Penalty looms for clubs who fail to provide a referee
There are seven Westmeath GAA clubs with no referee and they are facing the prospect of no home league games next year.
It was confirmed at a meeting of Westmeath GAA County Committee that clubs failing to put forward a referee will face the sanction.
Last year, Westmeath Coiste na nÓg launched a recruitment drive, resulting in nearly 50 men and women stepping up to become referees. This initiative aimed to help them learn the rules, gain experience officiating underage matches, and progress through the ranks.
Despite this effort, there remains a shortage of referees, and Westmeath GAA is now requiring each club to nominate at least one person to train as a referee. They will receive the necessary guidance and support to officiate matches and advance in their role. Friday, January 31 was the deadline to submit a nominee willing to referee at either juvenile or adult level this year and clubs who failed to meet the deadline will have to deal with travelling for their league matches.
When asked about potential penalties, Westmeath GAA Assistant Secretary Keith Quinn said: “Any club without a referee will have to play all their league games away from home in 2026.”
“No one wants to enforce this sanction, but at present, seven clubs across hurling and football are without a referee. We simply need someone to step forward and complete the referee training course in March.”
Mr Quinn emphasised that the competition regulations allow Westmeath GAA to impose these sanctions if necessary. “We have every right to take action, and going forward, this will be the penalty for any club that does not provide a referee,” he confirmed.
Gerry Sheridan of Tyrrellspass questioned whether Westmeath could impose such a sanction. Chairman Frank Mescall explained that while it is not a rule in the official guide, Westmeath are entitled to have their own regulations for competitions.
“It can be challenged,” the chairman added.
Martin Williams (Lough Lene Gaels) queried if young referees trained in 2024 can be put forward and the committee accepted that they can.