Written : Monday 19th Oct 26Unfortunately, poor touchline behaviour continues to be an issue within grassroots rugby, particularly at age-grade level. As a county, we all have a responsibility to ensure that rugby remains a safe, enjoyable and welcoming environment for our young players, match officials, coaches and volunteers.
Rugby is a game built on respect, discipline, teamwork and sportsmanship, and these values must extend beyond the pitch.
We would like to remind all clubs of the following expectations:
• Respect match officials: Referees, many of whom are young or volunteers, must be allowed to officiate without criticism, intimidation or abuse.
• Encourage, don't criticise: Parents and spectators should offer positive encouragement rather than shouting instructions or criticising players.
• Let coaches coach: Conflicting instructions from the touchline can undermine coaching and affect players' confidence and enjoyment.
• Respect the opposition: Players, coaches and supporters from visiting clubs must always be treated with courtesy and respect.
• Zero tolerance for unacceptable behaviour: Verbal abuse, threatening behaviour, intimidation and discrimination have no place in Surrey Rugby.
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Please remember that clubs are responsible for taking appropriate steps to manage the behaviour of their members and supporters, and serious incidents may be referred for disciplinary consideration under the applicable RFU regulations.
However, one person's behaviour on the touchline can negatively affect an entire match, particularly when children and young people are involved.
We want young players to remember their rugby experiences for the enjoyment, friendships and opportunities they provide, not for adults arguing or shouting from the sidelines.
Please help us reinforce one simple message across Surrey:
RESPECT THE GAME. RESPECT THE TOUCHLINE.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation in maintaining the standards and values of rugby throughout Surrey.
Kind regards,
Sarah Hall
Surrey Discipline Secretary