Respect the Officials | A message from CEO Fabian Ross

To the Western Australian Hockey Community,

As we get to the pointy end of our main hockey season with finals for all divisions just around the corner, it is a good time to reflect on the importance of respect and courtesy and how we behave towards each other whenever we’re at the hockey.

We all share a love and passion for the sport of hockey – it is what brings us together every weekend across the state. But if hockey is going to continue to thrive and maintain the amazing sense of community and inclusiveness it has, there needs to be respect for everyone in the game.

Officials and umpires across all levels of the game are as valuable as players and coaches – without them we do not have a game.

Like players, officials are constantly learning and improving their skills and they can make mistakes.

Like players, officials devote their time, energy, and expertise into performing their duties.

Like players, they deserve our support, respect, and encouragement.

Hockey WA has a strong position of ‘no tolerance’ when it comes to criticising or verbally abusing officials and umpires. We are all here to enjoy the game and there is no excuse or justification for verbally abusing or threatening officials and umpires.

Hockey is a sport played by all kinds of people across all ages, and we all have a responsibility to set an example through how we act and play. Just like acknowledging the opposition after a hard-fought game, officials and umpires deserve a ‘thank you’ for their efforts, no matter what decisions were made, right or wrong.

Everyone has a part to play in making hockey the best game it can be. You can play your part by choosing respect and kindness in all situations that unfold on or off the field.  

Together, we can ensure hockey continues to thrive and remains the best, most inclusive sporting community in Western Australia.

Thank you and see you at the hockey.

Warm regards,

Fabian Ross
CEO, Hockey WA