GAA Respect Initiative

Respect Initiative has been promoted at all recent Go Games Blitz's at Owenbeg and will continue for the remainder of the year. GAA Coordinator for Primary Schools, Micheál Martin, outlines the association’s efforts to ensure that Gaelic games are played in an enjoyable atmosphere at all levels.

What is the aim of this initiative?

The GAA Respect Initiative has been developed to ensure that Gaelic games are promoted in a positive manner and within an environment that is conducive to ensuring that all participants reach their full potential. The programme clearly sets out the roll of all participants (players, coaches, parents, referees and spectators) and the standards that should be adhered to at all times.

At what level will this initiative be introduced?

The Initiative will be rolled out nationally at all levels up to Under 12 in 2010 in conjunction with GAA Go Games policy.

What evidence is there to suggest that this initiative is necessary?

International research and reports have highlighted a growing trend of sport being played in a more pressurised environment. There is an increasing tendency for parents and coaches to place a greater emphasis on results rather than participation. This makes the atmosphere in which the games are played less enjoyable for participants and leads to drop out. While the majority of people at our games behave very well, it only takes a small number to make the game less enjoyable. A recent national survey of referees who refereed underage games highlighted concerns over the number of negative comments from the sideline.

What does the initiative involve?

Essentially we are looking for clubs to show strong leadership in informing their members of the initiative. It will include ensuring participation in Coach and Referee Education programmes, information evenings and implementing the GAA Code of Best Practice in Youth Sport. At national level we have produced a DVD clip, a series of posters and an information booklet which will be distribute to clubs and promoted during senior inter-county games in 2010 and are available at www.gaa.ie.

How does the initiative work in practice?

There are a number of practical steps to be followed during games:

• Players and coaches line up after the game to shake hands with the referee, opposing players and coaches
• Referees communicate decisions to players in an effective manner
• A merit award- based on sporting endeavour and fair play- is awarded to a players/teams at the end of each season
• Supporters remain in designated areas (non-segregated) at the side of the pitch for the full duration of each game.
• Each unit must strive to achieve maximum participation for all players
• Referees to be welcomed to the GAA Club.

When will the initiative be introduced at adult level?

The roll out of the programme will be at Under 14 and at colleges’ level in 2011. The long term strategy is that the initiative will be in place at all levels up to and including adult level by 2015. Within that period the initiative will be highlighted at senior inter-county level in various ways. For example a GAA Fair Play Index will be in operation during the GAA Allianz National Hurling and Football leagues in 2010.The Fair Play Index will operate across all divisions in the Allianz National Leagues to determine the team with the best disciplinary record in each code.

For more information on the GAA Respect Initiative and the GAA Fair Play Index check outwww.gaa.ie