Munster Blades Fencing Club is fully committed to providing a safe and fair environment for all young fencers. The cooperation of the committee is essential to be able to fulfil this commitment.
Committee members must follow the points stated in the code of conduct as described below:
Be familiar with and follow the required procedures in the Code of Ethics, the Code of Conduct, and any other policies as published by Fencing Ireland
Carry out your duties and responsibilities in the understanding that the welfare of children is paramount
Create a safe and enjoyable environment for young fencers by:
- Ensuring at least one committee member is present at each training session to support the coach
- Planning and preparing appropriately and being positive during sessions
- Making sure all levels of participation should be enjoyable and fun
- Prioritising skill development and personal satisfaction over highly structured competition.
- Setting age appropriate and realistic goals
- Avoiding favouritism – each child deserves equal time and attention, regardless of their ability
- Praising and encouraging effort as well as results
- Showing respect for all involved, children and adults
Recognise and ensure the welfare of children by:
- Keeping attendance records
- Not exposing a child to criticism, hostility or sarcasm
- Never swearing at, ridiculing, shouting unnecessarily or arguing with a child
- Working in an open environment
- Ensuring there is adequate supervision – Fencers are not permitted to leave the training hall unless they are accompanied by a member of the committee
- Involving and updating parents on a regular basis, especially if a problem has arisen
- Respecting a child’s sensitivity to their ability and/or physical stature
- Never using physical punishment or force
- Not using verbal or physical punishments or exclusion for mistakes
- Keeping a brief record of any injuries and actions taken
- Keeping a brief record of any issues arising and actions taken
- Do not allow or engage in bullying behaviour, rough physical games, or sexually provocative games
- Never allow or engage in inappropriate physical contact of any kind or make sexually suggestive comments about or to a child
- Co-operate with the recommendations from medical practitioners in the management of a child’s medical or related problems. You may request a certificate of medical fitness to ensure safe continued participation
- Keep any information in relation to a fencer of a personal or medical nature strictly confidential unless the welfare of the child requires the passing on of this information.
- Never exert undue influence over a participant in order to obtain personal benefit or reward.
- Avoid the use of alcohol at all times whilst responsible for young people e.g. training sessions, events and on trips with young fencers.
Coaches/Club Officials must avoid:
- Spending excessive amounts of time with children away from others.
- Taking sessions alone.
- Taking children to their home.
- Taking children on journeys alone in their car.