Allan Banwell was a top-rated referee from Canada. He became a friend of the Bellingham rugby community starting in the late 1960s. He regularly volunteered to travel south from Vancouver to officiate matches for Western Washington State College (WWU) and Chuckanut Bay. There was never any doubt about who was in charge of the match when Mr. Banwell blew the whistle.  He had a wonderful, calm demeanor on the field that earned the respect of all players and coaches.  

In respect of his service to the game, a scholarship in his honor has been established. The intent is to provide financial help and encouragement to players who wish to be certified as a referee.