CDRL take action to stamp out abuse of match officials

The Cairns and District Rugby League has taken a drastic step this season in a bid to abolish the abuse of match officials by players, coaching staff and spectators. HAVE YOUR SAY

The Cairns and District Rugby League will take action to stamp out the abuse of match officials by players, coaching staff and spectators this season.

CDRL secretary Pat Bailey said clubs would be required to provide a game marshal on game days under new rules passed at the league’s February meeting.

The game marshal’s main role will be monitoring crowd behaviour, while ensuring supporters and officials adhere to the NRL National Code of Conduct, including dealing with any breaches.

“It was passed at this month’s meeting that all teams will need to have a game marshall,” Bailey said.

Storms’ Roger Tait is tackled by Roosters players in the Cairns and District Rugby League (CDRL) premiership match between the Edmonton Storm and the Atherton Roosters, held at Petersen Park, Edmonton. PICTURE: BRENDAN RADKE

MORE NEWS:

TEAM LIST: McGrath locking into a new style of play

FNQ trainer eyes southern tilt for tough mare

Egan ready to turn up heat on Northern Pride halves battle

Northern Pride young gun fullback stakes claim in trial

“This is to help stop the abuse of officials by spectators, but also players and coaching staff as well.

“We have got to look after our game and our people, and that means zero tolerance for abusing referees.

“Hopefully it helps the referees association retain their numbers and get a few more, because without them, we wouldn’t be playing at all.”

CDRL secretary Pat Bailey at Barlow Park. PICTURE: ANNA ROGERS

The tough stance comes after two matches from last year’s Lightning Challenge had to be called off early due to referee abuse.

A match between the Northern Pride Giants and Cairns Brothers had to be called off with 13 minutes left, then two weeks later, a game between the Northern Pride Reef Kings and Cairns Brothers ended after 60 minutes.

The one-off Lightning Challenge was established to help promote the game during the coronavirus-affected season.

The CDRL season kicks off on March 14-15.

Do you think the appointment of game marshals is a good step? Have your say in the comments below.

Originally published as CDRL take action to stamp out abuse of match officials