In 1977, Paul Akon, a 30-year-old lawyer from Sydney, authored the book “Play the Whistle,” aimed at rugby union referees. On March 15 of that year, The Fiji Times reported that this book was groundbreaking, marking it as the first of its kind globally.
During his travels to Tonga and New Zealand, Mr. Akon made a stop in Suva, where he discussed his experiences visiting numerous rugby-playing nations, including Wales, Ireland, Scotland, England, Canada, the United States, Singapore, and Argentina. The publication gained acceptance from the Australian Rugby Football Union, which was a significant endorsement.
Mr. Akon distributed one copy of the book to each union, granting them the rights to publish and distribute it locally. The profits generated from sales were earmarked to benefit the sport, with suggestions for utilization including direct support for the unions or contributions to the Australian Society of Rugby Referees in Sydney. Notably, Wales had ordered 3,000 copies, while Canada anticipated an order of 1,000 copies. Additionally, the book was set to be translated into French, Japanese, and Spanish, expanding its accessibility.
The Fiji Rugby Union also received a copy of the book, which, while primarily targeting rugby referees, offered insights relevant to players, coaches, and spectators alike. “Play the Whistle” served as an introductory guide to the practical aspects of refereeing, providing newcomers with essential information on managing different phases of play.
The book included recommendations on standing positions during set plays, running patterns in active play, preparation techniques, maintaining focus throughout a match, post-game procedures, and a segment on touch judging.
Mr. Akon, who became a referee at the age of 14, started his officiating career at Scots College after learning the game’s rules following medical advice to stop playing. As a member of the Sydney Rugby Referees Association, he officiated games in the Australian Capital Territory, Scotland, and Wales.