All Members of Wanstead RFC.
17th March 2023
The Core Values of our game, Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship apply to all of us. As a parent, spectator, coach, referee or player at all levels, we are all bound by the Code of Conduct which means we should always adhere to these core values. As a club with an RFU accreditation and a long and illustrious history, it is incumbent upon us all to uphold and enforce these values. Core Values (englandrugby.com)
Why is this reminder now so important that I, as President need to raise it?
Laura Wakefield, the Chair of Essex RFU disciplinary panel, has decided to step down because of the distressing volume of matters being referred to her committee by clubs in respect of alleged breaches of the Code and specifically, that of Respect. These usually off-field allegations, including abuse of referees, players, fellow spectators and abuse by coaches and spectators are damaging both the enjoyment and the very nature of our sport.
We have a good but not perfect reputation. We are all decent people who want to volunteer and take part but we must each use the influence we have, on and off the pitch, to enlighten, educate and deter those who cross the line into disrespect. If you feel uncomfortable with anything but do not wish to engage in a conversation, then speak to me, James or Liz, our Safeguarding officer. We will take appropriate action.
We will not enter a blame game with other clubs, their reputation is a matter for them, but our reputation is paramount. We will not tolerate disrespect by any player, member or supporter of Wanstead.
Mike Calvert
President, Wanstead RFC
17th March 2023
The Core Values of our game, Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship apply to all of us. As a parent, spectator, coach, referee or player at all levels, we are all bound by the Code of Conduct which means we should always adhere to these core values. As a club with an RFU accreditation and a long and illustrious history, it is incumbent upon us all to uphold and enforce these values. Core Values (englandrugby.com)
Why is this reminder now so important that I, as President need to raise it?
Laura Wakefield, the Chair of Essex RFU disciplinary panel, has decided to step down because of the distressing volume of matters being referred to her committee by clubs in respect of alleged breaches of the Code and specifically, that of Respect. These usually off-field allegations, including abuse of referees, players, fellow spectators and abuse by coaches and spectators are damaging both the enjoyment and the very nature of our sport.
We have a good but not perfect reputation. We are all decent people who want to volunteer and take part but we must each use the influence we have, on and off the pitch, to enlighten, educate and deter those who cross the line into disrespect. If you feel uncomfortable with anything but do not wish to engage in a conversation, then speak to me, James or Liz, our Safeguarding officer. We will take appropriate action.
We will not enter a blame game with other clubs, their reputation is a matter for them, but our reputation is paramount. We will not tolerate disrespect by any player, member or supporter of Wanstead.
Mike Calvert
President, Wanstead RFC
