We are committed to providing a football environment that safeguards the health of our members. Members are also asked to be proactive in taking care of their own, and others, safety.
wellbeing
While team sport is great for our mental health, there are times when people feel anxious or in need of support. As a club, we want to do our best to care for the wellbeing of our members. To contact our Wellbeing Coordinator, please email wellbeing@kpfc.asn.au. There are at least two trained volunteers available on our Wellbeing Team who can help you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Understanding and supporting anxious children in the context of sport
Stress and anxiety are normal and helpful functions aimed at keeping us safe as we navigate the world. The ‘right’ amount of stress can motivate us to prepare instead of procrastinate and stimulate us to achieve our goals and perform at high standards.
Unfortunately, post the pandemic, research is indicating alarmingly high percentages of Australian children reporting significant levels of anxiety, and according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, almost 40% of 16-24 year olds are experiencing a mental health disorder. Due to elevated levels of anxiety, some children and young people are struggling to separate from caregivers impacting their ability to attend school and participate in healthy opportunities such as playing sport.
If your child or young person is struggling to fully participate in sport, anxiety may be getting in the way. This may present as your child being;
- Very nervous, worried or afraid most of the time
- Avoidant or looking to escape, not participating
- Unable to control their emotions
- Tense and on edge
- Panicky
- Irritable or agitated
- Complaining about unexplained stomach aches or headaches
- Experiencing loss of appetite
- Unable to concentrate
- Difficulties make decisions
- Disrupted sleep or unable to fall asleep
The excellent news is that anxiety is treatable, and there are many resources available, including websites and professional supports. The other good news is that sport can be incredibly helpful and play an important role in boosting self-esteem in anxious kids. Further information can be found here – Sports for Kids With Learning and Emotional Challenges – Child Mind Institute
Coaches can play a critical role in supporting a young person who may be presenting with symptoms of performance anxiety. If you think your child is experiencing anxiety, let your coach know so you can work together in understanding what is underlying this and what might help them. Further information for parents and coaches can be found here – Performance anxiety in children’s sports
If anxiety is starting to affect the way that your child or your family are living their lives it is important to find help. A good place to start is a GP that you trust, and that you and your child feel safe and supported with. If we can be helpful to you in supporting your child to participate in positive football, please reach out.
WEATHER cancellations
In the event of rain or extreme heat, there are processes in place to cancel training and fixtures. Please refer to Weather.
First Aid
The club provides first aid kits at Auluba, Howson and Comenarra. Teams are requested to bring their own first aid items, including ice packs.
Defibrillators
It is the club’s intention to provide easy access to defibrillators. There is a defibrillator at Auluba oval. It is our intention to provide a defibrillator and training for every M35, M45, M55 and W30 and W45 team.
INJURy/insurance
If a registered player is injured at training or a fixture, they are covered by insurance provided by Football NSW and Gow Gates. For details, visit Football NSW Insurance Programme. This website is your primary reference for any insurance-related issues. When putting in your claim, send the relevant form to the Club Secretary via email at secretary@kpfc.asn.au.
- Who’s Covered: All registered players, referees, coaches, trainers, and other officials.
- What’s Covered: Injuries during matches, training, fundraising events, and travel.
- Benefits Include:Â Capital benefits, loss of income, and non-Medicare medical expenses.
To make a claim:
- Visit:Â Gow-Gates Football NSW.
- Select:Â Your association and navigate to the ‘Claims’ section.
- Register:Â Create an account and submit your claim online within the policy period.
- Documentation: Upload required documents, including Club Declaration signed by an authorized club representative (e.g., President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer) and a Physician’s Report.
Important: Claims must be submitted promptly and within the policy period to avoid issues with coverage. Club sign-off is required for all claims.
FIELDS and PLAYING SURFACES
Please stand well back from the sideline, and away from the technical area.
Keep dogs well clear of playing areas and players, and always on-leash.
We have a collective responsibility to care for fields. Uneven playing surfaces can result in injury. Please do not train or play if your activity is damaging the surface. Keep dogs on-leash at all fields. If you notice a hole in a pitch, please fill it in. Pick up any rubbish, drink bottles etc.
Hygiene
- Please come dressed and ready to train/play.
- Do not attend practice or matches if you are unwell.
- BYO clearly labelled drink bottle.
- Consider health and hygiene if sharing food.
- Limit the sharing of kit and practice good hand hygiene when handling kit.