News

An important message for our playing group and their parents/guardians.

Ariels VCNA prides itself on inclusion for all. It is our greatest hope that when girls join the Ariels they not only get the opportunity to further their skills and represent the club, but they also make lifelong friendships. From time to time we are alerted to incidents where members of the playing group have been unfairly picked out for their physical differences or playing ability. Similarly, we are aware of instances of private chat groups that do not align with the Ariels values of ;
Integrity
Respect
Responsibility
Fairness
Safety
Whilst we know the majority of our players do not do this it can take a small few to make just one member of our playing group feel less than their peers.

Whether it be physical differences repeatedly being laughed at or highlighted for amusement, or inappropriate commenting when your teammates had a bad game. We should all celebrate the fact that we are all different in so many ways, yet can come together through our love of Netball.

Every member of our playing group is picked for their position based on skill. Our coaches are incredibly devoted to guiding all the girls to be the best they can be. It is not appropriate for members of the playing group to inform other players whether their skill level justifies their position.

Similarly, we have strict policies around social media use and ask all families to be mindful of what is said in chat groups the players have started on various social media platforms that we do not have the ability to monitor. In simplest terms if something you wrote would upset you, it is best not to say it to (or about) someone else.

The Ariels abide by the Netball Victoria Child Safety in Netball Policies and have asked all incoming members, on enrolment, to sign a declaration that they supported this policy as well. Should the club be made aware that actions of players do not abide by the policies to respect the rights, dignity and worth of others, we will be required to follow the Disciplinary procedures set out by both the Ariels and Netball Victoria. This can include a player losing their position at the Club in some circumstances.

We’d like to ask that all our Ariel’s families support us in making our Club and Your Club a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Ariel’s Committee