On social media over the past day I’ve read some comments suggesting that FFA wants to destroy active support in the Hyundai A-League. Nothing could be further from the truth.
On social media over the past day I-ve read some comments suggesting that FFA wants to destroy active support in the Hyundai A-League. Nothing could be further from the truth.
FFA has encouraged active support by working closely with clubs, venues and fans over active supporter areas. The banners, flags, drums and general theatre of active supporter areas are a result of ongoing collaboration between FFA, our clubs and fans.
We are so proud of the contribution of fans we-ve made you the stars of our A-League marketing campaign. Active fans are the stars of the show.
The negative comments followed a joint statement by Victoria Police, Melbourne Victory, Melbourne Heart and FFA about the expected standards of behaviour at matches in Victoria.
It-s pretty simple. Anti-social behaviour that affects the enjoyment of other fans is not acceptable.
We will not tolerate flares, damage to public property and violence. Not FFA, not the clubs, not the stadium managements and not the Police. Nor should any fans accept such behaviour. While it may be a very small portion of people who engage in this type of behaviour, the impact they have on the perception of our game is significant.
We all want to experience the unique atmosphere created by passionate fans. We want active support to grow. We want to see fans enjoying themselves in a safe environment.
If any individual can-t contribute to that without breaking the law, they aren-t welcome at A-League matches. Collectively, we will identify and remove trouble makers so that the overwhelming majority of supporters – active or not – can enjoy their match day experience in a safe environment.
Across the A-League there are many encouraging developments between FFA, clubs and active supporter groups. The aim is to improve the fan experience and help the A-League grow.
But we all live in a lawful society and being inside a stadium doesn-t mean anything is different.
