Basketball is intended to be a recreational activity for enjoyment and health.  This code of conduct has been developed by Basketball Victoria to give participants some guide to the expectations it has on those participants.  It is intended to assist everyone to obtain the maximum benefit and enjoyment from their involvement in basketball. As a result, the quality of participation will be improved so people are more likely to start and continue their involvement in basketball. Enjoy!!

1.           Involve others in planning, leadership, evaluation and decision making related to basketball.

You have been appointed or elected to lead the administration of basketball.  However, many other people have good ideas which can benefit the sport. Listen to their ideas.  If change or review is contemplated, consult as widely as is practical.  The more people who contribute, the better the decision making process.

2.           Give all people equal opportunities to participate.

While the ability and time available to contribute varies from person to person, always make sure that everyone involved in the sport is made to feel welcome to participate. Basketball could not function without the very large number of volunteers involved.  If all people are encouraged to participate, it makes the job easier for everyone else. Involve them in planning and decision making.

3.           Create pathways for people to participate and develop through the sport not just as players but as coaches, referees and administrators.

Structure your organisation so that people have an opportunity to participate in basketball in as wide a variety of roles as possible.  Make them feel that they can progress through the organisation for as far as their abilities allow.  Don’t make judgements of people and exclude them from particular roles.  If they aspire to move to a higher level of officiating or administration, give them the opportunity and support that their enthusiasm demands.

4.           Ensure that rules, equipment, length of games and training schedules are modified to suit the age, ability and maturity level of players.

Not every player of basketball can play at an elite level. Young people or people with handicaps have special needs.  Recognise the needs of players at various levels and provide facilities and an environment which will allow them to participate.  Encourage participants to develop realistic expectations of their abilities.

5.           Provide quality supervision, instruction and a safe environment for all players.

Many people playing basketball require some measure of protection.  Children are vulnerable to influence by adults who may not be the perfect role models.  They can also be the subject of abuse in various forms by adults and by their peers. Structure the game to take into account the special needs and vulnerability of participants. Involve parents and other responsible adults in the supervision of the sport. Provide adequate training and facilities to allow participants to enjoy their basketball and to benefit physically and mentally from it.

6.     Remember that basketball is for fun.

        Remember that basketballers play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only part of their motivation.  Always make sure that participants are made to feel welcome whenever they attend for training or a match. 

Never ridicule players for making mistakes or losing a competition. See errors or losses as an opportunity to learn in a constructive way. Comment in a way that is positive and designed to create interest, involvement and development.

7.       Help coaches and officials highlight appropriate behaviour and skill development, and help improve the standards of coaching and officiating.

Everyone involved in basketball is entitled to expect that the standard of officials and coaches is high. You should ensure that you have in place a program for ensuring that your officials and coaches are properly trained and maintain their skills and knowledge of the game.  You should promote a culture among them of appropriate behaviour so that they can act as good role models with the participants with whom they come into contact.

8.       Assist all participants in basketball to know and understand the rules

As administrators, you have a role in the education of other participants.  Maintain your own knowledge of the rules of basketball and have in place education programs so that all other participants know and understand the rules and that they keep that knowledge current.  Where change comes to your attention, make sure that all participants who will be effected by it are fully informed.

9.       Give a copy of the codes of conduct to spectators, officials, parents, coaches, teachers, players and the media and encourage them to follow it.

In your role as an educator, you have a responsibility to ensure that as many participants as possible are aware of what is expected of them.  The codes of conduct are one important way that you can fulfil that responsibility.

10.    You set an example.  Your behaviour and comments should be positive and supportive.

Assist participants to accept responsibility for their own actions rather than mere obedience to the rules. You will not gain the respect of participants unless you show them respect.  Just as you require accountability for the actions of others, so you must be accountable for your own actions.  Never make a decision based on your own interests.  If your interests conflict with those of basketball you must leave the decision to others.

11.    Make it clear that abusing people in any way is unacceptable and will result in disciplinary action.

If you are making a report for abuse or any other reportable offence, you must act with fairness towards all those involved.

12.    Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person.

Regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, religion or other factor irrelevant to the game, all persons connected with basketball are entitled to equal treatment and respect.  Avoid any remarks that could be construed as offensive or discriminatory.  Sometimes even a joke may give offence.  Even if a person refers to themselves with a particular label, it should not be taken as an invitation for you to do so. Using discretion is imperative and it is better to err on the side of caution.

13.    Always respect the use of facilities and equipment provided.

Facilities and equipment cost money and will only function properly if kept in good order. Ensure that you do not abuse anything provided for use. Discourage players from engaging in dangerous practices such as hanging off hoops or “slam dunking”.  Quite properly, these practices are banned in most venues.  Not only can equipment be damaged but also serious injury can occur.