Please note that any coaching or supervision of activities involving children (<18) on the Club’s premises is strictly prohibited without the Club’s prior written approval and would require, at a minimum, a Tennis Ireland Level 1 Coaching qualification including vetting through An Garda Síochána’s National Vetting Bureau, and appropriate personal references. There can be no exceptions to these requirements.
Carrick-on-Shannon Tennis Club is committed to safeguarding children, and by working under the guidance of Tennis Ireland Safeguarding Policies our members, coaching team and volunteer helpers working with our young players seek to create a safe environment for young people to grow and develop within the sport. The following set of principles should be adhered to:
- Importance of childhood – The importance of childhood should be understood and valued by everyone involved in tennis.
- Needs of the child – All children’s sport experiences should be guided by what is best for children. This means that adults should have a basic understanding of the emotional, physical and personal needs of young people.
- Integrity in relationships – Adults interacting with children in tennis are in a position of trust and influence. They should always ensure that children are treated with integrity and respect, and the self-esteem of young people is enhanced.
- Fair Play – All children’s sport should be conducted in an atmosphere of fair play. The principles of fair play should always be emphasised, and organisers should give clear guidelines regarding acceptable standards of behaviour.
- Quality atmosphere & ethos – Children’s sport should be conducted in a safe, positive and encouraging atmosphere.
- Competition – Competition is an essential element of tennis and should be encouraged in an age and level appropriate manner. A child centred ethos will help to ensure that competition and specialisation are kept in their appropriate place.
- Equality – All children should be valued and treated in an equitable and fair manner regardless of ability, age, gender, religion, social and ethnic background or political persuasion.
