Grassroots statement on today’s Claims competitive parents have turned grassroots football into a rampage of brutal violence.
A spokesman for Grassroots Football – which supports grassroots clubs throughout the UK – says today’s reports of extreme violence are rare in comparison to the number of games played without incident. Although incidents of verbal abuse are currently at unacceptable levels and much more work needs to be addressed in this area, the reported levels of violence remains extremely low.
The response from the group comes after youth league chairman Graham Ekins, from Surrey Youth League, was forced to write an open letter to all its clubs after a number of alleged “serious incidents” in one weekend of the sport. These include head-butting and abuse towards a linesman; Two parents fighting on the touching and a referee being threatened with a stabbing by a parent.
But while the organisation says incidents of this nature do happen and “can not be condoned” extreme incidents are very rare and there are a lot more positives in youngsters being part of the grassroots family.
A spokesman for Grassroots football said: “There are so many positives linked with grassroots football, not only does it create lasting friendships, it provides a place where football is inclusive to all youngsters whatever their ability.
“We know a lot of parents are passionate when watching their child play, and sadly that passion can manifest into incidents where referees have been verbally abused or anger has flared between parents. This kind of behaviour can not and should not be condoned – however it is extremely rare to view extreme violence at a grassroots football match and there are a lot more positives associated with grassroots football that unfortunately does not get the coverage it deserves.
“Over the years we have seen friendships made both on and off the pitch, confidence of youngsters soar, and memories for families made that are irreplaceable – not to mention the health benefits of keeping our children active.
The spokesman added: “The numbers of people playing grassroots football are high and no sport is without its problems. We can understand the use of a linesman being beaten to death in the Netherlands being used as an example to drive home the message of the types of consequences which can occur, however this is an extreme example to say the least which has led to fears of violence being blown out of proportion when there is so many more positive benefits linked to the sport.”
