South Caulfield Cricket Club

Cricket has traditionally been one sport to maintain and promote the highest levels of conduct and sportsmanship. We are all familiar with the saying “It isn’t cricket” which implies that a certain type of behaviour is unacceptable. This document is a set of guidelines to provide all members with an understanding of the expectations the club has of each and every player, official, parent and spectator. These guidelines are relevant during match days (on and off the field), training, club functions and at any other time when representing South Caulfield Cricket Club (“SCCC”).

Cricket is a game that owes much of its unique appeal to the fact that it should be played not only within its Laws but also within the Spirit of the Game. Any action, which is seen to abuse this spirit, causes injury to the game itself. The major responsibility for ensuring the spirit of fair play, not only rests with the captains, but with all players alike.

Our objective is to ensure that all players, when representing the South Caulfield Cricket Club, play cricket in the true spirit and traditions of the game, so that the game can be enjoyed by all, including spectators, opposing players, umpires, sponsors/partners and members of the local community.

• Positive environment for all involved (negative comment and bullying not supported)
• Active members of the broader South Caulfield community including users of Princes Park
• Respected and admired by opposition and association for playing competitive, but fair cricket and engaging socially after play
• Club-first attitude of all players, supporters and officials (no individuals or sub-groups)
• Future focus, investment in juniors and women’s cricket ensuring South Caulfield thrives for the long term
• Safe and healthy environment for families and supporters

These rooms are to be treated with respect at all times with no ball games allowed indoors. In the event of any breakages a Committee member must be informed immediately. Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the clubrooms. Please ensure that all opposition players also respect these rules.

Playing and Social Membership Subscriptions

All subscriptions should be paid as soon as possible after pre-season training commences. The Committee reserves the right to offer discounts and incentives at its discretion. Only players who are fully paid up will be selected for finals matches.

Social Functions

Throughout the season there are several functions organised by the Social Committee.  It is expected that players will make every effort to attend club functions, and where practical, invite as many of their friends and family as possible.

Social Media

 As the club embraces social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc.) the behaviour and conduct on these media become more important. Remember that any action on social media is a) public and b) stored historically.

Importantly, our code of conduct extends to actions/comments on the club’s social media sites, but also via personal accounts, where the communication relates to the club, opposition, officials etc.

Support of Committee Members

The committee accepts that not all decision, directions or allocations please every member and supporter. However, to foster a positive club culture, we request negative opinions to be contained rather than voiced in club environments. The committee is open and transparent and any concerns or suggestions are welcomed when channelled through the President.

Breaches of the Code of Conduct

Any breach of this code can be reported to a member of the Committee or Member Protection Officer who in turn will advise the Club President. A Committee member will be appointed to investigate the breach and report to the full Committee with recommendations of an appropriate penalty should the breach be proven. Fines, suspensions and deregistration are all possible outcomes.

References

The SCCC Member Protection Policy applies in conjunction with this policy.

The environment created by a coach is integral to the overall experience of all players involved within your cricket club. See below some foundational expectations of coaches within the community. They are by no means exhaustive, but are a great starting point:

• Remember that many players participate for pleasure and winning is only part of the fun;
• Never ridicule or yell at a player (particularly young players) for making a mistake or not coming first;
• Be reasonable in your demands on players’ time, energy and enthusiasm;
• Operate within the rules and Spirit of Cricket and teach your players to do the same;
• Ensure that the time players spend with you is a positive experience;
• Avoid overplaying the talented players – all young players need and deserve equal time, attention and opportunities;

• Ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age and ability of all players;
• Display control and respect to all those involved in cricket. This includes opponents, coaches, umpires, administrators, parents and spectators. Encourage your players to do the same;
• Show concern and caution toward sick and injured players. Follow the advice of a physician when determining whether an injured player is ready to recommence training or competition;
• Obtain appropriate qualifications and keep up-to-date with the latest cricket coaching practices and principles of growth and development of young people;
• Any physical contact with a young person should be appropriate to the situation and necessary for the player’s skill development;
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.

Some of the greatest role models we have in our cricketing community are our parents. When assisting and supporting at our club’s games please keep in mind the codes of behaviour listed below: