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Cross Country Checkup·SUNDAY ON CHECKUP

How do we protect young referees and umpires from angry adults?

Checkup wants to know about coaches’ and parents’ behaviour at minor league sporting events. Plus, a doctor who treats patients with a fear of flying, answers your questions.

Have you seen coaches and parents behaving badly at minor league events? Call us 1-888-416-8333.

CBC Radio ·
A soccer referee raises a flag. They are standing with their back to the camera.
The Minor Soccer Association of Windsor in Quebec’s Eastern Townships is starting a pilot project for their referees, in an attempt to curb the harassment some face on the field. (Radio-Canada)
Cross Country Checkup1:51:16How do we protect young referees and umpires from abuse?
Screaming, swearing and physical threats, have you seen parents or coaches cross the line? What's your experience with abuse directed towards referees and umpires?

Screaming, swearing, and even threats.

A small town soccer league in Quebec is turning to body cameras to protect its teenage referees from angry adults.

And in Alberta this week, a minor league hockey coach was the latest to be suspended for an angry tirade in an under-13 league.

Veteran referees and sports officials are saying it's hard to retain young refs and umpires who are sick of the abuse.

Our question this week: Screaming, swearing, and threats… How do we protect young referees and umpires? Have you seen parents and coaches cross the line?

Plus, our Ask Me Anything focuses on anxiety and flying.

Dr. Luana Marques treats patients with a fear of flying, and she's hearing from some of them after a Boeing 737 Max 9 suffered a fuselage blowout last week. 

Join host Ian Hanomansing on CBC Radio One, CBC Listen and CBC News Network. Call Checkup at 1-888-416-8333 or go to CBC.ca/AIRCHECK.