Sport
4 September, 2024
Presentation to combat abuse and disrespect in sport
Education is the way forward when it comes to combatting abuse and disrespect in junior sport. Founder of Learning Life through Sport (LLTS) Rod Campbell, said it's all about attitude and behaviour. Campbell will bring his presentation to Horsham on Wednesday, September 18, with the support of Uniting Wimmera, initiated by basketball coach Scott Benbow. (FREE READ)
The presentation creates an inclusive and safe environment for all participants in junior sport, including coaches, parents, players, spectators and umpires.
"We hope to change people's perspectives by seeing our behaviours in sport through clear eyes, identifying the issues, owning them and moving forward together through connection, empowerment and relationship building to create positive environments," Campbell said.
It's based on the values of effort, respect and sportsmanship.
These behaviours include umpire abuse and dissent, bad sportsmanship and a lack of respect for codes and participants of sport.
"Coaches, players, parents and caregivers, umpires/referees, club people, spectators and the sport itself will benefit from the program," Campbell said.
The program being delivered in the Wimmera was initiated by local Scott Benbow, a junior basketball coach for nearly 25 years.
"I am deeply passionate about promoting positive behaviours and building meaningful relationships with kids and their families," Benbow said.
"In my coaching journey across the state, working with both junior and men's representative basketball teams, I often witness poor behaviours from athletes and parents alike.
"Umpire retention across all sports is at a critical level, and there’s a pressing need to create an environment where budding umpires feel safe and supported."
Benbow said he recently listened to Campell's episode on the Empowering Leaders podcast, and it truly resonated with him.
"After listening a few more times, I felt compelled to reach out to Rod to learn more about his program," Benbow said.
"His message is simple yet incredibly powerful.
"Rod and I had a 45-minute conversation, and I quickly realized that we needed to bring his program to Horsham.
His passion for driving change through Learning Life Through Sport is unmatched.
"I’ve participated in numerous leadership programs, both professionally and in coaching, and Rod’s approach stands out."
Benbow said the initiative also aligns perfectly with the values of an academy for basketball, which he runs with his son.
"I hope that the attending presidents, coaches, and parents will be inspired to champion positive change across the Wimmera," Benbow said.
The presentation has been endorsed by the Australian Football League, with Paul Hamilton, National Talent Development and Competitions Manager, saying he would recommend Learning Life through Sport to any league committed to creating an environment that is positive for members and players.
The presentation will be held at Westside Horsham, on Wednesday, September 18 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.