22 August 2018
President’s Comment:
Start listening or pay the price.
For some time now the Far West Football League Executive has publically, privately and in communication with the clubs questioned the aggressive and abusive behaviour of some followers of Far West Football and the devastating impact it could have on our league.
The request for action has undoubtedly fallen on deaf ears.
It has now resulted in one of our key management people in saying enough is enough and we have reluctantly accepted his resignation concerning any further involvement with football in this league.
This is the thin edge of the wedge, unless people start behaving in a fair and reasonable manner and understand we are all volunteers and do our best for the game further resignations could result.
As League President I am fully aware of my responsibilities in maintaining the future of the League, there is a great deal that goes on behind the scenes that must remain confidential but still needs to be dealt with.
As administrators our day does not start and finish on Saturdays, not a day goes past where our executive is not dealing with an issue that has been brought to our attention.
To the casual observer decisions made by the league can cause questions to be asked but unless you know the full story it is prudent to remain fair and reasonable when wanting answers.
Our executive is continually dealing with poor spectator behaviour, umpire abuse, thinly veiled racism and events (some very petty) that may have occurred years ago.
It has now come to our attention the integrity and honesty of the league executive has been come under scrutiny with suggestions that certain issues have not been dealt with fairly and “swept under the carpet”.
We understand we are not infallible, mistakes can be made but covertly attacking from the shadows wearing the cloak of anonymity is cowardly and totally non- productive.
I do not see many people putting their collective hands up to take on key positions on the league or being part of the Umpiring Panel and doing something constructive instead of taking cheap pot shots at those that are actually working for the benefit of football in the Far West.
It is time for those amongst you including “the keyboard cowards” that push the envelope every week to modify your behaviour , treat everybody with the respect they deserve , and understand that we as administrators and Umpires want to go to the football to enjoy the game.
I make no apology for issuing this warning, keep up the bad and abusive behaviour and you could be responsible for a number of very good and passionate administrators and umpires walking away from the game.
As a final observation, I guarantee those habitual offenders who cause the problems on a regular basis have about as much substance as a ”cheap scented lace handkerchief “ when it comes to actually doing something worthwhile by administrating or umpiring the game.
All clubs are represented in the Grand Final in their quest for premiership honours, on behalf of the League I wish you all every success.
Let’s make sure we remember the 2018 Grand Final day for all the right reasons.
Ron Redford
President FWFL
Last Modified on 18/04/2019 10:23