To all Senior and Junior Sections
We have just enjoyed our most successful season ever at the top of the club and club morale throughout has never been higher. We are looking to round this off with a series of dinners involving all juniors to 1st team over the next few days and weeks.
However, there is one serious black mark against us this season. Both chairman and president were summoned to the Herts disciplinary committee at the end of the season to explain our lack of discipline on the field. This has resulted in four red cards and a citing by a referee for official abuse.
Our senior coach Baz B has also sent out a lengthy message to the senior section to reduce any trend to dissent and petulance that has emerged over the year. We must all be aware that without the officials the game we know and love cannot take place. Also the referee’s word is final and player protest means we leave the traditions of rugby football and become more like a soccer side where appealing by all is just part of the game.
The codes of conduct for players, coaches, parents and spectators are clearly displayed on the notice board in the foyer and should be read and digested but in brief this is what we as a committee expect to see in the future.
Players and Coaches
Respect the officials and the opposition at all times.
Play with controlled aggression ... hard but fair. Violence or thuggery will not be countenanced.
Although hard to do … count to five if provoked … the referee will deal with foul play.
Only two voices on the pitch … Skipper who has a right to seek explanation and pack leader.
No foul language.
No dissent to the referee … every action has a reaction and this only loses the 50:50 decisions and thus negatively affects the team.
Coaches please remain in the areas you are allocated.
Remember the game is played for the enjoyment of all … the better the atmosphere on the field the better for the team morale and the referee will also respond to these vibes.
Parents and Spectators
We are all passionate about the club and it’s teams however constant criticism or verbal abuse of the officials and opposition will not be tolerated. A verbal warning will be given by one of the club officials and if ignored the spectator / parent will be removed from the touchline.
Any physical abuse will result in a life time ban.
We would stress that overall behaviour is very good but we need to keep a constant watch on this to prevent the seeds of dissent growing. This is for the benefit of all.
We wish you a happy summer and come back refreshed with a positive mental attitude for next year.
Brian Burke, Club President on behalf of the Committee.
