Junior sport clubs could lose funding over violence, cheating and ugly parents

JUNIOR sports clubs risk losing funding if they don’t deal with misbehaving par­ents and players as part of a new crackdown to stamp out violence, cheating and “ugly parent syndrome”.

JUNIOR sports clubs risk losing funding if they don’t deal with misbehaving par­ents and players as part of a new crackdown.

A statewide “fair play” code that comes into force on July 1 will demand acceptable stan­dards of behaviour to stamp out violence, cheating, and “ugly parent syndrome” on and off the field.

Police have implored hot-headed parents to rein in their conduct — saying officers are too often called to suburban matches because of unruly behaviour and assaults.

‘UGLY’ PARENTS WARNED TO SILENCE JEER SQUADS

BRAWLING FOOTY PARENTS MUST GROW UP

The code, drawn up by the state government, is volun­tary, with breaches and penal­ties up to individual clubs and leagues, but grassroots assoc­iations have been told they must adhere to and enforce the code if they want funding from Sport and Recreation Victoria.

The new code encourages integrity, respect, fairness, res­ponsibility and safety in com­munity sport.

Frankston junior players Archer Blick, Brock James, Harry Blick, Kai Boal and Matthew Lindsay. Picture: Tony Gough

It urges parents to avoid a “win at all costs” attitude and support rather than criticise coaches, umpires and referees.

“Taking your kid to play the game they love at the weekend is a special thing, and they deserve to play in a safe and friendly environ­ment,” Sports Minister John Eren said.

“We want every sports club, association and league to create a fair and inclusive culture for players, fans and volunteers.’’

Police Acting Deputy Commissioner Chris O’Neill said adults’ poor behaviour had an impact on children.

“Primarily, it frightens them,’’ he said. “A single incident can tarnish a club’s entire season of work and deter families or new members from joining.

“Our message to all Victo­rians is to enjoy the match but be respectful in your barrack­ing and be mindful of those around you, including child­ren — remain gracious in victory and defeat.”

Frankston junior coach Shane Blick talks to his young charges. Picture: Tony Gough

Frankston YCW Football Netball Club puts signs out before every game, reminding players and parents that junior sport is meant to be fun.

President Jason McMillan said it was a stern reminder to those on the sidelines that they should lead by example.

“It’s just a game,’’ he said.

“We take an approach, like most clubs, that if you see something wrong and don’t do anything about it, the problem can grow.’’

He said the new code, with the threat of withdrawn funding, “seems right”.

Kai Boal and Matthew Lindsay being good sports at training. Picture: Tony Gough

LET KIDS BE KIDS AT FOOTY

BULLDOGS champ Scott West has a message for unruly parents spoiling suburban sport — let kids be kids.

The former AFL star and father of four is now an under-15s coach at Strathmore footy club in Melbourne’s northwest.

He said some mums and dads took the game far too seriously — yelling at juniors, abusing officials and telling kids to physically target their opponents.

That behaviour had left some youngsters in tears.

“The behaviour of some parents is disgusting,’’ West said.

“I feel like they are living their dreams through their kids — you can hear them at halftime berating them.

“It’s not about that, it’s about encouragement — we want kids to play and have the freedom to play.”

West — whose boys are aged 17 to 9 — has coached juniors for four years and is the club’s coaching director.

The club rotates its under-11s to 13s through the mid, back and forward lines so each gets a chance to learn new skills regardless of their build while the under-15s to 17s rotate two positions.

There is zero tolerance of parents who misbehave.

“I’m not saying our club is full of angels, but we do have an expectation that any unruly parent brought in is told in no uncertain terms their behaviour is unacceptable,’’ West said.

“They can have their membership fee back and go to another club — or pull their head in.”

‘UGLY PARENT’ CHRISTIAN FACES CALLS TO RESIGN

THIS PSYCHOTIC BEHAVIOUR AT KID’S SPORT MUST STOP

TIPS FOR MUMS AND DADS

• Be a good role model. Children watch and learn from you, so set a good example

•Avoid a ‘win at all costs’ attitude. The focus for junior sport should be on fun

• Be aware your abusive behaviour may be against the law. Ask yourself, ‘Would my mother be upset or offended by what I am saying or doing?’ If the answer is ‘Yes’, sit down and be quiet.

• Try not to be critical of coaches, referees or umpires. Many volunteer their time to make sport possible. Some are learning. If you have constructive advice, leave it until after the game or talk to the head coach, umpire or referee.

Source: Sport and Recreation Victoria.

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