Water Polo South Australia (WPSA)

Winter Water Polo Event – Player Terms and Conditions

Recreational Activity Risk Warning, Acknowledgement, Waiver and Release

1. DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of this document:

• WPSA means Water Polo South Australia Incorporated.
• Event refers to the WPSA 8-week Winter Water Polo Event commencing June 10.
• Recreational Activities include participation in this Event, including matches, warm-ups, training, and any associated aquatic or physical activities.
• Participant means any individual registered to play in the Event, including those placed into teams via individual registration.

2. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISK

Participation in this Event involves inherent and significant risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, or death.

These risks include:

• Physical contact inherent in water polo
• Participation in a modified format involving teams of up to 7 players, with 5 players in the water at a time
• Risks associated with aquatic environments, including drowning, collision, fatigue, and slipping
• Physical exertion and environmental conditions
• Equipment failure or misuse
• Actions of other participants, officials, or spectators
• Limited supervision in a dynamic game environment

The Participant acknowledges that such risks cannot be entirely eliminated and accepts that participation is voluntary and undertaken at their own risk.

3. FITNESS TO PARTICIPATE & MEDICAL DISCLOSURE

The Participant warrants that they:

• Are medically and physically fit to participate in the Event
• Have disclosed any relevant medical conditions, injuries, or allergies
• Will not participate if unwell or posing a risk to others

WPSA reserves the right to refuse or limit participation where a safety concern exists.

4. TEAM ALLOCATION (INDIVIDUAL REGISTRATION)

By registering as an individual:

• The Participant understands they will be allocated to a team by WPSA
• WPSA will aim to:
  • Place participants with players from their club where possible
  • Consider teammate preferences where submitted
• The Participant acknowledges that final team placement is at the discretion of WPSA to ensure balanced teams and maximum participation

5. COMPLIANCE WITH POLICIES

Participation is conditional on compliance with:

• Water Polo Australia National Integrity Framework
• WPA Code of Conduct
• Safeguarding and Member Protection Policies
• Anti-Doping Policies
• Event rules and modified format regulations

Breaches may result in removal from the Event.

6. RISK WARNING UNDER LEGISLATION

This document constitutes a risk warning under:

• Civil Liability Act 1936 (SA)
• Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth)

The Participant acknowledges the obvious and inherent risks associated with water polo and recreational sport.

7. EXCLUSION, WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Participant (and/or parent/guardian):

• Releases WPSA and its representatives from liability arising from participation
• Waives any claim for:
  • Injury, illness, or death
  • Aggravation of pre-existing conditions
  • Loss or damage (including economic loss)

This applies whether caused by negligence or otherwise.

8. CODE OF BEHAVIOUR

WPSA enforces zero tolerance for:

• Bullying, harassment, or abuse
• Discrimination
• Unsportsmanlike conduct
• Violence or misconduct

WPSA may remove or suspend any individual who breaches these standards.

9. EVENT STRUCTURE & CHANGES

The Participant acknowledges:

• The Event runs for 8 weeks, with a scheduled break during school holidays
• Matches follow a modified format (5 players in the water, teams of up to 7)
• WPSA may adjust schedules, venues, or format as required
• Sessions may be postponed or cancelled due to weather, safety, or operational needs

10. REFUND AND CANCELLATION POLICY

• Fees are generally non-refundable for non-attendance
• Credits or alternatives may be offered at WPSA’s discretion
• No guarantee of make-up games for missed sessions

11. MEDIA AND IMAGE CONSENT

WPSA may photograph or film the Event for:

• Promotion
• Reporting
• Development of the sport

By participating, the Participant consents to this use unless otherwise advised in writing at registration.

12. MEDICAL TREATMENT

The Participant (or parent/guardian):

• Consents to first aid being administered
• Authorises emergency medical treatment if required
• Accepts responsibility for associated costs

13. GOVERNING LAW

This agreement is governed by the laws of South Australia.

14. ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS

By registering for or participating in the Event, the Participant (and/or parent/guardian):

• Confirms they have read and understood these Terms and Conditions
• Agrees to be bound by them
• Acknowledges acceptance is a condition of participation