Governance Policies
Manly Warringah Softball Association is an affiliate association of the national peak body, Softball Australia (SA) and our state peak body, Softball NSW (SNSW). Therefore, by participating in our competitions, or representing MWSA during any activity held by or under the auspices of Softball Australia, a Member State (Softball NSW) or an affiliated association or club (MWSA), you are agreeing to abide by these guidelines, policies and codes of conduct.
Participation includes all MWSA activities and covers any aspect that associates MWSA with those activities. For example:
- Matches, training, and pre/post-game periods for regular seasonal competitions and for events sanctioned or supported by MWSA
- In areas including dugouts, spectator areas, and car parks where the MWSA activity is being conducted
- Any communications and social media interactions where there is a connection to MWSA
Failure to abide by these can result in disciplinary action by the MWSA Committee.
These resources, policies and guidelines are not only about compliance — they are about protecting the spirit of the game, supporting everyone involved and ensuring softball remains an enjoyable and respectful place for us all.
Where should I go?
We've included a simple guide below to help everyone understand where to direct feedback, questions, concerns and incidents.
| What would you like to report or raise? |
Who / where to report or raise |
| General feedback, suggestions or ideas |
MWSA Committee Member or MWSA. Feedback is welcome anytime. |
| Competition or game-day questions and concerns |
Your Club Officials in the first instance. If escalation is required, your Club President will raise the matter with MWSA. |
| An incident, including an injury, inappropriate behaviour or conduct |
Complete the MWSA Incident Reporting Form as soon as possible, ideally on the day the incident occurs. You can also notify an MWSA Committee Member or Key Official in person at the time, but this must be followed up in writing using the Incident Reporting Form. |
| A child safeguarding concern |
Immediately notify an MWSA Committee Member or Key Official, including the MWSA Integrity Officer. Where appropriate, also complete an MWSA Incident Reporting Form. If unsure as to the appropriate action, seek guidance from the Integrity Officer. |
| A concern about how MWSA has handled a matter |
Contact the MWSA Integrity Officer who provides an independent and impartial avenue for raising concerns. |
| A question or concern related to umpiring |
Contact the MWSA Umpire-in-Chief who can provide guidance and help address matters constructively. Where a concern involves inappropriate behaviour, abuse or another reportable incident, it should also be reported through the MWSA Incident Reporting Form. |
Our Code of Conduct sets out what we're about at MWSA – being respectful, positive, playing fair, looking after our juniors and taking responsibility for our behaviour.
Softball NSW website provides links to the Softball Australia general Code of Conduct, as well as specific requirements for the roles of Administrators, Coaches, Officials, Parents / Guardians, Spectators and Players. These are available on the Softball NSW website at https://www.nsw.softball.org.au/resources/codes-of-conduct
Link to MWSA Safeguarding Statement- Keeping Children and Young People Safe
Our Safeguarding Statement reinforces our commitment to keeping children and young people safe, supported and included. Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, and it includes looking after our junior players and umpires.
When it comes to sport integrity, it is critical for everyone involved in sport, from grassroots to elite level athletes, parents, teachers, coaches, sport administration staff and support personnel, to be aware of their rights and responsibilities. There are a range of tools and resources available to help keep everyone informed. These are available on the Softball Australia website at https://www.softball.org.au/integrity/integrity-and-policies
Our Incident Response Process explains how MWSA assesses and responds to reported incidents, including the principles of fairness, confidentiality and appropriate action.
On the Softball Australia website at https://www.softball.org.au/resources-/policies-guidelines you will find the policies, guidelines and codes of conduct that govern the administration and delivery of softball across Australia.
These documents support safe, fair, inclusive, and effective participation in our sport and provide guidance for athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, clubs, associations, and member organisations. We encourage all members of the softball community to review these resources and stay informed of their responsibilities and obligations.
Together, these policies help ensure softball remains a sport that is welcoming, respectful, and accessible for everyone.
