Memo To All Clubs, Players, Coaches, Umpires and Parents

To All Clubs, Players, Coaches, Umpires and Parents

LYVNA has been in receipt of an increased number of complaints regarding the behaviour of spectators, coaches and players. We all need to take a proactive role in creating a family friendly environment by everyone showing respect towards all officials, coaches, umpires, opposition players and spectators. By promoting positive behavior we can make our netball environment more appealing, welcoming and inclusive.

We remind you that juniors, in particular play sport for their own enjoyment, and as such should not have to put up with any form of abuse or rough play, be it from fellow team members, opposition players, coach (either team) or spectators. Verbal abuse and threats lead to youngsters, coaches and umpires leaving netball.
The "ugly parent syndrome" is a social ill, it is unacceptable and is likely to be more evident in the upcoming finals, with emotions running high and that some spectators are unfamiliar with the rules of the game, things often get out of hand. If someone is screaming and yelling at the kids then it's not fun for anyone. Whilst we know this behavior comes from the small minority, it still needs to be curbed. Spectators need also be reminded that the players need to listen to firstly the umpire and secondly their coach, too many directions becomes confusing particularly the under 11’s that may have never played finals before.

Coaches need to operate within the rules and spirit of netball and teach their players to do the same. Learn the correct terminology, e.g. instead of saying “push her back” which can be misconstrued as teaching rough play, try saying “Hold your space”. Display control, respect and professionalism to all involved including opponents, coaches, umpires and administrators.

We have received so many complaints this year re language and behavior on court from the older age groups, everyone is entitled to enjoy their netball game and not be subject to intimidating behavior, either verbal or physical. This “everyone” includes umpires, just remember without them we haven’t a game! You can’t change an umpire’s decision, so accept it and adjust your game accordingly.