'Referees deserve to be applauded, not abused and insulted'
Gaelic games players, coaches and fans have been reminded to show respect to referees this summer.
Westmeath GAA, Westmeath Camogie and Westmeath LGFA joined forces last week to launch their “No Ref, No Game” campaign in support of the over 40 local referees who officiate at games across Westmeath every weekend.
In a joint statement released after last Wednesday evening's launch in TEG Cusack Park, the three administrative bodies said that aim of the campaign is “to highlight the importance of referees in ensuring high quality games this summer and to remind supporters that these games depend on referees to take place”.
Westmeath Camogie Association Chairperson Karen Goldrick said it is important that referees are afforded the respect they deserve.
“Ahead of the commencement of our adult championships, Westmeath Camogie welcomes the opportunity to work together with Westmeath LGFA and Westmeath GAA on our joint campaign ‘No Ref No Game’.
Ms Goldrick said that referees and other match officials “play a massive role in our games and it is important we show the respect and support they deserve at all levels".
“We believe that with all associations working together we can retain and encourage recruitment in the area of match officials,” she added.
Paula Finan, secretary of Westmeath LGFA, said that “the contribution of our referees and their officials cannot be underestimated”.
“It is imperative for the continued growth and development of our games that they are supported and respected in their roles," she said.
“We look forward to working together as a Gaelic games family in supporting our referees and encouraging our younger referees to continue in their roles.”
Westmeath GAA chairman, Frank Mescall said “our referees deserve to be supported and applauded not abused and insulted”.
“We would like to appeal to fans to continue supporting our group of dedicated and committed individuals who are vital to our games.
“The slogan, “No Referee, No Game” is so apt, as simply put our games cannot happen if referees are not able to do their job. We ask fans, mentors, players and officials to please respect referees over the coming weeks.
“Future generations of potential referees currently stand on sidelines across our county, it’s important that we show supporters young and old that anyone can be a referee someday and help continue our game for many years to come,” he added.