Positive Vibes is Melbourne East Netball Association’s new community initiative designed to create a positive, respectful and supportive environment for everyone involved in our game.
We believe every players deserves the opportunity to play netball in an environment where they feel encouraged, safe and supported.
Positive Vibes recognises that everyone contributes to the experience of our game—players, coaches, umpires, volunteers, parents and spectators.
Beginning this Spring Season, every team will nominate a Positive Vibes volunteer each week to wear a distinctive green vest and help model the culture we want to see across our competition.
Why Are We Doing This?
Research consistently shows children enjoy sport more when adults:
✔ Encourage rather than criticise
✔ Respect officials
✔ Celebrate effort
✔ Model good sportsmanship
✔ Focus on enjoyment
Positive Vibes exists to help create these moments every week.
The Green Vest
The volunteer wearing the green vest is a friendly ambassador for positive sideline behaviour.
Their role is to:
- Welcome and encourage positive support
- Lead by example
- Promote respect and sportsmanship
- Help create a positive atmosphere
- Be an early point of contact for MENA staff if assistance is needed
What They Don’t Do
Positive Vibes volunteers are not expected to:
- Police spectators
- Approach umpires
- Become involved in on-court decisions
- Resolve conflict
- Enforce rules
If an issue requires intervention, MENA staff will manage the situation in line with existing policies.
Club Expectations
Each week, every team will nominate one Positive Vibes volunteer.
Many clubs may choose to rotate the role in the same way they rotate scoring duties.
Team Managers are particularly well suited to the role, although any parent, guardian or supporter is welcome.
There is no registration process.
Wear your green vest for your game and return it afterwards.
Green Positive Vibes vests will be available courtside at the team bench.
- First game of the day? Collect your vest from the Competition Office.
- Last game of the day? Please return the vest to the Competition Office.
- Need a different size? Visit the Competition Office for assistance.
What We Ask of Positive Vibes Volunteers
We ask volunteers to:
✔ Lead by example
✔ Demonstrate respect and sportsmanship
✔ Encourage players from both teams
✔ Support umpires, coaches and volunteers
✔ Help create a welcoming environment
✔ Reflect the values of fairness, integrity and teamwork
If Something Happens…
Most games won’t require anything more than being a positive presence.
If poor spectator behaviour occurs and you feel comfortable, you may simply remind people:
“Let’s keep it positive for the kids and players.”
If the behaviour continues, or if you don’t feel comfortable intervening, notify a MENA Competition Coordinator.MENA staff will manage any further action in accordance with existing policies.