Unfortunately the GAA has been in the news for the wrong reasons in recent months with regard to respect for referees.

We saw two extremely disappointing incidents in Roscommon and Wexford, resulting in a strike and proposed strike by referees.

Positive action in Wexford averted the strike while "The meeting determined that all Wexford clubs must hold a workshop for mentors from Under 11 to adult in their club before Wednesday, 5 October.

This workshop will ask mentors to go through a self-evaluation of their conduct towards match officials."

At Smith O'Briens we must all respect & sincerely appreciate every referee who takes charge of our games. They get no fame, no glory, no medals and no significant reward.

They do it because just like all our players and coaches, they love the game and enjoy the challenge. They deserve our unwavering respect and support.

So please we ask all members, coaches and players to reflect on how you act towards referees and especially if you use foul language towards them.

We appeal to supporters to avoid setting a bad example to our younger members in particular, by being in no way abuse or using foul language towards referees.

The recruitment and retention of referees is an issue in every county in the country. The Clare board is always looking for strong, brave and real team players to step up and train as a referee.

Please consider answering that call and been assured youll be a club hero to all in Smith O'Briens GAA & Camogie.