A Wexford GAA referee is recovering in hospital following a "freak incident" in which he was struck by a sliotar during an U14 challenge hurling game.
Damian Lynch of the Buffers Alley club was officiating at an U14 hurling challenge game involving his club and Shelmaliers at the Hollymount pitch when the incident occurred.
He was struck "full on in the face" by the sliotar, leading to the game being called off as medical assistance was sought.
Mr Lynch was taken to Wexford General Hospital and is expected to be transferred to St James's Hospital in Dublin.
He suffered several broken bones in his face and his vision was impaired.
A spokesperson for Wexford GAA described it as a "freak incident" and wished Mr Lynch a speedy recovery.
Chairman of the Wexford GAA Referee's Committee, Seamus Whelan, said it was quite a serious incident but he was hopeful Mr Lynch would make a full recovery.
"I've never heard of anything like it in all my time refereeing," he said.
"The GAA community has been very supportive and are wishing Damian all the best. The thoughts of the refereeing community in the county are with him."
