Respect

Respect



WHY FOOTBALL NEEDS RESPECT

Respect is an on-going programme that the Football Federation SA will implement in all its competitions and with its Affiliated Associations. Non-Affiliated Associations will be invited to implement Respect. This is not a one-off program, rather an initiative that will become embedded in Football.

The aim of Respect is to create an enjoyable and safe playing environment that enables all participants and spectators to partake in our wonderful game free from abuse, criticism, bullying and physical assault. Importantly for young players and officials, it will create opportunities to play and officiate without undue pressure from parents and spectators.

Football is a very passionate game. At times we get caught up in the emotion of a match. It is important for everyone to acknowledge and remember that:

  1. People react better to encouragement. Verbal abuse and criticism will have negative outcomes.
  2. Everyone who participates in sport has the intention to do the best that they can; they do not start out to play poorly.
  3. Children are not little adults; they are still learning to play the sport and enjoy it. Pressure and abuse from the sideline can easily damage the children’s confidence. This can result in them not enjoying the game and consequently dropping out.


AMBASSADORS

 


Michele Lastelle – Player - “The REPSECT program sends a clear message "Although, we all have our differences (e.g. world views, cultural, ethnicity etc...), the most important thing is to RESPECT ONE ANOTHER". “This message has started from the top (e.g. FFA and FFSA), it is up to the clubs, players, supporters, and parents to deliver and spread the message, so that it becomes second nature for our young footballers.”  


Airlie Keen – Match Official - “Nobody likes being abused.  We have no problem recruiting referees because it can be fun and rewarding, but it's hard to keep them because when they get abused they give it away.  Please respect referees - give them a go and don't abuse them. Remember if there's no ref, there's no game.” 

The purpose of this Respect program is to ensure that everyone can enjoy themselves and feel safe when participating. From this key aim the following benefits will be gained:


WHAT OUTCOMES DO WE WANT?

The purpose of this Respect program is to ensure that everyone can enjoy themselves and feel safe when participating. From this key aim the following benefits will be gained:

  1. Increase in and retention of the number of registered referees needed to meet the demands of the game at every level.
  2. Increase in the number of players including a higher retention rate of current players.
  3. Increase in the number of spectators at games.
  4. Zero tolerance of the abuse or assault of match officials.
  5. Improved player discipline and therefore a reduction in the number of disciplinary hearings.
  6. Spectator and parent education about acceptable behaviour and its application at games.
  7. Coaches understand that junior players play for enjoyment and that better outcomes arise from the use of positive messages and behaviour.

WHAT IS RESPECT?

The Respect programme will provide practical information and guidelines for improving behaviour both on and off the field across all age groups and levels of Football in South Australia. Clubs will be provided with four practical steps to implement and follow. These will enhance the behaviour and attitude of everyone involved in the game. They are:

Step 1: Implementation of Codes of Conduct
Step 2: Create clearly designated Spectator Areas
Step 3: “The captain leads the team”
Step 4: “The referee manages the game”

WHAT IS MY ROLE?

Clubs

  1. Distribute and implement all Respect information and promotional material.
  2. Ensure all participants and officials adhere to the Codes of Conducts and implement a consistent and fair process for dealing with Code breaches.
  3. Ensure your club has the required designated spectator areas.

Players, Coaches and Team Officials

  1. Ensure you follow the Code of Conduct.
  2. Treat people as you would like to be treated.
  3. Demonstrate respectful behaviour.

Match Officials

  1. Ensure the Code of Conduct is followed.
  2. Apply the Laws of the Game consistently and in a fair manner.
  3. Communicate openly with the captains.

Parents/Carers

  1. Ensure you follow the Code of Conduct.
  2. Ensure your child plays by the rules.
  3. Encourage your child to learn new skills and to play for enjoyment and not for the result.

Spectators

  1. Ensure you follow the Code of Conduct.
  2. Support your team in a respectful manner.
  3. Be aware that your behaviour will reflect on your club.

Respect Resources

To assist clubs in the promotion of the Respect Program, the Football Federation SA have developed a number of resources that clubs are required to display around their club. This information will initially be distributed to the clubs and associations by the Football Federation SA via meetings. Additional resources can be gained below or by contacting the Football Federation SA.


Codes of Conduct            


Codes of Conduct are to be displayed as outlined below:

  • Senior Players, Junior Players and Match Officials in all, are to be displayed in all changing rooms.
  • Club Officials and Parents  to be displayed in all clubrooms
  • Spectator to be displayed at all entry  points of the ground and in the clubroom

Respect Information Flyer    


In clubrooms and highly frequented areas of the club

Respect Guide

Made available at your club or association facility

Ground Signage       

        
All clubs are to display the Respect Ground Signage at all games
All resources are to be placed on all club and association websites.
If you require any assistance please contact the FFSA Office.

Watch the FA Respect Video

 



Sell Tickets.

Run your Event.

Sell tickets, QR Code + add to wallet functionality, track attendance, receive weekly settlements - all with GameDay Events & Ticketing!

A laptop and smart phone displaying the GameDay Events app.