Lawn bowls is a sport built on respect, fairness, and community spirit. As participants, it’s essential to uphold these values by adhering to Bowls Alberta’s Code of Conduct & Ethics and the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS). These principles are more than just rules—they are the foundation of a safe and welcoming environment for all. Here’s how you can play your part in maintaining these standards.
1. Know the Guidelines
The first step is to thoroughly understand the Code of Conduct & Ethics and the UCCMS. These documents outline the expectations for behavior within our sport. It’s important to stay informed about these guidelines and any updates, ensuring that your actions reflect the principles of fairness and integrity.
2. Show Respect
Respect is at the heart of lawn bowls. This means treating everyone—whether they are fellow players, officials, or spectators—with dignity and fairness. It’s crucial to engage in the sport with integrity, avoiding any actions that might compromise the spirit of fair play.
3. Ensure a Safe Environment
Maintaining a safe environment is crucial, and it involves two key responsibilities: Preventing Harassment and Abuse and Promoting Inclusivity.
Preventing Harassment and Abuse: Every participant deserves to feel safe while engaging in lawn bowls. There is zero tolerance for any form of harassment, bullying, or abuse—whether physical, emotional, or psychological. Such behaviors undermine the core values of our sport and can cause lasting harm to those involved.
As members of the lawn bowls community, it’s our duty to be aware of these issues and to take action when necessary. Recognize the signs of harassment and abuse, and be prepared to step in or report incidents through the appropriate channels. Ensuring a safe environment is a collective responsibility.
Promoting Inclusivity: Creating an inclusive atmosphere is essential for the growth and enjoyment of lawn bowls. Everyone, regardless of background, gender, age, or experience, should feel welcome and valued. This involves being mindful of our words and actions, ensuring they are inclusive and supportive.
Inclusivity also means advocating for equal opportunities within our clubs and making sure that everyone has a chance to participate fully. By fostering a welcoming environment, we strengthen the sense of community that makes lawn bowls special.
4. Practice Ethical Conduct
Ethical behavior is a cornerstone of our sport. Acting with integrity in all interactions—both on and off the green—builds trust and respect. Being accountable means acknowledging mistakes, learning from them, and making the necessary corrections.
5. Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is key to maintaining a positive environment. Using constructive and supportive language helps build a strong, cohesive community. Additionally, if you witness or experience unethical behavior, it’s important to report it so that it can be addressed promptly and fairly.
6. Follow Safe Sport Practices
Safe sport practices extend beyond avoiding negative behaviors. They also involve respecting others’ privacy and obtaining proper consent before sharing videos or photos. Avoiding conflicts of interest is another important aspect, ensuring that decisions and actions are fair and unbiased.
7. Foster a Positive Culture
Each of us has the power to influence the culture of our sport. By leading by example and supporting our teammates, we contribute to a positive and respectful environment. This not only benefits us as individuals but also strengthens the entire community.
8. Commit to Continuous Learning
Finally, ongoing education is vital. Participating in workshops, training sessions, or seeking clarification when needed helps us stay aligned with best practices. Continuous learning ensures that we are always contributing positively to the sport.
Conclusion
By following Bowls Alberta’s Code of Conduct & Ethics and the UCCMS, we can all contribute to a lawn bowling community that is safe, respectful, and inclusive. These standards are not just guidelines—they are the principles that ensure our sport remains enjoyable and welcoming for everyone. Let’s commit to upholding them for the good of the game and the well-being of all participants.