Club Terms & Conditions

Training Expectations for Netball Players & Coaches

​

At St.Therese’s Netball Club (STNC), we believe in fostering a culture of commitment, growth and excellence among our Players. To ensure that all our members reach their full potential and contribute positively to our teams, we have established the following training expectations:

​

• Attendance:
  Players and Coaches are expected to attend all scheduled training sessions unless prevented by unavoidable circumstances. Regular attendance is crucial for individual improvement and team cohesion.

​

• Absence notification: 
  Players (via their parents and guardians as appropriate) should notify their Coach at least two hours prior to their scheduled training session if they are unable to attend.  This notification is important for allowing the Coach to modify session drills and match play as required.

​

• Punctuality:
  Players and Coaches should arrive on time for training sessions, ready to start at the designated time. Punctuality demonstrates respect for teammates, Coaches and the training program.

​

• Preparedness:
  Players and Coaches are expected to come prepared for each training session with appropriate attire, footwear and equipment. This includes wearing the club uniform if required.

​

• Effort and Focus:
  During training, Players are expected to give their full effort and focus on improving their skills, fitness and understanding of the game. Engaging actively in drills and activities will maximize individual and team development.

​

• Coachability:
  Players should be open to feedback and willing to apply Coaching instructions to their performance. This willingness to learn and adapt is essential for growth as a Player.

​

• Teamwork and Respect:
  Players must demonstrate respect for Coaches, teammates, officials, and opponents at all times. Encouraging and supporting each other fosters a positive team environment and contributes to team success.

​

• Communication:
  Effective communication is vital in netball. Players should communicate with their teammates during training sessions, offering encouragement, providing feedback and coordinating strategies.

​

• Health and Safety:
  Players are responsible for their own health and safety during training sessions, with the support of the Coaches and Coaching program[AT1] . This includes warming up and cooling down properly, staying hydrated and avoiding reckless behaviour that could lead to injury.

​

• Commitment to Improvement:
  Players should take ownership of their development by practicing skills outside of scheduled training sessions and seeking additional opportunities to improve, such as attending clinics or workshops.

​

• Adherence to Club Policies:
  Players and Coaches are expected to adhere to all club policies and codes of conduct, both on and off the court, representing STNC with integrity and sportsmanship.

 

By embracing these training expectations, our Players and Coaches will not only enhance their individual abilities but also contribute to a positive and successful netball experience for themselves and their teammates. Together, we strive for excellence both on and off the court.

​

#competitivewithheart 💪🏼❤️

​​

​

Game Day Expectations for Players and Coaches

​

At STNC, we believe that game days are opportunities to showcase our skills, teamwork and sportsmanship. To ensure that our Players and Coaches make the most of these occasions, we have established the following game day expectations:​

​

Players:

​

• Arrival Time:
  Players are expected to arrive at the game venue at least 20 minutes before the scheduled game time (or earlier if advised by Coaches). This allows for ample time to warm up, mentally prepare and discuss game strategies with teammates and Coaches.

​

• Absence Notification: 
  Players (via their parents and guardians as appropriate) should provide their Coach with advance warning of planned absences from game day due to holidays and clashing commitments.  In the event of an unforeseen absence due to illness or other reason, at least two hours notice should be provided ahead of scheduled game time to allow the Coach time to adapt team game day plans.

​

• Uniform & Equipment:
  Players must wear the club uniform as specified by the team manager. No jewellery of any kind is to be worn, nails trimmed and hair securely tied back and off the face.

​

• Hydration and Sun Protection:
  Players MUST always have a water bottle and preferably, a towel. Sunscreen is also important when playing outdoors.

​​

• Focus and Preparation:
  Players should mentally prepare for the game by focusing on their individual roles and responsibilities within the team.​​

​​

• Respect & Sportsmanship
  Players must always display respect towards coaches, teammates, opponents, umpires, officials and spectators. This includes acknowledging opponents before the game, shaking hands after the game and refraining from unsportsmanlike  behaviours or language. Always thank umpires and officials.​

​​

• Team Communication:
  Effective communication is key during games. Players should communicate with teammates to provide support, share information and execute game strategies.

​

• Adaptability and Resilience:
  Netball is a dynamic sport, and Players must be adaptable to changing game situations. Responding positively to setbacks and maintaining a resilient attitude are essential for overcoming challenges.

​

• Effort and Intensity:
  Players should give their maximum effort and intensity throughout the game, regardless of the score or circumstances. This demonstrates commitment to the team and contributes to a competitive spirit.

​

• Coach's Instructions:
  Players must listen to and follow instructions from the Coach during the game. Coaches provide valuable guidance and feedback to help the team perform at its best.

​​​​

Coaches:

​

• Preparation:
  Coaches should arrive at the game venue well-prepared with a game plan and any necessary equipment or paperwork.

​

• Positive Leadership:
  Coaches must provide positive leadership to inspire and motivate Players. Encouragement and constructive feedback help boost Players' confidence and performance.

​

• Strategic Decisions:
  Coaches should make strategic decisions during the game, such as substitutions and tactical adjustments, to maximise the team's chances of success.

​

• Support and Communication:
  Coaches should support Players both on and off the court, offering guidance, encouragement, and tactical advice as needed. Clear and effective communication with Players is essential.

​

• Respect for Officials:
  Coaches must show respect for game officials and accept their decisions, even if they disagree. Disputes should be handled calmly and respectfully.

​

• Post-Game Analysis:
  After the game, Coaches should conduct a constructive post-game analysis with Players, highlighting areas of strength and areas for improvement.

​

By adhering to these game day expectations, our Players and Coaches will contribute to a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved in STNC.

 

Together, we strive for excellence and sportsmanship both on and off the court.

​​

​

Court Time

​

There are many factors that influence a Coach's decisions on game day, including successful combinations, team fitness, nerves and pressure. The new Rolling-subs rule also allows for more dynamic changes to teams.

 

Deciding on team configurations and court time can be challenging for Coaches, especially during finals. It's important to understand that these decisions are not personal and do not reflect the individual’s abilities as a netball Player.

 

Coaches may not always make perfect decisions and parents might see things differently. However, these decisions are made with the team's best interests in mind.

 

During finals, our Coaches are instructed to field the strongest team, as directed by our Head Coach.
 

This may mean that some Players don’t get the opportunity to play or get limited court time.

 

​

Player Grading Process

​

At STNC, Player grading is a vital aspect of team formation, ensuring a balanced mix of abilities, skills and playing positions.

 

Grading sessions are conducted for Players intending to participate in the Parkville Netball Competition across various age groups, including NetSetGo, Under 11s, Under 13s, Under 15s, Under 17s, and Open Age groups.

 

For Monday and Thursday social Players, registration for grading is required, but attendance is optional. However, their placement into teams will be determined based on the combined grading committee's evaluation of their abilities from previous years or any relevant information provided if the Player is new to the club.

 

It's important to note that the club reserves the right to regrade any Player if necessary to maintain team balance and ensure the best possible playing experience for all members.

​​

​

Grading Committee & Criteria

​

A dedicated grading Sub-Committee will be formed, consisting of at least two STNC Committee representatives and, if possible, an external examiner. Grading will be conducted using standardised criteria that include:

 

• Ball skills

• Positional skills (including flexibility)

• Footwork

• Court awareness

• Sportsmanship and general attitude

• Ability to follow instructions

 

The grading Sub-Committee will strive to ensure a fair and impartial process, aiming to form balanced teams while considering the grading criteria.

 

Players and members are encouraged to maintain reasonable and objective expectations and to react positively to team selections.

 

Ideally, teams will consist of nine (9) Players, with a minimum of eight (8) and a maximum of ten (10), unless approved by the Head Coach.

 

STNC endeavours to place all registered Players into appropriate teams within the registration period. Selections will be communicated via email.

 

Grading is mandatory for all Players wishing to represent STNC. However, attendance at grading does not guarantee a spot on a team, although every effort is made to accommodate all Players.

 

It is essential that Players make every effort to attend practical grading sessions.

 

​

Grading Days

​

STNC grading days are generally held in November for the following year.

​

• Please note exact times per age group will be announced closer to the date and will be available on our website and via social media & Team App once confirmed. 

• Additional grading may occur between the Autumn and Spring Netball Seasons

 

​

Player Selection and Movement

​

• In the initial 3-4 rounds of each season (Autumn & Spring), Player selection may undergo adjustments to ensure optimal team composition.

​

• This process considers factors such as skill level, skill development, and positional suitability.

​

• We strive to place Players in teams where they can best develop their skills and contribute effectively.

​

• Therefore, some movement within teams may occur during this period to achieve the most beneficial outcomes for all Players involved.

​

​

Mid-Year Grading & Team Movement and Adjustments

​

• Between the Autumn and Spring seasons, team compositions typically remain stable. Therefore, any requests for Player movement must be supported by strong evidence or examples from Coaches or members.

​

• Teams are assembled by the grading committee with the best intentions and feedback from various sources. However, there may be instances where adjustments are needed. The Head Coach or grading committee reserves the right to make changes throughout the season. STNC retains the authority to modify teams outside of the grading season.

​

• The Head Coach, based on input from team Coaches, may transfer Players between teams to benefit the teams and the individual Player's development.

​

• In cases where teams move up to a higher grade, some Players may be asked to remain if they are not yet ready for the higher grade.

​

• Development teams (Thursday night teams) may be adjusted as necessary to ensure proper development.

 

​

Team Numbers

​

At STNC, we limit all teams to a maximum of 10 Players (unless special circumstances are approved by the Head Coach).

 

Each Coach will communicate how they will manage the team of 10 Players. This may include having all Players required on game day or implementing a rostering system.

 

Under a rostering system, some Players may only receive a half-game on match day. Coaches will try to ensure that this does not happen in consecutive weeks.

 

​

Grading Appeals

​

• Players and parents should understand the challenges involved in grading, and appeals should be kept to a minimum.

​

• Appeals must be submitted in writing within Seven (7) days of the team selection announcements.

​

• All appeals should be addressed to: STNC Grading Sub-Committee via the Player Administrator at info@stnc.com.au

​

• All grading appeals correspondence is reviewed at STNC executive meetings, alongside the grading subcommittee, and the decision reached at this meeting will be final.

​

• Grading issues will not be discussed over the phone or in person. Grading Sub-Committee members should not be approached or contacted regarding grading matters.

 

​

Leaving STNC

​

• While the club will make reasonable efforts to accommodate training or game schedule conflicts, if a Player or their family changes their mind, full club fees will still apply.

​

• A Transfer Request is required to be submitted to info@stnc.com.au

​

• Fees are non-refundable once a Player has confirmed their position in a team and/or played the first official game of the competition.

 

​

Waitlist: New Players 

​

If you wish to join our club, please to info@stnc.com.au the following details.

 

Player Details:

• Name

• Date of Birth

• Two (2) x Preferred Positions

• Experience, inc. age group and division.

• Current Club (if applicable)

• Preferred date to join STNC.

 

Parents/Guardians Contacts:

• Name(s)

• Email

• Mobile

​

All waitlisted Players will be sent updates via email on grading days.

 

​

New Players to STNC - Clearances and Transfers

​

• If you are new to STNC, it is important that you inform our Player administration via email at info@stnc.com.au providing details of the club and competition you are currently or have previously played for, as a clearance or transfer may be required.

​

• If a Player is currently registered with another club in the same competition within the playing year, they must apply for a clearance before being eligible to play for their new club.

​

• The Player's new club must initiate the clearance application on Netball Connect. The existing club then has 7 days to review and either accept or decline the Player's clearance.

​

• A transfer is necessary if a Player is registered with one club in one competition but wishes to play for a different club in a different competition.

​

• Please note that a Player must be financially up to date with their previous club for clearances to be considered.

 

Playing for other Clubs / Associations

​

At STNC, we encourage our Players and Coaches to pursue other opportunities that help them to grow as Players or Coaches. We recognise that this may be with other clubs, with the expectation that priority is always given to STNC and that Players do not play in the same competition/division that they are registered with at STNC, e.g. Parkville, Altona or Merri-Bek comps, or other future comps.

 

​

Refunds

STNC does not offer refunds unless due to exceptional circumstances. Requests must be made in writing to the Treasurer or another member of the Executive Committee.

 

Codes of Conduct

https://vic.netball.com.au/code-of-conduct

​

At STNC, we're dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone involved in netball is treated with respect, dignity and fairness. We believe that all netball members have the right to participate in a safe, enjoyable and healthy environment.

​

That's why we adhere to the Netball Australia Member Protection Regulation and the Netball Victoria Competition Regulation. These regulations ensure that our club maintains high standards and takes a zero-tolerance approach to inappropriate behaviour, including harassment, discrimination, vilification, or abuse.

​

The Competition Regulation specifically deals with any competition-related offenses or disputes that may occur during netball programs, competitions, and events throughout Victoria. It outlines clear procedures for handling such issues promptly and effectively.

​

STC is aligned with Netball Victoria and Netball Australia and committed to upholding values of respect, dignity, and fairness for all individuals. These values, coupled with the right of every netball member to enjoy a safe and healthy environment, have led Netball Australia to establish specific objectives aimed at creating a safer and more inclusive sporting environment.

​

We recognise that discrimination, harassment, and abuse can occur in any sporting environment, including netball. That's why we've adopted the Netball Australia Member Protection Policy. This policy underscores our dedication to serving and safeguarding our members and participants at all levels of the sport.

​

By working together, we can prevent discrimination and harassment, fostering a safe and supportive environment for all netball participants, regardless of level. Join us in creating a positive netball community where everyone feels valued and respected.

​