4 ways sport’s governing bodies are accelerating fair play initiatives
Sport’s governing bodies are doing a lot to promote fair play. There are a variety of initiatives being taken to ensure that sports remain fair, whilst being transparent and held accountable. In this blog, we break down 4 ways sport’s governing bodies are accelerating fair play within various sports, and learn all about how you can set the standards in your sport.
1. Rules and regulations
This can include rules around the use of performance-enhancing drugs and laws to prevent corruption. Governing bodies must ensure that all athletes are competing fairly, and represent the sport in the best possible way.
What are some examples of this?
- Football – FIFA has rules that govern the size and limitations of teams, the duration of matches, and the rules of the game. They also have regulations for the transfer of players between teams and the use of video assistant referees (VAR).
- Basketball – The NBA have regulations for their draft and salary cap.
- Olympics – The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has rules that govern use of performance-enhancing drugs and the eligibility of athletes.
Each sport’s governing body will have their own specific set of rules and regulations based on the nature of the sport.
2. Sport’s Governing bodies Anti-doping policies
Regular testing of athletes for banned substances is carried out by sport’s governing bodies and organisations, mainly the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
Resources for athletes are distributed so they can better understand the dangers and consequences of doping.
Athletes who are found guilty of doping may face serious sanctions such as fines, suspensions, and disqualification from competitions.
Some governing bodies fund research to develop new testing methods to improve the detection of banned substances.
Some athletes may have a medical condition that requires them to take a substance that is on the banned list. If this is the case, then something called Therapeutic Use Exemptions is granted to them after the provision of proper documentation and approval.
Testing is also carried out outside of competition times, so there are no manipulations of the rules.
3. Whistle-blower policy
A whistle-blower policy is intended to encourage athletes to report any suspected or known cases unlawfulness within the club.
This could be implemented by having a confidential number or email address that athletes can use to report anonymously.
It’s also important for clubs to have an open-door approach, where everyone feels comfortable having important conversations.
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4. Education and training for sport’s governing bodies
The education and training efforts of sports governing bodies are intended to provide sports organisations with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their respective sports, and the health and well-being of its competitors.
What are some of the ways sport’s governing bodies are implementing education?
- Resources
- Workshops and seminars
- Chatting to athletes
- Online education (eLearning)
Are you looking for Sport’s Governance training?
Accelerate Sport are proud to have partnered with The Sport and Recreation Alliance to create the ‘Accelerating Good Governance’ eLearning course.
The course is intended for those working at a sports club or organisation and want to learn more about improving the structure of governance.
Learn more about the course by watching the video below.