New South Wales Government
NSW Department of the Arts, Sport and Recreation
NSW Sport and Recreation
Coloured Vest Program
Join today! It's FREE
Why the Coloured Vest Program?
New officials, umpires or referees are a welcome addition to any association/club.
It's important for everyone to remember that while in training, new officials need support and understanding to ensure they effectively develop their skills and confidence.
All too often though, they are the victim of sport rage. Tolerance gives way to harassment and abuse from frustrated players, coaches and spectators. This is of particular concern when the abuse is targeted at junior officials.
The pressure and tension can lead to new officials quitting before they even get started.
The Coloured Vest Program aims to build a more tolerant environment for beginner officials.
What's involved?
Any NSW sporting club keen to support beginner officials can register for the Coloured Vest Program, which is FREE to join.
Clubs adopting the Program will:
- Place new officials into mentoring schemes
- Ensure new officials are identified as beginners by wearing Coloured Vests
- Put measures in place to deal with abuse and harassment of new officials
- Promote support for new officials by displaying posters and distributing information.
NSW Sport and Recreation works with clubs to implement the Program by providing:
- A Getting Started information pack
- A kit containing:
- Five coloured vests
- Play by the Rules lanyards
- Promotional materials, including posters and cards
- Ongoing support, advice and ideas on supporting new officials.