Negative Comments Toward Umpires – The Consequences
To all the the MRNA community,
At the Macedon Ranges Netball Association, we aim to be the home of netball in the Macedon Ranges. To achieve this, we must all work together to provide a safe and supportive environment for all, focusing on the wellbeing of young people participating in any capacity, as a player, umpire, or spectator.
I currently have serious concerns over the treatment of umpires during games by coaches and spectators. I have witnessed and received reports of negative comments, disagreement, repeated questioning, and bad language about and toward umpires by coaches and spectators.
I spoke with an umpire who explained the constant comments questioning their judgement including, ‘that’s stepping’, ‘that was contact’, or ‘come on’ wear umpires down. Even when they are not shouted the umpires can hear many of the comments.
The simple rule for everyone is – never make a comment on the umpire’s decision during play.
The umpire hears.
Young people hear.
Players hear.
Spectators hear.
I call on all of us to not accept this behaviour. If you hear it, call it out on the spot by reporting it to an MRNA official immediately so the person can be removed.
The repercussions and seriousness of negative comments made by spectators and coaches towards umpires cannot be overlooked.
Umpires play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the game. They make split-second decisions that can significantly impact the outcome of a match.
For young or inexperienced umpires, the pressure to perform flawlessly can be daunting. Negative comments from the sidelines undermine their confidence and jeopardise their passion for the sport. This issue is particularly concerning in a regional setting like the Macedon Ranges, where community support and encouragement are a focus.
The consequences of disparaging remarks towards umpires are multifaceted. It creates a hostile environment that detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game. Netball at the MRNA is not just about winning or losing; it's about camaraderie and sportsmanship. When spectators and coaches engage in derogatory behaviour, it sets a harmful precedent for younger players who look up to them as role models.
Moreover, such behaviour can have a lasting impact on the umpires themselves. For those who are still honing their skills, negative comments can shatter their self-esteem and deter them from continuing. This, in turn, leads to a shortage of qualified umpires in the future, ultimately affecting the quality of matches within the Association.
To address this issue, the MRNA will take a firm stance against disrespectful conduct toward umpires.
Clubs will be responsible for educating their coaches and families to build awareness about the vital role umpires play in the sport. Emphasising the values of respect, empathy, and constructive feedback at an appropriate time is crucial in nurturing a positive netball culture.
The MRNA will hold both individuals and their associated club accountable for their actions by applying all available options under Netball Victoria rules, code of conduct and policies to send a powerful message that negative behaviour will not be tolerated.
Ultimately, the MRNA’s goal is to create a safe and inclusive environment where umpires, regardless of their age or experience, feel supported and empowered to officiate to the best of their abilities.
Mike Boudrie
MRNA President
Please use the following resources:
https://vic.netball.com.au/code-of-conduct
https://sport.vic.gov.au/publications-and-resources/community-sport-resources/fair-play-code
