THE Sunraysia Football Netball League’s (SFNL) new zero tolerance policy is a welcome addition.
It’s simple, but covers all bases when addressing what is and isn’t acceptable behaviour.
One of the key areas which the new policy addresses is abuse towards umpires.
I think I speak on behalf of most people when I say I’m sick of the verbal attacks umpires are often subjected to.
Like everyone, they are entitled to a bit of respect and hopefully under the new code of conduct they will get it.
I’m sure there are still going to be a few people who won’t be able to help themselves, but now more of the responsibility has been placed on clubs to enforce the strict guidelines I think we will see less of this abuse.
Handing ownership of the policing of the new policy to the clubs is a smart move by the league.
Getting a tap on the shoulder from someone within your own club telling you to tone things down will certainly have a lot more impact than from a complete stranger.
When clubs made the decision to incorporate junior matches on the same day as the seniors they took on a responsibility to create a safe and family friendly environment.
Incidents like what we saw happen after last year’s grand final when a player was assaulted by a a spectator can’t be tolerated.
As a football and netball community we need to stand united, which is why it was so pleasing to see every club endorse the new set of rules.
If you want something to be successful, then the clubs need to buy in and drive it.
Having all the presidents vote in favour of the zero tolerance policy should send a pretty clear message to everyone that abusive behaviour just won’t be accepted at any SFNL match.
It’s now up to the clubs to make sure their players, officials and supporters abide by the guidelines – and I’m sure they will.
Everyone has a role to play in making a day out at the footy and netball an enjoyable one.
The league isn’t trying to silence supporters, they are just asking them to think about things before reacting.
By all means barrack and show some passion – what would a game of footy or netball be without that? But don’t over step the line.
You don’t need to swear or be abusive to get your point across.
Knowing the difference between barracking and abuse is important and through this new set of rules everyone should be very clear where to draw the line.
