At Gladesville Sharks Football Club, we are deeply committed to fostering a community that values respect, inclusivity, and positive engagement both on and off the field. Our alignment with the North West Sydney Football (NWSF) RESPECT Program underscores this dedication, as we strive to create an environment where every participant feels valued and supported.
Understanding the NWSF RESPECT Program
Introduced in 2016, the NWSF RESPECT Program aims to transform football culture into one that is consistently positive and rewarding. The program emphasizes that while winning is a measure of achievement, it is not the sole indicator of success. Setting personal goals and achieving them can be equally fulfilling for teams and individuals.
The fundamental objectives of the RESPECT Program are to encourage respect towards:
- Match Officials: Acknowledging their crucial role in ensuring the game is enjoyable and fair.
- Opposition: Recognizing that without opponents, there would be no game, and valuing the spirit of healthy competition.
- Laws of the Game: Adhering to the rules that maintain fairness and safety for all participants.
- Self-Respect: Setting personal standards and upholding them, regardless of others’ actions.
Gladesville Sharks FC’s Commitment to the RESPECT Program
As a community-minded club, Gladesville Sharks FC integrates the principles of the RESPECT Program into our daily operations and interactions:
- Education and Awareness: We provide our players, coaches, parents, and supporters with resources and training to understand the importance of respect in football. This includes distributing materials such as the NWSF Code of Conduct and participating in initiatives like the “Let Kids be Kids” Program.
- Positive Environment: Our club culture promotes fair play, sportsmanship, and inclusivity. We encourage all members to set personal goals and celebrate achievements beyond just winning, fostering a holistic approach to success.
- Recognition of Good Behaviour: In line with the RESPECT Program’s practices, we acknowledge and reward positive behaviour within our club. This includes internal recognition for teams and individuals who exemplify the values of respect and sportsmanship.
- Community Engagement: We actively engage with the broader community to build stronger relationships and enhance the quality of life for all. Our initiatives aim to create a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels welcome, regardless of age, ability, or experience.
Building a Respectful Football Community
Our commitment to the RESPECT Program reflects our belief that football is more than just a sport; it’s a vehicle for building character, developing life skills, and strengthening community bonds. By upholding the principles of respect, we ensure that Gladesville Sharks FC remains a place where individuals can enjoy the game, grow personally, and contribute positively to society.
We invite all members of our community to join us in this ongoing journey towards a consistently positive and rewarding football culture. Together, we can make a difference both on and off the field.
For more information on the NWSF RESPECT Program, please visit the official NWSF website.
For details about our club’s initiatives and how you can get involved, please contact us at support@sharksfc.org.au or visit our website.
Let’s continue to build a football community that embodies respect, integrity, and unity.
