Sport Ireland has launched the first nationwide survey examining behaviours towards sports officials, in what it describes as a critical step in addressing mounting pressures facing referees, umpires and technical officials across Irish sport.
Players, coaches and spectators who have encountered a sports official during the past season are being invited to share their experiences as part of the research, which will be conducted by Ulster University.
The survey explores both negative and positive behaviours directed at officials, including abuse, dissent and intimidation, as well as praise and expressions of thanks. It also seeks views on how respect for officials can be strengthened and what practical measures could reduce harmful conduct on the sidelines and in the stands.
Michael McGeehin, Director of Coaching with Sport Ireland, said the initiative recognises the central role officials play in every level of sport.
“Officiating is a valued and vital part of sport – without officials we just wouldn’t be able to play the games we all love so much,” said McGeehin. “At Sport Ireland we’re committed to providing officials with the tools, support, and recognition they deserve.”
“This survey is a key part of Sport Ireland’s plan to address the growing challenges facing officiating, including declining numbers, an ageing workforce and increasing levels of abuse from players and spectators.”
Concerns about referee retention and recruitment have been echoed across multiple sports in recent years, with governing bodies highlighting the toll that sideline abuse and online criticism can take on volunteers and officials.
Clare Dowdall, Sport Ireland’s Officials Development Manager, said the survey builds on the launch of the Technical Officials Development Plan 2025–2027, which aims to transform and elevate the role of officiating in Irish sport.
“The first step in our plan to transform and elevate the role of officiating in Irish sport was the launch of our Technical Officials Development Plan 2025–2027,” she said.
“Now with this survey we’re gathering information that will guide our next steps to promote a safe, respectful environment for technical officials and implement a national respect campaign.”
“We’re proud to be taking the lead in coordinating the first national approach to rebuilding, supporting, and safeguarding the officiating community.”
The survey, which takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete, is open to anyone over the age of 18 who has encountered a sports official at a competition or game during the past season. Responses will be anonymous and confidential, with all data stored in line with GDPR principles.
Once completed, the findings will be combined with stakeholder input and developed into actionable insights to inform a national Respect the Officials campaign, led by Sport Ireland’s Respect the Officials working group.
By placing lived experience at the centre of its approach, Sport Ireland is seeking not only to quantify the scale of behavioural challenges but to shape a coordinated response that reinforces respect, safety and sustainability within Ireland’s officiating community.
Image Credit: Sport Ireland
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