Rise of Abuse

Following a number of recent OTR reports received by the North East Hampshire Youth League Discipline Committee, we are writing to remind ALL CLUBS that this league will not tolerate any form of verbal or physical abuse towards ANY individual, at any level of the game.

This season, we have seen an unacceptable increase in incidents involving racism, homophobia and sexism, alongside multiple cases of both younger and older referees being subjected to abhorrent verbal and, in some cases, physical abuse. This behaviour has no place in football, and the League is now taking a firmer and more robust stance in response.

Please be advised that any OTR reports of this nature are automatically forwarded to The FA for investigation and, where appropriate, disciplinary sanctions.

The North East Hampshire Youth League has always prided itself on being a welcoming and inclusive league where football is open to everyone. However, it is clear that these incidents must stop. We therefore urge ALL CLUBS to take immediate steps to ensure that Managers, Players and Parents fully understand their responsibilities when representing their club and this League at all fixtures.

The message is clear - ANY Manager, Player, Team or Club found guilty by The FA of such offences may also face further sanctions imposed by the League. These sanctions may include, but are not limited to, suspension or expulsion from the League, whether applied at an individual, team or club level.

As a League, we have a duty to support and protect all those who uphold fair play, respect and decency week in and week out. This includes referees, coaches, players, volunteers and spectators alike.

We thank Club Officials for their continued support and ask that this message is shared widely across your clubs with immediate effect.

North East Hampshire Youth League

Discipline Committee