Words we stand by  

Overview

We understand that some clubs are struggling to maintain or grow numbers and it can become overwhelming trying to figure out how to turn it around. Putting time into creating an environment where everyone feels welcome can help retain and attract new members and volunteers. Afterall, a club’s culture is the glue that holds it together.

But how do you create an inclusive club culture? Culture can be fostered through a common goal or bigger purpose. Does your club have a goal, set of values, or statement that all members stand by?

Without a common goal, values, or words to stand by, it can be hard to have pride in a club. If you don’t currently have a club statement (slogan), values or even a goal consider how you could develop one with your current club members. If you do have words your members stand by, how are new people introduced to it, how is it promoted and upheld and are they still relevant or do they need updating?

What you could do

You could write a welcome email to members as they register. This could include:

• Who we are – including the words we stand by
• Brief Club History
• Highlights of the club – i.e. what’s on offer in addition to playing cricket?
• Agreement to upholding the club values or the club’s code of conduct

Bringing it to life

Here are some tips to help your club bring them to life

• Share it – welcome email, social, up on the walls
• Refer to it
• Develop/Refer to an Inclusion policy
• Reward members for living the values
• Policy – consider code of conduct consequences

Need further support?

If you still have questions regarding this process after reading this resource, please reach out to your MA or DA contact or to your local Regional Sports Trust.