Our commitment
Jozi Stars Basketball is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and positive environment for every young person in our programmes. The wellbeing of children and young people is our first priority in all activities, on and off the court.
Who this applies to
This policy applies to all Jozi Stars coaches, staff, volunteers, and anyone working with participants under 18.
Code of conduct
All coaches, staff, and volunteers working with young athletes are expected to:
- Treat every young person with respect, fairness, and dignity, regardless of ability, background, or identity.
- Never be alone with a single child in a closed or private space without another adult present or clear visibility.
- Use appropriate, professional communication — no private one-on-one messaging with a minor outside of a channel that includes a parent or guardian.
- Never use physical punishment, humiliation, or discriminatory language.
- Report any concern about a child’s welfare immediately, following the procedure below.
Screening of coaches, staff & volunteers
Anyone in a role involving direct, regular contact with children should undergo reference checks and, where required, a police clearance/background check before starting, and periodically thereafter.
Photography & media
Photos and videos of participants may be taken at training, camps, and matches for use on our website and social media, only with parent/guardian consent obtained at registration (see our Privacy Policy). Parents may request that their child not be photographed or featured.
Reporting a concern
If you have a concern about the safety or wellbeing of a child involved in Jozi Stars — including concerning behaviour by a coach, staff member, volunteer, or another participant — please contact: Khathutshelo Maboko (khathutshelo@esca.org.za). All concerns will be treated seriously and confidentially, and escalated to the appropriate authorities where required by law.
Anti-bullying
Jozi Stars has zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, or discrimination of any kind among participants, staff, or volunteers.
Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required.
Before this page goes live: this must be reviewed and formally adopted by Jozi Stars leadership, ideally with input from a qualified child-protection/safeguarding professional and aligned with South Africa’s Children’s Act. A named Safeguarding Officer must be designated, and the screening process above must reflect what Jozi Stars actually does, before this policy is complete.