NEW SEASON, MORE RESPECT

Good morning!

It looks like a bright start to the new season's League Fixtures & I wish all the boys and girls the very best for the matches ahead.

As we head to the touchline, I would draw two unsavoury facts to your attention:

• 73% of grassroot referees reported some form of physical or verbal abuse last season

• The majority of children who responded to an FA survey said that, when their parents and the coach were shouting advice, it was confusing and spoiled their enjoyment of the game.

Please let's ensure that no one watching or playing in a Hearts match can be accused of either of the above on our watch.

May I remind all parents (and players) of five facts we should all uphold this morning, and every match day:
THESE ARE CHILDREN
THIS IS A GAME
THE COACHES ARE VOLUNTEERS
THE REFEREES ARE HUMAN
NO ONE IS GOING TO BE AWARDED A PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT TODAY

Everyone have fun! #RESPECT