Youth football depends heavily on parental involvement, but new findings indicate that some sideline behaviour is causing unease among families.
A survey commissioned by LoveAdmin and partners found that 69% of parent-volunteers have seen aggressive, abusive or antisocial conduct at children’s football matches.
The data comes from the 2025 “The Many Hats of the Modern Grassroots Parent” survey, produced by LoveAdmin with support from the It’s Only Kids’ Football podcast and GoCardless.
Although not occurring every weekend, these incidents are frequent enough to raise concerns about the environment young players are exposed to.
Parents recalled episodes involving raised voices, offensive language and racist comments, alongside moments where disagreements between adults escalated into physical altercations, changing the tone of the match and drawing attention away from the sport itself.
One respondent said: “I have seen shocking behaviour, including racist comments from parents in U11 games and a coach being attacked by parents in U13.”
Another commented: “A dad pushed his wife over after blaming her for their son conceding eight goals.”
Even with these troubling moments, parents are largely united on what steps clubs should take.
According to the study, 99% of parents believe clubs must adopt stronger behavioural expectations, while 98% would welcome a formal Parent Code of Conduct.
At the same time, 43% of parents said they lack confidence in managing heated situations, indicating an urgent need for guidance and conflict-management training for club volunteers.
Parents stressed that improving matchday behaviour is not purely about stricter discipline; it also involves nurturing a strong, supportive club culture.
The survey revealed support for practical initiatives such as social refreshment areas (52%), awards for positive attitude rather than performance (44%), ‘Supporter of the Match’ recognition (26%) and ‘Silent Sidelines’ events (24%).
The overall message suggests that fostering respect begins with strengthening community bonds.
LoveAdmin Founder, Dave Evans, said: “Grassroots football is powered by parents who care deeply about their children and their clubs. What this research shows is that most people want the right environment, but don’t always feel equipped to deal with difficult moments when emotions run high. With clearer guidance and the right support in place, clubs can create calmer, more positive matchday experiences for everyone involved.”
The report encourages clubs to establish behaviour frameworks, provide de-escalation training, and make positive sideline values a visible and consistent part of club culture.
Beyond disciplinary concerns, the report highlights the strength and generosity of the grassroots community. It notes that 79% of parents volunteer in some capacity, with many juggling multiple duties, while 53% report that lack of time is their biggest challenge and 95% say they have formed friendships through their involvement.
LoveAdmin warns that time constraints and rising tensions risk putting this goodwill under strain. As the report concludes: “If we want to protect the game, we need to start valuing the time and money volunteers give as the precious resource it really is.”
