Watch your language

April 1 2008

Shepparton News

Better treatment of referees is the top priority for North Eastern Soccer League president Frank Trimboli as the season kicks off on Sunday.

Making the league attractive to other Victorian clubs was also high on the agenda for Trimboli as the men's top division returns with just six teams.

With refereeing numbers constantly in need of a boost, Trimboli said the whistle blowers had demanded an end to foul language in order to continue this year.

``I want to see clubs on their best behaviour on and off the pitch,'' Trimboli said.

``Directing abuse at referees will not be tolerated this season.

``We have to develop a culture where referees can do their duties without being placed at risk.''

Since the departure of Griffith clubs Hanwood and Yoogali from the league the possibility of more Victorian clubs joining the league has been actively pushed by competition administration.

North Eastern league champions in 1977 Benalla has been touted for a return to the league, while clubs and players alike are hoping progress can be made attempting to woo Wangaratta and Echuca.

Trimboli said there was a responsibility on the clubs to make the league an attractive home for other teams in northern Victoria.

Trimboli also stressed the importance of the league's website and results vault.

``Sunday night we expect results vault to have all the details we agreed would be posted at our delegates' meeting,'' he said.

``It means scores, goal-scorers and cards are all going to be up there, no exceptions.''

This season's North Eastern Soccer League committee consists of Trimboli as president, Vince Sagoleo as vice-president, Sam Saracino as secretary, Megan Carr as assistant secretary and Rob Trevaskis as treasurer.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Eric Bott will continue to assist the league in its feasibility studies to support a state summer league team, with more announcements expected from Football Federation Victoria later this month.