NSW Minister for Sport and Recreation and Member for Vaucluse, Gabrielle Upton, lent her support to Maccabi NSW’s at the sporting organisation’s ‘Zero Tolerance’ evening for coaches and managers .

Gabrielle Upton Minister for Sport and Recreation Jacquie Seemann, Danny Hochberg President Maccabi NSW, Miguel Andrade Sport and Recreation, Craig Berhmann past President Maccabi Junior Soccer, Lauren Ehrlich Vice President Maccabi NSW and President Maccabi Netball

Minister Upton said “There is perhaps no country more passionate about sport than Australia but unfortunately from time to time this passion can lead to anger and frustration. No one wants to see this on or off the sports fields.”

“As a parent of an athlete myself, I have seen firsthand unacceptable behaviour. We all know of a overly competitive player, parent or coach that takes it a step too far,” Ms Upton said.

“Ensuring sport is safe, fair and inclusive is critical in encouraging more people of all ages, from all walks of life, to get up and get active.

“The NSW Government is committed to combating sport rage and I commend Maccabi NSW for organising the ‘Zero Tolerance’ evening. Evening’s like this are the first step in empowering parents, players and officials to deal with sport rage.”

Minister Upton was joined by Vic Alhadeff, President Jewish Board of Deputies and Jacquie Seemann, Partner Thompson Lawyers and Honorary Solicitor Maccabi NSW, who presented on Anti-Semitism and compliance respectively.

Danny Hochberg, President Maccabi NSW, said “Maccabi NSW is committed to ensuring our people understand the importance of a zero tolerance message toward bullying and sport rage.

“This Zero Tolerance message reflects our organisation’s values of respect, volunteerism, teamwork and community,” Mr Hochberg said.

“I thank Minister Upton for attending the event and lending her support to our efforts in stamping out sport rage.”

The meeting was held at Bellevue Hill Public School.