01:01:01 The Role of Support and Community in Refereeing</p><p>01:10:44 Referee Relationships with Players</p><p>01:14:36 The Dynamics of Refereeing</p><p>01:16:20 Nervousness and Preparation Before Games</p><p>01:19:34 Emotional Challenges and Accountability</p><p>01:22:21 Learning from Mistakes and Apologies</p><p>01:23:49 Controversial Decisions and Their Impact</p><p>01:24:51 Weird Rules and Laws in Rugby</p><p>01:26:36 The Importance of the Whistle</p><p>01:28:56 Referee Milestones and Achievements</p><p>01:30:59 World Cup Aspirations and Team Dynamics</p><p>01:33:45 Media Attention and Public Perception</p><p>01:36:29 The Future of Refereeing and Safety Concerns</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>","author_name":"Dom Harvey"}