Sammy D Foundation calls for sponsors for Monkey See Monkey Do program which aims to stamp out abuse and bullying in junior football

THE Sammy D Foundation is calling for sponsors to secure the future of a program aimed at reducing bullying and verbal abuse in the SFL's mini league.

THE Sammy D Foundation is calling for sponsors to secure the future of a program aimed at reducing bullying and verbal abuse in the SFL's mini league.

The Monkey See Monkey Do Program, which will reach more than 2000 parents and children this year, needs business sponsors to allow it to continue.

The foundation launched the program last year in response to the Southern Football League cancelling its mini league carnivals because of widespread umpire abuse, particularly from parents (see separate report).

It needs $13,000 to continue the program next year because the State Government's 12-month start-up grant runs out at the end of this year.

The foundation's Nat Cook said the program educated children and parents about the consequences of verbal abuse and bullying. "Junior sport should be about having fun and parents need to be positive role models and simply allow their kids to enjoy the game," Ms Cook said.

"The Monkey See Monkey Do program is all about showing children and parents how to enjoy junior sport without bullying or negative comments from grown-ups, and how adults play an important role in setting an acceptable example for others to follow."

Ms Cook said the program could not continue next year without sponsorship.

"We hope that a corporate sponsor recognises the importance of this unique and popular program and allows it to continue next year and beyond," she said. "The foundation believes this is a critical program to educate both children and parent groups."

Ms Cook and her partner Neil Davis set up the Sammy D Foundation in memory of their 17-year-old son Sam, who died after being hit at a Brighton house party in 2008.

Reynella Football Club mini league co-ordinator Jo Pengilly, whose 11-year-old son Kyle took part in program, said it was "excellent". "I watched and saw parents with tears in their eyes when they heard Sam's story and I think they really took everything on board," Mrs Pengilly said.

"Looking at the boys that were involved, I can see a marked improvement in the way they treat each other. It's just great."

A government spokesman said applicants were aware the grant, through Community Benefits SA, was only for 12 months.