President’s Update
There is no doubt that winter has well and truly arrived. This week has been especially chilly, marking the half-way point of the 2022 SMJFL footy season.
Every week I’m impressed by the demonstration of the Rovers values: passion, teamwork, fun, respect. We are a club that has a reputation for being inclusive and fostering a strong community spirit.
It’s timely to remind everyone of the SMJFL Code of Conduct that all parents and spectators are required to abide by. Critical to the spectator code is:
- Remember that you are there for the participants to enjoy the game.
- Encourage participation, but don’t force it.
- Teach that enjoyment is more important than winning.
- Never ridicule mistakes or losses – supporters are there to support not downgrade.
- Lead by example and respect all players, coaches, umpires, and spectators – physical or verbal abuse will not be tolerated.
- Recognise all volunteers who are giving up their valuable time.
- Never publicly criticise umpires – raise personal concerns with club officials in private.
Why am I raising this now? Unfortunately, there have been reports across the SMJFL of poor spectator behaviour in recent weeks.
When our players go out to play every week, it is essential that we all abide by this Code of Conduct. When our players head out to play, we are there to support them and cheer them on in the spirit of the game – we need to role model excellent behaviour.
Both the Hampton Rovers Juniors Committee and the SMJFL take the Code of Conduct very seriously. If any parent(s) or spectator(s) are found to seriously or repeatedly breach this Code, disciplinary action will be taken.
In addition, our volunteers play important roles on game days. These roles also carry important responsibilities, including that there is to be no communication with opposition team players, regardless of behaviour observed on the field. Therefore, please ensure:
- No official (Coach, Assistant Coach, Runner or Trainer) in the designated Team Bench area communicates with any player of the opposition.
- Goal Umpires are not permitted to coach or communicate with any players (including their own team players).
- Boundary Umpires are not permitted to coach or communicate with any players (including their own team players).
Please remember, after the past two years that we have had with very little football played, the most important thing is to ensure that our children are back playing footy and enjoying themselves.
If you have any concerns, or questions, please get in contact with me or a HRJ Committee member. We are here to help ensure that all of our players have a great time, in a safe and fun environment.
Thank you for your support – and remember to rug up this weekend.
#gorovers
Rohan Bardwell
Hampton Rovers Juniors President
