Positive Sideline Behaviour - Applaud

Today we discussed the issue of negative/abusive/angry people in sport.  We've all seen and heard some pretty unpleasant things  - some from people we know!  Using the New Zealand Rugby Union APPLAUD resource, we discussed different scenarios and how we could/should react in that situation.  We also read a cool little book outlining the impact of negative/abusive/angry parents on their child. 

Key messages were:

• If you hear negative comments from your opposition, rise above it and set a positive example.  Don't lower yourself to their level.
• If you hear negative/abusive/angry comments from the sideline, do something about it!  By doing nothing, you are accepting the behaviour.
• You have the right to have fun - it isn't fair if people stop this from happening.