MACCABI VICTORIA BASKETBALL CLUB

1. Introduction

WhatsApp is a popular instant messaging application that enables users to send messages, images, and videos and engage in both one-on-one conversations and group chats. Maccabi Basketball Victoria (MBV) recognizes the widespread use of WhatsApp among teams, groups, and individuals for communication with MBV members. While WhatsApp provides positive and effective communication opportunities, it also presents potential risks if misused, including cyberbullying, grooming, and exposure to inappropriate content. The availability of personal telephone numbers to all group members further elevates these risks, particularly in performance environments.
2. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the acceptable use of WhatsApp within MBV activities to protect all participants, especially Under-18 players, from potential harm. The policy aims to:
Promote safe and responsible use of WhatsApp.
Mitigate risks associated with cyberbullying, grooming, and inappropriate contact.
Ensure all MBV members, including senior and junior players, are protected when participating in WhatsApp groups related to MBV activities.
3. Scope

This policy applies to all MBV members, including players, coaches, staff, and volunteers, who participate in WhatsApp groups or use WhatsApp to communicate regarding MBV activities. The policy is particularly focused on safeguarding Under-18 players but is also relevant to senior players.
4. Risks

Using WhatsApp within MBV activities presents several risks, including:
Cyberbullying: Group members may use the platform to bully others, particularly in performance environments where competition is high.
Grooming: The ability to privately contact minors presents risks of inappropriate or predatory behavior.
Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Members may share content that is unsuitable, especially for younger players.
Privacy Concerns: WhatsApp allows all group members access to each other's telephone numbers, which could lead to unwanted or harmful contact outside the group context.
5. Roles and Responsibilities

MBV Leadership:
Ensures that this poli

cy is communicated and adhered to by all MBV members.
Monitors the implementation of the policy and reviews it regularly to address emerging risks.
Coaches and Team Managers:
Supervise WhatsApp groups to ensure that all communication is appropriate and aligns with MBV’s values.
Report any incidents of misuse to MBV leadership immediately.
Provide guidance to players on acceptable use of WhatsApp within the group.
Players (Senior and Under-18):
Adhere to the guidelines set forth in this policy.
Report any inappropriate behaviour or content to the group administrator or coach.
Refrain from sharing personal contact details of others without consent.
Parents/Guardians of Under-18 Players:
Ensure that their children understand and comply with this policy.
Monitor their children’s use of WhatsApp in connection with MBV activities.

6. Guidance for the use of WhatsApp in Maccabi Victoria Basketball Activities

This guidance is aimed at all Club Members, paid coaches, volunteers and parents/guardians.

• DO ensure that a WhatsApp group is only set up and administered by the Team Manager, Coach, or other Club Official who has provided their WWC and completed the Maccabi Victoria MPP course.
• DO inform all group members what the app is/isn’t to be used for.
• DO inform parents/guardians of Under-18s of its intended use.
• DO always include the parent/guardian of Under-18s in the group and only add their child with the parent’s/guardian’s permission.
• DO ensure that parents/guardians, who agree to their child being included in the group, understand that they should ensure that their child knows what they need to do if they are contacted privately by an adult member (over the age of 18) i.e. notify their parent/guardian and report the incident to the club ASAP.
• DO get the group to agree how the app is to be used i.e. only basketball oriented content, no pictures, etc.
• DO keep language appropriate.
• DO think before you post – is content appropriate?
• DON’T assume everyone is on WhatsApp – ensure those team/group members who do not use the App are kept informed.
•DON’T use the app for private messaging.
• DON’T use the app to replace formal feedback.

Inappropriate use of WhatsApp may result in club disciplinary proceedings.

7. Specific Guidance for Parents/Guardians

While MBV will strictly enforce this policy as far as is reasonably possible, the club cannot police every action of its members. Once a child’s contact details have been shared (with permission as above) MBV cannot track subsequent use of those details. WhatsApp gives every group member access to the telephone number of every other group member and, for this reason, Parents/Guardians should think very carefully before agreeing to their child’s details being shared on WhatsApp.

8. Policy Statement

Maccabi Basketball Victoria (MBV) supports the use of WhatsApp as a communication tool within MBV activities, provided that all participants follow the guidelines outlined in this policy. MBV is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all members, especially Under-18 players. Therefore, all WhatsApp communication should be conducted responsibly, with respect for the privacy and well-being of all group members.
Any misuse of WhatsApp, including cyberbullying, inappropriate contact, or the sharing of unsuitable content, will be addressed promptly by MBV leadership. The privacy of group members must be respected, and personal contact details should not be shared outside the group without explicit consent.
MBV reserves the right to remove individuals from WhatsApp groups or take further action if this policy is violated. Regular reviews will be conducted to ensure that the policy remains effective and relevant in protecting MBV members.