Footballers have been warned against using the phrase ‘come on lads’ which is now deemed offensive.
Berks and Bucks Football Association has compiled and published an inclusive language guide which aims to help foster ‘a more welcoming environment’.
Among other recommendations, players have been encouraged to avoid using the phrase ‘linesman’ with ‘assistant referee’ suggested as a more’modern, inclusive’ alternative.
Critics of the recently released document claimed it was ‘sinister’ and the distortion of language was ‘deeply worrying’.
Berks and Bucks FA represents over 600 clubs and 34,000 players across the area.
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The association’s website proclaims it is ‘responsible for leading, protecting and supporting the development of the grassroots game in its entirety across the region.’
Callum Salhotra, the community and inclusion manager at Berks and Bucks FA said the new guide ‘will help us all take simple but meaningful steps to ensure our game is inclusive, respectful, and welcoming to everyone’.
Berks and Bucks FA offensive terms
Don’t say: Come on lads
Do say: Come on team
Don’t say: Linesman
Do say: Assistant referee
Don’t say: Christian name
Do say: Given name
Don’t say: Bring your wife
Do say: Bring your partner
Don’t say: Ladies and gentlemen
Do say: Hi all
Don’t say: Guys
Do say: Everyone
Don’t say: Mother
Do say: Parent / carer
Don’t say: You must be married with kids
Do say: Do you have any family joining today?
The recommendations, however well meaning, have been far from universally popular.
Sir John Hayes, the chairman of the Common Sense group of Conservative MPs, said: ‘At best, this is daft. At worst this is sinister.
‘The distortion of language has been the business of tyrants throughout time, and I’m not sure the Football Association would want to be associated with tyranny.
‘And so the idea that you can instruct people not to use a phrase in common usage is deeply worrying.’
Sir John added: ‘The association should get on with helping clubs to do the best they can for all those who want to be involved in football to have their chance regardless of where they start.
‘So my message to young, current and aspiring footballers is come on lads.’