There are plenty of steps you can take to protect your club against angry parents.

• Encourage parents to become associate club members so they will be subject to club rules.
• Consider appointing parents as ground monitors and train them on basic appropriate crowd control so they can keep an eye on events, report incidents and speak to spectators if the behaviour verges on the inappropriate or offensive.
• Monitors should be provided with bright jackets so they are instantly recognisable; and they should be advised not to approach spectators who are irrational or whose behaviour poses a threat to public safety.
• Develop a Parents’ Code of Behaviour outlining expected behaviour and actions the club will take if these behaviours are breached.
• Explain the Parents’ Code of Behaviour to all parents when they enrol their children, then ask them to read and sign.
• Organise a social event and information evening for parents and coaches at the beginning of the season and discuss club values, Parents’ Code of Behaviour and the benefits of positive sporting experiences for children.
• Meet with coaches and identify over enthusiastic parents who show signs of developing ‘ugly’ behaviours. Look at ways of harnessing their energies for the benefit of the club e.g., by asking them to be assistant coaches. Be aware that a parent may need a police check (or working with children check) and training (e.g, coach accreditation) before taking on a role with children.
• Display the club’s rules and expectations around the sport’s venue e.g., near entrance/exit points, outside the toilets, by the canteen . Use the club’s website and newsletters to remind people about appropriate behaviour.
• Acknowledge and encourage good behaviours.
• Take immediate action over inappropriate behaviour by parents.