IMPORTANT MESSAGE ON CLUB DISCIPLINE
​As a club we are rightly proud of the warm welcome, both on and off the field, that we give all our visitors.

Unfortunately, as you will see from the letter to Sussex clubs below there is a worrying pattern of unacceptable behaviour currently evident across the county.

We feel that all members should see the full content of the letter as exceptional behaviour and respect is at the core of the club and our game. This has always set our game apart from many others.

It is the responsibility of all members, coaches, players and spectators from minis to seniors to actively ensure that our reputation as a welcoming, friendly club is maintained.

Clearly we are all accountable for our own behaviour but to assist with this aim we would also ask if you become aware of any unacceptable behaviour, it is reported to a committee member.

Thank you for your support.

Letter from the Chairman of Sussex Rugby to All Clubs

We are almost at the halfway point in the season and already the Sussex RFU Discipline Committee has dealt with as many cases as in the entirety of last season. Sadly, and more importantly, there has been an increase in Match Official Abuse, and a deterioration in player and spectator behaviour towards our match officials. This is not acceptable.

Clubs are reminded of their obligation to ensure all players, coaches and spectators adhere to the values of our game; TREDS. Now would be a good time to send out a reminder of the behaviours expected across your club from the most junior team to your 1st XV. We are all volunteers and everyone deserves to be treated with respect.

If that change in behaviour towards match officials is not forthcoming then sanctions will need to be applied. Rest assured the scope is wide, including points deductions to club 1st XV’s, lengthy suspensions and even financial penalties. The Discipline Committee do not want to go down that road so please make all your club members aware of the issue so they know that ANY form of match official abuse will not be tolerated. Please take whatever action you deem appropriate now in keeping the standards of behaviour from everyone where they should be.

Yours in rugby

Alan Croucher