Negative sideline behaviour, which has plagued sport for many years, has a large impact on the experiences of young athletes, referees and sport managers. Sport Waikato saw the effects of the issue through their school and player voice surveys and decided to take steps to call out this negative adult behaviour and promote a more positive sporting environment.
Originally piloted at the Upper North Island Secondary School (UNISS) Netball tournament in August 2023, the campaign encourages positive support from spectators.
Visibility for the campaign at the tournament was created through large signs with the campaign slogan, pink uniforms for officials and “I support Positive Vibes Only” stickers for spectators.
The pilot at the UNISS tournament was marked a success with over 94% of survey respondents noting an improved sideline experience and many overhearing the ‘Positive Vibes Only’ phrase being used.
Following its success, the campaign has been rolled out in more locations across the country, with the aim of creating enjoyable and supportive environments for participants across more sports.
“Positive Vibes Only is an easy and non-confrontational way to encourage positive sideline behaviour and improve the experience for both participants and their supporters,” says Amigene Metcalfe, Sport Development Manager at Sport Waikato.
