At Frankston Basketball, we rely on a passionate community of volunteers, referees, coaches, and parents to deliver junior basketball each week. Their commitment allows hundreds of kids to enjoy the game, build friendships, and develop life skills through sport.
But there’s a growing issue that we can’t ignore: poor sideline behaviour is undermining the experience for everyone.
In recent months, we’ve received an increasing number of reports of spectators directing frustration, criticism, and even abuse towards referees, volunteers, and fellow parents.
Referees at this level are still learning. Many are teenagers themselves, gaining confidence and experience. Mistakes will happen, but abuse should never be the response.
We’ve also heard from parents who no longer want to volunteer because of the behaviour they’ve witnessed and experienced from the sidelines. This is not the environment we want for our basketball community.
Junior sport should be about fun, friendship, and development. A study from the US revealed that 75% of kids quit sport by age 14, and a key reason is the pressure and criticism they face, particularly from parents. Kids want to enjoy the game, not be coached, criticised, or caught in adult conflict.
So, here’s what we ask of everyone attending our games:
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Respect the referees, players, coaches, and volunteers.
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Encourage fair play and positive behaviour.
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Allow the officials to officiate, the coaches to coach, and the kids to enjoy the game.
Basketball should be a safe, inclusive space for all. Let’s work together to make sure it stays that way — for this generation and the next.
Thank you to the many parents and supporters who continue to do the right thing each and every week. Your example sets the tone for our community.