Editorial: Instilling our values in VAFA Women’s

Michael Sholly – VAFA CEO

The opportunity to do things for the first time comes once; whether it be on a personal note, a club with a new team or, in the VAFA’s case, the opportunity to establish a competition from scratch. This year, in this column, I have spoken a lot about the introduction of the women’s competition in the VAFA. It is important the VAFA structures the competition evenly and our clubs build their team and its culture with purpose, vision and clarity.

It is the responsibility of the VAFA to ensure games are played in a competitive, enjoyable and challenging environment. Our culture has been developed over 125 years and it is essential our female players are instilled with these same values. For those who have been involved in our football clubs for years, these values are second nature. For those who are experiencing this for the first time, adopting these sentiments from the outset is vital to being a part of the VAFA community.

Some of the old habits footballers exhibited in days gone by have been extremely difficult to change once they are entrenched. Behaviours that were the norm for spectators and players a generation ago are now a thing of the past and it has taken a generation for that change to occur.

The standard of behaviour around the VAFA clubs is usually of the highest calibre; however, occasionally these standards can slip on match day when competitive drive takes over. Now is the time to instil the VAFA’s culture and values upon all new participants at our clubs. How the girls interact both on and off the ground needs to be addressed from the beginning and must align with our high expectations.

These behavioural standards need to be set by the leaders of our clubs and should be highlighted in the relationships and communications each player has with their coach, umpire, opposition, volunteers and supporters.

The stereotype of the coach barking instructions to their players is unacceptable. Respecting the umpire’s decision is a non-negotiable. Players should care for their opponent and ensure the risk of injury is minimised and any form of verbal intimidation to gain a competitive advantage should be frowned upon. At the conclusion of the match there should be a respect for the game itself through acknowledgement of all those who made it possible. This is fundamental to the VAFA community.

As a result, our women’s teams can not only perpetuate the existing characteristics of the VAFA’s culture, but further enhance positive cultural change and act as a leading example to the AFL and broader community.