Respected referee Gary Fitzgerald hangs up his whistle

The Waterford and District Junior League has paid tribute to long-serving referee Gary Fitzgerald following his decision to retire from active officiating.

Fitzgerald brought the curtain down on his refereeing career after taking charge of Monday's Jimmy O'Neill Division 2 Cup final between Kilbarry Rangers and Johnville. However, he will remain involved in the game as a referee observer.

In a statement, the league said: "The Waterford and District Junior League committee would like to place on record its sincerest gratitude and thanks to referee Gary Fitzgerald for the outstanding contribution he has made to refereeing within our league over many years."

The committee highlighted Fitzgerald's commitment to refereeing, particularly his return to the game after battling serious illness.

"Gary's commitment to refereeing has been an inspiration to many. After battling serious illness, he returned to officiating and went on to referee the Premier Cup Final two seasons ago, a testament to his dedication and love for the game."

The league also praised the support Fitzgerald has provided to fellow officials, especially younger referees coming through the ranks.

"Away from the pitch, Gary has been a tremendous support to the league's Referee Allocations Officer and, more importantly, to countless young referees who have benefited from his guidance, encouragement and experience. 

"Many of those referees are now flourishing throughout our leagues. As a league, we look forward to continuing to work alongside Gary and his colleagues in the years ahead." 

Concluding its tribute, the league added: "On behalf of the Waterford and District Junior League, we thank Gary for his service, dedication and friendship, and we wish him, his wife Sharron and all of his family every happiness and good health in the future."