House of Pain's zero tolerance policy
Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:27
A zero tolerance towards ‘negative behaviour' will be enforced by the Otago Rugby Football Union as they prepare for the Super 14 and also a Test Match against Wales in June.
Last season the union made news headlines following crowd behaviour at the All Blacks Test Match against France, where a number of plastic bottles were thrown at the French team following the Test.
Union Operations Manager Coryn Huddy noted that the bottle throwing incident at the end of the Test Match last year was extremely dangerous, reflected poorly on the union and the Dunedin public and most importantly put this Test match in jeopardy.
"This season we want to encourage people to have a good time without any negative behaviour. Unlawful behaviour will be dealt with immediately and in a manner that sends a clear message to trouble makers," added Huddy.
The ORFU is working with police, security staff, the Dunedin city council liquor licensing agency and the New Zealand Rugby Union to put plans in place for the upcoming season.
This will allow the Union to works towards the showpiece 2010 game of the All Blacks versus Wales on 19 June and the Rugby World Cup in 2011.
"Together we are developing processes for this season. If someone is caught committing an offence at Carisbrook, this person could be banned from the ground for up to two years." Huddy said.
Police support the ORFU's zero tolerance stance against disorderly behaviour and such behaviour – which includes pitch invasions and throwing objects – could result in a penalty and trespass from Carisbrook, said Dunedin South Snr Sgt Phil McDouall.
"However, police are keen for everyone to have a good time and enjoys the rugby within the bounds of the law," he said.
"It's critical we put measures in place that deter any behaviour that is dangerous or unacceptable. RWC2011 have sent notice to all Provincial Unions involved in the World Cup that this season would be a test of processes and resources and we want to ensure that Carisbrook is exceeding expectations for any part possible we may have in the event," Huddy added.
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