How bad is shouting and abuse from the sidelines?

How bad is shouting and abuse from the sidelines?

Author: Newstalk April 30, 2026 Duration: 21:31

How bad has our behavior become on pitch sidelines, not just in adult sports, but at children’s matches?

One listener got in touch to express his shock and disgust at what he witnessed at his son’s Feile competition over the weekend.

The competition, which was the focus of 14 and 15 year old players, saw management and parents hurling abuse at the young players as well as the other teams management. Is this acceptable behavior, or does more need to be done to put a stop to this?

Joining Andrea to discuss is Paddy Osbourne, former Coach and Referee, Lisa O’Sullivan Shaw (@modernirishmom on Instagram), Antonio Montero, Coach and Founder of the Silent Sideline Campaign and listeners.


Hosted by Andrea Gilligan, Lunchtime Live is where the day's most pressing conversations find a home. This isn't just a broadcast; it's Ireland's daily gathering point, a space where listeners become active participants. Each episode revolves around the topics shaping life across the country, from social shifts and cultural debates to current affairs and community stories. Andrea guides these discussions with a genuine curiosity, creating an open forum where diverse perspectives are not just heard but engaged with. You'll hear from callers sharing their own experiences and opinions, making every show a direct reflection of the national mood. Tuning into this podcast feels like pulling up a chair to a lively, thoughtful, and often surprising national conversation. It captures the pulse of Irish society in real time, offering analysis, entertainment, and a sense of shared dialogue. For anyone interested in what Ireland is talking about right now, Lunchtime Live delivers that essential, unfiltered connection. Find it as part of Newstalk's offering, where independent talk radio thrives.
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