News

Kangaroos Basketball - Code of Conduct Reminder

Published Sat 19 Sep 2026

Dear Coaches, Parents and Spectators,

Thankyou to everyone for their contribution throughout the year, I hope that you have had a good season so far. Shortly, we will commence communications about the end of this season and plans for next year.

As you no doubt know, we place a high value on the way that we conduct ourselves as a club. It is an area in which we take great pride. I'm writing today to remind everyone of the standards and expectations that come with representing the Ku-ring-gai Kangaroos Basketball Club.

While most of our coaches and parents and spectators continue to set wonderful examples for our players and families, we’ve noticed a few behaviours recently that don’t align with our club values — so this is an opportunity to reset and ensure we’re all on the same page.

Kangaroos Values
At the heart of our club are five key values:

Inclusivity: Welcoming players of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels.
Community: Building and fostering connections within the Upper North Shore.
Enjoyment: Striving for a fun, nurturing environment for all players and families.
Teamwork: Encouraging collaboration, both on and off the court.

Respect: Valuing teammates, opponents, coaches, referees, and the game itself through positive behaviour and good sportsmanship.

Our Kangaroos coaches play a central role in modelling these values every time you step onto the court.

Coaching Conduct

The wellbeing and development of players must always come before results. Winning is a by-product of strong teamwork and skill growth—not the focus.
Our Equal court time for all players is expected, especially in our junior age groups. We do not keep the the best player on the court. Our equal court time policy is here
Coaches are not to engage with referees during games, especially junior referees in white or green shirts. The only acceptable comments are polite greetings or words of encouragement such as “thank you” or “well done.” Any other remarks about calls—whether direct or muttered—will be treated as referee dissent.
Do not engage with opposition coaches regarding their behaviour or decisions. If there’s an issue, report it to the Court Supervisor. If that’s not resolved, notify your Age Manager or me directly. Should another coach approach you, simply turn and walk away.

Parents and Spectators

We love our Kangaroos families and their enthusiasm—but it’s essential that we channel that energy positively.

Parents and Spectators please:

Cheer loudly for your team, but do not coach the team or your child from the sidelines. Coaching instructions from parents confuse players and undermine the coach.
Do not call out to referees or comment on calls, missed or otherwise. This includes audible reactions or remarks within earshot of referees.
Only coaches should stand during games; parents and supporters must remain seated. (where seating is available).
Do not approach the coach during the game.
Cheering should always be positive and supportive—no negative comments toward players, referees, or opposing teams.
Those on the score bench should remain neutral and refrain from cheering.

The Team Bench

The players’ bench is for players, the coach, and the team manager only.

Players should sit beside the coach; the team manager (if present) should sit at the end.
Please do not talk to players while they are on the bench unless your child needs emotional support.
Parents should sit away from the players’ bench to give coaches and players space to focus on the game.

Player Behaviour

Our players are at the centre of everything we do, and we expect them to represent the Kangaroos with respect and good sportsmanship.

Players are expected to:

Be a good teammate — encourage others, share the ball and support the team.
Show respect — treat teammates, opponents, coaches and referees positively and with respect.
Demonstrate good behaviour — remain positive, manage frustration and behave appropriately on and off the court.
Listen to their coach — accept instruction and feedback positively.

Mistakes, missed shots, turnovers and referee decisions are all part of basketball. What matters is how we respond.

Play hard. Play fair. Respect everyone.

Referees – Respect and Patience
Our referees are learning and developing just like our players.

⚪ White shirts: brand new referees

🟢 Green shirts: developing referees

⬛ Black & white stripes: accredited referees

Green Whistle: Referee who is under 18

Please show patience and encouragement, especially to our younger officials.

If you have concerns, please raise them respectfully with the Court Supervisor.

Our club is built on respect—for players, referees, coaches, administrators, and each other. Let’s continue to make the Kangaroos an example of sportsmanship and positivity across the basketball community.

Age Managers

If you have any questiosn whatsoever as to the expectations of our club please do not hesitate to contact your Age Manager here.

Thank you for all the time, care, and energy you give to your teams each week. Your leadership makes all the difference.

We Support