Overview

• The partnership wrote to families saying spectators are no longer welcome at the sports events it delivers during the school day for more than 40 Merton primary schools.
• The restriction covers sports days and competitions such as football, hockey and gymnastics, including those held in parks or other public venues that previously allowed parents.
• Cited incidents include parents cutting across finish lines, directing abuse at officials and other children, and creating a high-pressure environment focused on winning.
• Organisers also reported unsolicited coaching, challenges to officials’ decisions, and photos or videos posted online without consent, with some officials being secondary‑school pupils.
• Wimbledon MP Paul Kohler called the decision deeply disappointing and urged it to be temporary to reset expectations around respect, as MSSP pointed to its published ‘Respect’ guidance and safeguarding protocols.