News & Information

ESBA Player & Parent Handbook

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Roles & Expectations
3. Training & Attendance
4. Tournament Participation
5. Code of Conduct
6. Health & Injury Management
7. Communication
8. Feedback & Support
9. Complaints Procedure
10. Expectations of Parents and Supporters
11. Fees, Tournaments and Merchandise
12. Contact details

1. Introduction

Welcome to the Eastern Southland Basketball Association (ESBA) Representative Programme. This handbook provides players and their families with important information to help you succeed and enjoy your basketball journey.

2. Roles & Expectations

The ESBA Representative Programme relies on clear roles and shared responsibility. Coaches and managers volunteer their time to support player development and team operations. The following outlines the expectations of coaches, managers, players, and parents to ensure a positive, respectful, and well-organised environment for all involved.

3. Training & Attendance

• All trainings will primarily be held at Archer Stadium, Avon Street, Gore. Training times will differ for each representative team and may be subject to change due to stadium or coach availability. Players will be notified of their team’s training schedule in advance.
• Players are expected to attend all training sessions and games and arrive on time.
• Players are expected to train with effort, commitment, and a positive team attitude.
• If injured, players may still be expected to attend training sessions to support the team and remain engaged, unless advised otherwise by a medical professional.
• Any absence or injury must be communicated to the coach or team manager as soon as possible.

4. Tournament Participation

• Players must be available for all tournaments relating to the selected ESBA representative team
• Players are to travel and stay together
• Be on time
• No phones and/or recording during team events
• Respect accommodation and facilities
• Wear uniform with pride
• Represent ESBA with integrity
• No alcohol or drugs

5. Code of Conduct

• Respect coaches, teammates, officials and opposition at all times.
• Demonstrate sportsmanship and a positive attitude.
• Follow team rules and instructions of team management and supervisors
• No use of phones during training or games unless approved.
• Look after myself and my personal belongings

• Players may be sent home at their parents/caregivers’ expense if:

-Their actions put them or others in danger

-Their actions are considered unacceptable by management

-If they breach the code of conduct

6. Health & Injury Management

• Players must disclose any injuries prior to trials or tournaments.
• All injuries must be reported to the coach and manager immediately.
• A player returning from injury may be asked to provide medical clearance.
• Modified training or return-to-play plans may be required based on injury severity.
• Injured players may still be expected to attend training sessions to stay connected with the team
• First aid is available at all ESBA events.

7. Communication

• Coaches and managers are the primary points of contact for players and families.
• Questions or concerns should be raised respectfully and through the appropriate channels.
• Team updates will be communicated via email or messaging apps as agreed.
• Communication regarding finances is via the ESBA secretary

8. Feedback & Support

• Players will receive constructive feedback on their performance.
• Support is available for any personal or basketball-related challenges.
• Families are encouraged to engage positively with the coaching staff.

9. Complaints Procedure

• Please use the 24-hour rule: wait 24 hours after an incident before raising concerns.
• Concerns should first be directed to the team manager.
• If unresolved, issues may be escalated to the ESBA Committee.
• All complaints will be handled respectfully and confidentially.

10. Expectations of Parents and Supporters

Parents and caregivers are an important part of our basketball community. To support a positive experience for all players, we ask that you:

• Support Positively
• Encourage effort, learning, and teamwork.
• Be a role model – show respect to players, referees, coaches, and other supporters.
• Focus on progress, development, and enjoyment — not just results.
• Raise Concerns Respectfully
• Wait 24 hours after a game or training before raising non-urgent concerns.
• Speak privately and respectfully with the coach or team manager first.
• If needed, contact ESBA through the correct channels.
• Respect Team Processes
• Get your child to games and trainings on time and prepared.
• Let coaches coach – avoid sideline instructions.
• Understand that team decisions are made with the whole group in mind.
• Team benches are for Coaches, managers and players only
• Be Inclusive and Supportive
• Always use respectful language and behaviour.
• Encourage fairness, fun, and a safe environment for everyone.

Fees:

All players will be invoiced directly for each tournament.  Please ensure payment is made by the due date. Player payment can be made directly to:  03-0915-02617430-00. Reference: Invoice number

ESBA is committed to supporting families and can offer flexible payment options if needed. If you'd like to discuss a payment plan, please get in touch with the ESBA Secretary. We're here to help make participation possible for everyone.

Merchandise:

ESBA apparel can be ordered via the ESBA secretary

ESBA Contact details