Super League referees have come together as part of the Tackle The Tough Stuff campaign, highlighting the impact of abuse.
The campaign is an annual one, for mental and physical health.
Super League disicplinary drama has been top of the agenda for many supporters this year, especially with the early round action that saw players dismissed for very little, due to the RFL’s directive to cut down on head injuries.
However, it’s very easy to forget that the people in the middle of the decision process are just that: people.
Social media has amplified the impact of abuse over recent years, and it can, all too often, go too far.
Watch below, as referees share their experiences: particularly Marcus Griffiths, who is openly gay.
“If you wouldn’t say it to your colleagues, why say it to mine”
Comments on social media can go too far. @TheRFL referee Marcus Griffiths speaks about the effect receiving social media abuse had on him 👇#TackleTheToughStuff | #SuperLeague pic.twitter.com/2meJLafUHu
— Betfred Super League (@SuperLeague) July 10, 2024
The campaign received support from a number of high-profile figures within the game, however, a minority took offence.
Super League referees come together to call for abuse to end
Credit: Imago Images
Referees in particular were vocal about the campaign, including Chris Kendall, who added: “The minority of RL fans that take it too far need to stop. We are human and we care deeply about performances.
“We are not above criticism, but I think it is clear when this is taken too far. If you wouldn’t say it to your colleagues, why say it to mine?”
Marcus Griffiths also said: “The majority of fans are amazing, but a minority take it too far and it needs to stop! We’re human and care deeply about our performance and the sport.
“Criticism is fair, but there’s a clear line. If you wouldn’t say it to your colleagues, why say it to mine?”
Liam Moore also shared the video, saying:
Pulling back the curtain to highlight the darker side of life as a referee.
Honest, powerful and hopefully thought provoking…#TackleTheToughStuff https://t.co/pbDHwvDvPg— Liam Moore (@liamjmoore1) July 10, 2024
