The Rules of Baseball clearly explain the expectations of how the game is to be played. The Australian Baseball Federation has gone a little further in defining expectations of how the spirit of the game is to be played, which is universally applied across all states, levels and groups.

"Baseball is a game that owes much of its unique appeal to the fact that it should be played not only within its Rules but also within the Spirit of the Game."

Any action which is seen to abuse this spirit causes injury to the game itself. The major responsibility for ensuring the spirit of fair play rests with the team leaders; being coaches, managers and leading office bearers.

BASEBALL: THE AUSTRALIAN WAY!

Playing By The Rules

"You have the right to be treated fairly and to feel safe. You have the responsibility not to discriminate against others and to treat others fairly and with respect."

The above quote from the Equal Opportunity Commission Victoria. Every Club member has clearly defined moral obligations and legal responsibilities, however commonsense tells us these obligations and responsibilities are simply the ingredients for creating a great Club.

In order to enjoy the environment of a Club, people need to feel comfortable and safe. Creating a Club atmosphere that everybody wants to be a part of is not difficult and merely requires adherence to some simple principles:

• Treat everybody at the Club as you like to be treated yourself
• Co-operate with your team-mates, coach and opponents
• Always remember that you are there to enjoy yourself just as others are also there to enjoy themselves
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all the people at and around your Club

Taking a basic, commonsense approach should enable most issues to be addressed and reduce the risk of things going wrong. However further assistance, advice or direction is available for resolving issues or educating Club members if required. Clubs and Associations should be conversant with the Member Protection Policy as adopted by, and available through the ABF. This will ensure that your Club promotes and maintains an enjoyable environment for all members.

For additional information on issues involving Equal Opportunity and Member Protection, go to www.playbytherules.net.au.