Don�t X the Line Secures Partnership with Lancashire Sports Firm

Don�t X the Line Secretary Mal Lee has today announced a deal that he is sure will continue the momentum of the campaign � which is certainly gathering pace.

Rawtenstall based company Performance Sports has been supplying kit and equipment to grass roots sports clubs throughout the North West. The business has built relationships with numerous sports governing bodies including the Rugby League - and has built a sound reputation in the field of product development.

Performance Sports has agreed a contract with Don�t X the Line to produce and supply branded touchline barriers for use at non �league venues.

The eye-catching and resilient barrier can be erected in less than 5 minutes, the time it takes to get the nets up, get changed and have a cup of tea!

Lee said: �This is something we�ve been waiting for since we started our campaign four years ago. It will help the referees control the game and keep hot-headed parents in order.�

The Don�t X the Line Campaign was founded by Mal in 2003 when he had witnessed one too many unacceptable incidents in his role as manager of junior teams.

He said: �I was walking across Stanley Park with a fellow referee and decided that something had to be done. Between Anfield and Goodison Park this was an inspirational place to have the idea.�

One of the worst incidents of the time was a pitch invasion by two u/14 teams, managers and parents in a mass brawl which so easily could have led into serious injuries. Luckily we the committee were on hand to calm the situation, remember this is junior football.

The campaign grew, quickly gaining support from all three Merseyside league clubs � along with the F.A. and the P.F.A.

Lee said: �We have had an incredible amount of support, not only from sports bodies � but also local businesses and organisations. We value partnerships off the pitch as much as footballers value them on it.�

We were lucky to be noticed by a local company that agreed to help us with the campaign the Liverpool based Wishsprite Foundation donated office space and computer equipment, and administration facilities, this really helped us create awareness for the campaign and then shortly followed Ambassadors Chris Foy, and Kevin Nolan, and  a tremendous supporter in Keith Hackett.

Allistair Carmichael of Performance Sports said: �We wish Mal every success in taking his campaign forward. Abuse of referees and unacceptable behaviour on the touchline is a problem not just here in England. The wider he can spread his message the better � and we are delighted to become partners in the campaign.�

Chris Foy (Premier League Referee) said: