Spectator Behaviour

Despite so many clubs appointing Club Welfare Officers and making that strong show of commitment to safeguarding within Taekwondo, we are seeing more and more incidences of poor spectator behaviour at competitions. This has resulted in suspensions being issued to several spectators – ranging from several months to indefinite.

Spectators play an important role in creating the atmosphere at Taekwondo events, but unfortunately poor behaviour from the sidelines can negatively impact participants and the event itself.

So how can we work together as a community to prevent this behaviour from happening? 

  • Setting Clear Expectations: Before an event, clubs should ensure that everyone connected to their club planning to attend is aware of the expected standards of behaviour. This may be communicated through messaging, announcements, signage, or handouts. Spectators – remember that respect for participants, officials, and other attendees is a key part of maintaining a positive and supportive environment.
  • Monitoring Spectator Behaviour: During events, event organisers need to be vigilant, monitoring their spectators for any signs of inappropriate behaviour, such as verbal abuse, aggressive conduct, or discriminatory remarks. If any issues arise, event organisers should be ready to intervene promptly and address the situation in a calm and professional manner. Having your Club Welfare Officer at the event can help with this.
  • Intervention and Reporting: In cases where poor spectator behaviour is observed, everyone should feel comfortable and confident to report it to an event official, and the event organisers should act on the day. This may involve speaking with the individual or group responsible for the disruptive behaviour, explaining the consequences of their actions, and if necessary, asking them to leave the venue.

Any serious cases of poor behaviour will be reported to British Taekwondo Safeguarding for further consideration.

  • Supporting Participants and Coaches: It’s important to remember that poor spectator behaviour can have a direct impact on the participants and coaches involved in the event. Event organisers should ensure that any participants affected by this behaviour are supported, offered assistance or simply a safe space for them to talk. Coaches, too, should be reminded to keep the focus on positive support, avoiding being influenced by negative crowd behaviour.

By addressing poor spectator behaviour, the focus will remain on the participants and upholding the values of respect, fairness, and integrity that Taekwondo is built upon.

Remember, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and together, we can help create a positive and safe space for everyone to enjoy the benefits of Taekwondo.

Sarah Howard, Safeguarding Manager at British Taekwondo