Policies and Guidelines
Codes of Conduct
The Stars Basketball Club Code of Conduct is based on the standards set by Basketball Victoria and the Child Safe Standards, which we are legally required to follow. Basketball is a recreational sport designed to promote enjoyment, wellbeing, and personal development. Our Code of Conduct helps ensure that everyone involved can get the most out of their experience, enhancing both participation and enjoyment.
All players, coaches, team managers, parents, and volunteers are required to read and agree to our Code of Conduct, which can be accessed via the link below.
Reporting an Injury
Players must inform their Coach of any existing injuries before training sessions or games, and report any injuries that occur during play or training as soon as possible.
To support team spirit, players are encouraged to attend games even when injured (provided they are well enough to do so), but should stay home if they are unwell.
For long-term injuries, it’s important to notify your Team Manager so they can inform Stars Basketball Club and arrange a replacement or fill-in player if needed.
Court Time
At Stars Basketball Club, we aim to ensure that court time is shared as evenly as possible among all players. This allows every player the chance to apply what they’ve learned in training to real game situations, and to enjoy the full experience of being part of a team. Our coaches are encouraged to prioritise player development and enjoyment over winning at all costs.
That said, there may be times when court time varies based on factors such as training attendance, effort, and attitude. These decisions are at the discretion of the coach and are fully supported by Stars Basketball Club.
Training and Attendance
Training
Training sessions are held weekly, and all players are expected to attend regularly. Training times and venues may vary from season to season and will be confirmed during the registration process.
If a player is unable to attend training, it is important that the Team Manager is notified in advance.
Attendance
Players are also expected to attend all games their team participates in, even if they are injured. If a player is unwell or unable to attend a game, they must inform their Coach or Team Manager as early as possible.
For both games and training, Stars Basketball Club requires that a parent or guardian collects their child from inside the venue. Children must not leave the venue unaccompanied under any circumstances.
Team Selection & Grading
At the domestic basketball level, Stars Basketball Club does its best to accommodate the needs and preferences of all players. While we understand that many players like to be placed in the same team as friends or family, we also need to consider individual player development and the overall balance of each team. Our aim is to create an experience where everyone feels included and supported.
While being in a team with friends can be a great start, it’s equally important to provide every player with opportunities to grow and reach their full potential. Sometimes this means playing with new teammates in a fresh environment that encourages learning, confidence, and new friendships. We aim to gently challenge players to step outside their comfort zones and build both their skills and social connections.
We always strive to place our teams in the right level of competition throughout the season. This is why there is a three-week grading period before the season officially begins. If needed, the CBA may review team performances and re-grade them to ensure appropriate matchups.
We ask that you respect the decisions made by Stars Basketball Club and the CBA. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for a chat.
Incident Management Policy & Procedure
1. Purpose
To maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants by providing clear procedures for reporting, investigating, and resolving both minor and major incidents that occur during club activities.
2. Codes of Conduct
All participants are expected to adhere to the following:
Basketball Victoria’s Codes of Conduct
Stars Basketball Club Code of Conduct
Any other relevant policies from associated leagues (e.g. Stars or association-level codes for players, spectators, or officials) outlining expected standards of behaviour.
Breaches of these codes may result in disciplinary action as outlined in this policy.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all members of the club, including players, coaches, committee and board members, volunteers, parents, and spectators during any club-sanctioned activity.
4. Definitions
Minor Incident: Behaviour that breaches the Code of Conduct but does not pose immediate harm (e.g. unsportsmanlike conduct, verbal disputes, or persistent disagreement with referee decisions).
Major Incident: Serious breaches including violence, threats, discrimination, harassment, unlawful behaviour, intoxication, or actions that compromise the club’s integrity or safety.
5. Training and Attendance
Unless directly connected to a Code of Conduct breach, the following are excluded:
Referee, team, or spectator performance (from either Stars or opposing teams)
General complaints (e.g. facility conditions or admin-related matters)
6. Reporting Procedures
Anyone involved in or witnessing an incident—including players, coaches, parents, volunteers, and spectators—is encouraged and expected to report it.
All reports will be taken seriously, treated confidentially, and managed fairly. Reports should be submitted in writing to the Club’s Incident Officer. Anonymous reports may be accepted if appropriate.
6.1 Minor Incidents
Immediate Action: May be addressed on the spot by coaches, team managers, or board members, or through a written response by the club president within 72 hours.
Reporting: A completed internal incident report form must be submitted to the Incident Officer within 72 hours.
Resolution: Addressed internally with possible outcomes including verbal/written warnings or mediation.
6.2 Major Incidents
Immediate Action: Ensure the safety of those involved. Contact emergency services if required. A temporary suspension may be applied at the discretion of the Club President pending investigation.
Reporting: An internal incident report form must be submitted to the Incident Officer (or proxy) within 24 hours.
Communication: If a temporary suspension is applied, the affected person will be notified in writing with relevant conditions.
Escalation: Reports may be forwarded to the relevant association and/or Basketball Victoria using their official reporting process.
7. Investigation Process
Assignment: The Club’s Incident Officer (or nominated proxy) will lead the investigation.
Procedure:
Collect statements from involved parties or witnesses
Review available evidence (e.g. photos, video footage)
Maintain confidentiality throughout the process
Outcome: A documented summary and recommended action will be presented to the Stars Basketball Club Board for final determination. A formal outcome will be communicated in writing to the involved individual(s).
Timing:
Minor incidents: typically resolved within 4–7 days
Major incidents: typically resolved within 7–14 days
Note: These timeframes are indicative and may vary depending on complexity or involvement of external bodies (e.g. police, tribunal).
8. Disciplinary Actions
Outcomes are based on investigation findings and may include:
For Minor Incidents: Verbal/written warnings, mediation, compulsory education sessions, or short-term suspensions
For Major Incidents: Longer suspensions, permanent expulsion, or referral to Basketball Victoria’s Tribunal
Consideration will be given to:
The severity and frequency of past incidents
Outcomes of association or Basketball Victoria tribunals (where applicable)
9. Appeals Process
Individuals may appeal decisions within 7 days of being notified.
Appeals will be reviewed by the Club’s Board.
The Board’s decision is final.
10. Child Safety and Mandatory Reporting
All incidents involving children must be reported to the Club’s Child Safety Officer.
Mandatory reporting obligations will be followed in accordance with the Child Safe Standards.
11. Record Keeping
All incident reports and related documentation will be securely stored for a minimum of 7 years.
12. Communication
This policy will be available on the club website and provided during member induction.
Ongoing communication will be shared with coaches, players, and volunteers to ensure awareness and understanding of the policy.
13. Review
This policy will be reviewed every two years or earlier if determined necessary by the board.
References
Basketball Victoria Policies
Basketball Victoria Tribunal By-Laws
Basketball Victoria Incident Report Form
Child Safe Standards