ZIFA Enforces Zero Tolerance on Abuse of Match Off...

ZIFA Enforces Zero Tolerance on Abuse of Match Officials

By Witness Runodada - ZimNow reporter

The Zimbabwe Foosball Association has issued a stern warning against the abuse of match officials, declaring a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of misconduct.

The announcement follows a spate of incidents involving threats and aggression toward referees and other officials, prompting ZIFA to take a hard stance in defense of the core values of football—respect, discipline, and fairness.

In a statement, ZIFA emphasized the need to protect the integrity of football by upholding values such as sportsmanship, mutual respect, and dignity for all involved in the sport. The association called on players, coaches, club officials, supporters, and the public to behave in a manner befitting the spirit of the game.

"Football is a powerful tool for unity, inspiration, and national pride," ZIFA said. "It is incumbent upon every participant and stakeholder to conduct themselves in a manner befitting the game’s values."

The association expressed concern over increasing instances of verbal and physical abuse directed at referees and match officials.

"They are entrusted with upholding the laws of the game and must be afforded the respect and protection their role demands," ZIFA stated. "Disagreement with officiating decisions must never be used as justification for unruly conduct."

ZIFA warned that acts of misconduct would not be tolerated and would attract appropriate sanctions under its code of conduct. "Our zero-tolerance stance will be clearly enforced. Misconduct by any party against those who are found in breach of acceptable conduct will attract appropriate sanctions."

Calling for a unified approach to safeguard the sport, ZIFA urged clubs, supporters' groups, and community leaders to play a proactive role. "Let us uphold the integrity of Zimbabwean football by safeguarding the well-being of all who make the game possible," the association added.