|
Fair play and good behaviour are indispensable components of soccer. We have the responsibility to communicate respect and sportsmanship to our children, because we are role models to them!
Fair Play means that you behave sportsmanlike even when you disagree with referee and coach decisions. Clap when they have done well, shout encouragement and cheer them on, but insults and swear words should not be used at the football ground.
We have to accept referee decisions - even if they sometimes appear unfair to us. Referees have to make their decisions immediately and sometimes they get it wrong. But remember - almost all referees give up their own free time so that our children can enjoy playing soccer. We all make a mistake - in our jobs and private lives – that’s a fact of life. So let's be positive – let our kids learn to accept these mistakes and deal with them at an early age. Let's be their role models and have respect, because without referees and coaches there would be no soccer for our children.
Some examples of good behaviour:
-
A player, who commits a foul, apologises to the opponent.
-
The fouled player accepts the apology and a situation is avoided.
-
A coach takes an unfair player off the field and discusses with him his behaviour!
-
Coaches or players encourage parents and other players to behave.
-
Players, coaches, officials and parents demonstrate Fair Play!
-
........
We really hope you will support us in this, because with children and adolescents a role model is of great importance.
Willi Ruttensteiner, sport director of the Austrian Football Federation, on the topic Fair Play.
|
