Volleyball Ireland are delighted to launch a new code of conduct, ahead of this year’s National League season, which begins on September 30th.
The Code of Conduct is aligned with Sport Ireland’s new national initiative which aims to reduce abuse of referees and players. Every player, coach and referee who gains a Volleyball Ireland license must comply with the Code of Conduct when they purchase their annual membership.
Volleyball Ireland President Clodagh NicCanna said, “Minister Byrne and Sport Ireland have done a fine job leading this important piece of work, and we are delighted to be one of the first NGBs rolling it out. I’m hopeful other sports bodies will adopt the code of conduct like Volleyball Ireland has done.”
You can view the new Code of Conduct here. Code of Conduct Final 2023-24
VLY Vice-President and Competitions Director Alfredo Aloi added, “This development makes it absolutely clear we will not stand for abuse of referees of players. Through the PADACC process we will be acting on any complaints and taking appropriate disciplinary action on issues of this nature.”
Spectators at every match will be expected to follow the Code of the Conduct.
Welcoming Sport Ireland’s development of the template code, Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education, Thomas Byrne T.D., said: “As a sporting community, it is crucial that we show our unwavering opposition against any form of abuse, racism and violence within sport.
The power of sport lies in its ability to create a deep sense of belonging in our communities, and it is our utmost responsibility to prevent incidents of racism and violence from undermining this positive impact. While the enforcement of positive conduct primarily falls under the jurisdiction of Sporting Bodies, I wholeheartedly appreciate the efforts of Sport Ireland’s Working Group in developing this comprehensive code of conduct template. I strongly encourage the adoption and implementation of the template Code of Conduct by our Sporting Bodies.”
Key elements of the National Code of Conduct Template include:
Promoting Fairness and Respect: The code outlines the importance of treating all participants, coaches, athletes, officials, and supporters with respect and fairness.
Supporting Positive Development: Emphasising the crucial role of parents/guardians and supporters in encouraging positive development in young participants and avoiding actions that may have a lasting emotional impact.
Minimising Breaches: The template defines the minimum levels of behaviour and conduct required and highlights the disciplinary procedures or sanctions that may be applied in case of code breaches.
Reporting Mechanisms: Participants are encouraged to report any breaches of the code promptly, ensuring that matters are addressed swiftly and appropriately.
