Recently we carried out a full review of our Referee Beginner Programme and while we have increased our number nationally significantly over the last number of years we fell the time is right to move to a new model for running our courses. Courses will now take place in two blocks each year to allow us to implement a targeted approach to referee recruitment and retention in each of our regions. By holding courses in each region it will increase the opportunity for us to grow the number of referees in each of the leagues to ensure that growing demands of football at all levels are met with increased number of officials. These courses will follow a blended format with some learning taking place online in their own time and there will be a greater focus on practical elements of refereeing in person to ensure new referees are given the essential skills needed to start in their new roles.

With your help and the help of your clubs, referees and football volunteers we can ensure that we continue to grow and develop football for all stakeholders.

See the full list of courses below. Please share the details for the courses in your region with as many people as possible to ensure we attract as many participants as we can.

Please note that cost per participant is €50 and this includes – red and yellow cards, whistle, coin, FAI Referee Badge and Referee Registration Fee.

Dublin’s Q102, in partnership with the Dublin & District Schoolboys’/Girls’ League (DDSL), proudly announces the launch of “It’s My Game,” a cross-platform campaign designed to bring awareness to the issue of abusive behaviour at grassroots football matches across Dublin.

In recent years, reports of abusive behaviour toward young players, referees, and coaches have surged, creating a concerning trend within the youth game. “It’s My Game” looks to tackle this by reminding adults and young people of the importance of respect and sportsmanship and of just letting the children play. The initiative seeks to create a positive, supportive environment for young athletes, coaches, referees, and spectators, fostering respect and sportsmanship on and off the field, with Dublin’s Q102 and DDSL committed to taking a proactive role in changing the culture around youth football.

The initiative will launch with a multi-faceted campaign that includes educational materials as well as new disciplinary guidelines to promote respect and responsible behaviour at games. “Football is meant to be a joyful experience for our children – a chance to learn, grow, and develop a love for the game,” said Vivienne Nagle, Station Director of Dublin’s Q102. “Through ‘It’s My Game,’ we aim to remind everyone involved within the league about the importance of respect and positivity. Children’s wellbeing and enjoyment should always come first.”

The campaign’s primary focus will be a series of on-air segments, podcasts, and social media content featuring testimonies from players, coaches, referees, and parents, all sharing their experiences and insights of abusive behaviour with the aim of stamping it out altogether.

The initiative will also promote the “It’s My Game” “We want our players to feel encouraged, safe, and respected, and we’re grateful to have Dublin’s Q102 as a partner in bringing this mission to life,” added Niall O Driscoll, Chairman of the DDSL. “By working together, we hope to inspire a long-term change in behaviour, creating a lasting impact on youth sports culture.”

Link to assets here ITS MY GAME & Follow Dublin’s Q102 & DDSL on social media for regular updates and inspiring stories from the field.

About Q102

Q102 is one of Dublin’s leading commercial radio stations, known for delivering a mix of ‘Feel Good’ music, entertainment and local news. With a strong connection to the Dublin community, Q102 has been a trusted part of daily life for over twenty years. The station is popular for The Ryan Tubridy show which airs from 10am to 1pm.

About DDSL

The Dublin & District Schoolboys’/Girls’ League (DDSL) was founded in 1943 and has a rich history of nurturing soccer talent in Dublin with almost 3,000 teams and 45,000 players involved in 1,500 games every weekend, for boys & girls from 7 to 18 years of age. The DDSL plays a vital role in the grassroots soccer community, giving children all the benefits that sport brings to the development of our current and future generations.

Christmas is getting closer! Along with our charity partner, Childline by ISPCC, we are asking all our clubs to host a Christmas Jumper Day for Childline this December.

Get the children, parents and club members involved by choosing a training or match day in December for everyone to wear their most festive and fun Christmas outfits on the day and make a small donation to Childline.

You can find out more information or sign up here: Childline Christmas Jumper Day | Fundraising Event Ireland.

This December spread joy and support an amazing cause withyour Christmas Jumper Day in aid of Childline! A Christmas Jumper Day is a fantastic way to bring everyone together, have a bit of fun, and raise much-needed funds for Childline, Ireland’s only 24-hour listening service for children and teenagers nationwide.

On your chosen day, ask everyone to wear their most festive, fun, or silly Christmas jumper! It’s as simple as that. Encourage everyone to let their creativity shine: think sparkling Christmas lights, jingling bells, reindeer antlers, or cosy knits featuring Santa, snowflakes, or even a festive llama! There’s no limit to the holiday cheer. The day is about having fun and raising vital funds for Childline, either set up your fundraising page here or collect funds on the day.

Register your interest here: Christmas Jumper Day for Childline 2024 – ISPCC or email community@ispcc.ie if you have any questions.

All SSG Format Information can be found in Governance section of our website

Link: