Ryan Lowe Respect

Argyle boss Ryan Lowe has joined England boss Gareth Southgate in giving his support for a call to see more respect at the grassroots level of the game.

Argyle boss Ryan Lowe has joined England boss Gareth Southgate in giving his support for a call to see more respect at the grassroots level of the game.

Nationwide Building Society, partner of The FA, has pledged to ensure that one million parents and coaches engage with The FA Respect campaign over the next three years to help build a more mutually respectful society both on and off the pitch.

Nationwide has signed a new three-year partnership with The FA, and will support the body’s grassroots Respect campaign.  It is committed to investing in and improving communities across the UK, and has undertaken research to show that there are ‘increasing levels of disrespect’ in the UK - something it aims to tackle.

According to the research, 66% of the British public say that levels of disrespect have become unacceptable, with 71% feeling that the problem has worsened in the last two years. 

Meanwhile, 80% of those surveyed believe public figures are responsible for setting a good example, with 63% believing that footballers should set an example by showing respect on the pitch. 

Lowe said: “We all like to win but respect for the game and each other on the field and in society is just as important.  

“I applaud Nationwide and The FA in their pledge to reach 1 million parents and coaches in order to engage with The FA Respect campaign over three years.  

“Respect in these challenging times is important on and off the pitch."

England boss Gareth Southgate has also helped the Nationwide Building Society’s drive for mutual respect in society by advocating the ‘Power of Positivity’.  Watch below as Gareth gets involved in the difference between positive and negative coaching and how it can have a massive impact on our players, the environment and the game.  The Power of Positivity – Nationwide & The FA’s Respect Campaign - https://youtu.be/9enngtJJPOM

Southgate made his Pledge of Positivity to “be a positive supporter and create an environment where everyone can enjoy football. I will support all players involved and respect referees, coaches and other spectators.” You can make your Pledge of Positivity online by searching ‘Pledge of Positivity’.

The FA’s Respect campaign aims to advise parents and coaches on their roles in creating a fun, safe and inclusive environment for everyone. Respect codes of conduct are in place to ensure that everyone involved within an FA Charter Standard club or league is playing their part to give the players a positive experience. Nationwide has pledged to make one million parents and coaches aware of this campaign and the need for mutual respect.

Recent extensive research into football from U7s–U18s highlighted that 9 out of 10 children say they play better with positive encouragement. Research also highlights, negative connotations have a negative experience on a child football experience.

For more information on The FA Respect Campaign, visit: https://www.thefa.com/get-involved/respect