Message from the President

Message From The President

I am honoured and privileged to welcome you to the 2024-2025 season as your President.

Leinster Rugby Referees have a long and distinguished history. The Association of Referees was founded in 1902 to give the game more structure and conformity province wide by creating an organisation to ensure consistent application of the laws and education. That mission continues today.

During each and every season Leinster Rugby Referees facilitate the playing of our game across the province at all levels. In the season 2023-2024 a total of 5,722 games were officiated, across Minis, Youth and Adult. In these games the fundamental role of the Referee is to ensure player safety but also to uphold the playing charter of this great sport, which includes integrity, passion, solidarity, discipline and respect.

At Leinster Rugby Referees our focus is to ensure the best referee is appointed to officiate at any fixture. Over the years we have developed a range of structures to develop and support our referees all of which are delivered and managed by volunteers. I want to thank all of our volunteers in whatever capacity you are involved, whether as a Referee, Mentor, Evaluator, Coach, Area Representative or Committee member. Your work is never taken for granted and is much appreciated. I also want to acknowledge the excellent support provided to all in the Referee community by Hayley Whyte.

As we build on the foundations put in place we must also continue to evolve and adapt. This season we are concentrating on adherence to the technical zone regulations and encouraging dignity and respect in our game.

Martin Farrelly

President 2024-25

Association of Referees Leinster Branch.