Statement of Intent
We are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of our members so they can participate in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our association. If bullying does occur, all players or parents should be able to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. We are a TELLING association. This means that anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell the coach, referee or any executive member.
What Is Bullying?
Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. Bullying results in pain and distress to the victim. It is done to intimidate, coerce, fear, control, embarrass or exclude.
Why is it Important to Respond to Bullying?
Bullying hurts. No one deserves to be a victim of bullying. Everybody has the right to be treated with respect. Players who are bullying need to learn different ways of behaving.
This association has a responsibility to respond promptly and effectively to issues of bullying. Bullying will not be tolerated.
Procedure
- Report bullying incidents to the coach, referee, coordinator or a member of the executive.
- The coach/adult needs to contact the executive immediately.
- Parents should be informed and will be asked to come into a meeting to discuss the problem.
- If necessary and appropriate, police will be consulted.
- The bullying behaviour or threats of bullying must be investigated and the bullying stopped quickly.
- If mediation fails and the bullying is seen to continue the association will initiate disciplinary action.
Consequences For Those Who Bully
Players found to be bullying teammates or members of other teams/clubs may face consequences including:
- Restitution for any damage to property or personal possessions
- Temporary or permanent suspension
- Benching
Any retaliation by players, or their parents, against someone who reports bullying will be dealt with very seriously.
