SportWest's True Sport program was proud to host the De-escalating Conflict and Aggression Workshop on Thursday, 6 August 2026, in partnership with Evolve WA as part of the True Sport Sideline Behaviour Initiative.
The workshop brought together representatives from State Sporting Associations, clubs and community sporting organisations from across Western Australia to strengthen their understanding of conflict and aggression in sport and develop practical skills to confidently manage challenging situations.
Delivered specifically for the community sport sector, the interactive workshop explored the causes of conflict, effective communication strategies and practical de-escalation techniques that can be applied across a range of sporting environments. Participants also examined how proactive responses to conflict can contribute to safer, more respectful and positive experiences for everyone involved in sport.
The session recognised that while community sport brings people together, volunteers, administrators, officials and coaches can at times be faced with difficult conversations and challenging behaviours. Providing practical education and evidence-informed strategies helps build confidence to respond effectively while supporting a culture of respect both on and off the field.
True Sport Manager, Jasmine Cappellucci, said the workshop reflects the growing need to equip sporting organisations with practical skills that support positive sporting environments.
"Conflict can arise in any sporting environment, but how we respond can have a lasting impact on the people involved and the culture of our clubs. By providing practical de-escalation skills and strategies, we're helping volunteers, officials and sporting leaders feel more confident to manage challenging situations while promoting respectful behaviour across community sport.
"The De-escalating Conflict and Aggression Workshop is an important part of the True Sport Sideline Behaviour Initiative, which aims to support clubs and sporting organisations with practical tools, education and resources that encourage positive behaviour and create safe, welcoming environments for everyone involved in sport."
The workshop was facilitated by Evolve WA's Dr Andrew Lewis, whose expertise in conflict resolution, communication and behavioural management provided participants with practical techniques that can be immediately applied within their organisations.
Throughout the session, attendees explored topics including:
- Understanding the drivers of conflict and aggression.
- Recognising early warning signs of escalating behaviour.
- Practical communication and de-escalation strategies.
- Responding safely and effectively to challenging situations.
- Supporting positive club cultures through proactive leadership.
The workshop forms part of the broader True Sport Sideline Behaviour Initiative, which provides sporting organisations with practical resources, education and support to promote respectful behaviour and strengthen positive sporting cultures across Western Australia.
SportWest extends its sincere thanks to the team at Evolve WA for delivering an engaging, practical and highly interactive workshop, and to all participants for their enthusiasm, willingness to share experiences and commitment to creating safer sporting environments.
As community sport continues to evolve, initiatives such as this play an important role in building the confidence, capability and resilience of the people who make sport possible.
Together, we are helping create sporting environments where positive behaviour is always in play.
