2011 - 2012 Season A Women and Girls’ Rugby Football Club … with a difference

The Final Destination U20s Sanata Barbara, USA

‘The Leopards’ Liskeard Leopards Womens Rugby Football Club Ltd Registered Address: Tripcony House, St Germans, Saltash, PL12 5LS E: [email protected]; www.leopards.org.uk

Chairman’s Welcome – 2011

Welcome Leopards to our third season!

I hope that you have all had a really good rest this summer so that you are raring to go again now that the season has started again. The Demaines were very excited to travel to Santa Barbara in July to watch Lucy and the Women’s England U20s play in the Nations Cup. If you were keeping an eye on the RFU website you’ll know that the England team had impressive wins over the USA, Canada and South Africa and went on to beat the USA 48:11. Lucy will tell you that she scored a classic try against South Africa! The squad were not allowed to get sunburnt, dehydrated .....or drunk! Not so for the supporters. Being in California reminded us all why we are here. Lucy started playing 12 years ago and has got that far – but so could some of you!

The RFUW realised that last season’s attempt at a national league was a step too far for Devon & Cornwall, so this year’s fixtures will be friendly triangulars. We hope that this will mean that all girls will get experience at 15- aside rugby (or 13 aside if you are under 15s). Leopards will be hosting 5 of our games and these will be spread across our patch.

Everyone involved in girls’ rugby has been concerned to ensure that U12 girls (yeaar 7) are attracted to the game we love. If girls have played rugby since they were mini-midi, some are happy to go on playing with the boys until they get into year 8. However, many girls only first start playing rugby when we come into the schools and give them a go during PE lessons or after school clubs. There has been a debate at the RFUW about developing an U13s game (years 7 & 8) and David Rose has designed a game called ‘Tag to Tackle’ to encourage new girls to join up. The RFUW had been expecting clubs to start the new game this September. However, in the end, it was realised that the time frame was a bit too short. The result is that girls in year 8 this year will continue to play U15s rugby and we will attract as many year 7 girls as usual. Towards the end of this season, however, we will probably begin to play an U13s game in preparation for next year. Watch this space!

As well as the club games, we really want our girls to join in the County development day and Trials on the 25th September. As well as those selected for the squads, there will be opportunities for girls at both ages to come to the county training sessions. These will be at RFC on Monday evenings. As last year, a small number of girls may be nominated at the end of the county season to trial for the Divisional squads. You may have noted from last year that this is a very competitive step as the best girls will be selected from 8 counties! Emily Kneale and Ella Sanford were selected for the U15s divisional squad last year. Big congratulations need to go to Emily who has now been selected for the National U15s Talent Development Group (TDG), one of

2 girls from Cornwall.

Once again, we hope that girls will enjoy this season and will want to invite their friends to come along too. We have a great body of volunteers – but can always do with more, as ‘many hands make light work’. This will be particularly important when holding fund raising events and even just helping out in the background at training nights and match

days. We have not raised the registration fees again this year. However, we are asking girls to bring £1 per training session or match in order to save up for the nice things at the end of the season. There will be a draw each session and the girl’s name drawn will go home with £5!

We had another great day out at Twickenham again last season but Sarah would like your ideas about where you would like the club to go away at the end of this season. She rather fancies Wales; what do you think?

Yours in rugby,

Andy

Welcome from the Girls - 2011

Chloe Hocking and Caitlin Henderson are two of last year’s U12s Chloe started at Leopards when she was still in year 5, but has stuck with us and is now able to play real matches. Watch out other U15s! Caitlin is another stalwart, starting with the boys and waiting patiently to be able to play. Both girls went to St Georges Day Tournament last year and helped the u12s team get to 3rd place.

Ella Sanford, Athalie Redgrove and Ellie Broughton are three of our U15s players Whilst Athalie had played rugby with her twin brother since she was small, Ellie and Ella both started rugby in year 7. All were part of the Liskeard School team that went to Twickenham where they were runners up. Ella, Athalie and Ellie are going to be your U15s team reps this season.

Emma Thomas & Laura McLuckie U18s Martial arts expert Laura found her place as a lock and jumper last year playing for Leopards and County. Newcomer Emma played most positions (I think that she’d like to stay in one place this season). Laura and Emma were part of a small and select U18s Leopards team last year whose talents improved exponentially. They will be the U18s team reps this year and will actively be seeking more U18s players!

Committee Members’ Biographies

Andy Demaine – Chairman / Coach / Referee Coordinator: Andy started coaching rugby 11 years ago when Lucy and Tom started playing. He enjoyed the challenge and is now an RFU level 2 coach having coached boys and girls rugby at club, county and regional levels. In 2004 he and Ann set up the Leopards when Lucy could no longer play mixed rugby. As well as being active in the club, Andy is always looking for opportunities to improve his coaching techniques to bring back to the girls and the other coaches in the club, and is involved with England Ladies rugby.

Ann Demaine – Secretary / U12s Manager: Ann has also been involved with boys and girls rugby for as long as she can remember! She has done most odd jobs in her time but is still actively involved in the girls’ game, managing the girls’ teams in the club and also the Cornwall County U18s squad for the last 6 years. She is treasurer of the County WAG committee and has also been a Safeguarding Officer but now is the Cornwall Safeguarding manager for Cornwall. Although Lucy has now left for University, she is very excited about attracting the U12s to the game.

Sarah Kneale – Vice Chairman / U15’s Manager & Coach: I have been involved with the Leopards Girls Rugby for the last 5 years, watching my own girls thoroughly enjoy the game,the training and oh course the matches. I enjoy seeing the girls of all ages come up through the age groups and sometimes go onto represent the County and Region. I am the Leopard Vice Chair, the Under 15s Manager and I have recently acquired my Level 1 Coaching, which I intend to make full use of within the Club and within the Community.

Chris Redgrove - Treasurer: My interest in rugby began as a player at school. More recently, 3 of my children have played with LL rugby club where I would help out occasionally. When my daughter was no longer eligible to play mixed rugby she joined the Leopards and I became more closely involved by joining the committee and attending various courses, including Rugby First and Safeguarding. I have now taken on the role of treasurer where I will work to maintain the financial stability of the club.

Rachel Redgrove: Safeguarding Officer/ Club Volunteer Coordinator I am married to Chris and it is through my daughter Athalie that I came to be here today. I am registered disabled and as such have not been able to partake in much sport as I grew up. However my children have more than made up for me. I have taken on the role of safeguarding officer as I feel that I can empathise with many of the problems both children and parents face these days. I will ensure that your children are properly looked after and that they are able to play rugby in a safe, happy and enjoyable environment whilst they are members of The Leopards.

Paul Woodhead – Coach & Club Coach Coordinator: Paul has an extensive sporting background being involved in Fencing, Track and Field Athletics, Volleyball and Boxing at an elite level. He played rugby at representative level whilst in the Armed Forces. Qualified as a RFU Level 2 coach he has been coaching rugby for the past 8 years. Paul is currently the Club Coach Coordinator and is keen to recruit and develop individuals of all ages who aspire to coach rugby within The Leopards. As well as coaching within the Club, Paul has held coaching positions with County and Regional under 18 teams. He remains keen to develop his own coaching skills as well as those of others.

Ian Kneale – Acquisitions Officer: I have two daughters that have played rugby for the last 5 years or so, they have continued to thrive within the Leopard Teams and have gone from strength to strength. When the girls are having a good time, we, the parents, enjoy our time as well. Since the inception of the Leopards Club, we have had to start from scratch and acquiring equipment and goods for the girls has been a task that I have enjoyed. I aspire to have contacts in all walks of life to approach, and approach I will - for the better of the Club and the girls’ enjoyment. A Jack of all Trades you might say!!! Ian

Lucy McLuckie – Under 18’s Manager: I am 42 years old (I don’t believe it ed) and married to Alistair. I have 2 children who play rugby. I first got involved with the Leopards when my daughter, Laura, decided that – as well as all her other hobbies – she would like to play rugby. So, like most parents, I went along and supported the Leopards at matches and stood and watched them training. That was until this year when I was asked if I would like to help manage the U18s. I agreed as I thought that this would be my way of becoming more involved with the club and helping out where they needed someone.

Karl Thomas – U18s Coach: My daughter Emma joined the club last year having played a lot of Tag rugby. My employers, the Navy, are very good at letting me work in the community and I have coached Tag rugby to year 5 & 6 children in Saltash for 6 years or more. I used to play rugby and still play football (oh no, the round ball Ed). People sometimes say I’m a bit loud, but I don’t believe them! I am definitely passionate about everything I do and have updated my coaching and refereeing skills last year. I’m looking forward to seeing the U18s grow in skill and confidence this year.

Paul Henderson – Assistant Coach / Under 18’s Manager: Ann knew us because Val suffered from gestational diabetes and when years after Alicia’s birth Ann bumped into Val (at Waitrose!) they got talking and she realized that Alicia was old enough to play rugby so she was invited along; she has thoroughly enjoyed it since. I have been a spectator of rugby for several years so was happy for Alicia to pursue her desire. I haven't played since my school days but felt I needed to help where I could for the club in order for girls like Alicia to have somewhere to go. I'm not sure I'm coaching material (not true ed) but

my wish is to help those who are able by providing assistance with setting up of venues and supporting them with the teaching sessions. I'm still learning myself which is why I went to the referee’s course to gain an understanding of this aspect of the game. It was an eye opener and I'll always shout "Contextual refereeing" when given decisions appear to have no meaning. I still consider myself a student of the game even now, but hope to help others understand that all players of all abilities have a role to play.

Nick Ellery – Assistant U15s Coach: I have always loved rugby and enjoy supporting the twins (Amy and Sarah) playing. I’m best at helping out, whether it’s selling raffle tickets, putting up shelves or helping with the coaching (holding pads or tackle tackles!). To do this better, I got my rugby ready qualification last year.

Andy Stead – Assistant U15s Coach: It’s a case of ‘if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em’. I was a semi-professional Rugby League player and when Chloe started playing I realised that it was either rugby or me. I’ve updated my skills in safeguarding and and look forward to helping out this year.

Val Henderson – First Aider: I am married to Paul and have been involved with the Leopards for about 3 years, since my daughter Alicia was invited to play for the team. Since then I have helped out where I can. Last year I enrolled in the St John Ambulance Sports Injury First Aid course, so you can see me with the first aid kit!

Open Day 2011 New season, new players, renovations to the lock-up and Andy with his little black

(& pink) book!

Position Name Contacts E-mail Chairman & U15s Andy 01503 230292 & [email protected] Coach Demaine 07777 692416 Vice Chairman & Sarah 01208 72379 & [email protected] U15s Manager Kneale 07854 014010

Club Treasurer Chris 01579 348111 & [email protected] Redgrove 07770 372539 Club / Fixtures Ann 01503 230292 & [email protected] Secretary & U12s Demaine 07969 519890 Manager

Club Pathfinder Paul 01579 340142 & [email protected] Coordinator & U18s Woodhead 07534 158979 Coach Club Referee & Andy 01503 230292 & [email protected] Coach Coordinator Demaine 07777 692416 Child Safeguarding Rachel 01579 348111 [email protected] & Volunteer Officer Redgrove Acquisitions Officer Ian Kneale 01208 72379 & [email protected] 07854 014009

U18s Coach Karl 01752 849394 & [email protected] Thomas 07766 547960

U18s Manager Lucy 07929 128696 & [email protected] McLuckie 01579 321491 U18s Assistant Paul 01752 848509 & [email protected] Coach Henderson 07759 292496 U18s Assistant Andy Stead 07597 814051 [email protected] Coach

U15s Assistant Nick Ellery 01208 831433 & [email protected] Coach 07968 769893

Training Sessions All age groups train at the same time but in their respective age groups when doing any contact rugby. Training will be @ Liskeard, Looe or Bodmin School Pitches (as advised)

 Thursday 18.30 – 20.00  Sunday 13.00 – 14.30 (non-match days)

Match Days The fixture list is shown below; you will need to speak to your coaches about match day arrangements which WILL vary. However, most weeks the Kick Off will be at 2.00 pm. You will need to leave time to get to the match, get changed and warmed up beforehand.

Leopards Fixture List 2011-12

DATE (Sunday unless VENUE U15 U18 U13 EXTRAS noted) 28/08/2011 LEOPARDS Leopards training 04/09/2011 LEOPARDS Leopards training 11/09/2011 LEOPARDS Club Registration 18/09/2011 LEOPARDS Leopards training 25/09/2011 ST AUSTELL COUNTY TRIALS 02/10/2011 LEOPARDS Leopards / Launceston / N Dorset 09/10/2011 Leopards / Launceston / Exmouth / Newquay 16/10/2011 NORTH TAWTON DEVON V CORNWALL 23/10/2011 LEOPARDS Leopards training Half term 30/10/2011 EXETER Leopards / Sarries / Newquay 06/11/2011 ST AUSTELL CORNWALL V DORSET/WILTS 13/11/2011 LEOPARDS Leopards / Tavistock / Sarries 20/11/2011 FROME COUNTY TOURNAMENT 27/11/2011 NEWQUAY Leopards / N Dorset / Albion / Newquay 04/12/2011 festival festival 11/12/2011 LEOPARDS Leopards / Newquay / PA Oaks / Launceston 18/12/2011 CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS Training and Rest time 08/01/2012 15/01/2012 N DORSET Leopards / N Dorset / Taunton 22/01/2012 DIVISIONAL TRIALS 29/01/2012 LAUNCESTON Leopards / Launceston / N Dorset England Training 05/02/2012 TAVISTOCK Leopards / Tavistock / Launceston 6 Nations 12/02/2012 DIVISIONAL TRAINING 6 Nations Half term 19/02/2012 DIVISIONAL MATCH England Training 26/02/2012 ALBION Leopards / Newquay / PA Oaks / Albion ` 6 Nations 04/03/2012 festival festival England Training 11/03/2012 LEOPARDS Leopards / Exmouth / N Dorset 6 Nations 18/03/2012 MOTHERS DAY 6 Nations 25/03/2012 N DORSET DIVISIONAL TRAINING Leopards / N Dorset / Taunton 01/04/2012 DIVISIONAL MATCH 2nd- 13th Easter hols 08/04/2012 EASTER U20 Festival Easter hols 15/04/2012 ALBION Leopards / PA Oaks / N Dorset / Albion 22/04/2012 festival festival 29/04/2012 ? Worcester 7/10s ? Worcester 7/10s 06/05/2012 Local Tournaments / Fixture Local Tournaments / Fixture 12/13/05/2012 National 7's END of SEASON

Training will be at 1830 - 2000 on the Liskeard School Pitches every Thursday (unless told otherwise) Any changes will be posted on the website www.leopards.org.uk

Playing for the Club

Girls Teams Because of the great difference in player base compared to junior boys’ rugby, girls play in 3 age bands appropriate to their size, age and ability. Below you can see the player pathway open to girls of all ages.

U12/U13s: Girls who are in year 7 at school are still able to play mixed rugby with boys for one more year, but can also play with girls of their own age in an all girls’ team (as in our Club). We aim to have some U13s fixtures towards the end of this season involving Y7 and Y8 girls.

U15s: Girls in years 8, 9 and 10 play together in teams of 13 a-side. They can go on to play for the County and SW Division as well as at club level. Girls with special ability and potential may be selected for further development in Cornwall’s Schools of Rugby.

U18s: Girls in years 11, 12 and 13 comprise the U18s team who play full 15 a-side contact rugby. They can go on to play for county and division. At this age some girls may be picked out and invited to Talent Development Camps (TDCs) and can progress to England U20s (see chart below).

To Infinity and Beyond….

Playing for County: Quite early in the season you will see that there are Cornwall development and trials days for the U15s and U18s girls. This is an opportunity for those who have already played contact rugby to develop and improve. County Coaches will assess girls’ abilities (and potential!) over 4 hours of game centred coaching and select a squad to represent Cornwall. Training and matches are played before Christmas.

Playing for the Division: After the County season is over, some girls from the U15s and U18s squads who have played for Cornwall may be selected to trial for the South West Divisional Squads. Successful girls will be able to train and play matches at this higher level between January and then end of the season, culminating in a Divisional Tournament.

Playing Beyond Division: After the Divisional Season is over, the Divisional and England coaches involved in player development will recommend that some girls might benefit from further higher level coaching. For those who are U15, there is a ‘School of Rugby’ in each County akin to the boys’ development pathway. For girls who are U18s, some may be invited to continue a Talent Development Camp (TDC) at Divisional or even National level.

Keeping in Touch! Websites As the world becomes more technical, it is important that we find the right way to keep in touch with everyone. Because of this, it has been decided that we will have a closely monitored Face Book page with an Events page as well. As Safeguarding Officer, I know that we do have to be careful with the wonderful world of the web but we also have to keep up with the times. We have two websites one is www.leopards.org.uk; this is the most up to date, and the other is http://clubs.rfu.com

We will try our best to keep both Face Book and Leopards.org.uk up to date with all the latest information. Please keep a look out for any changes to matches, training etc. We will also be putting on details of events happening such as bag packing, quiz nights and other fundraising activities.

Mobile Phones & Email We prefer to be able to speak to a parent/guardian about fixtures, training, events etc. However, we do appreciate that young people like to keep in touch by email and text messaging. We will only keep in touch with the girls in this way if her parent/guardian specifically consents for us to do so. If you change your details please tell your team manager or one of the committee members. We need to keep the files up to date to make sure you don’t miss out on something important. Please do not put your number on Face book, this is open to abuse and could cause you problems.

To protect our children abuse of any kind will not be tolerated and will be subject to disciplinary action.

CATS Awards

Liskeard and Looe 2nd Annual CATS Awards

CATS ‘Community Action Through Sport’ promotes, recognises and rewards young people for positive community action with sports and healthy living rewards.

Awards range from Level 1 to Level 5. It is completely free to nominate a young person. We can nominate any young person up to the age of 19yrs who has been involved in at least 3hrs of community or school based volunteering. Young people must live in the local areas of Liskeard and Looe to be eligible.

Is there anyone you know within the club that deserves such an award? Perhaps someone who has been helping with coaching or with the running of the club! Maybe helping with fundraising, or keeping areas clean and tidy!

If you wish to suggest a young person nomination, then please get in touch with Anne Demaine or one of the committee and we will pass on the details.

Nominations need to be received by the beginning of October, so please pass on any information before that date. Many thanks.

Volunteers always welcome! Please speak to a Committee Member if you are interested in helping out

Leopards Policies

Safeguarding

At The Leopards we believe that taking part in our sport should be a positive and enjoyable part of children’s and young people’s lives. We want to make sure that they are protected and kept safe from neglect, physical, sexual and emotional harm while they are with the Club’s Coaches, helpers and volunteers.

To do this we have the following aims: . Coaches, Helpers and Committee members will be recruited/appointed in accordance with the procedures agreed by the Club . Coaches, Helpers and Committee members will have job descriptions agreed by the Club . There will be female as well as male Coaches and Helpers . Coaches will attend a RFU Coaching Course before they begin working with children and young people . Coaches will be qualified to the RFU Level 1 before they are allowed to be the Lead Coach of an age group where possible . The Leopards will actively encourage and help Coaches to stay up-to-date with rugby coaching and child safeguarding issues. Each Coach/Manager will attend the RFU Safeguarding Children and Young People in Rugby Workshop as soon as possible after starting in his/her role . Coaches and Helpers will be given a copy of the Club’s Code of Conduct for Coaches and Child Safeguarding Policy and be expected to keep to them at all times . Lead Coaches will keep written records of young people’s attendance, injuries and accidents . The Club will provide guidance on emergency procedures to Coaches, Helpers and Committee members . The Club will provide Coaches, Helpers and parents with a copy of the Club’s Child Safeguarding Policy and Coaches and Helpers with Procedures and Principles for dealing with accusations or suspicions of child abuse . As a Club, we will promote ‘fair play’ and always play within the spirit of the Laws of the Game and the letter of the Continuum . The Club will appoint Child Safeguarding Officer(s) qualified and whose role it is to deal with any concerns about physical, sexual or emotional abuse within the Club

Procedures

In accordance with the Child Safeguarding Policy of The Leopards RFC, the following procedures need to be understood and adhered to by all Coaches and Helpers.

Accusation or Suspicion of Child Abuse

If any of the following occurs, the individual becoming aware of an incident of allegation must contact either the Club Child Safeguarding Officer or the Club Chairperson:

. A child reports or is heard telling somebody else of an abusive incident . A Coach or Helper suspects that a child has been abused whilst not in the care of The Leopards RFC . A Coach or Helper suspects that a child has been abused by another Coach or Helper from either The Leopards RFC or, and opposition Club

. A Coach or Helper suspects that a child has been abused by another child from either The Leopards RFC or, opposition side

The Coach or Helper must not conduct his/her own enquiry or line of questioning into any incident as this could jeopardise any further professional investigation that may need to take place. The Coach or Helper’s duty is to report the incident either to the Child Safeguarding Officer or to the Club Chairperson immediately.

The Child Safeguarding Officer and the Club Chairperson will consider the allegations together and document all information obtained. If it is thought that the allegation has substance, then the relevant authorities will be contacted for advice and/or to investigate. The Child Safeguarding Officer and Club Chairperson will provide feedback to those concerned wherever possible. The CB (Cornwall RFU) Child Safeguarding Manager will be kept informed from the first report of the allegation as s/he is responsible for the CRFU’s Child Safeguarding Policy.

Recording Attendance, Injuries and Accidents

A log book will be provided for each age group which should be completed at each training session and matches. It should contain a record of the following:

. Attendance records . Details of any incident injuries, accidents, fights, arguments or anything which the Coaching team or Helper(s) feel(s) worthy of note.

In the case of injury or accident, the following procedures are a guide of what to do in an emergency:

. Send for emergency services immediately, if required . Do not move the player . Do not do anything you are not qualified to do for the player . Do not let any other person attend the player who you do not feel is qualified to do so. If you feel that another person may be able to help ask for their qualification and get them confirmed by others. You are in charge – it is your responsibility. . Stay with the player and reassure them that help is at hand. . Get the player to a qualified person if appropriate and is required. . Notify the parent or guardian. It is imperative that a parent or guardian is notified of any incident involving their child. This should be done, depending on the circumstances (i) immediately by telephone; (ii) after the training session/match at the ground or, (iii) after the training session/match by telephone. . Put a note of injuries or accidents in the Log Book. If the parent/guardian was contacted, add by whom and when. . If the incident was serious and the match was refereed by a Society Referee ask for the person to send you a copy of the Serious Incident Report. . Notify the Club Chairperson if the incident was serious

Recruiting & Appointing Volunteers Coaches, Helpers, Committee Members

All applicants for the above posts will be required to complete a Volunteer Expression of Interest Form as well as an Application/Consent Form for the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB). Any

applicant who is not prepared to complete these forms in their entirety will not be considered as a Coach, Helper or Committee Member.

The Club Chairperson and the Child Safeguarding Officer will vet all applications. All applicants will be asked to provide names and contact details of two referees. Written references will be sought from these individuals and checked by the Club Chairperson and Child Safeguarding Officer. Notes of these checks will be added to the back of the form (minimum information required include; date, person checked, contacting person, information gained and signature).

If there is any doubt about an applicant, it should be recommended that the application be refused. No feedback will be given to applicant apart from the fact that they have not been appointed as a Coach, Helper or Committee Member.

If there is any suspicion of previous crimes against children, the application should be referred to the Child Safeguarding Officer.

Availability of Player Information

Lead Coaches should have with them at all times (during training sessions and matches) the relevant information about each player to include (but not limited to):

. Surname . Forename . Date of birth . Parent/guardian telephone numbers . Any medical conditions

Equity Policy Statement

. The club is committed to ensuring that equity is incorporated across all aspects of its development. In doing so it acknowledges and adopts the following Sport England definition of sports equity:

. Sports equity is about fairness in sport, equality of access, recognising inequalities and taking steps to address them. It is about changing the culture and structure of sport to ensure it becomes equally accessible to everyone in society.

. The club respects the rights, dignity and worth of every person and will treat everyone equally within the context of their sport, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, ethnicity, religious belief, sexuality or social/economic status.

. The club is committed to everyone having the right to enjoy their sport in an environment free from threat of intimidation, harassment and abuse.

. All club members have a responsibility to oppose discriminatory behaviour and promote equality of opportunity.

. The club will deal with any incidence of discriminatory behaviour seriously, according to club disciplinary procedures.

Photographic Policy Photographic images including those taken by mobile phones RFU/W Best Practice Guidelines

The (RFU) and the Rugby Football Union for Women (RFUW) recognises that publicity and pictures of young people enjoying rugby are essential to promote the sport and a healthy lifestyle. To facilitate this it is therefore essential that the following principles and rules should be observed.

These Best Practice Guidelines have been developed to provide clubs, schools and Constituent Bodies with advice and guidance on the use of images of young people. It is recommended that this is adopted by clubs and Constituent Bodies and the eight golden rules outlined in these guidelines below are made available to as many people as possible. The whole policy is available at www.rfu.com.

Any change to these guidelines will be notified via the RFU/W website and in any relevant publications. Please remember that the safety and enjoyment of young people is paramount in all your activities and the Best Practice Guidelines have been designed to help in this.

The RFU/W is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for young people. Implicit in this is the commitment to ensure that all publications, resources and media represent participants appropriately and with due respect. By adopting the points outlined in these guidelines you will be putting in place the best possible practice to protect young people wherever photographs or recorded images are taken and stored.

The eight golden rules that will ensure compliance with the policy on photographic images are as follows:

THE EIGHT GOLDEN RULES 1 Ensure parents/guardians/young people have granted their consent for the taking and publication of photographic images and have signed and returned the Parent/Guardian and Young Person Permission form. It is strongly recommended that the relevant information is incorporated into the annual club registration form and will therefore only need to be completed once a year. 2 All young people must be appropriately dressed for the activity taking place. 3 Photography or recording should focus on the activity rather than a particular young person and personal details which might make a young person vulnerable, such as their exact address, must never be revealed. 4 Where an individual has achieved success in the game (eg when selected for representative Side or showing triumph over adversity) permission must be granted from parent/guardian and young person to use photographs/recordings and relevant details. 5 Where possible, to reflect the RFU/W Equity policy, photographs/recordings should represent the diverse range of young people participating in rugby. 6 Anyone taking photographs or recording at any rugby event must have a valid reason for doing so and seek the permission of the organisers/persons in charge 7 Anyone taking photographs or recording should make themselves known to the event organisers/persons in charge and be able to identify themselves if requested during the course of the event. 8 All concerns regarding inappropriate or intrusive photography should be reported in confidence to the RFU Child Safeguarding Officer via the Rugby Club, or Constituent Body Safeguarding Manager.

Health & Safety Policy Statements

This club is strongly committed to encouraging our members to train hard and compete, but the health, well-being and safety of each individual is always our paramount concern. Health & Safety Policy To support our Health & Safety policy statement we are committed to the following duties:  Undertake regular, recorded risk assessment of the club premises and all activities undertaken by the club  Create a safe environment by putting health & safety measures in place as identified by the assessment  Ensure that all members are given the appropriate level of training and competition by regularly assessing individual ability dependant on age, maturity and development  Ensure that all members are aware of, understand and follow the club’s health & safety policy  Appoint a competent club member to assist with health and safety responsibilities  Ensure that normal operating procedures and emergency operating procedures are in place and known by all members  Provide access to adequate first aid facilities, telephone and qualified first aider at all times  Report any injuries or accidents sustained during any club activity or whilst on the club premises  Ensure that the implementation of the policy is reviewed regularly and monitored for effectiveness.

As a Club Member You Have a Duty to  Take reasonable care for your own health & safety and that of others who may be affected by what you do or not do  Co-operate with the club on health & safety issues  Correctly use all equipment provided by the club  Not interfere with or misuse anything provided for your health, safety or welfare. Club Health & Safety Officer Andy Demaine First Aid Location of first aid facilities and telephones:  Lux Park Leisure Centre PL14 3DZ (01579 342544)  Liskeard Community School PL14 3EA (01579 342344)  Bodmin School & Community College PL31 1DD (01208 72114)  Saltash RFC, Moorlands Lane PL12 4HJ (01752 847227)  All teams will possess a basic first aid kit.

Qualified Club First Aiders Andy Demaine, Ann Demaine, Val Henderson, Alicia Henderson, Sarah Kneale

Leopards Codes of Conduct Code of Conduct for Players

The club is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all its members. The club believes that it is important that members, coaches, officials and parents/carers associated with the club should, at all times show respect, encouraged to be open at all times and to share any concerns or complaints that they may have about any aspect of the club.

As a member of The Leopards you are expected to abide by the following club rules

. Members must play within the RFU/W rules and respect the officials and their decisions. . Members must respect their opponents. . Members should keep to agreed timings for training and competitions or inform their coach or team manager if they are going to be late. . Members must wear suitable playing kit and boots with IRB recommended studs/blades. . The wearing of mouth guards is mandatory. . The wearing of scrum caps is strongly encouraged. . Members must pay their registration and other fees promptly. . Smoking is not permitted in the club environment or whilst representing the club at competitions. . Members are not allowed to consume alcohol or drugs of any kind in the club environment or whilst representing the club.

Code of Conduct for Club Officials and Volunteers

The essence of good ethical conduct and practice is summarised below. All club officials and volunteers must

. Consider the well-being and safety of participants before the development of performance. . Develop an appropriate working relationship with performers, based on mutual trust and respect. . Make sure all activities are appropriate to the age, ability and experience of those taking part. . Promote the positive aspects of the sport (such as fair play). . Display consistently high standards of behaviour and appearance. . Follow all guidelines laid down by the national governing body and the club. . Hold the appropriate, valid qualifications and insurance cover. . Never exert undue influence over performers to obtain personal benefit or reward. . Never condone rule violations, rough play or the use of prohibitive substances.

Code of Conduct for Parents/Carers

. Encourage your child to learn the rules and play within them. . Discourage unfair play and arguing with officials. . Help your child to recognise good performance, not just results. . Never force your child to take part in sport. . Set a good example by recognising fair play and applauding the good performances of all players. . Never punish or belittle a child for losing or making mistakes. . Publicly accept officials’ judgements. . Support your child’s involvement and help them to enjoy their sport. . Use correct and proper language at all times.

Volunteers Needed Rachel Redgrove (Club Volunteer Coordinator)

We always need volunteers, whether it’s for 1hr a week, 10hrs or just occasionally. We are one big rugby family and want to work together to make it a great club for parents, supporters and the girls. Feel free to invite friends and family members to come along; all help is welcome. If you have a talent, trade skill or just want to help out we would be grateful to hear from you. Catering, sale of raffle tickets, or help in training would be welcome. Courses are available and a number of parents are already qualified to assist. Part of my role is to make sure that no- one is pushed into doing more than they can manage so don’t worry! I have included some forms to be filled in and returned with the registration. I would be most grateful if you will complete them so as to give me an idea of the sort of talent available to call on.

Many Thanks Rachel Volunteers

1 hr a week are always = Selling Raffle welcome. Tickets or Making Please speak Coffee at Matches to a member of the committee 2- 3 hrs a week = Fundraising Committee 2 – 4 hrs a week = Coaching

Skills Audit Form (For Parents/Carers)

Name Date

Tel Email

1. What is your current occupation?

2. What expertise could you bring to the rugby club?

Skill/Competency/Knowledge Yes? Skill/Competency/Knowledge Yes? Administration  Human Resources/Training  Bar tending  Information Technology  Coaching  Legal  Catering  Management  Web design  Marketing  Shop assistance  Media/PR  Customer Care  Project Planning  Plumbing  Project Implementation  Finance/Accountancy  Refereeing  Fundraising  Strategic Planning  Governance  Painting & Decorating  Surveying  Other 

Are there any particular areas of the club in which you would like to be involved?

How much time do you feel able to give to the club each week?

Would you be willing to sponsor the club in any way?

Do you have any other comments?

Please Note – by becoming a ‘signed up’ member of the Club, all volunteers, players, parents/carers are automatically agreeing to adhere to the Club’s Codes of Conduct.

Please Note – Registration fees are due within 21 days of registering with the Club and are not refundable. If anyone has any difficulties in paying the fees within this time, please see your team manager or a member of the committee. How to Get to Places

Bodmin School Penzance-Newlyn (Pirates) RFC Bodmin College, Lostwithiel Road, Westholme, Alexandra Road, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1DD Penzance, TR18 4LY Tel: 01208 72114 Tel: 01726 64227

Cullompton RFC Plymouth Albion RFC Stafford Park, Knowle Lane, Plymouth Albion RFC, Brickfields, Cullompton, Devon EX15 1PZ 25 Damerel Close, Plymouth, PL1 4NE Tel: 01884 32480 Tel: 01752 565064

Exeter Saracens RFC Plymstock Albion Oaks Summer Lane, Whipton, Horsham Playing Fields, Exeter, EX4 8NT Staddiscombe, Plymouth PL9 0DF Tel: 01392 462651 Tel: 01752 872822

Exmouth RFC Albany RFC Imperial Recreation Ground 2, Station Hill, Redruth, Imperial Road, Exmouth, EX8 1DG Cornwall, TR15 2PP Tel: 01395 263665 Tel: 01209 216945

Kingsbridge RFC St Austell RFC High House,Kingsbridge, Tregorrick Lane, St Austell, Devon, TQ7 1JL. Cornwall, PL26 7AG Tel: 01548 852051 Tel: 01726 76300

Liskeard School Saltash RFC Liskeard School and Community Moorlands Lane, Saltash, College, Luxstowe, Cornwall, PL12 4HJ Liskeard, PL14 3EA Tel: 01752 847227 Tel: 01579 342344 Saltash School Launceston RFC Saltash.net Community School, Polson Bridge, Wearde Road, Saltash, Launceston, PL15 9QU Cornwall, PL12 4AY Tel: 01566 773406 Tel: 01752 843715

Newquay RFC Taunton RFC Whitegate Road, Hyde Park, Hyde Lane, Newquay, TR7 2SL Bathpool, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 8BU Tel: 01637875533 Tel: 01823 336363

Penryn RFC Tavistock RFC The Memorial Ground, Sandy Park, Trelawney Road, Kernick Road, Tavistock, PL19 0EW Penryn Tel: 01822 618275 Tel: 01326 372239

We are grateful to all our

sponsors

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