Grassroots football is built on enthusiasm from the sidelines, but new research suggests that passion can tip into behaviour that worries parents.
Nearly seven in ten parent-volunteers (69%) surveyed said they had witnessed aggressive, abusive or antisocial behaviour at children’s matches according to new research by LoveAdmin & partners.
The findings come from “The Many Hats of the Modern Grassroots Parent”, a 2025 survey conducted by LoveAdmin, in partnership with It’s Only Kids’ Football podcast and GoCardless.
While this behaviour is not described as happening at every game, it occurs often enough to be a concern, particularly because of the example it sets for children.
Parents reported incidents including shouting, swearing and racist remarks, as well as situations where disputes escalated into physical confrontations between adults. These moments, while not constant, can quickly change the atmosphere on the sidelines and distract from the purpose of the game.
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 shared:
“A dad pushed his wife over after blaming her for their son conceding eight goals.”
Despite these experiences, there is strong agreement among parents about the direction clubs should take.
99% said clubs should take a firmer approach to behaviour, and 98% said they would support a Parent Code of Conduct.
However, 43% of parents said they do not feel confident stepping in when situations escalate, highlighting a need for clearer guidance and practical de-escalation training for volunteers and club officials.
Beyond punishment: parents call for community-led solutions
Despite the incidents reported, most parents don’t see the answer as simply tougher rules, they see it as a community issue requiring connection and structure.
When asked what would improve behaviour, parents supported initiatives such as:
- Tea and coffee areas to encourage friendly interaction (52%)
- Awards for attitude over performance (44%)
- ‘Supporter of the Match’ awards (26%)
- ‘Silent Sidelines’ days (24%)
The data suggests parents want to rebuild respect through belonging, not just discipline.
A call for leadership and training
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 urges clubs to adopt and enforce behaviour codes, train volunteers in de-escalation techniques, and make positive sideline culture a visible part of club identity.
The bigger picture: parents stretched but still committed
While behaviour concerns drew attention, the report also highlights the commitment of the grassroots community:
- 79% of parents volunteer for their child’s club, often in multiple roles
- 53% say lack of time is their biggest challenge
- 95% say they’ve built friendships through their club
LoveAdmin says this loyalty is being tested by time pressure and poor behaviour. “If we want to protect the game” the report warns. “we need to start valuing the time and money volunteers give as the precious resource it really is.”
About LoveAdmin
LoveAdmin provides smarter club management software that helps grassroots organisations reduce admin, manage payments, and grow thriving communities.
For more information and access to club resources, visit loveadmin.com
About GoCardless
GoCardless is a global leader in recurring payments, helping more than 85,000 businesses and organisations collect payments quickly and securely. From local sports clubs to multinational enterprises, GoCardless simplifies direct debit and open banking payments across over 30 countries. Learn more: [insert URL]
About It’s Only Kids’ Football Podcast
Hosted by grassroots coaches and parents, It’s Only Kids’ Football is the UK’s leading podcast exploring the highs, lows, and realities of youth football. The show celebrates community sport while tackling the big issues — from sideline behaviour to inclusion and volunteer burnout. Listen at: https://open.spotify.com/show/5io4bWrPhq2SF4vqtuHKdd?si=2ff55afaa8e34180
