GAA puts referee wellbeing centre stage with new RefWell programme

The GAA has launched RefWell, a pioneering mental health and performance psychology programme for referees — the first of its kind in global sport.

Developed with Ulster and Queen’s universities, the initiative addresses a critical gap in support for officials facing rising levels of stress, scrutiny, and abuse. With one in four referees reporting anxiety or depression, RefWell delivers practical tools via six online modules covering mental resilience, communication, and composure.

The programme is set to become a core pillar of referee development in Gaelic Games and a potential model for other sports bodies worldwide.

Read the full article to see how the GAA is transforming referee support from grassroots to elite level.