Give Respect, Get Respect

The role of referees has come into sharp focus recently following a number of shocking incidents that have received national media coverage. Without referees, we have no games and this is what has happened in some counties and in some other sports this year as referees have withdrawn their services.

The GAA and Kildare County Board have indicated it will be stepping up its support for referees. Suspensions and fines will be issued to clubs and individuals. Ardclough GAA Club supports this zero-tolerance approach to abuse of referees.

And this issue is not confined to adult games and referees. Young referees are also being subjected to criticism and even abuse by adults from the sideline. It does not take long before this translates into on-field behaviour by our young players. It is no surprise that it is increasingly difficult to recruit and retain young referees.

It takes courage to put yourself forward to be a referee. Young referees are learning and need to be supported.

If you are going to games this weekend, whether at home or away from home, we ask you to please support our teams but respect the referee regardless of your perception of their performance during the game.