Apply Now for the Gaelic Games Female Referee Academy

The Gaelic Games Associations have opened applications for the 2026 Gaelic Games Female Referee Academy. The initiative is aimed at supporting the development and pathway for female referees across football, Ladies football, hurling and camogie. This is the second year of the initiative, and it will run throughout 2026.

The Female Referee Academy has been devised to develop aspiring female referees aged 18+ years within the Gaelic Games Family with the aim to increase the number of women officiating within the sports by providing a programme that supports their development as officials and encourages them to achieve their officiating ambitions.

The programme consists of 7 contact days, first day and final day will take place in a Dublin venue, two dates at regional venues and the remaining dates will take place online. There will be a focus on Technical, Physical, Mental and Tactical development whilst also providing practical referee experience on top of ongoing support and advice.

This is a robust referee development programme aimed at ambitious female officials. Participants cannot be on a Provincial or National Referee Panel but must be currently refereeing in their county and have a minimum of 3 years’ experience refereeing competitive games from U13+.

The benefits for involvement include:

• Engaging with like-minded officials in Ladies Gaelic Football
• Enhanced communication skills as an official
• Techniques to motivate and inspire you and your team of officials
• Training and advice from experienced trainers and officials
• Practical opportunities at local, provincial and national level
• Feedback and support from assigned mentor
• Confidence in your own abilities through practical learning and application

Applications are now open with a maximum of 20 places available. Apply now using the link  https://forms.office.com/e/wif4cSB0Sh and for further information please contact:

Lizzie Flynn, LGFA Head of Match Official Development Lizzie.flynn@lgfa.ie

Or

John Dermody, Camogie Referee Education & Development Co-Ordinator, john.dermody@camogie.ie

Or

Mike Henchy, GAA Club Referee Development Lead, mike.henchy@gaa.ie

Click HERE to access the full brochure