Westmeath LGFA, Westmeath Camogie and Westmeath GAA recently launched their joint ‘No Ref, No Game’ campaign in support of over 40 referees across the county.
The campaign is aiming 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.
Karen Goldrick, chairperson, Westmeath Camogie Association, welcomed the campaign.
“Ahead of the commencement of our adult championships Westmeath Camogie welcome the opportunity to work together with Westmeath LGFA and Westmeath GAA on our joint campaign ‘No Ref No Game’.
“Referees, linesmen and umpires 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,” Ms Goldrick stated.
Speaking at the launch, Paula Finan Secretary of Westmeath LGFA, noted that the contribution of referees and their officials cannot be underestimated and it is imperative for the continued growth and development of the games that they are supported and respected in their roles.
“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,” Ms Finan added.
Westmeath GAA Chairman, Frank Mescall, called upon supporters to continue supporting the 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. Our Referees deserve to be supported and applauded not abused and insulted.
“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,” Mr Mescall concluded.
