Hello All SVCC colleagues
I am circulating the letter below from Hertfordshire Cricket as it is a very important matter.
I am sure that SVCC have not shown the poor behaviour the letter refers to, but I want to stress that SVCC believe we have a crucial role in providing healthy exercise, good social engagement, and a proper environment to help turn youngsters into fine young adults. As such, we will not tolerate any inappropriate behaviour by players or our supporters.....
To all players, coaches, umpires, parents, club officials and administrators,
As the current season progresses, Hertfordshire Cricket feels it necessary to address, once again, the ongoing issue of poor behaviour in matches across the county.
Despite previous communications, we continue to receive an unacceptable number of reports involving conduct that falls well below the standards expected within our game. The frequency and nature of these incidents remain deeply concerning and cannot be allowed to continue.
Of particular concern is that much of this behaviour is taking place in the presence of young players. This is wholly unacceptable. Every individual involved in cricket has a clear responsibility to set a positive example and to help create an environment that is safe, respectful and inclusive. This is not optional; it is a fundamental expectation, underpinned by both safeguarding responsibilities and the values of the game.
Parents place their trust in clubs and the wider cricketing community when their children participate in open-age cricket. That trust must not be compromised. All players, without exception, are entitled to be treated with respect, dignity and professionalism.
We are therefore unequivocal: foul or abusive language, aggressive sledging, intimidation, dissent and any form of unsporting behaviour will not be tolerated. Such actions are contrary to the Spirit of Cricket and damage the reputation of the game across Hertfordshire.
Captains and club officials are reminded that they are responsible for the conduct and safeguarding of their players and members. This responsibility extends both on and off the field. Clubs are expected to take ownership of behaviour standards within their teams and to act where those standards are not met.
We also wish to make clear the impact this is having on the volunteers who sustain recreational cricket. Umpires, scorers, administrators and club volunteers should not be subjected to poor behaviour or abuse. The continued loss of valued individuals due to these pressures is a matter of serious concern, and it is entirely preventable.
Hertfordshire Cricket will not hesitate to take appropriate action where standards are not upheld. This includes working with leagues and regulatory bodies to ensure that disciplinary and safeguarding processes are applied consistently and, where necessary, strengthened.
We are calling on everyone involved in the game, players, officials, volunteers and spectators, to take immediate responsibility for their behaviour and to challenge poor conduct when they see it.
If you have any safeguarding concerns arising from behaviour on or around the cricket field, please report them promptly to your Club Safeguarding Officer or if not available to the County Safeguarding Officer. Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, and concerns should never be ignored or left unreported.
The standards expected are clear. The responsibility is shared. The time for improvement is now.
If your club requires support in addressing these issues, we are available to assist. However, accountability rests with every individual and every club.
Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your commitment to protecting the integrity, reputation and future of cricket in Hertfordshire.
This email has been sent to the Club Chairman and Club Secretary of all Clubs affiliated to Hertfordshire County Cricket Association, please feel free to circulate to your players and members.
Julie Page Dominic Chatfield
County Safeguarding Officer Head of Participation
Hertfordshire Cricket Ltd Hertfordshire Cricket Ltd
Correspondence Address: Hertfordshire Cricket Limited, PO Box 610, Welwyn Garden City, Herts AL7 9QR
Hertfordshire Cricket Limited is a company registered in England & Wales. Registered number: 6538669.