Kingscliff Hockey Club – Code of Practice
- Purpose
The Kingscliff Hockey Club (KHC) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment for all participants. This Code of Practice sets out the standards of behaviour expected of all members and integrates Hockey Tweed’s principles regarding fair and transparent team selection for both round games and finals.
This Code applies to all players, officials (including coaches and managers), administrators, volunteers, parents and spectators associated with the Club.
The Club is responsible for the conduct of its members and supporters and will take reasonable steps to ensure that everyone participates within the framework of this Code.
- Expected Standards of Behaviour
All members and supporters are expected to:
- Act with honesty, integrity and respect at all times.
- Uphold the rules, spirit and traditions of hockey.
- Respect umpires, officials, coaches, players and spectators.
- Promote a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
- Support the development of players of all ages and abilities.
- Unacceptable Behaviour
The following behaviours are unacceptable and will not be tolerated:
- Violence, threats, harassment or intimidation.
- Abuse of umpires, officials, players or spectators.
- Swearing or use of abusive, discriminatory or offensive language.
- Sledging, taunting or incitement to unacceptable behaviour.
- Malicious misrepresentation of facts or deliberate spreading of false information.
- Inappropriate use or damage of Club-owned equipment or facilities.
- Inappropriate use of alcohol or illegal drugs in connection with Club activities.
- Misuse of social media, including posting offensive, abusive or defamatory material related to the Club, its members or officials.
- Encouraged Behaviour
The following behaviours are strongly encouraged:
- Fostering the development of junior and less experienced players to reach their highest potential.
- Creating a positive atmosphere conducive to families and young players.
- Playing strong, competitive hockey within the rules and spirit of the game.
- Active participation in the running of hockey, including coaching, umpiring, administration and fundraising.
- Supporting teammates and respecting opposition, regardless of match outcomes.
- Player Safety Requirements
- All players must wear correctly fitting shin guards and mouth guards at all times while on the hockey field, including training and matches.
- Players and officials must comply with any additional safety requirements set by Hockey Tweed or governing bodies.
- Team Selection Policy (Round Games and Finals)
In line with Hockey Tweed guidelines, Kingscliff Hockey Club is committed to fair, transparent and respectful selection practices.
6.1 General Principles
Team selection will be based on the following principles:
- Fairness and equity
- Transparency and clear communication
- Respect and inclusion
- Development of players
- The best interests of the team and the Club
6.2 Transparency and Communication
- Selection criteria for each team will be communicated to players (and parents/guardians for juniors) at the beginning of the season.
- Where selection decisions are required due to squad numbers exceeding on-field limits, coaches will explain the process and, where appropriate, the reasons for decisions.
- Players and parents may seek respectful clarification or feedback through appropriate channels.
6.3 Rotation and Game Time (Round Games)
- Where squad sizes exceed the maximum number of players allowed on the field, a rotation system will be used wherever possible.
- The aim of rotation is to ensure all players receive reasonable and meaningful game time across the season.
- Consideration may be given to attendance at training, effort, attitude, fitness and team balance.
6.4 Finals Selection
- Selection criteria for finals may differ from round games and will be communicated clearly in advance.
- Finals selection may place greater emphasis on team balance, performance, availability and commitment throughout the season.
- While not all players may be selected for finals, decisions will be made respectfully and communicated in a timely manner.
6.5 Respect and Inclusion
- Selection decisions must be made in a way that upholds the spirit of the game and treats all players with dignity and respect.
- Practices that intentionally exclude, embarrass or unfairly disadvantage individuals are not acceptable.
6.6 Documentation
- This written selection policy forms part of the Club’s Code of Practice and will be made accessible to all members.
- Coaches and team managers are expected to apply this policy consistently.
- Breaches of the Code and Disciplinary Action
Any member or supporter found to have breached this Code of Practice may face disciplinary action, including but not limited to:
- Verbal or written warning
- Counselling or education
- Suspension from matches or Club activities
- Expulsion from the Club
- Dealing with Misconduct and Sports Rage
8.1 Reporting an Incident
Anyone may:
- Report an incident to a ground official, umpire (if on the field) or Club committee member.
8.2 Immediate Response
The ground official, umpire or committee member may, depending on the seriousness of the incident:
- Issue a warning for breach of this Code
- Take no further action
- Refer the matter to the Club Committee for disciplinary action
- Remove the offender from the field of play or venue
- Suspend play until appropriate action is taken
- Involve the police if the behaviour constitutes a criminal act
8.3 Disciplinary Process
- The Club Committee will investigate reported incidents.
- Where required, a disciplinary hearing will be held.
- Outcomes may include counselling, suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity and history of the offence.
- Acceptance of the Code
By registering with or participating in any activity associated with Kingscliff Hockey Club, all members and supporters agree to abide by this Code of Practice.
This Code will be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains consistent with Hockey Tweed policies and the values of the Club.
