Geelong West Giants Football and Netball Club - Code of Conduct
 

Purpose:

The Geelong West Giants Football and Netball Club (GWGFNC) is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, inclusive, and positive environment for all involved in our club. This Code of Conduct sets the expected standard of behaviour for players, coaches, officials, volunteers, parents, and supporters.
 

Who This Applies To:

• Players

• Coaches

• Team managers and officials

• Volunteers

• Committee members

• Parents/guardians

• Spectators and supporters
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General Expectations:

All club members are expected to:

• Act with integrity, fairness, and respect at all times.

• Promote a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment.

• Represent the club with pride and integrity, on and off the field.

• Adhere to the rules and spirit of football and netball.

• Adhere to club policies and expectations, such as child safety, social media, responsible alcohol consumption and the illicit drug policy.

• Take pride in the club and respect its facilities, keeping them clean and well maintained.

 

Players Will:

• Play by the rules and demonstrate sporting behaviour.

• Respect teammates, coaches, opponents, and umpires.

• Attend training and games well prepared and on time.

• Avoid aggressive behaviour and the use of bad language.

• Report any concerns or unsafe behaviours.

 

Coaches and Team Officials Will:

• Lead by example in attitude and behaviour.

• Create an environment that promotes development and enjoyment.

• Treat all players respectfully and equitably.

• Encourage fair play and self-discipline.

• Ensure player welfare is their highest priority.

• Be prepared and organised for training sessions and on game day.

• Communicate clearly with players and parents, particularly with regard to performance feedback and team selection.

• Communicate concerns and causes for celebration with relevant committee members.
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Parents and Guardians Will:

• Encourage participation and enjoyment.

• Support coach and team decisions respectfully.

• Model sporting behaviour.

• Refrain from using abusive language or demonstrating intimidating behaviour, towards officials or volunteers.

• Demonstrate behaviour and attitudes that help to create a positive club culture, e.g. volunteering.

 

Volunteers and Committee Members Will:

• Act in the best interest of the club and its members.

• Maintain confidentiality where required.

• Promote inclusion, fairness, and safety.

• Support fellow volunteers and club operations.

• Adhere to club policies and expectations when performing roles and duties.

• Act as a role model by displaying positive behaviour and ethical decision-making.

• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants, particularly children and vulnerable persons.

• Follow all relevant laws, club policies, and guidelines, including child safety regulations.

• Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.

• Avoid any conflict of interest or behaviour that could bring the club into disrepute.

 

Supporters Will:

• Cheer positively and respectfully.

• Respect officials and the decisions they make.

• Refrain from making negative or aggressive comments.

• Help maintain a safe and respectful environment.

• Respect players, coaches, opposition players, umpires and spectators at all times.

• Treat all individuals with respect, regardless of age, gender, ability, cultural background, or identity.

• Support the club’s values of fairness, inclusion, and community spirit.

• Abide by club policies and the decisions made by committee members and officials.

• Respect the facilities, equipment, and environment provided by the club.

• Ensure that my actions contribute positively to the club and do not cause harm to its reputation.

• Raise concerns or grievances through the appropriate channels rather than engaging in negative or public disputes.

 

Breaches of the Code: Any breach may result in:

• A verbal or written warning

• Suspension from games, events, or duties

• Removal from club roles or positions

• Expulsion from the club (in severe cases) All incidents will be investigated fairly and confidentially by the Club Committee or relevant subcommittee.

 

Review: This Code of Conduct will be reviewed annually or as required to ensure it reflects the values, needs, and policies of the club.

 

Final Note: The Geelong West Giants takes pride in being a club that values respect, community, and excellence. By upholding this Code of Conduct, we all contribute to a club culture we can be proud of — on and off the field.