Wicklow Coiste na nÓg launch Respect Initiative
The launch of the GAA Respect Initiative in Aughrim.
CONDUCT OF players and mentors towards each other and towards referees is something that is exercising the attention of the GAA at the moment.
Only last week we had a referee having to be escorted off the field of play by gardai and this is a practice they want to banish from games, and an image they want to banish from their television screens.
It seems a stick and carrot approach is being applied at the moment.
In the top echelons of the national leagues and championships, where games are televised, video evidence is now being applied to dish out 'appropriate punishments' for incidents that may have been missed by the referee.
Now at juvenile level a GAA Respect Initiative is being rolled across the country including Wicklow.
Wicklow GAA Coiste na nOg unveiled the initiative to encourage best conduct and practice amongst players, teams, mentors, referees, coaches and parents at a meeting on Tuesday last week.
The aim of the initiative is to ensure that Gaelic games are promoted in a positive manner and sets out the standards that should be adhered to at all times. In 2010 it is being rolled out at all levels up to U-12 in conjunction of the GAA 'Go Games' policy; then it will be rolled our at U-14 and colleges in 2011; and it will be in place at all levels including adults level by 2015.
'While the majority of people at our games behave very well, it only takes a small number to make the game less enjoyable. A recent national survey of referees who refereed underage games highlighted concerns over the number of negative comments from the sideline' a statement said.
Essentially clubs are being asked to show strong leadership and the initiative will include ensuring participating in coach and referee education programmes, formation evening and implementing the GAA code of best practice in youth sport.
Steps to be followed during games include: (1) Players and coaches lineup after the game to shake hands with the referee, opposing players and coaches; (2) Referees communicate decisions to players in an effective manner; (3) A merit award – based on sporting Endeavour and fair play – is awarded to a player(s)/team(s) at the end of each season; (4) supporters remain in designated areas (non segregated) at the side of the pitch for the full duration of each game; (5) each unit must strive to achieve maximum participating for all players; (6) referees to be welcome to the GAA Club.
