Plett Hockey Club Code of Conduct

1. Purpose

This Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behaviour expected from all individuals involved in Plett Hockey Club. To: 

  • Ensure a safe, respectful, supportive and inclusive club environment
  • Protect players, officials, volunteers, and supporters
  • Uphold the values and reputation of the Club
  • Provide clear behavioural expectations and standards

All members, players, coaches, officials, parents, and spectators are bound by this Code.

2. Core Club Values

All participants are expected to uphold:

  • Respect – for teammates, opponents, officials, and facilities
  • Sportsmanship – fairness, integrity, and graciousness
  • Safety – physical and emotional wellbeing of others
  • Inclusion – welcoming and supportive behaviour
  • Responsibility – accountability for one’s actions

The Club does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of ability, gender, culture, ethnicity, religion, or socioeconomic status. All participants are entitled to equal respect and dignity.

3. Expected Standards of Behaviour

All members must:

  • Treat others with dignity and courtesy at all times
  • Follow the rules of hockey and Club policies
  • Accept umpire and official decisions without abuse
  • Refrain from bullying, harassment, or discrimination
  • Avoid behaviour that brings the Club into disrepute
  • Act honestly and with integrity
  • Show respect toward volunteers and committee members, acknowledging the voluntary nature of their contributions.

Members must respect the privacy of players, coaches, and officials. Personal, medical, and sensitive information must be kept confidential unless disclosure is necessary for safety or welfare.

4. Player Responsibilities

Players agree to:

  • Play within the spirit and rules of the game
  • Show respect to teammates, coaches, and opponents
  • Never engage in dangerous or violent conduct
  • Attend training and matches responsibly
  • Care for Club equipment and facilities
  • Avoid abusive language or behaviour

Players who are injured or unwell should prioritise their health and safety. Participation should never be pressured where wellbeing may be compromised.

5. Coaches & Officials Responsibilities

Coaches and officials must:

  • Prioritise player welfare and safety
  • Lead by example in behaviour and language
  • Treat all players fairly and without favouritism
  • Never engage in intimidation, humiliation, or abuse
  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries
  • Promote respect for rules and officials
  • Maintain high standards of professionalism, including preparation, punctuality, communication, and appropriate conduct

Team selections should be made fairly and responsibly, with decisions based primarily on merit, commitment, and team considerations.

6. Parents & Spectators Responsibilities

Parents and spectators agree to:

  • Encourage players positively and respectfully
  • Never abuse players, coaches, or officials
  • Respect match officials’ decisions
  • Avoid disruptive or aggressive behaviour
  • Support a safe and enjoyable environment

7. Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviours are not tolerated:

  • Verbal or physical abuse
  • Harassment or discrimination of any kind
  • Bullying or intimidation (including cyberbullying)
  • Dangerous play or deliberate harm
  • Damage to Club property
  • Substance abuse affecting participation or safety
  • Misconduct on social media involving the Club or its members
  • Consuming alcohol in a way that causes disruption or safety concerns while representing the club.

8. Social Media & Public Conduct

Members must:

  • Not post harmful, defamatory, or abusive content
  • Not represent personal opinions as Club positions
  • Respect confidentiality and privacy
  • Avoid online behaviour that harms the Club or its members

Online conduct is considered an extension of Club behaviour standards.

9. Safety & Wellbeing

All members share responsibility for:

  • Creating a physically and emotionally safe environment
  • Reporting unsafe, abusive, or inappropriate behaviour
  • Supporting an environment free from harassment or abuse
  • Complying with safeguarding and child protection policies
  • Adults working with junior players must comply with child safeguarding standards, including maintaining appropriate boundaries at all times

Player welfare always takes priority over performance or participation.

10. Breaches of the Code

Failure to comply may result in:

  • Verbal or written warnings
  • Suspension from activities
  • Disciplinary hearings
  • Termination of membership
  • Additional sanctions deemed appropriate

⁠Spectators who breach this Code may be asked to leave Club premises or match venues.

⁠Where possible, issues should be addressed first through informal discussion before formal sanctions are applied.

⁠Members must not share private team matters, player information, or internal disputes outside the Club unless required for safety or welfare.

Disciplinary processes will follow principles of fairness, consistency, and proportionality.

11. Reporting Concerns

Concerns or complaints should be directed to:

  • A Committee Member
  • Club Captain / Coach (where appropriate)
  • Designated Safeguarding / Welfare Officer (if applicable)

All reports will be handled respectfully and confidentially where reasonably possible.

12. Acceptance of the Code

Participation in the Club implies acceptance of this Code of Conduct by players and their supporters.

Members will be required to formally acknowledge the Code upon joining or renewal.