Football West statement re: match officials

Football West would like to reiterate its support for our referees and assistant referees and condemns any forms of abuse towards match officials.

Abuse directed at match officials from players, coaches, club officials, spectators and parents is completely unacceptable and is something all parties must work at eliminating.

Physical assaults, however rare, will not be tolerated and Football West will enforce the strictest penalties possible in such cases.

Match officials play a vital role in ensuring competitions take place in a safe and inclusive environment, and referee wellbeing and retention is crucial for the health of our sport.

Football West will continue to reinforce the message of respect for match officials.