NUAFC 1968-2018

New Zealand Football Memo re “Language”
2015
Prior to 1997 the Laws of the Game said that a player was
sent off for “using foul and abusive language.” The change in the
law was a clear recognition by the International FA Board that the
cultural climate was different and that some words, previously
considered foul, were now commonly used in certain circumstances
and were part of everyday conversation particularly among groups
of males.
NZF coaching requires referees to have regard to the
circumstances in which the language is used. Specifically When,
How, Where, To Whom.
For instance a player who has been kicked and calls out
“F****** Hell!” as he falls is simply reacting to pain and clearly not
directing the words in an abusive or insulting or offensive way.
Similarly a striker who puts the ball over the crossbar with the goal
open. When responding to pain or personal frustration, in these
and other like situations, a referee may have a quiet word to a
player or issue a general warning to a group of players reminding
them “Language please players.”
The Laws, as presently framed, acknowledge that some
words are inherently more offensive than others and are likely to
provoke aggressive actions. Words that focus on religious, ethnic,
racial or sexual characteristics fall into this category and require a
fast, strong response by the referee. For instance: “You black piece
of ****”, “You are a f***** c***.” said to a female player, “Your
mother f*** donkeys”, “You Muslim/ Christians are *****”.
Language that is clearly directed at specific persons also
require strong and correct action by referees. Eg “You cheat!”, “I’m
going to break your f****** leg!”.
Referees must take care not to inject purely personal
opinions when determining a course of action. There is no place for
a personal crusade. The primary focus must be on the effective
management of the match and the players. Match officials must
have a feeling for the spirit of the game and the intention of the
laws and referee accordingly.
Finally, referees are reminded there is no foul committed
when calling for the ball. However, it is unsporting to call to put an
opponent off or to intentionally distract them.
Ngaruawahia 8th Grade Ninjas, 5th September 2015.
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