Refs to blow the whistle on abuse

Scores of referees from a Black Country youth football league have met to discuss how to tackle rising problems with abuse and threatening behaviour from players and spectators.

Around 60 officials from the Stourbridge and District Youth Football League met last night to talk about ways to stamp out the swearing, verbal abuse and threats of violence they are subjected to every week. They were advised to report all bad behaviour to the league, to tighten up discipline - and to insure themselves against assault.

The packed meeting at Dudley Sports and Social Club in High Ercal Avenue, Brierley Hill, heard how referees as young as 16 are regularly being surrounded by irate parents and club officials after a match following a contentious decision.

One parent, who did not want to be named, claimed the behaviour of some of the spectators towards young referees was similar to "child abuse"."I cannot believe this league allows adults to speak to children like this," he said. "I find it amazing that football is the only game where a group of 40-year-old men can surround a 16-year-old referee and threaten to kick 10 bells out them.

"My son is a referee and some of the language towards him is literally child abuse and shouldn't be allowed. It's a disgrace."

Another parent, who also did not want to be named, said he had to go with his son every week to ensure his safety.

The meeting was addressed by representatives from the local referees' association, who encouraged their fellow officials to get rid of the behaviour by reporting it to the county FA.

Nigel Genner, secretary of the Stourbridge Referees' Association, said: "Please report all misconduct back to the association."

League chairman John Farley blamed television for a lot of the problems the league's referees were experiencing.

Issues such as the effectiveness of experimental barriers introduced in the league this season to keep spectators and club officials apart and consistency in referees' handling of games were also discussed.

By Jon Wood