MLR Referee Lex Weiner U20 Championship Third Place Match
MLR Referee Lex weiner makes History at World Rugby U20 Championship
Table of Contents
A Landmark Achievement for American rugby Officiating
Major League Rugby (MLR) is celebrating a monumental moment as referee lex Weiner has been appointed to officiate the third-place match of the 2025 World Rugby U20 Championship. this historic appointment marks the highest level of competition reached by an American male MLR referee, underscoring the significant strides being made in the development of rugby officiating in the United States.
Weiner’s Path to the Pinnacle
The prestigious match will see France face off against argentina, and Weiner’s presence on the field is a testament to his skill, dedication, and the robust development model implemented by Major League Rugby. David Wilkinson, the league’s Director of Match Officials, has been instrumental in crafting a program that nurtures and elevates American referees, and Weiner’s success is a shining example of its effectiveness.
“This is a dream come true and a moment I’ve worked towards for a long time,” Weiner commented on his appointment. “To be given the possibility to officiate at this level, representing MLR and USA Rugby, is incredibly humbling.”
A Season of Growth and Recognition
Weiner has been a familiar and respected face in MLR officiating since 2021. During the 2025 MLR season,he took charge of 10 matches,including a high-stakes Western Conference Semifinal clash between RFCLA and the Houston SaberCats. His contributions extended beyond the referee’s whistle, as he also served as an assistant referee in two other significant matches, including the Eastern Conference Finals between the New England Free Jacks and the Chicago Hounds.
This latest appointment follows another groundbreaking achievement earlier in the year. Weiner became the first MLR official to be selected for world Rugby’s prestigious men’s U20 Six Nations competition. During this tournament, he earned appointments to referee key fixtures, including the England-Italy and France-Scotland encounters in March, further solidifying his reputation on the international stage.
The Impact of MLR’s Development Program
Weiner’s journey highlights the tangible results of MLR’s commitment to developing its refereeing talent. By providing opportunities for growth, mentorship, and exposure to high-level competition, the league is not only improving the quality of officiating within MLR but also paving the way for American referees to excel on the global stage. This success story is an inspiration to aspiring referees across the nation and signals a bright future for American rugby officiating.