Club Conduct: A Statement
A good deal is written and spoken about the need for compliance with the Spirit of the Game. While some areas of abuse are clearly identified, there are others which are more debatable, sometimes leading to differences of opinion.
Wanstead & Snaresbrook CC has always sought to meet best practice but I know that on occasions we fall short of acceptable behavior. As a leading recreational cricket club we believe we have a responsibility to set and maintain good standards and penalize club members who may let the club down but may not be subject to league disciplinary action.
This is particularly so in relation to junior cricket where we have noticed a lowering of standards in the last year or so. We do not want to take the fun out of playing but there are three particular areas I would like to draw attention to. These are
· - - Excessive celebration: Everyone should be able to enjoy their achievements but not go so far as to humiliate opponents and their supporters
· - Sledging: Where can we draw the line between humorous banter and offensive behavior? I certainly regard continuous remarks, particularly anything that is potentially offensive, as falling into the unacceptable category.
· - Not walking or falsely claiming a wicket: Should we leave it entirely to the umpires or practice honesty although this may be to our disadvantage in terms of match results? Surely, please, the latter.
This debate will no doubt continue for some time but I wanted to set out the club’s position. May I please ask all captains and the managers of our juniors to set the right standards and to report all incidences however difficult this may seem. It’s particularly important that we teach our juniors good habits and discourage unacceptable ones from an early age.
I am requesting our Welfare Officer to incorporate these sentiments in our Conduct & Child Protection Policy ahead of the new season.
Wishing you all an enjoyable 2015 season.
Martin Pluck, Club Chairman
5 April 2015