Young Whistlers

STILL BLOWING STRONG

The Allianz ‘Young Whistlers’ refereeing scheme, unique to Cumann na mBunscol, Áth Cliath, continues to thrive and young graduates can be seen in action in Parnell Park, Croke Park and anywhere Cumann na mBunscol mini-games are held. There is little doubt but that this unique initiative will bear fruit for the GAA in the years ahead when hundreds of youngsters with confidence, and a positive attitude to the very arduous task of match referee, become old enough to take charge of games at a more senior level.

The emphasis at primary school level is, of course, on fun and teaching effective refereeing techniques in a novel and enjoyable way. Cumann na mBunscol is fortunate to have the services of a veritable expert in the field in Tom Fitzpatrick, a man who combines a thorough knowledge of the rules, as a member of the national Coiste na Reiteoirí, years of practical experience and the ability to pass on that fund of knowledge to youngsters.