18 November 2008
VIDEO: Respect barrier launch
England Under-21 Head Coach Stuart Pearce was joined by two of his players and Howard Webb for in Barnsley.

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Stuart Pearce and members of his England Under-21 squad joined The FA and the Football Foundation for the launch of the Respect campaign’s Designated Spectator Area Barriers in Barnsley on Monday.

Pearce was joined by Martin Cranie and Richard Stearman at the Barrier launch at Holgate Sports College - plus Premier League referee Howard Webb.

Over 40 youngsters from the college, local schools and youth football club, Barugh JFC, took part in the event that showcased The FA’s plan to bring down abusive behaviour from the sidelines and highlight their ongoing Get into Refereeing initiative which is aiming for 8,000 new officials by 2012.

Grassroots football leagues from across the country who are committed to the Respect programme have until 31 March to order the Barriers on behalf of member clubs at a special discounted price from their local County FA.

Last season saw the Respect Barriers piloted in 20 counties across England and FA Respect Manager, Dermot Collins, was delighted with the feedback: “It showed that the Barriers are an effective but inexpensive way of improving spectator behaviour and, as a consequence, it makes it a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.”

There are almost 70,000 youth football teams in the country and England Under-21 boss Pearce is right behind the Barrier campaign.

“I learnt my football in the non-League game and I fully support the Respect measures being introduced to tackle abuse in grassroots football," he said.

“Refereeing is a tough job at any level and refs deserve to be treated with respect by players, coaches and spectators.

"I’m sure leagues and clubs will want to sign up for the Barriers to help improve behaviour and encourage people of all ages to get involved in refereeing,” added Pearce, after recently steering the Under-21s to next summer’s European Championship Finals in Sweden.

Howard Webb is in no doubt that the Respect Barriers will boost the grassroots game, adding: “It’s a positive step and ensures that players can play and referees can referee unhindered by outside influences.

“The barriers also give spectators a clearly defined area to offer support and to enjoy their experience of the game too.”