Behavioral signs promoting respect at the Geldrop-Mierlo sports complex
It happens regularly both on and off the field at our sports facilities: unacceptable comments or behavior that we let slide to avoid escalation. Everyone agrees that we should be able to hold each other accountable and want to rely on sportsmanlike conduct. Yet not every player, volunteer, parent, and visitor experiences a safe, enjoyable, and inclusive environment. Signs with rules of conduct at sports facilities should serve as a tool to help address this.
On May 11, the first sign was unveiled in a festive ceremony at the De Mast Tennis and Padel Club, with the project’s initiator, Jesse Vorstenbosch, in attendance.
A good example
Respect is important to everyone. Administrators, coaches, parents, and older youth should set a good example—not only through their words, but also through their behavior. The Geldrop-Mierlo Sports Council and the clubs have jointly established a code of conduct. The code of conduct sign helps clearly display the agreed-upon rules, so that everyone can hold each other accountable. The municipality, clubs, and volunteers are working together on this.
A shared responsibility
Alderman Looijmans: “To keep sports parks safe and enjoyable, it’s important that the rules are clear. These signs explain what we do and don’t accept in Geldrop-Mierlo. Everyone is responsible for their own behavior on and around the field. But only by working together can we create an inclusive community where everyone feels safe.”
The Local Sports Agreement outlines four key points for a safe sports environment: a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG), a code of conduct for the entire club, a designated confidential advisor, and well-trained coaches. Together, these ensure fair and respectful behavior and help prevent problems at sports clubs. Sports thus become an integral part of municipal health policy.