Dear Members,
The recent Frankston Blues representative try-outs should be a time of excitement, opportunity and encouragement for the many young athletes who aspire to represent our association. For the overwhelming majority of attendees, this was exactly the case, and I would like to thank the players, coaches, selectors, volunteers, and families who conducted themselves in a respectful and supportive manner throughout the process.
Unfortunately, a small minority of individuals displayed behaviour that was completely unacceptable and inconsistent with the values of the Frankston & District Basketball Association (FDBA). This included instances of intimidation, bullying and threatening behaviour directed towards FDBA staff and representatives who were simply carrying out their responsibilities as part of the selection process.
Let me be absolutely clear: this behaviour has no place at the FDBA.
Our association is built on the principles of respect, integrity, sportsmanship, inclusion, and community. These values underpin everything we do, from our junior programs through to our representative pathways. The conduct displayed by a small number of individuals was in direct conflict with these principles and with the FDBA Code of Conduct, which all members, participants and spectators are expected to uphold.
Representative team selection is never easy. It is a highly competitive process and, by its nature, can lead to disappointment for some players and families. While we understand and respect the emotions that can accompany selection outcomes, there is never any justification for bullying, abuse, intimidation or threatening behaviour towards staff, coaches, selectors, volunteers, or other members of our basketball community.
The FDBA also reminds members that these expectations extend beyond our stadiums and venues. The use of social media, online forums, messaging platforms or any other digital channels to bully, harass, intimidate, or threaten staff, volunteers, coaches, selectors, or members of our community will not be tolerated. Individuals should not expect that behaviour conducted online will be treated any differently to behaviour conducted in person. Any such conduct will be considered a breach of the FDBA Code of Conduct and may result in disciplinary action.
Our staff and volunteers dedicate countless hours to creating opportunities for players and supporting the growth of basketball across our region. They deserve to be treated with dignity, courtesy and respect at all times. No individual should be subjected to bullying, harassment, intimidation, or threats while undertaking their role on behalf of the association.
The FDBA takes these incidents extremely seriously. Behaviour of this nature undermines the positive culture we strive to create and sets a poor example for the young athletes who look to adults within our community as role models. The incidents that occurred will be reviewed and addressed in accordance with our policies and disciplinary processes. Where breaches of our Code of Conduct are identified, appropriate action will be taken.
As an association, we remain committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for everyone involved in our sport. We ask all members and families to support us in maintaining these standards and in demonstrating the respect, sportsmanship and community values that define the Frankston & District Basketball Association.
The actions of a small minority should not detract from what was otherwise a well-conducted try-out process or from the many families, players and volunteers who continue to make positive contributions to our basketball community. Thank you to everyone who upholds the standards and values that make FDBA an association we can all be proud of.
Kind regards,
Tim Bower
President
Frankston & District Basketball Association