AFL Barwon puts the netball community on notice again following reports of bad behaviour and language

Geelong’s netball community has drawn the ire of the region’s governing body for a second time this season after a spate of unsavoury incidents.

There have been reports of bad language and unsporting behaviour during local netball games.

AFL Barwon has put the local netball community on notice for the second time this season following reported concerns with inappropriate language and unsporting behaviour.

The local football and netball peak body, in its weekly The Barwon Bulletin, said it had received reports regarding bad language and behaviour on the court this season.

“We kindly remind everyone that maintaining respectful conduct is essential to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, officials, and spectators,” it said in its most recent bulletin.

“We encourage coaches, team managers, and club officials to actively support and reinforce these behavioural standards with their players.

“By working together, we can continue to uphold the values of respect, sportsmanship, and community that are central to our game.”

It is the second time AFL Barwon has had to remind netball clubs about good behaviour during games. Picture: iStock

It comes amid a concerning number of reports for bad behaviour from players towards umpires across AFL Barwon’s four football competitions.

The number of Geelong Football League Umpires members has dropped from 450 in 2019 to less than 250 this year.

There have also been concerns with parents and spectators getting too close to the playing surface during local netball games, with only players and officials permitted on team benches.

“We ask parents to please enable the coaches to coach their teams for the duration of the game,” it said.

“Parents and spectators should also be reminded to stand back from the playing surface to ensure the safety of all involved.

“If you are asked by an official or mentor to step away from the court or bench, please do so without issue.”

Back in May, AFL Barwon said it was disappointing it had to remind local umpires not to get personal when managing a game, while there were concerns coaches were not treating players, the opposition and umpires with enough respect.

There have been reports of netballers, during suspension periods, approaching the team bench during play. Picture: Alex Wisser

“It is an expectation that no matter your role, you conduct yourself respectfully when interacting with others,” it said in its May 1 bulletin.

“As players, the sport should be played with good spirit, and be a good contest but fair.

“At the end of the game, it is all left on court, and we shake hands and move on.

“It is disappointing that a reminder of this nature is required, but please take it on board and ensure you are keeping your members accountable, and that they are conducting themselves in a manner in which you want your club represented.”

AFL Barwon had previously flagged players who had been suspended from the court for two minutes had been engaging with the team bench, rather than sitting near the score bench during the duration of their suspension.

Originally published as AFL Barwon puts the netball community on notice again following reports of bad behaviour and language