Dublin’s Q102 and DDSL Launch “IT’S MY GAME”

Dublin’s Q102, in partnership with the Dublin & District Schoolboys’/Girls’ League (DDSL), proudly announces the launch of “It’s My Game,” a cross-platform campaign designed to bring awareness to the issue of abusive behaviour at grassroots football matches across Dublin.

In recent years, reports of abusive behaviour toward young players, referees, and coaches have surged, creating a concerning trend within the youth game. “It’s My Game” looks to tackle this by reminding adults and young people of the importance of respect and sportsmanship and of just letting the children play. The initiative seeks to create a positive, supportive environment for young athletes, coaches, referees, and spectators, fostering respect and sportsmanship on and off the field, with Dublin’s Q102 and DDSL committed to taking a proactive role in changing the culture around youth football.

The initiative will launch with a multi-faceted campaign that includes educational materials as well as new disciplinary guidelines to promote respect and responsible behaviour at games. “Football is meant to be a joyful experience for our children – a chance to learn, grow, and develop a love for the game,” said Vivienne Nagle, Station Director of Dublin’s Q102. “Through ‘It’s My Game,’ we aim to remind everyone involved within the league about the importance of respect and positivity. Children’s wellbeing and enjoyment should always come first.”

The campaign’s primary focus will be a series of on-air segments, podcasts, and social media content featuring testimonies from players, coaches, referees, and parents, all sharing their experiences and insights of abusive behaviour with the aim of stamping it out altogether.

The initiative will also promote the “It’s My Game” “We want our players to feel encouraged, safe, and respected, and we’re grateful to have Dublin’s Q102 as a partner in bringing this mission to life,” added Niall O Driscoll, Chairman of the DDSL. “By working together, we hope to inspire a long-term change in behaviour, creating a lasting impact on youth sports culture.”

Link to assets here ITS MY GAME & Follow Dublin’s Q102 & DDSL on social media for regular updates and inspiring stories from the field.

About Q102

Q102 is one of Dublin’s leading commercial radio stations, known for delivering a mix of ‘Feel Good’ music, entertainment and local news. With a strong connection to the Dublin community, Q102 has been a trusted part of daily life for over twenty years. The station is popular for The Ryan Tubridy show which airs from 10am to 1pm.

About DDSL

The Dublin & District Schoolboys’/Girls’ League (DDSL) was founded in 1943 and has a rich history of nurturing soccer talent in Dublin with almost 3,000 teams and 45,000 players involved in 1,500 games every weekend, for boys & girls from 7 to 18 years of age. The DDSL plays a vital role in the grassroots soccer community, giving children all the benefits that sport brings to the development of our current and future generations.