Fair Play

OPEN LETTER TO ALL COLLEGE SPORT PLAYERS, COACHES AND SUPPORTERS

The ASSHA Executive Board wishes to remind all players, coaches and supporters of their expectations around conduct and behaviour in College Sport competitions. In 2008 to the widespread dismay of ASSHA members some unsavory incidents involving players and coaches went unreported to the respective sports bodies and the ASSHA. One particular case played out extensively in the national media. These incidents brought the respective schools, team members, coaches and the sport into disrepute, and in doing so by implication the ASSHA, particularly as there were limited steps that the respective sports body and ASSHA could take, as the incidents went unreported and were not notified by way of complaint. Players, coaches and supporters are reminded that the highest levels of sportsmanship, fair play and conduct are expected in relation to opposition players, coaches and officials.  Objectionable language, sledging and the entering of the field of play by substitutes, spectators and coaches is totally unacceptable. All ASSHA member schools are encouraged to follow the complaints process in 2009 to prevent the actions of a few impacting on all member schools.  Every player, coach, supporter and team official has a responsibility to uphold the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship. 

M Daji

CEO College Sport 

April 2009