Pahkasalo addresses misconduct issues in youth football match in Vasa

Aleksi Pahkasalo, a developer of coaching skills at VPS Junioreiden, recently addressed an incident involving inappropriate behavior during a football match among young players. Players from the opposing team allegedly hurled insults at those from Vasa, including racially derogatory remarks towards a player of immigrant background. Pahkasalo noted that the opposing team did not deny these incidents, claiming their actions were justified by alleging that they had been provoked first. Pahkasalo dismissed such reasoning, emphasizing that acknowledgment of wrongdoing is essential.

According to Timo Huttunen, head of club services at the Football Association, reports of misconduct during matches are received weekly. Most incidents typically resolve during the game, but nearly all reports concern adult disruptive behavior directed towards opposing players, young referees, or officials.

Pahkasalo underscored that the Football Association has established guidelines for a safe operational environment, allowing clubs to define values for their everyday activities. Additionally, over half of the teams in under-15 leagues have implemented a Fair Play model.

Mikko Heikkilä, junior chief at Musan Salama, has also dealt with parents’ misbehavior at matches. He expressed that parents need to understand their responsibility in the stands. Heikkilä has created a guideline for parents that emphasizes the club’s values and encourages respectful behavior, stating that everyone must adhere to these principles during games.

Heikkilä shared that during a recent season, he had to firmly address a father whose disruptive behavior continued after multiple warnings, highlighting the necessity of fostering a positive atmosphere in youth sports.