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School Sport Victoria Introduces Positive Behaviour Rules and "Spirit of Sport" Award
School Sport Victoria (SSV) today announced the implementation of a new "Positive Behaviour Rule" at all SSV football (soccer) and basketball competitions. SSV also introduces the SSV "Spirit of Sport" Award at all SSV State Final events. 
These initiatives aim to strengthen and foster a positive and inclusive sporting environment for all participants. It also aims to ensure positive behaviour of all participants including players, team officials and importantly parents and spectators.
Positive Behaviour Rule: The positive behaviour rule requires that all spectators, parents, team officials and players must comply with the SSV Codes of conduct. 
On-field offences against offending teams, such as corners in football (soccer) and technical fouls in basketball are to be introduced at district, division region and state level for 2025 to encourage positive behaviour by players, officials, and importantly spectators.  
Trials are to occur of the Positive Behaviour Rule for Australian Football and Netball in 2025 in preparation for full implementation in 2026. Behaviour rules for other sports are to apply from 2026 
"Spirit of Sport" Award: A "Spirit of Sport" bannerette is to be awarded to the school that best exemplifies positive values at each SSV State Final in 2025.  These awards are to be determined by the event convenor on the day. Captains of teams competing are encouraged to suggest schools who are to be considered for the award. The award is to carry the same prestige as the winner and runner up awards at the State Championship competitions. Criteria to be used for determining award winners can include any of the following:
    • Spirit of Sport: Positive attitude, love of the sport, celebrating others, inclusive environment.
    • Respect: Respect for opponents, teammates, officials, coaches, and spectators.
    • Integrity: Fair play, honesty, accepting mistakes.
    • Leadership: Motivating others, setting a good example, supporting teammates.
CEO of School Sport Victoria Jamie Parsons said “These initiatives underscore SSV's commitment to creating a positive and inclusive sporting environment for all participants. By promoting positive behaviour and recognising schools that exemplify the  spirit of sport, we aim to enhance the overall experience for all involved in interschool school sport.”
You can also download the Participant Behaviour Policy here that contains the Positive Behaviour Rule and Spirit of Sport Award information.