Red card: Why it's time to blow the final whistle on bullying referees in sport

While mandatory workshops are part of the role, referees face the ongoing challenge of abuse — which now includes online harassment, writes Yvonne Reddin

While mandatory workshops and annual seminars are part of the role, referees often face the ongoing challenge of abuse.

Founded in 1960, the Cork Branch of the Irish Soccer Referees Society includes around 90 active members — including referee observers.

Notably, two Cork referees are part of the Fifa panel and officiate international matches across Europe.