Please remember that everyone who is coaching, serving behind the bar, helping in the kitchen and performing administration duties does so voluntarily. They give their time, energy and lots of enthusiasm willingly. They do not, however, provide a baby sitting service. You are EXPECTED to stay and watch your child participate. If for any reason you are unable to stay you MUST let your age group manager and/or coach know which adult has agreed to be responsible for your child.

Each age group is responsible for running the club on 3 or 4 Sundays each season. You are EXPECTED to help on these occasions. There will also be requirements for maintenance of the clubhouse and it is expected that you give up some of your time to help even it is only to wield a Paint Brush.

Harrow Rugby Club operates an inclusive policy for all those who wish to join the club and play rugby. Every coach is aware of the clubs policy and will try to ensure that all Boys and Girls are given equal opportunity in both training and matches. There are times, however when this is not possible. In the Mini section when Festivals are played team sizes will normally be restricted. Coaches will pick teams in an attempt to do as well as possible at the festival. In the Youth section coaches will pick, what they consider to be, their best team for League Games. Please be supportive of the coaches at these times as they do not enjoy having to let any one down.

Harrow Rugby Club is aware of the issues relating to Child Welfare and has issued a policy that is endorsed by the whole club. Child welfare relates to all boys and Girls under the age of 18. Copies of the Policy are available. Just ask your Team Manager. If you have any issues relating to the welfare of your child please speak to the Chairman of your section.

Harrow Rugby Club can only continue to thrive with the help of all of you. As well as Coaches and Managers the club always needs volunteers to help behind the bar and in the Kitchen. The club will help to support any one who wishes to train as a Coach. We would like to try and ensure that each age group has at least 3 people who have achieved at least the minimum standards as defined by the RFU. The more coaches at each age group the more improvement we can make with the boys and girls.

Please be aware that the club will only continue to welcome your child if you fulfil your responsibilities.

THE GOOD PARENTS CODE

PARENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO:
-Be familiar with the coaching and training programme in order that you can ensure that your child is fully involved and the coaches are aware of their availability.
-Be familiar with the teaching and coaching methods used by observing the sessions in which your child participates.
-Be aware that the club has a duty of care and therefore, where appropriate, assist coaches with the supervision of the young players, particularly where numbers are large and there is a need to transport youngsters to away games.
-Be involved with club activities and share your expertise.
-Share concerns, if you have them, with club officials.
-Be familiar with the Good Coaches Code. In particular:
Coaches should recognise the importance of fun and enjoyment when coaching young players.
Coaches should keep winning and losing in perspective, encouraging young players to behave with dignity in all circumstances.
It is important that parents support coaches in instilling these virtues.

PARENTS SHOULD:
-Remember that young people play rugby for their own enjoyment not that of their parents.
-Encourage young people to play - do not force them.
-Focus on the young players efforts, rather than winning or losing.
-Be realistic about the young players abilities; do not push them towards a level that they are not capable of achieving.
-Provide positive verbal feedback both in training and during the game.
-Remember that persistent, negative messages will adversely affect the players and referees performance and attitude.
-Always support the rugby club in their efforts to eradicate loud, coarse and abusive behaviour from the game.
Remember young people learn much by example.
-Always show appreciation of good play by all young players both from your own club and the opposition.
-Respect decisions made by the match officials and encourage the young players to do likewise.