Wexford camogie is leading the way in player welfare after county referees completed a specialist sports first aid course last week.
The initiative, which was the brainchild of Wexford Camogie Secretary Corinna Sheil, saw referees receive practical training designed specifically for dealing with injuries and medical emergencies that can occur during camogie games.
The course was delivered by Wexford-based Roche Training, whose owner and instructor Niamh Roche brings considerable experience to the programme as both a first aid instructor and lifelong camogie player. Niamh has represented Wexford at every level and previously played with her home club Rathnure St. Anne’s.
Niamh is one of just six first aid instructors from across Ireland currently involved in a national player welfare initiative through Croke Park, working alongside the RNLI, LGFA, Camogie Association and GAA in the development of a sports first aid programme which can be made available to clubs nationwide.
Having already delivered sports first aid training to clubs throughout Wexford, Niamh believes bringing the programme to referees was the natural next step.
“So why not Wexford?” she said. “If we don’t concentrate on player welfare, we don’t have teams. Everyone involved in our games deserves to feel confident that, if something happens, the people around them know what to do.”
The initiative is another example of Wexford Camogie investing in the development of its referees, while also putting player welfare at the centre of its operations.
“We are delighted with how the first course went,” Corinna Sheil said. “Our referees give so much to Wexford Camogie, and providing them with these additional skills and knowledge is hugely important.
“Referees are present at every game, so having more people around our pitches who are trained and confident in dealing with an injury or medical emergency can only be a positive for our players and clubs.”
Following the success of the first course, Wexford Camogie hopes to hold a second sports first aid course for referees in September.
The initiative could also see Wexford set an example for other counties to follow.
“I’m incredibly proud to be part of this,” Niamh added. “Wexford is now ahead, and hopefully other counties will follow.”
For Wexford Camogie, the message is clear – player welfare is not simply about what happens during a game, but about ensuring everyone involved in the sport is equipped, educated and supported.
Wexford Camogie is proud to lead the way in player welfare and in the ongoing upskilling and education of its referees.