Below is a letter from David Wiebe, State Referee Manager to all players, coaches, trainers or managers.

Language is a hugely subjective topic, especially in Women’s and Youth football.

As has been expressed before, in reality, referees are not the moral guardians of language and as such the laws were changed to reflect society’s tolerance of the industrial language and allow that tolerance level to be set by the referee. It is almost impossible to go anywhere in the modern world and not hear it from people of all ages. It has become disturbingly obvious of late that the “C” word is creeping into player’s responses on the field. Left unchecked, it could follow the same path of acceptance.

As a code, we need to ensure that this repulsive and demeaning word is never accepted as okay. Players MUST be reminded that if you use two words starting with “C” (the other being the word “cheat” directed at a match official), the player WILL BE SENT OFF no matter what the context.

Clubs are asked to ensure all coaches and players are made aware of this instruction.

If the referee hears it and can identify the player, then the player will be sent off. Also note that any participant (coach, trainer or manager) identified will be removed from the technical area and a report submitted.

Click on the link if you wish to print the document.  "Language On The Field"