Football NSW would like to remind everyone involved within our game of their responsibility in creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment during football activities. Whether as a player, official or spectator at a match, you have a responsibility to ensure that the game is played in a fair, competitive manner without the escalation of abuse, intimidation or breaching of the Laws of the Game. Football NSW and Associations have observed an increase in the number of reported incidents involving abuse towards referees, including verbal abuse, intimidation and other unsportsmanlike conduct that brings our game into disrepute. We will not tolerate this. Football NSW has a zero-tolerance stance for this type of behaviour and will continue to impose strict sanctions on those that do not comply. The support and safety of our referees, our team officials and our players is paramount.
Consistent with our zero-tolerance stance, Football NSW is encouraging Clubs to participate in a pre-match symbol of solidarity with, and in respect for, referees. Within Football NSW Competitions, this will involve performing a 30-second round of applause prior to kick-off, with both teams standing around the centre circle together with referees positioned on the halfway line intersect. Together we must protect our game and ensure that players, coaches, referees and spectators can continue to enjoy their football in a safe environment. We ask you to be proactive when on the field and in the stands to exhibit the values of football and ensure those around you respect the game equally. For further information and resources that extend to all participants of the game, please see the below links.
Resource List