The campaign by Northern NSW Football (NNSWF) aims to recognise, show appreciation and say thank you to all referees and match officials.

Gunnedah and District  Soccer Association president Simon Gainsford said they have a “zero tolerance” policy on referee abuse.

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The association was fortunate to have great sideline support at its games. Most issues raised were dealt with at committee level.

But he said people must understand all referees were there to help.

“They know the rules better than anyone but they’re only human,” Gainsford said.

“It’s hard enough getting referees in the first place, we want to make sure we keep them.

“They are volunteers and an integral part of the game. Without them we don’t have a game.”

NSWF’s objectives for ‘Silent Saturday’ include:

To emphasise that the game is about letting the kids play and have fun; to give the players a chance to play totally on their own; to eliminate the verbal questioning of the referees’ decisions; to help the few parents and coaches who feel they must provide constant direction, and to understand that the kids can play very well on their own with limited instruction.

NNSWF also say kids have the right to play without having to hear: 

“Wake up! Don’t just stand there!”; “You have GOT to be kidding me!”; “Why do I waste my time coming?”; “Watch the game ref you might enjoy it.”.

NNSWF continues: “Member zones and clubs have been encouraged to actively support the initiative and spectators are asked to refrain from making any verbal comments on the game or direct any comments to the players, referees or coaches, on or off the field.

“Clapping is of course allowed and supporters are encouraged to be creative in how they  choose to cheer their child’s team – make signs to hold up, bring a scarf in the team’s colour and wave it wildly, there are lots of ways to cheer other than verbally.”

Club soccer continues tomorrow in Gunnedah. Click here for Saturday’s draw.