As a coach of the Ocean Grove Breakers, you are a representative of our club and play a vital role in shaping the experiences of our players. All coaches are expected to lead with integrity, respect, and a strong commitment to the development and wellbeing of every player.
Your actions, without knowing, could affect the club’s important relationships with associations, other clubs, sponsors, community and even local government. These guidelines describe the appropriate conduct so your impact remains positive.
Promote and uphold the values of the Ocean Grove Breakers: respect, inclusivity, development, and community.
Provide a safe, positive, and encouraging environment for all players.
Treat all players, officials, parents, and opposition teams with respect and fairness.
Be a role model in conduct, language, and sportsmanship.
Prioritise player development and enjoyment over winning at all costs.
Follow all club policies, procedures, and child safety standards.
Promote equal opportunities and playing time in alignment with the club's development philosophy.
Be punctual, prepared, and organised for all training sessions and games.
Communicate clearly and respectfully with players and parents.
Continuously work to improve your own coaching knowledge and practices.
Avoid overtraining and ensure players are not placed at risk of injury or burnout.
Provide constructive feedback that supports player growth and confidence.
All players should be given fair and reasonable court time, particularly in junior age groups, in line with the club’s development-first approach.
The emphasis should be on participation, learning, and enjoyment, not just performance.
Clear communication around court time expectations should be maintained with parents and players throughout the season.
Division One teams may apply a more performance-based approach to court time, where appropriate, based on the overall ability and competitiveness of the team. This should be communicated transparently and respectfully to players and families at the start of the season.
COACHES TIP: Use the first 3 quarters to ensure all players have relatively equal court time and then then apply a more performance-based approach in the final quarter if required. This should be balanced out during games with larger margins.
Refer to the Player Movement Guidelines for more details:
All player recruitment or movement between teams or age groups must be parent-led.
Coaches must not approach players directly or indirectly to change teams or move clubs.
Any request regarding player movement must be submitted to and approved by the club committee.
The club will review requests based on fairness, player wellbeing, and the overall impact on team structures and the competition.
Breaches of this process may result in disciplinary action or removal from a coaching role.
Support and encourage other coaches, referees, and club officials.
Maintain open and honest communication with club leadership.
Adhere to decisions made by the committee in the best interest of the club and its members.
Participate in club events, meetings, and training opportunities where possible.
Always work within the guidelines of child safety legislation and club policies.
Ensure appropriate boundaries are maintained at all times.
Immediately report any concerns or incidents to the Club Child Safety Officer or Committee.
"Zone" defence is not permitted by Basketball Victoria for Under 14 or younger teams. Coaches should not assume you know what a “zone” defence is as the definition has changed significantly. We strongly encourage coaches to watch the “No Zone” video below -
to ensure you don’t forfeit any games for illegal defence (ignorance is not an excuse)
so you can recognise when opponents are using illegal defence (could be difference between making finals)
because it demonstrates some excellent (legal) defence too
Basketball Victoria No Zone Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdpBQ23mIVk