19/08/2026
Essendon Netball Club has zero tolerance for poor behaviour of any kind. Whether you’re playing for Parkville or EDNA.
Parkville Netball sent out this behaviour reminder that we wanted to share:
“We have recently seen an increase in incidents involving umpire abuse, unsportsmanlike behaviour, and inappropriate spectator conduct across our competitions.
Parkville Netball is built on the values of respect, fairness, and good sportsmanship. Umpires, players, coaches, team officials, volunteers, and spectators all contribute to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone involved.
We remind all participants that:
Abuse, intimidation, or aggressive behaviour towards umpires will not be tolerated.
Unsportsmanlike conduct by players, coaches, team officials, or spectators is unacceptable.
Players, spectators and officials must remain respectful and refrain from questioning, criticising, or confronting umpires, other players, coaches, officials, or opposition supporters.
All participants are expected to uphold the standards outlined in the Netball Australia Code of Conduct, Parkville Netball by-laws, and codes of behaviour as well as all Netball Victoria and Netball Australia policies.
Umpires will manage any issues on court in line with the World Netball, Rules of Netball, and if needed, matters may also be followed up under the Parkville Netball By‑laws and Netball Victoria’s complaints handling framework.
The clubs involved in recent incidents have been contacted directly and are aware of the concerns raised. We appreciate their cooperation in addressing these matters and reinforcing the expected standards of behaviour with their players, officials, and supporters.
Our umpires are essential to the game and deserve to officiate in a safe and respectful environment. Without umpires, our competitions cannot proceed.
We ask all members of our netball community to play their part in fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere where players can enjoy the game, umpires feel valued and respected, and families can spectate without witnessing inappropriate behaviour.
Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us uphold the values of our sport”
