A campaign targeting loud and bad behaviour at junior sporting events in communities like Dubbo is under way.
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Shoosh for Kids awareness week will run until Sunday.
State Member for Dubbo Troy Grant, NSW Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres and Cricket NSW chief executive officer Andrew Jones have thrown their support behind the campaign.
“SHOOSH for Kids is all about reminding people that sport is more about the fun than the scoreboard,” Mr Ayres said.
Mr Grant is calling on community members, spectators and athletes across the electorate to keep junior sport focused on fun as part of the Shoosh for Kids campaign.
He is also asking sporting clubs and associations to download free resources and “share the message” with their members at www.sport.nsw.gov.au/shooshforkids.
“The pre-summer season is the perfect time to have conversations about why sport needs to be kept positive for the kids,” Mr Grant said.
“Sport brings our communities together and SHOOSH for Kids makes sure we keep a smile on everyone’s face while playing sport.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re a player, spectator or official, sport should be a fun, safe and enjoyable activity for all participants.
The campaign also works hand in hand with supporting officials and volunteers, who are the lifeblood of grassroots sport.”
The launch of the campaign on Monday prompted Mr Ayres to remind spectators that there was “no place for negative comments in local sport” and urge clubs and associations to promote Shoosh for Kids as an important project.
“If local sporting groups are creating positive and welcoming environments there is no doubt more kids will play sport,” he said.
Mr Jones said by “keeping comments positive”, cricket could be fun and focus on enjoyment and friendships.
“Cricket NSW is incredibly supportive of the Shoosh for Kids program which is a fantastic reminder to all of our local cricket parents and families that we need to maintain a positive sporting environment,” he said.