The health of our game depends on the nurture and development of game officials and younger players. The realistic barometer of the health of any Basketball Association is their capacity to provide well organised and officiated competitions for the communities they serve. 

This policy is not aimed at stifling or diminishing healthy, supportive cheering or the ability of all spectators and parents to enjoy the spectacle of junior sport but to ensure our players, referees and support staff can compete or officiate in a safe and supportive environment.

To meet these aims, Westgate have adopted a Zero Tolerance Policy for inappropriate behaviour by parents and spectators during all Westgate competitions and programs.

All spectators and parents must accept responsibility for their behaviour and adhere to this policy.

The policy will ensure that there will be zero-tolerance shown towards any inappropriate or abusive behaviour from parents and spectators. Any parent or guardian and/or spectator who feels the necessity to:

• persistently or wilfully question or challenge the rulings of the referees
• berate or abuse referees
• berate or abuse players
• berate or abuse other parents or spectators
• display conduct which is inappropriate in a sporting environment

will be asked to leave the venue immediately by a representative of the Association, which can include any referee, Session Supervisor or Referee Advisor. Failure to leave when requested will result in the Association representative taking appropriate action to safeguard the safety of players, spectators and parents. 

No warnings need be given in the event of the above action becoming necessary. A parent/spectator who has been requested to leave an event may be suspended directly or required to attend a hearing held by the Association. 

Notes

Any repeated inappropriate behaviour by a parent may have an impact on the playing future of their child.

Any appeals against disqualification under this policy should immediately be directed to the Westgate Basketball Association via email at admin@westgatebasketball.com.au.

Any action taken under this new policy is entirely separate to any action that may be necessitated by law under other policies or legislation including the Child Protection Legislation or Basketball Victoria’s Member Protection policy.