Dear EDFL players, coaches, parents, volunteers, administrators and supporters,
Re: Respect for Umpires
I have been appalled at the threatening of and overall poor conduct shown towards EDFL Umpires in recent weeks, which has resulted in an increase in the number of players being reported. This is unacceptable behaviour and reflects a very concerning lack of respect for our Umpires.
The volume and nature of these player reports is very distressing. The EDFL takes pride in the fact that we are able to provide independent Field Umpires for all our competitions and Boundary and Goal Umpires for many of our senior football matches. This year we have over 540 registered umpires. However, historically we lose around 30% of our Umpires every year. While there are various reasons for this, match-day environment and negative experiences are a key component for these declining figures.
Like all of us, Umpires have and will continue to make mistakes. Regardless of whether the decisions they make are correct or incorrect, players, officials, parents and supporters must demonstrate control in their reactions and behaviours towards our Umpires. The EDFL have a duty of care to ensure an appropriate workplace for our Umpires and we need the support and assistance of EDFL players, coaches, parents, volunteers, administrators and supporters to ensure that is the case.
This year, with our clubs, we have embraced the ‘Don’t Be That Parent’ campaign to encourage positive attitudes and communication towards umpiring in junior football. Should you have any other ideas or suggestions on how the community can improve its respect for Umpires, we would be delighted to hear about them at headoffice@essendondfl.com.au.
Sincerely yours,
Craig Armstead
Chief Executive Officer
