Souths Magpies issue statement over spectators abusive behaviour towards referee

A spectator has been banned by a leading Queensland Premier Rugby club following alleged abusive behaviours towards the referee during a junior match.

A spectator has been banned by the Souths Rugby Union club following alleged abusive behaviour during a junior match.

In a statement released by the club following the incident last weekend, Souths addressed the issue which involved a parent and a referee where the latter was the alleged victim of direct inapporiate and abusive behaviour on Saturday June 8.

“The match was called off early in the first half following inappropriate and abusive behaviour directed at the referee by a parent,” the statement said.

Players, spectators and officials were on hand to witness the incident which “did not reflect the values or standards of our club or the wider rugby community”.

Immedatate steps were taken by the club, including getting the individual to leave the premises immediately.

The issue has since been formally reported to Queensland Rugby, with Souths in the process of reviewing its internal processes and expectations with all age groups to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Souths have also initiated an investigation to be conducted by the Disciplinary Comittee following the spectators unacceptablebehaviour, a strong stance which was welcomed by members of the rugby community.

“Well done, I used to ref U16-10 games. The number of times I heard foul language from the sidelines was terrible,” one comment said.

Another comment said: “Great leadership from the club. Many clubs would do nothing. I’ve seen it happen time and time again with no repercussions.”

Souths president Derek Thomas has issues a statement regarding an incident at a junior rugby match last weekend.

Souths have also sent an apology to the referee.

The statement issued by Souths president Derek Thomas confirms that the parent involved is banned from attending the club and all matches and events until the investigation has been concluded.

The issue follows another club rugby incident which brought the game into disrepute late last year during the grand finals series at Ballymore. A fight broke out after the Colts 1 grand final between Souths and Wests.

An on field push and shove between players right on full-time escalated into a wild melee where some spectators were seen throwing punches.

Originally published as Souths Magpies issue statement over spectators abusive behaviour towards referee