Sideline abuse is not ok.
Perhaps it's the pack mentality, but there's something about standing on a sideline that brings out the ugly in us.
People feel compelled to scream abuse at referees or players.
Would they make the same comment to the ref's face?
Unlikely.
Northland rugby referees offer excellent support to aspiring referees, including approaching spectators who abuse referees.
I once witnessed a senior referee approach a spectator who had parked himself up comfortably in a folding chair, and who sat, arms folded, happily chipping away at the young ref.
The spectator was told firmly that if he kept it up, he'd be banned from the sideline.
Eventually, he shut up.
The Northland Rugby Union is now going a step further and looking for someone to act as a field manager.
The person's role will include monitoring and dealing with sideline abuse.
Team managers and coaches often accept the responsibility of this role.
As a former coach and manager, I've found that parents don't always accept a coach or manager's feedback.
I applaud the positive step being taken by the NRU to appoint someone to monitor behaviour.
The skillset required will not only need to include tact, diplomacy, and people skills, but also good conflict management skills.
I would urge clubs to advise their coaches, managers and parents to ensure that they support the field manager - it is not a one-person job.
These days we often hear the phrase: "It's not OK."
Sideline abuse falls into that category.
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