AS we head into another weekend of sport, the region’s umpires and referees have one simple message for players and fans: Give us a break.
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And that doesn’t seem too much to ask.
The abuse of officials by players and supporters is not a new phenomenon and nor is it confined to one or two sports.
Sadly, it is not even confined to professional or senior sports, with officials at the most junior or amateur matches sometimes targeted as well.
Just last weekend we heard of a 16-year-old rugby league referee allegedly being assaulted by a 34-year-old man during a match in Sydney’s south, and that is not an isolated incident.
Even in the Central West local officials say they are tired of abuse from the crowd.
More disturbingly, some officials are worried to go out with their families after a match for fear of the abuse continuing long after the final siren.
Put simply, it’s a disgrace, and anyone who abuses an official has no place standing on the sidelines or taking part in local sport.
Sporting associations must get serious about the problem and introduce long bans for anyone crossing the line.
Other players and supporters also have a role to play and must call out the unacceptable behaviour they witness rather than sitting back and allowing it to continue.
Abusive fans and players need to understand that officials have a far more important role in local sport than them.
No-one will miss a player or fan who is ejected from a game, but everyone will miss the umpire or referee.
If people stop putting up their hands for official task, local sport will be the big loser.
If you’ve got nothing nice to say at local sport events this weekend, say nothing. Even better, stay at home.
