Etiquette of Play
Policy Document No 1 V: 8 11 25
Etiquette of Play is the polite behaviour expected from members and visitors when playing croquet. This document outlines the fundamental requirements of appropriate etiquette when playing, and endeavours to capture the spirit with which the game should be played. Playing the game in this way will ensure that all players gain the maximum enjoyment from their time on the lawn.
Appropriate Etiquette when Playing.
Aim to make yourself aware of the rules of the game and act and operate accordingl
Arrive a little before your scheduled start of play.
Wear flat soled soft shoes on the lawn.
Always act with honesty and integrity.
Be welcoming, polite and respectful towards all players and officials. and do not engage in excessive dissention of an official’s ruling, eg at a Club Championship.
Avoid excessive gloating following a successful shot by you or your partner; a measured level of congratulations is appropriate.
When an opponent accidentally puts your ball through a hoop, don’t say thank you; remain silent, unless they comment.
Do not use inappropriate language towards players or officials at any time.
Do not intimidate or harass other players, particularly if there are less experienced players double banking at the same time.
Do not leave the lawn without advising others.
Do not disturb a player preparing to make a shot. Remain silent and stationary preferably behind the striker, well clear and out of their peripheral vision, and ensure you are not creating a shadow in their line of site.
Keep general conversations to a minimum while playing and remain silent when someone is preparing a shot.
Mobile phones should be put on silent or not taken onto the green at all. In exceptional circumstances you should advise your fellow players that you may need to answer urgent calls before play starts.
Play as quickly as you can, be prepared for your next shot and don’t waste time.
Refrain from providing coaching advice to other players, unless requested.
With double banked games be aware of what is happening in the other game and refrain from walking across the line of a shot being prepared or in play. Before commencing double banked games agree on who will start the cycle of ball marking to allow the other team to play through.
HHCC is affiliated with Croquet NSW and Croquet Australia and abides by the standards set out in the National Integrity Framework. The Club’s Standards and Prohibited Conduct policy documents the Club’s expectations in terms of appropriate conduct and behaviour, and our Member Protection Grievance and Discipline Policy is in place to respond and address issues of concern.
In preparing this document HHCC wishes to acknowledge, Croquet England, Queensland Association of Croquet, Chatswood Croquet Club, Killara Croquet Club, Maitland Croquet Club and Nelson Bay Croquet Club.
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Standards and Prohibited Conduct
Policy No: 6 V:8 11 2025
This policy sets out the conduct expected of members at the Club and outlines those behaviours that are prohibited. It utilizes material available through the National Integrity Framework (NIF).
Croquet NSW (CNSW) and Croquet Australia (CA) as the sport’s governing bodies have endorsed Sport Integrity Australia’s (SIA) National Integrity Framework; a suite of policies designed to ensure a safe, fair and healthy sporting environment for all by setting out unacceptable behaviours in sport, known as Prohibited Conduct.
HHCC has adopted the Standards & Prohibited Conduct: A Guide.
As well, the Club has also developed an Etiquette of Play, located above, which relates to appropriate practices when playing the game at HHCC.
Croquet NSW Directors’ Code of Conduct should also act as a guide to Committee members and members.
https://cdn.revolutionise.com.au/cups/cnsw/files/klg6irw8wbcutwes.pdf
All HHCC members should make themselves aware of the SIA Standards & Prohibited Conduct: A Guide, and what it sets out to achieve.
In the event that a member believes that there is a matter of concern, the President or Secretary of HHCC should be advised, or another senior member of the HHCC Committee if it is considered that the President or Secretary are in any way compromised.
The Club will investigate matters where the Standards & Prohibited Conduct: A Guide is not being adhered to in line with Croquet Australia’s National Integrity Framework. These reporting processes are outlined in the Club’s Member Protection, Personal Grievance and Complaints and Disputes and Disciplinary Policy.
Child Safety
With respect to child safety, HHCC adheres to Croquet Australia’s Child Safe Policy https://www.croquet-australia.com.au/governance/child-safe. There are special responsibilities when responding to concerns regarding children, and the NSW Police Force should be contacted immediately if it is believed that a child is in danger.