Football Canterbury is calling on all teams to offer a guard honour for referees this weekend, following a horrific attack on referee Khodr Yaghi last weekend.
Footage of the attack shows referee Khodr Yaghi left severely injured, resulting in surgery and a broken
jaw.
While this incident took place at another association, Football Canterbury Chairman, Nick Kambounias, said the attack highlights behavioural aspects within our game that need to change.
“The disturbing footage that emerged on the weekend has impacted everyone who has seen it with the behaviour being condemned on a global scale. We stand with Khodr and all match officials,” Kambounias said.
“Abuse of any kind, including verbal abuse, is unacceptable in the wider community and is unacceptable when directed towards referees.
“The language and behaviour targeted towards referees would not be acceptable on the street, or in the workplace, or in the home – yet it still occurs on the football pitch. This needs to stop.”
Originating as an initiative from Hurlstone Park Wanderers and Strathfield FC who wanted to stand in support of referees, the act of solidarity has been approved by Canterbury Referee’s Association, Football Canterbury, and has received the support of many club presidents in the association.
Source: Football Canterbury
