Otago Rugby Football Union takes stand over sideline behaviour

ORFU general manager Richard Kinley has issued a memo after anecdotal reports of an increase of sideline incidents that were not that positive.Photo / Thinkstock

The Otago Rugby Football Union says it is up to rugby to take a stand in the wake of recent abusive and racist behaviour at some matches.

ORFU general manager Richard Kinley has issued a memo to all clubs, schools, players, coaches and supporters after anecdotal reports of an increase of sideline incidents that were not that positive.

Kinley said he wanted to get the memo out before the behaviour escalated and got out of control.

Overall, 99% of spectators were well behaved and positive but there was always the odd person who spoiled it for everyone.

''We do not want to be forced to put in measures to regulate sideline behaviour.''

The union would have banners on display at the schoolboy Taieri sevens tournament in Mosgiel on Sunday, stressing the importance of good sportsmanship on the sideline.

He said some of the incidents of which he had heard were worrying and it was up to rugby to take a stand.

''These incidents have included parents and spectators on the sidelines abusing players, coaches and referees and also players making racial taunts to the opposition during the game,'' Kinley wrote.

''While unfortunately this type of behaviour is not isolated solely to rugby, I believe it is up to our sport to lead by example and set a standard both on and off the field that provides an environment that encourages competition in a positive setting.

''The ORFU thanks all clubs and schools for actively promoting positive behaviour and I would encourage you all to take this opportunity to reiterate these messages again.''

The ORFU has looked into ways to promote better behaviour and two ideas that have worked elsewhere are.

1. ''Silent sidelines'' at junior rugby for one Saturday, where only clapping is allowed.
2. At senior rugby games, shifting the reserve benches to behind the dead ball line at either end of the field.

''Over the next two weeks, representatives from the Otago Rugby Referees Association will also be visiting a number of junior clubs to discuss how they can work together to support positive behaviour throughout our junior competitions.

''We must remember the vast majority of people involved in rugby behave exemplarily every weekend, but racial taunts or any form of abuse from anyone is unacceptable and I am confident that between us all we can reduce the incidents of this occurring into the future.''