Record-breaking whistleblower Shane McInerney says there is still plenty of room for improvement when it comes to abuse directed at umpires from the crowd at AFL matches.
McInerney will break the VFL/AFL record for most games umpired, set by current AFL umpires coach Hayden Kennedy, when he officiates in Saturday night's Western Bulldogs-Geelong clash at Marvel Stadium.
He told reporters on Friday that there have been huge improvements in the relationship between players and umpires since his first season in 1994.
But with fan behaviour in the spotlight recently, he urged supporters to be more considered in their approach to barracking.
"The relationship and the conduct of the players with umpires is fantastic," McInerney said.
"(But) with what we see on the other side of the fence I think there's probably room for change, probably room for improvement.
"We've got to remember that what happens at AFL level filters down to the community, country and suburban leagues.
"No one expects to be applauded off the ground but I think that when the abuse is personal and very directed, I think that's an area that needs to be improved."
The ejection of supporters by stadium security this season has been a hot topic acknowledged by AFL chief Gillon McLachlan, who apologised to fans who felt intimidated by heightened security.
McInerney was in the crowd on Anzac Day when Essendon fans were criticised for their conduct in booing some late umpiring decisions and Collingwood skipper Scott Pendlebury.
The veteran umpire was taken aback by the venom and ferocity on display in the grandstands at the MCG.
"I just think community standards have changed a lot," he said.
"What you could yell at the footy 10,15, 20 years ago isn't what you can yell now.
"I was at a game earlier this year on Anzac Day, I don't usually go to the football, and I was really surprised with the crowd behaviour.
"I know there were a few decisions towards the end of the game that really got people fired up but the behaviour really surprised me.
"I think it's time to actually make that step-change and move the dial as to what supporter behaviour needs to be to (allow) everyone to enjoy the game."
