The first referees to be inducted into the NRL's hall of fame have been announced as Col Pearce and Bill Harrigan.
Officiating is a thankless task, but Pearce and Harrigan are among a select few referees whose stature in the game elevated them to new heights.
“When people think of the great referees in this game, it’s Col Pearce and Bill Harrigan,” said ARLC chairman Peter V’landys.
“Referees have one of the most difficult jobs in the game, but it’s also one of the most important."
Pearce, who died in 2004 at the age of 86, was rated by many as the sport's model referee.
The Sydneysider officiated in 513 matches over 23 years before retiring in 1969, later becoming a broadcaster and commentator on both television and radio.
Since 2004 he has lent his name to the Col Pearce Medal - the award given annually to the best referee of the NRL season.
“Col was respected by the players and renowned as someone who officiated with the right level of command," V'Landys said.
Harrigan likewise was a towering figure in the game.
In his lengthy career in the top flight - spanning from 1986 to 2003 - he held his own against the game's toughest and most intimidating players, most notably Gorden Tallis.
He officiated a record 10 grand finals and 21 State of Origin matches, as well as serving as the head of refereeing until his ignominious sacking after the end of the 2012 NRL season.
“Bill was one of a kind. He refereed with a confidence which allowed him to have authority over a game," V'Landys said.
"He always had the courage to make the tough call and back his ability.
“This is due recognition of the contributions of Col and Bill, their long and successful service to the game as well as the importance of referees.”
Eleven male and six female players will be inducted next week into the NRL Hall of Fame.
