A campaign to teach Northumberland footballers to respect referees has been launched. It follows a rise in the abuse of match officials in grassroots football across the UK.
The initiative to educate players in the North East is a joint venture between TeamGrassroots, Northumberland FA and energy supplier Utilita Energy. Some parts of the country are having to contend with a shortage of referees with mistreatment from players, coaches and spectators driving them out of the game.
The ‘Grassroots Fund’, powered by Utilita Energy, is administered by TeamGrassroots each month.
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The fund has paid for the creation and distribution of thousands of cards, signs and respect marshal bibs, which will be delivered to local clubs. It is hoped they will provide a visible reminder to players, coaches and spectators about the importance of positivity.
Teamgrassroots managing director Paul Kirton said the respect Respect campaign has been very effective in reminding players that without a referee there is no game.
"The regular reminders are necessary, as passionate players can sometimes be quick to forget, so these packs will go a long way in spreading the message and making sure we all remember to respect the referee’s decision each and every game,” he said.
Helen Beales, Head of Business Development at Northumberland FA, has urged teams to look out for the cards, signs and marshal bibs being distributed across the region.
“Our on-going 100% Positive campaign has really promoted the importance of good behaviour across the grassroots game, and we’re delighted to be partnering with Teamgrassroots to promote the message even further," she said.
James Heyes, Partnerships Manager at Utilita Energy, explained that the company have been working with Team Grassroots for several years to promote positivity in grassroots football.
“Respect, not only for the ref, but for everyone who makes the effort to muck-in is so important - it’s what motivates volunteers to continue," he added.
Utilita is an official partner of the biggest school football competition in England and Wales, Utilita EFL Kids & Girls Cup, which features over 2,500 schools. It is also Principal Partner of the English Schools Football Association (ESFA).
To find out how your team can apply for funding from the ‘Grassroots Support Fund’ via Team Grassroots click here.
