Northcliff High School
Mountainview Drive info@[Link] PO Box 35412
Blackheath Ext 3 [Link] Northcliff 2115
Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 476 1544
South Africa Fax: +27 11 476 2585
23 April 2025
Dear Parents, Players and Coaches
Sport Etiquette
In the spirit of the game, we request that coaches, parents and players refrain from any verbal and/or physical abuse or
show of dissent in any way, regarding the decisions made by any officially appointed referees – those appointed by the
union, or a teacher from our own or opposing school. Such behaviour will have an adverse effect on the relationship
between our school, the Golden Lions Rugby Referees’ Society, and our opponents.
We have always maintained an extremely professional relationship with those with whom we interact on the sports
field, and this always needs to be maintained.
Please understand that the referee is the sole judge of fact on the field. Once a decision is made, that decision is
final.
Sadly, we have had two reports from different sources highlighting the fact that some of our parents see it fit to make
unqualified and uncalled for statements regarding selections of individual players for provincial teams as well as
swearing and name calling aimed at referees and even players on the field. This will seriously harm the reputation of our
school and be detrimental to what we are trying to build. The sanction from the Golden Lions Union, should this
happen, can include suspension from all rugby-related activities.
On a personal note, there is a focus on our school and what action can and will be taken considering my role in various
provincial and national rugby structures.
Please take note of our expected protocols:
1. Stay off the field of play; the medics will treat the injured.
2. Remain within the prescribed and demarcated areas for spectators and coaches.
3. Be an example to the players: when an adult shows signs of dissent and/or hurls abuse towards a
referee – the players might do the same. Adults must be role models!
4. It is important to instil values of mutual respect as part of our chosen role as parents, educators and
coaches.
5. Please understand: no perceived “bad” decision of a referee can ever be a justification for bad behaviour
shown by any parent, coach, or player.
Another concerning matter needs to be raised:
1. Team selection remains a highly emotive matter – please refrain from discussing such with your children or
amongst yourselves as parents. It creates unnecessary conflict between all involved; more so between players
and their respective coaches – this creates dissent.
2. There have been some verbal and written attacks on coaches – this is totally unacceptable. I can assure you no
player will be selected based on who his parents are or any other subjective reason.
3. Team selection is discussed by the coaches within their relevant age group and then ultimately with me – it is
not a single individual making the judgement call. All selections are made taking the best interests of both
players and the team into account and then discussed with the individual player concerned.
4. Should you have any queries in this regard please direct your concerns to me.
Your assistance and co-operation in this regard will be appreciated.
Kind Regards
T Diedericks
DIRECTOR - RUGBY
