BRISBANE WOMEN’S HOCKEY ASSOCIATION INC

Purpose

This policy provides guidelines and procedures for all appointed BWHA Technical Representatives.

Scope

Applies to all members selected as BWHA Technical Officials for a Hockey Queensland (HQ) State Championship.

Definitions

Policy Statement

The Brisbane Women’s Hockey Association Inc (BWHA) is committed to providing opportunities for all interested officials to represent BWHA at HQ State Championships. BWHA acknowledges its unique position and responsibility to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all members. The association will comply with relevant legislation and regulations, strive for best practices, and provide equitable opportunities. This policy will be available on the BWHA website, and both staff and members are encouraged to contribute ideas or suggestions to improve it.

Responsibility

The Umpire and Technical Committee (UTC) is designated as the Technical Representative Policy Coordinator. The UTC is responsible for ensuring the ongoing implementation and compliance of this policy. The policy will be reviewed annually.

Related Procedures

See attached procedures.

BRISBANE WOMEN’S HOCKEY ASSOCIATION INC

TECHNICAL REPRESENTATIVE PROCEDURE

BWHA Selection Process:

1. Nominations:
   1.1 Nominations must be submitted using the nomination form and by the specified due date.
   1.2 The BWHA Office will compile a list of nominations for each tournament and forward it to the UTC for appointment recommendations. These will then be reviewed and ratified by the Board.
   1.3 Appointed TOs will be notified by the BWHA Office, who will also forward newsletters and other relevant information.
   1.4 If insufficient or appropriately skilled nominations are received, the UTC will source additional candidates.
   1.5 Nominees will be selected based on their potential to achieve the next level of accreditation, either HQ or HA.

BWHA Expectations:

2. Code of Conduct and Behavior:
   2.1 TOs are expected to uphold the BWHA code of conduct and represent the Association in a positive manner at all times.
   2.2 If a TO behaves in a derogatory manner while representing BWHA, they may be required to attend a BWHA judiciary hearing.
   2.3 TOs are expected to participate in the true spirit of sportsmanship.
   2.4 TOs under the age of 18 are strictly prohibited from drinking alcohol, smoking tobacco, or vaping, and must adhere to curfew times as provided by BWHA.
   2.5 TOs over the age of 18 are expected to monitor their consumption of alcohol, smoking, and vaping.
   2.6 BWHA supports the Hockey Queensland Anti-Doping Policy.
   2.7 The use of recreational drugs or prohibited methods, as per Anti-Doping laws, is strictly prohibited.
   2.8 TOs are responsible for managing their personal needs, such as washing uniforms, during the tour.

HQ Expectations:

3. Approach to Assessment:
   3.1 Approach the assessment process with a positive attitude.
   3.2 Be aware of your current accreditation level.
   3.3 Engage with HQ Technical Assessors and/or the Technical Manager, take notes on feedback, and use it to improve your performance as a TO.
   3.4 Be prepared and enthusiastic for each assignment.

The TO Shall:

4.1 Liaise with the BWHA Office to ensure transport arrangements to and from the HQ Championship are in place.
4.2 Wear the designated uniform as per the HQ Rules, which includes black/navy skirt/pants/shorts, black shoes, and a black/navy shirt.
4.3 Once assembly details are provided, adhere to the instructions from BWHA.
4.4 Travel with the team as per BWHA’s arrangements. Any request to travel separately from the team must be submitted with the nomination form and approved by BWHA Management, according to the Rules.
4.5 Accept the authority of the designated Team Manager while on tour.
4.6 Direct any grievances to the Team Manager.
4.7 Complete and return the TO Agreement, Indemnity Form, and Uniform Order Form to the BWHA Office by the specified due date.

Prior to the Championship:

5.1 Obtain and review a copy of the current FIH Rule Book. (This can be purchased or downloaded from www.fihockey.org under the “Rules” section.)
5.2 Obtain and review the current HQ Operations Manual and Regulations. (Available at www.hockeyqld.com.au under “Events/Forms-Information.”)
5.3 Acquire a stopwatch.
5.4 Be appointed to a Technical Bench (either as a club judge or BWHA Technical Official) to observe more experienced TOs.
5.5 Try to participate in as much technical work as possible.

At the Championship:

6.1 Attend the pre-tournament Technical Meeting (if held) and note any instructions provided.
6.2 Note all allocations and arrive prepared and ready at least 30 minutes prior to each game (or as instructed by the Tournament Director).
6.3 Review the Rule Book, Tournament Regulations, and Technical Briefing.
6.4 Clarify any feedback and ask questions (if necessary) from assessors.
6.5 Use the assessment process as an opportunity to receive feedback from senior Technical Officials and develop your officiating skills.
6.6 Enjoy the experience!

Transport at Venue

Hire Car or Mini-Bus:
Technical Representatives may be required to:

• Drive a hire vehicle if over 25 years of age.
• Sign for the hire vehicle.
• Provide a credit card as security for the vehicle.
• Ensure all passengers are wearing seatbelts at all times.
• Verify that all required personnel are in the vehicle before departure.

BWHA will reimburse any charges incurred by a Technical Official on their credit card for a BWHA-organized hire vehicle.