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Administrators - What to do now Print E-mail

Verbal abuse should never be condoned. As an administrator, you’re responsible for creating a positive environment where players, coaches and officials are treated with respect.

  • Don’t ignore the behaviour.
  • Talk to the coach about the verbal abuse. Remind him/her about your club’s Codes of Behaviour
  • Try and understand the reasons for their actions:
      • If players are bored and inattentive, provide the coach with information about how to improve their training session
      • If the coach has a ‘win at all costs’ mentality, remind him/her of the club’s Code of Behaviour and the need to treat people with respect.
    • Consider providing more support (e.g., an assistant coach or team manager).
    • Monitor the situation.

    Take further action if necessary

    • You may need to issue a written warning –this emphasises the seriousness of the offence and provides a record if there should be a re-occurrence.
    • If the abuse is extreme or unlawful take immediate action – this can include suspending the coach while the matter is being investigated.
    • In cases of serious verbal abuse, provide support to the person who has been verbally abused.
    • Contact your state’s sport organisation (or an external authority) if you don’t feel confident dealing with the issue.
     

     

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