11/08/2026
A reminder to all participants about the behaviour expected on the field.
We have recently had a number of incidents where player behaviour has fallen below the standards we expect at Southern Touch. Of particular concern is the increasing normalisation of back-chat and dissent towards referees.
This needs to stop.
Poor behaviour towards referees has a real impact on them personally and, to the competition itself. Two referees this season have chosen to withdraw themselves from all future Men's matches due to this exact reason.
At the same time, we are seeing increasing levels of niggle between teams, which ultimately impacts everyone's enjoyment of playing.
Southern Touch is intended to be a friendly and social environment where people can come along, play sport, have fun and switch off from the stresses of everyday life. Some of the behaviour we are currently seeing is inconsistent with those values.
Please take a moment to reflect on your own behaviour, as well as the behaviour of your teammates. If you see behaviour that is likely to negatively impact someone else's enjoyment or experience, call it out.
Referees will be directed to take a firmer approach to poor behaviour, particularly dissent towards decisions. Referees will make mistakes from time to time. They're human, they're doing their best, and mistakes are an inevitable part of community sport.
Play to the whistle. Accept the decision. Get on with the game.
It will also be reinforced to referees that formal reports should be made where players engage in inappropriate dissent or other unacceptable behaviour.
Where charges are proven, disciplinary action including suspensions will be applied. This has already occurred this season, and will mean missing out on the start of the Summer season.
We don't want to see people walking away from Southern Touch because of the behaviour of others.
We all have a responsibility to make Southern Touch a place where everyone feels welcome, respected and able to enjoy playing their sport.
Please share this message in your team chats and get everyone on board to turn things around. We need everyone's contributions to make this happen.