Avoca Football Netball Club Sun Smart Policy
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Approval Date:
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Dec 3rd 2013
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Review Date:
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March 9th 2019
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Version No:
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1
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President:
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Sign: Bill Drummond
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Vice-President:
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Sign: Steve Carey
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Rationale
UV exposure can cause sunburn, skin damage, eye damage and skin cancer. Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world. Two in three Australians will develop some form of skin cancer before they reach the age of 70. Melanoma incidence in regional Victoria is higher than the State average range. Data from the 2010–11 Melbourne Youth Sun Survey showed that most young adults outside between 11- 3pm on summer weekends were sunburnt while participating in sport and active recreation (43%) as opposed to other activities.
People are at risk of high UV exposure while playing or watching sport. Sporting clubs have a major opportunity to promote SunSmart behaviours in their community. UV levels above 3 usually occur between September and April in Victoria. Clubs can make a difference by taking some or all of the following actions:
Scheduling of play or training
- Where it is possible to avoid the peak times of UV exposure, club fixtures and training sessions will be scheduled accordingly.
- The highest priority is to protect junior teams from excessive UV exposure during peak times, either as participants or spectators.
Sun Protection Measures
- SPF 30+ broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen is provided and promoted.
- Participants are encouraged to apply 20 minutes prior to exposure
- Sunscreen is stored below 30 degrees and replaced once it is past use by date
- Broad-brimmed hats are a part of the uniform especially for Juniors
- Uniforms may include longer sleeves
- Use of sunglasses will be promoted where appropriate
Shade
- Shade will be provided for off- field teams and spectators
- Temporary shade structures can be provided where there is no permanent shade where appropriate
Club Culture
- Club team managers, captains, parents, and coaches will be knowledgeable about UV protection
- SunSmart behaviours will be role modelled by coaches and team managers.
Messages and Education
- The club will include skin protection advice on websites and newsletters and social media opportunities at the start of the UV season ( September to April)
- The club website will be used to promote UV alerts.
