A major new initiative involving the three Gaelic Games Associations is underway to support the development and pathway for female referees in football, Ladies’ football, hurling, and camogie.
The Female Referee Academy, which will be run throughout the remainder of the year, has been undertaken with support from the Sport Ireland Women in Sport fund.
Following an application process, 12 participants were confirmed for this collaborative programme. They represent the four provinces and ten counties.
The Female Referee Academy has been devised to develop aspiring female referees aged 18+ within the Gaelic Games Family. The aim is to increase the number of women officiating in sports by providing a programme that supports their development as officials and encourages them to achieve their officiating ambitions.
The programme consists of seven contact days: the first and final day in a Dublin venue, two dates at regional venues, and the remaining dates online.
The focus will be on technical, physical, mental, and tactical development, practical referee experience, and ongoing support and advice.
“Well done to all of the participants for an initiative that deserves our support,” said GAA President Jarlath Burns.
“Without match officials, we have no games. The importance of cultivating new referees and providing them with the requisite support and resources to excel underlines the commitment of the three organisations involved.”
“It is another manifestation of the increased co-operation across the wider Gaelic games family.”
“We must continue to support female match officials and provide them with the resources to take their career to the next level,” added LGFA President Trina Murray.
“The benefits of this programme are multi-fold for the participants, and I look forward to watching their progress with keen interest.”
“This initiative clearly reflects our ongoing dedication to championing diversity, inclusion, and leadership at all levels of our sport,” concluded Camogie Association President Brian Molloy.
“By equipping aspiring female referees with essential skills and practical experience, we are investing in the future of Gaelic games.
Further Reading for Sport for Business members: Gaelic Games Integration Update on the Eve of GAA Congress.
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This is another important step forward in integrating and normalising young women’s active leadership roles across the full Gaelic Games family.
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