Back (L-R): Pat Fox, Barry Pierce, Damien Maher, Ken Daly, Joe Fallon. Front (L-R): Enda Kelly, Enda Kenny, Frank Mescall (Westmeath Co Committee Chairman), Jim Rock and Declan Leech, at the Referee's Awards Night.

Chairman slams disgraceful incidents at GAA games

Damien Maher

There were strong words from Westmeath GAA County Board Chairman, Frank Mescall at last Thursday’s Referee’s Awards evening in Tyrrellspass regarding the level of abuse at games.

Referring to some high profile incidents last year, the chairman said such behaviour needs to be stamped out.

“There were disgraceful incidents at GAA games, sadly, and it was a difficult year for referees at national level. Thankfully we didn’t have those issues and they have no place in our games: they have no place on our streets, some of those incidents, never mind on the pitch,” he declared.

Referees were urged to have zero tolerance regarding abuse from mentors on the sideline.

“There is a culture of abuse of referees from the sideline - so don’t accept it. Don’t let it persist,” he urged Westmeath referees.