Let’s bring positive vibes to the sideline – John Wansbone

Regional sports organisations across Northland are taking a united stand against poor sideline behaviour through the rollout of the Positive Vibes Only campaign.

This weekend marks the start of the winter sports season which will see thousands of tamariki across Northland pulling on a team uniform and heading out on to the courts and fields.

For some, it will be their first experience of organised sport, discovering what it means to be part of a team, building confidence and connection, and hopefully forming a lifelong love of being physically active.

As parents, coaches and supporters, we play a crucial role in shaping that experience.

The way we encourage, cheer and respond to what happens on the field has a significant impact on how young people feel about themselves and the sport they play.

Most of the time, that support is positive and well intentioned, but occasionally we hear of sideline behaviour that crosses the line, becoming overly critical or placing unhealthy pressure on young players.

When that happens, the impact is felt by everyone. Players lose enjoyment, coaches and officials feel undermined, volunteer commitment starts to wane, and too often the result is young people walking away from sport altogether.

That’s why regional sports organisations across Northland are taking a united stand against poor sideline behaviour through the rollout of the Positive Vibes Only campaign. Rather than calling out negative behaviour, the focus is on what good support looks like, including positive language, respect for officials, and trust in coaches. It’s about creating safe, inclusive and enjoyable environments where tamariki and rangatahi can thrive.

As adults, this asks us to reflect on our own expectations. Children don’t play sport for the same reasons professionals do. When winning becomes the sole focus at the expense of enjoyment, participation inevitably suffers.

Fortunately, many sporting codes recognise this and are already adapting how they coach, officiate and structure competitions to better meet the needs of young people.

National insights strongly support this approach. Sport New Zealand research shows the number one reason young people take part in sport is simply to have fun (76%), followed by spending time with friends and whānau (44%). For most kids, sport isn’t about trophies or ladders, it’s about playing with their mates and enjoying being active.

John Wansbone

This thinking sits at the heart of Sport New Zealand’s Balance is Better philosophy, which puts young people first. It recognises the importance of balancing competition and performance with fun and enjoyment.

This isn’t the end of competitive sport, for some winning can absolutely be part of what makes sport enjoyable, but it can’t come at the expense of everything else.

The Northland Sports Coalition, made up of representatives from sporting organisations across the region, is leading the Positive Vibes Only initiative with support from Sport Northland. This weekend, sports grounds will be awash with pink and positivity as the campaign is proudly championed on game day. Alongside visible reminders, the initiative supports education and ongoing conversations aimed at driving lasting cultural change. Codes involved include Whangārei Netball Centre, Northland Rugby, Northland Rugby League, Northland Cricket, Athletics Northland, Squash Northland and Northland Volleyball.

By adopting shared principles, these organisations are lifting the standard of sideline behaviour across Northland and helping to ensure young athletes receive consistent, positive support, no matter which sport they play.

As the message gains momentum, Sport Northland encourages clubs, schools and sporting communities across the region to embrace the kaupapa and play their part in creating great sporting experiences.

Because when positive vibes surround the game, everyone benefits.