Offaly GAA initiative to improve relations between referees and clubs

THE Offaly GAA County Board have embarked on an innovative and very worthwhile new initiative aimed at improving relations between referees and clubs.

They hope the initiative will enhance clubs and managers' understanding of the role of referees and the rules.

The Offaly GAA Referee Administration Committee have arranged a series of briefings for all adult club managers and officials.

The briefings are being organised in advance of the championship season.  It will be an opportunity for club managers and referees to discuss issues related to officiating of hurling and football.

A briefing for all Adult Football Managers, Club Chairpersons & Club Secretaries will take place on Monday 12th June at 8pm in O'Connor Park.

A briefing for all Adult Hurling Managers, Club Chairpersons & Club Secretaries will take place on Wednesday 14th June at 8pm in O'Connor Park.

The Refereees Administration Committee have organised the briefings as they feel there is a “gap between referees and players”.

The meetings will be a twofold thing. Referees will provide an outline of the rules and explain what they expect from players and management with clips and an outline of the guidelines. Managers will also have an opportunity to air their views.

It is part of a concerted effort by Offaly GAA to improve refereeing standards and numbersand part of this is ensuring they get full respect at games. This is a pilot initiative and it is planned to follow up with briefings for underage clubs and managements.