THE sporting community in Greater Bunbury is leading the way in building a respectful sports culture.
While there has been heated debate across the country about the booing of Sydney Swans star Adam Goodes, Bunbury Respect Inc has been helping sporting organisations to use the Choose Respect message to build successful and respectful sports cultures within their clubs and associations.
More than eight local sports clubs and associations and three centres have signed up to Choose Respect.
In the past year, thanks to a grant from the Department of Sport and Recreation, Bunbury Netball Association, Bunbury Barbarians Junior Rugby Union and City of Bunbury Surf Life Saving Club have all signed up to Choose Respect.
The message has also been adopted by the Bunbury and Districts Hockey Association, South Bunbury Football Club, Country Coastal Junior Soccer Associ-ation, Forza Dragon Boat Club and Dance It South West.
Bunbury Respect Inc Chairman Mr Peter Rigden said Bunbury was in a unique position with so many clubs taking action to encourage positive role modelling.
“I think the reason we have seen an increase in sporting clubs adopting Choose Respect is not just because the message is being embraced by the community but also because sporting organisations want to provide better experiences for their players, ensuring players of all ages and abilities can thrive,” Mr Rigden said.
“Ugly parent syndrome creates challenges for any sporting organisation but being proactive about promoting Choose Res-pect ensures people understand that abusive language, or any other disrespectful behaviour, is not in the best interest of the club and will not be tolerated.”
For more information on how your club can benefit from Choose Respect call project facilitator Sarah-Jane Harris on 0409 167 804 or email bunburyrespect@gmail.com
