Abuse by coaches, spectators and parents. This practice must stop and the adult referees MUST show an example to our younger referees that ABUSE will not be tolerated.

WPA referees are to follow the guidelines listed below. Share these with your fellow referees before and after the game and reinforce that ABUSE will not be tolerated.

1.      Prior to Game -- Referees inform both coaches that ABUSE will not be tolerated by the coaching staff, spectators or parents. If there is ABUSE, the game will be terminated.

2.      If during the game, there are signs of abuse, inform the coach that the next outburst will result in termination

What are the signs as to when the referee should get involved?

Not limited to:

1.      Constant complaining from the bench.

2.      Questioning every decision

3.      Sarcastic remarks

4.      Personal attacks-----SEND THE COACH OFF IMMEDIATELY

5.      Gyrating actions

6.      Kicking or throwing objects-----SEND THE COACH IMMEDIATELY

7.      Unpleasant comments by the spectators or parents----NOTIFY THE COACH THIS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED LAST WARNING BEFORE TERMINATION

8.      Personal attacks on any member of the officiating crew-----TERMINATE GAME IMMEDIATELY 

9.      If you are threatened in any way---TERMINATE GAME IMMEDIATELY. STAY AS A TEAM AND CALL POLICE IF YOU STILL FEEL THREATENED.

10.   File report

11.   Call the SRA, Peggy Neason with details

 

Let’s be clear, this is not the case in every game and there are certain teams, spectators and parents who have a reputation of abuse.

Focus on these teams and raise your awareness level.

Protect our younger referees. They do not deserve the abuse. The question you must ask yourself.

Would I want my son or daughter or my mom or dad to be treated like this? If the answer is no, then you should not take the ABUSE either.