The largest opinion survey into the beautiful game was conducted by the FA in 2007 and found serious issues that needed to be addressed within the sport. On average over 7,000 referees quit due to abuse from both on and off the field, and many children quit due to the attitude and actions of over-enthusiastic and pushy parents. This had a huge influence on The FA's National Game Strategy, published in March 2008.
Minister for Sport Gerry Sutcliffe: "Football is the most high profile sport in the world and with the new season about to start, the game is back in the spotlight. Footballers today are not just sportsmen, they are role models for young people around the world. Passion is at the heart of the game, but being passionate doesn't mean disrespecting people. It's absolutely crucial that players, coaches, officials and spectators sign up to Respect. We need to see a commitment to change at all levels of the sport, and I'm grateful to the FA for leading the way."
The FA responded and brought out support tools aimed at leagues, clubs, coaches, Referees, players and parents from grassroots to elite football to ensure a safe, positive environment in which to enjoy the game.
These include:
• Codes of conduct for each key areas
• In-service training for Referees
• Respect club packs
• Spectator sideline barriers funded by the Football Foundation
• Captains work with referees to manage player behavior
• Free online Respect Parent
The FA is recording feedback and constantly co-operating with these organisations, to improve respect with the game:
The Premier League
The Football League
The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA)
The League Managers' Association (LMA)
Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO)
All County FA’s