Safeguarding Athletes Policy

At Coach Squad, the safety and well-being of our coaches and athletes, in particular children, are our top priorities. We are committed to creating a positive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

This Safeguarding Athletes Policy outlines the standards and expectations for all coaches using our platform. By joining Coach Squad, you agree to uphold these principles to ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Key Principles

1. Respect and Inclusion
• Treat every athlete with respect, regardless of their age, gender, ability, background, or beliefs.
• Promote inclusivity and create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued.
2. Safe Environments
• Always conduct sessions in safe, public, or appropriately agreed-upon locations.
• Avoid isolated or private settings unless another trusted adult is present.
• Ensure the venue is appropriate and free from hazards.
3. Professional Boundaries
• Maintain clear and professional relationships with athletes and their families.
• Do not engage in inappropriate communication, including personal messages outside of session-related matters.
• Avoid any behavior that could be perceived as favoritism or bias.
4. Parental/Guardian Involvement
• Require a trusted adult to be present during sessions involving minors.
• Communicate openly with parents/guardians about their child’s progress, goals, and any concerns.
5. Consent and Communication
• Obtain consent from parents/guardians for any sessions involving children under 18.
• Clearly communicate session details, including location, time, and expectations.
• Report any significant changes, such as rescheduling or venue changes, to parents/guardians promptly.
6. Physical Contact
• Use physical contact only when necessary for coaching purposes (e.g., demonstrating techniques) and always with the athlete’s consent.
• Explain the purpose of any physical contact beforehand and ensure it is appropriate, respectful, and minimal.
7. Recognizing and Reporting Concerns
• Stay vigilant for signs of abuse, neglect, or harm.
• Report any concerns immediately to the appropriate authorities or to Coach Squad’s support team for guidance.
• Never ignore or dismiss a child’s disclosure of harm or discomfort.
8. Compliance with Laws
• Adhere to the Vulnerable Children Act 2014 and any other applicable laws.
• Comply with required safety checks, such as the NZ Police Vetting process, to ensure compliance with legal standards.
9. Behavioral Expectations
• Refrain from any form of bullying, harassment, or inappropriate behavior.
• Set a positive example by demonstrating fairness, patience, and good sportsmanship.
10. Privacy and Confidentiality
• Protect athletes’ personal information and respect their right to privacy.
• Do not share photos, videos, or personal details without explicit consent from the athlete and their parent/guardian.

Reporting a Concern

If you witness or suspect any behavior that compromises the safety or well-being of an athlete, report it immediately. You can:

• Contact local authorities if the situation involves immediate danger.
• Notify Coach Squad’s support team for further assistance.

Consequences of a Breach

• Immediate suspension or termination of your Coach Squad account.
• Reporting of incidents to the relevant authorities.
• Legal action where appropriate.

Ongoing Commitment

By agreeing to this policy, you commit to prioritizing the safety and well-being of all athletes. Let’s work together to create a positive and secure environment for everyone in the Coach Squad community.

If you have questions about this policy or need support, please contact us at support@coach-squad.com