Delivering a child safe framework across our sport is achieved through supporting Children and Young People, their parents and guardians and by Australian Cricket and each of our Affiliated Associations and Clubs striving to be a child safe organisation. At Wantirna South Cricket Club, we have adopted this Australian Cricket Policy for Safeguarding Children and Young People.
RELATED DOCUMENTS:
- Australian Cricket Child Safety Commitment Statement
- Australian Cricket Child Safety Acknowledgement Form
- Looking After Our Kids
In addition to the Australian Cricket Policies, here are the guidelines that are in place for our coaches and other personnel to protect them from risk and to keep children safe.
Maintain appropriate boundaries
Coaches and other personnel in positions of authority should maintain clear:
Physical boundaries
- Use drills to develop fitness, not as a punishment
- Only use physical contact that is appropriate for the development of a particular skill and has the permission of the player
- Work within sight of others at all times
Emotional boundaries
- Use positive feedback on performance, not negative feedback about the person
- Be encouraging and avoid put-downs
Social boundaries
- Attend sport related events such as sponsorship and fundraising events, celebrations and annual meetings but do not socialise with the under 18 players outside sporting functions
- Do not socialise with under 18 players via social media
Sexual boundaries
- Do not have sexual relationships with players you are coaching
- Do not touch members in ways likely to make them feel uncomfortable
Minimise physical contact
Generally, physical contact with players or participants should be to:
- Develop sport skills
- Give sports massage
- Treat an injury
- Prevent or respond to an injury
- Meet the specific requirements of the sport
All physical contact by personnel should fulfil the following criteria:
- Physical contact should be appropriate for the development of a sport skill/s
- Permission form the player or participant should always be sought
- Players or participants should be congratulated or comforted in public not in an isolated setting
Avoid being alone with a child
To protect yourself and the child from risk:
- Do not isolate yourself and a child; avoid being alone with any particular child
- If a child approaches you and wants to talk to you privately about a matter, do so in an open area and in sight of other adults (e.g. other coaches, members or parents/guardians)
- Before going into change rooms knock or announce that you will be coming in. Try to have at least one adult with you in a change room with children