Volunteering at a club with young cricketers can be a rewarding experience, making a positive impact on their development and experience.
When volunteering in a club with young cricketers it is important to remember that the standards of behaviour outlined in Australian Cricket’s Framework for Safeguarding Children and Young People apply to everyone.
Here are some best practice tips to ensure the safety and well-being of all players:
- Professional Boundaries: Maintain professional boundaries with young cricketers. Avoid developing relationships that could be seen as favouritism or inappropriate.
- Positive Guidance: Use positive reinforcement and constructive feedback to build young cricketers' confidence and skills. Avoid any form of verbal abuse or negative language.
- Supervision: Always ensure that young cricketers are supervised during training and matches. Avoid one-on-one situations with underage players and ensure that there are always other club representatives present.
- Online Communication: Communicate with young players through official channels. Never communicate one-on-one with underage players; include parents or guardians in any electronic communication.
- Understanding the Risks: Recognise that young cricketers in senior teams may face increased exposure to adult-related content and behaviours. Be vigilant in monitoring their interactions and environments.
- Safe Spaces: Ensure that changerooms and social functions are safe and appropriate for young cricketers. Provide separate spaces or plans if necessary.
- Reporting Concerns: Be aware of the reporting procedure for any concerns or complaints. Encourage young cricketers to speak up if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
All volunteers are encouraged to read and understand Australian Cricket’s Framework for Safeguarding Children and Young People.