A recent editorial in the Herald-Sun referred to Junior Football in the state being in a state of disrepair.
Alan Wickes (Pres. F&DJFL) felt so incensed at the inaccurate depicition of our game, he felt compelled to reply.
The Editor, Herald Sun
On behalf of the Frankston & District Junior Football League Inc. (F&DJFL Inc.) I wish to express our disappointment at the heading and your editorial.
You express a number of assumptions which are incorrect and the actual present situation is quite the contrary.
Australian Rules is better administered and played in a significantly improved environment today.
Leagues, clubs and their teams are well conducted and the education and training is conducted to well-researched and structured programs.
We have an alcohol-free space and specific codes of conduct apply at player, coach, team-administration and spectator level.
Each season parents and/or guardians sign off on their understanding of the widely communicated “AFL Kids First Policy” and acceptance of the rules and regulations
Our league has 3,500 players ranging in ages from 8 years to 16 years; complimented by 75 well drilled and monitored umpires; from 14 year old trainees to senior active umpires, who also mentor.
We have an estimated 60,000 individual interactions every year and our tribunal/investigations process is activated infrequently; in 2010 less than 5 times. The process is applicable to players, their support people and the spectators. Every club has ground management and team marshals who are also well trained and responsible; there is no complacency and our people are ever vigilant
These facts belie your assumptions and the cavalier approach to your editorial does a disservice to the game and is offensive to the many dedicated participants on all levels.
“Junior footy has cleaned up.” However it is very aware and accountable under the policy of “continuous improvement.”
Our junior league is typical of those all over the State of Victoria
F&DJFL Inc. “Supporting the community – building outstanding citizens”
Yours sincerely
ALAN WICKES
President F&DJFL Inc.
Last Modified on 28/04/2015 14:14