State Championships
Over the weekend, we had many Waverley College students involved in the Junior Rugby Union State Championships. While leaving the Blue and Gold jersey at home for the weekend, those players involved played for a range of club sides and travelled to venues ranging from Orange to Concord. Congratulations to all players involved and thanks to all the parents who supported a great weekend of junior rugby.
I would also like to congratulate our students who were involved in refereeing over the weekend. Special mention to Daniel Andrews who was given the duties of refereeing the Under 14s Grand Final and Sam Jagoe-Fisher who was rewarded by being appointed AR1 (reserve referee) in the Under 13s Grand Final. We are very grateful for the time that referees dedicate to rugby to ensure each match can go ahead. This means we can continue to gain some wonderful memories on the playing field.
CAS Round 1 Vs Knox Grammar School
This weekend sees the commencement of the CAS competition. We face an extremely tough challenge first up as we play against Knox Grammar School. Knox were the joint premiers of the Henry Plume Shield in 2016 with Waverley, and will definitely send out some quality teams which we will need to be prepared for. Our 13s, 16s and Opens will be travelling up to Wahroonga, while our 14s and 15s get to start off the CAS at our home ground, Queens Park.
As the preparations over the last two weeks have been significantly impacted due to the wet weather and the field closures, I encourage all players to arrive at least 45 minutes prior to kick off. This will not only allow for a thorough warm up, but give coaches some extra face-to-face time with teams ahead of the match. For those playing up at Knox, traffic can be harsh on a Saturday morning so please give yourself plenty of time.
CAS Code of Conduct
As it is the opening round of competition, I anticipate that there will be a great deal of anxiety, excitement and emotion in this fixture. It is important that all players, coaches and supporters maintain a “Blue Head” (i.e. keep calm) at all times when playing or supporting each game. It is extremely important that all involved remain composed, respect opposition players/supporters and officials at all times, and applaud the positive elements of the game. Please take note of the CAS Code of Conduct ahead of the weekend:
PLAYERS
- Play by the rules and in a spirit of good sportsmanship
- Play for the “fun of it” and not just to please parents and coaches.
- Control your temper. Verbal abuse of officials or other players, deliberately fouling or provoking an opponent, and throwing equipment are not acceptable nor permitted in any sport.
- Work hard both for yourself and your team. Your team’s performance will benefit, so will you.
- Treat all players as you would like to be treated. Do not interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of another player.
- Co-operate with your coach, team mates and opponents. Without them there would be no game.
In the event of a player, or athlete being sent-off during a CAS fixture, it is the responsibility of that boy’s Headmaster at his discretion to determine the penalty. It is generally understood among Headmasters, however, that the boy will serve at least one week’s suspension from participating in the CAS competition.
PARENTS
- Focus upon the boy’s efforts and performance rather than the overall outcome of the game. This assists the boy in setting realistic goals related to his ability by reducing emphasis on winning.
- Teach your son that an honest effort is as important as victory, so that the result of the game is accepted without undue disappointment.
- Encourage your son to always play according to the rules of the game.
- Never ridicule or yell at your son or another boy for making a mistake or losing a game.
- Remember boys are involved in organised sports for their benefit and enjoyment, not yours.
- Remember children learn best from example. Applaud good play by both teams.
- If you disagree with an official, raise the issue through the appropriate channels rather than question the official’s judgement and honesty in public. Remember most officials give their time and effort voluntarily for your son’s benefit.
- Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities.
- Recognise the value and importance of coaches. They give their time and resources to provide recreational activities for your son and other boys and deserve your support.
SPECTATORS
- We encourage boys to support their school teams and to be dressed in the school’s uniform while doing so.
- We expect barracking to be enthusiastic, but not to be fanatical or designed to heckle, belittle or disturb the opponents. For example, barracking, for or against, during a kick at goal is always bad sportsmanship. Boys should be encouraged to barrack for their school rather than for an individual team member. Booing, whistling, playing or beating musical instruments are in bad taste and wholly unacceptable.
- Vocal support for any team should never encourage violence or rough or illegal play.
Encroaching onto the field of play, the shouting out of suggestions for players, referees or umpires to hear are not allowed. - It is never acceptable to express disapproval of a referee’s or umpire’s decision – no matter whether the referee be adult or schoolboy.
- There is a complete ban on all alcoholic drinks at grounds where games between Associated Schools’ teams are being played.
- We expect our players to be modest in success and generous in defeat, not showing in either case undue emotion. Good play, by your own school and by the opposing school, should be applauded willingly and openly.
- At all times, spectators should leave the area tidy and free of rubbish when they leave.
We look to adults (parents, old boys and other spectators) to set an example by their self-control at matches.
Good luck to all teams in CAS Round 1! I hope all players put their best efforts in this weekend and ensure they can get the CAS season off to a flying start for the Waves!
WAVERLEY TO WIN!
