UPPER Hunter Shire Council has teamed up with the Office of Sport to promote positive sideline behaviour at junior sporting events through Shoosh for Kids Week.
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Taking place until May 21, council is encouraging all sporting teams to support the cause, with the aim of keeping kids playing sport.
Council’s sports participation officer Nicky Western said promoting Shoosh for Kids Week in the Upper Hunter Shire, along with other clubs and associations across NSW, means there is a consistent message for grassroots sport.
“We want junior games to be a positive, happy place for kids to enjoy themselves while being active,” Ms Western said.
Office of Sport chief executive Matt Miller said sport was such an important part of our lives, with so many recognised health and social benefits.
“We want to ensure that all players, officials and spectators, have a positive experience,” he said.
“We want everyone, especially children, to continue their involvement in sport because it’s a fun and encouraging environment for everyone.
“Most people do the right thing.
“However, the sports we are working with want to remind spectators that there is no place for negative comments in local sport.
If your comment is negative, then SHOOSH!
If your comment is directed at a player, then SHOOSH!
If you comment is directed at a referee or match official, then SHOOSH!
Reward good play by both teams with applause; if you can’t then SHOOSH!
Show respect to players and game officials. Remember it’s their game.
Winter sports supporting Shoosh for Kids Week include AFL NSW/ACT, Basketball NSW, Country Rugby League, Football NSW, Hockey NSW, Netball NSW and NSW Rugby Union.
Some useful resources such as a booklet on how yelling at officials is hurting children, and 10 tips for adults at kids sport are available to download on council’s website http://upperhunter.nsw.gov.au/your-council/media/news/tell-negative-sport-spectators-to-shoosh.aspx
