Saxton Stadium is set to become Nelson’s first Positive Vibes Only (PVO) venue, reinforcing a commitment to creating positive sporting experiences for young players, coaches, officials and whānau.
Managed by Community Leisure Management (CLM) on behalf of Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council, Saxton Stadium is one of the region’s leading multi-sport facilities, hosting a wide range of codes and events throughout the year. By adopting the Positive Vibes Only kaupapa, the stadium aims to promote a consistent message of encouragement, respect and enjoyment for the thousands of people who use the venue.
Originally developed by Sport Waikato, Positive Vibes Only helps foster supportive sporting environments for tamariki and rangatahi. The initiative encourages people to consider how their language and behaviour influence a young person's experience, using signage, education and practical tools to support positive attitudes on and off the field.
Sport Tasman is leading the rollout of the programme across the region and working with sporting organisations and facilities to create a united approach.
The initiative has already gained support from the Nelson Sports Coalition, which has adopted Positive Vibes Only as part of its commitment to improving sporting experiences for young people. The coalition includes Mainland Football, Nelson Basketball, Nelson Cricket, Nelson Netball, Volleyball Tasman and Tasman Rugby Union.
“Saxton Stadium is used by many different sporting codes, and we want everyone who comes into the building, players, coaches, officials, parents and spectators, to understand that creating a positive environment is something we all have a role in. The way we behave can make a real difference to a young person's experience,” CLM’s James Owen says.
Sport Tasman’s Sport Capability Lead, Logan Philp, says a consistent message across sports can have a greater impact, particularly as many young people participate in multiple codes throughout the year.
