Doncaster Rovers recently hosted the Football Association’s ‘RESPECT’ campaign which was described as a “huge success” by Sheffield & Hallamshire County FA (S&HCFA) who organised the event.
‘RESPECT’ is The FA’s programme of activities to combat unacceptable behaviour in our game at every level – on the pitch, and from the sidelines. It features four practical steps to positively influence every game throughout the country, as well as an integrated education programme and awareness campaign and last Saturday, with the help of eight Under 9 teams from around the region, Sheffield & Hallamshire County FA was able to highlight some of the excellent work going on around the County FA region.On Saturday lunchtime, before the Rovers v Gillingham League 1 fixture at the Keepmoat Stadium, eight Under 9 teams from the Doncaster & District, Sheffield & District and Barnsley & District Junior Leagues played in a festival type tournament. The eight teams were of BSA Trappers, Fishlake Falcons, Hemsworth Miners Welfare, Tickhill Red, New Bohemians, Sprotbrough & Cusworth Green, Castle Grove and Brampton Rovers.
From the tournament two of the teams, BSA Trappers and Fishlake Falcons were chosen to act as mascots for Doncaster Rovers and Gillingham as the two teams filed their way on to the pitch just before kick-off and at half time all eight teams paraded ‘RESPECT’ flags around the touchline.
At half time there was also time to congratulate Crosspool Juniors Under 11s Girls team, who won the S&HCFA Girls Respect Award for last season, with the team represented on the day by Neil Speed.
The County Football Association takes the responsibility relating to the ‘RESPECT’ programme seriously leading from the front and in looking to ensure all games are played in a fun, safe and enjoyable environment.
The event took place alongside this Football League One clash arising out of the hard work of the recently formed ‘RESPECT’ Working Group at the County FA.
Lisa Glaves, S&HCFA Welfare Officer, and James Bell, S&HCFA Referee’s Development Administrator, who coordinated and organised the event said; “On behalf of everyone at the County FA, can we say a massive thank you to all the teams, players, parents and supporters for Saturday.
“The games that were played on Saturday morning were testament as to why the teams and players were top of their leagues as far as the Respect programme is concerned. They were all brilliant!
“Can we also thank all the helpers, volunteers and referees for their support and, of course, Doncaster Rovers. A fantastic day for all.”