The International Wheelchair Rugby Federation have appointed Darren Roberts as the new chair of its Technical Committee ©IWRF

Darren Roberts has been appointed as the new chair of the International Wheelchair Rugby Federation (IWRF) Technical Committee for the next four years. 

The American is taking over the position from Stan Battock.

Battock had held the position since 2005 but stepped down following the 2018 IWRF Championships in Sydney. 

The IWRF Technical Committee makes recommendations to the IWRF Board on matters relating to the rules and officiating of wheelchair rugby, also developing and implementing policies and procedures.

Roberts has over 25 years of experience working as a wheelchair rugby official. 

He has been a referee at several Paralympic Games and World Championships and was assistant head referee at last August's IWRF World Championship. 

Darren Roberts was assistant head referee at last August's IWRF World Championship in Sydney ©IPC
Darren Roberts was assistant head referee at last August's IWRF World Championship in Sydney ©IPC

"After 26 years of officiating on the court and pursuing various administrative roles, it has come time for me to give back to the sport that has given so much to me," said Roberts. 

"I look forward to dedicating myself to the continued success of the greatest wheelchair sport in the world.”

Eron Main, chief executive of the IWRF, welcomed the appointment of Roberts.

"I have known Darren as a referee for many years, and I am excited to continue working with him in this new role," he said. 

 "I am confident that he will continue the example of leadership and technical expertise that has been set by the previous Chairs of this important Committee."