ESSEX COUNTY RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION

DISCIPLINARY SUB-COMMITTEE

 

OPEN LETTER TO CLUBS

 

I am becoming increasingly concerned at the alarming increase in reported cases of referee abuse, involving youth coaches and parents.  Referees are in short supply and volunteer their services because they enjoy the game.  The constant heckle and football type abuse which appears to be on the increase is going to drive them away and clubs could soon end up without an appointed referee.

 

I am therefore writing to all clubs to inform them that they must be aware of the consequences of any such abuse.  For example - recently at National level, cases of verbal referee abuse have been treated most severely and the entry point for such abuse is an 8 week suspension from playing.  I and my committee will be using this as a bench mark.

 

I would ask you to circulate this message which is also posted on the County website Discipline Section:-

 

The County Discipline Committee has become aware that the incidence of abuse from both the players and the touchline is increasing to the detriment of the game in general.

 

It is recognised that the line between that which is acceptable and that which is not, is a fine one and often a matter of judgement.  Nevertheless, any comment, however mild it may seem to the person saying it, which gives offence to anyone within earshot has to be treated as offensive.

 

Accordingly, this Committee reminds the officials of all clubs that they are responsible for the behaviour of every person on the touchline whether they are a member of the club or not.  As such, they have to take an active part in ensuring that spectators behave in a responsible manner and take positive action against those who offend either at the time or later at an internal hearing.

 

It is the view of this Committee that nearly all of these incidents are avoidable if prompt action is taken by Club Officials at the time.  Therefore, it is hoped that all members, playing and non-playing, will be informed of the dire consequences for their Club should this Committee be required to take formal action.

 

Sanctions available to this Committee range from a suspension of the individual involved to the deduction of league points and a total ban on the club playing for a period of time.

 

Rugby has always had the reputation of being a “friendly” sport with goodwill and humour both on and off the field of play.  Everyone involved in the sport has the responsibility to ensure that this reputation is maintained.  Those who seek to abuse or tarnish the game of rugby can neither expect nor will they receive any sympathy should they become offensive with comments directed either at match officials, players or other spectators.

 

All clubs should also be in receipt of the RFU Code of Conduct, which I you should circulate within your club.

 

I and our President Mike Norris hope that this letter will go some way in eradicating referee abuse in Essex.

 

Yours faithfully,

 

Gerry Mansfield

Chairman of Discipline

Essex County RFU