On average, 7,000 referees quit football every year at because of the abuse they receive from players and from the sidelines. Lots of children also pack it in because of the attitude and actions of over-enthusiastic and pushy parents. In response, The FA's Respect programme provides a series of tools for leagues, clubs, coaches, Referees, players and parents from grassroots to elite football to ensure a safe, positive environment in which to enjoy the game.

Respect is The FA's programme to address unacceptable behaviour in football – on and off the pitch and clubs have been provided with various tools to help educate and control player and parent behaviours. These tools include agreed codes of conduct, in-service training for Referees, Respect club packs, spectator sideline barriers funded by the Football Foundation and ensuring captains work with referees to manage player behaviour.

Ashington Cougars already have policies and procedures in place that that meet the requirements of the RESPECT programme and all players have signed to say that they have read and will abide by these procedures. For more information click on the Policies tab or spend some time going through the FA's online Respect Parent Guide which highlights examples of poor behaviour and, more importantly, how it can be improved. To see the FA's Guide for Parents and careers click here.