Become A Member

Alliance Policies

Membership Policy

Terms of Membership

By joining the Alliance International Hockey Club, (In these policies referred to as “the Club.”) all members agree to:

  • Be bound by the Articles of Association of the Club.
  • Comply with the Club’s Statutes, rules, regulations, and Codes (including the Code of Conduct).

Membership applies equally to all categories of members (see Statute 5.2). In line with Statute 6.2, members are required to pay:

  • Membership fees – these support the running of the Club and its activities.
  • Tournament participation fees – these cover the costs of entering tournaments, including team registration fees, governing body charges, and Club administration costs.

Additional costs such as travel, accommodation, meals, and personal insurance remain the responsibility of each individual member (see Statute 6.6).

Disciplinary Policy

1. Purpose

This policy ensures that all disciplinary issues are dealt with fairly, consistently, and confidentially, protecting the reputation and integrity of both the Club and the sport of hockey. The panel may meet online or in person.

2. Who Does This Apply To?

All Club members – including players, coaches, umpires, and officials – must follow the ethical standards set by the Code of Conduct as set out above and also those of the FIH, WMH and WGMA.

The policy and the procedure which follow apply to all red card incidents issued at tournaments and all breaches of the Code of Conduct which do not necessarily involve card issuance.

The person who has received a red card or allegedly breaks the Code of Conduct shall be known in this document as “the Alleged Offender” (the AO).

The AO may be informed verbally or in writing in the first instance. All allegations shall be presented and an invitation to attend a panel hearing at some convenient point, in the near future, shall be made.

Should the AO not wish to attend or accept the charges and wish to respond to allegations only in writing, the panel may meet privately to decide on outcomes and inform the AO in writing. However, if the AO wishes to take part, then the following procedure will take place:

3. The Disciplinary Panel

The panel may include:

  • A Chairperson.
  • Two panel members.
  • A secretary (not necessarily the Club secretary), who organises the hearing but does not vote.

Panel Members Must Be:

  • Knowledgeable about hockey rules.
  • Impartial and respected.
  • Able to maintain confidentiality.

4. Disciplinary Hearing Procedure

All parties including witnesses are identified
The AO is asked if they accept or deny the charge

If the AO ACCEPTS the Charge:

  • The attending secretary describes the incident.
  • Umpire or video evidence may be reviewed.
  • The AO can offer mitigation (e.g. apology, past good behaviour).
  • The panel considers the AO’s disciplinary record (if relevant).
  • The panel meets privately to:
    • Assess the seriousness.
    • Consider mitigating and aggravating factors.
    • Decide the appropriate sanction.
  • The decision is announced, and the AO is informed of their right to appeal providing this is a first incident of this nature.
  • Second and subsequent offences may incur additional penalties as determined by the Disciplinary Panel.

If the AO DENIES the Charge:

  • The attending secretary presents the case and witnesses.
  • The AO (or representative) can question witnesses.
  • Umpire and video evidence may be used.
  • The panel may ask questions.
  • The panel meets privately to decide if there’s a case to answer:
    • If no case, the charge is dismissed.
    • If case is proven the AO presents their version of events.
    • The AO may present witnesses and evidence.
    • The panel questions the AO and witnesses if needed.
  • The panel meets privately to:
    • Decide if the charge is proven.
    • If proven, assess the seriousness, consider aggravating and mitigating factors, and agree a sanction.
  • A decision is announced, and the AO is informed of their right to appeal.
  • Second and subsequent offences may incur additional penalties as determined by the Disciplinary Panel.

5. Right to Appeal

The AO may appeal the decision unless this is a repeated incident, following the process set out in the Club Constitution.

A written Judgement Record must be created and retained.

6. Sanctions

Sanctions may apply in addition to any issued by tournament organisers. The panel may increase penalties after a tournament based on their findings.

To avoid doubt, repeated breaches of the Code of Conduct and recurring red card offences will be considered cumulatively regardless of whether the breaches of offences differ in nature.

For Red Cards:

  • All red cards will be reviewed by the disciplinary panel.
  • Violent conduct: May result in a ban from future tournaments.
  • Serious or repeat offences: May lead to a temporary or permanent ban from the Club membership.
  • Two non-violent yellow cards leading to a red card: The panel uses judgement to determine the seriousness and appropriate response.

For Violations of the Club Code of Conduct:
 Irrespective of cards being issued by umpires, all Club members must abide by the Code of Conduct described above. This includes the Club unwillingness to tolerate poor behaviour or poor language or attitude to match officials, to opposition players or to Club members. Failure to do so may result in the following sanctions:

  • Written Warning
    • For most first offences.
    • Only if the AO shows genuine remorse and the panel believes the behaviour will not be repeated.
    • Second and subsequent offences may incur additional penalties to be determined by the Disciplinary Panel.
  • Ban from Tournaments
    • For repeated or a more serious first offence.
    • Duration based on the nature of the violation.
  • Suspension or Expulsion from Club Membership
    • For the most serious or repeated breaches.
    • The panel will determine the length or permanence of the ban.

Important Note on Bans
 If a member is banned, no refunds or financial compensation will be given for any fees already paid.

For any questions about this procedure or to raise a disciplinary concern, please contact the Club President.

Player Expectations Policy

Alliance International Hockey Club is an inclusive organisation. Players join and represent the Club as a whole, not individual teams within it. Our expectations are clear, and this policy sets them out.

The Club has a long history of inclusivity, support, and camaraderie. We are one Club, not a collection of separate teams, and that ethos is central to our identity and success.

Although the Club is a legal entity, it is the members who define it. This policy reflects our core values and the expectations we hold of one another.

Club Expectations of Members

  • Availability: Players are expected to provide advance notice of availability for matches and competitions via the Spond App or Nomination Form on the Club website. If no notice is given, the default assumption is that the player is unavailable.
  • Fitness: We expect players to be mobile and contribute physically on the pitch. The level of fitness will clearly depend on your age group. All players must be able to move well and participate competitively. Selected players attending a tournament who we find cannot be competitive, will not play in any tournament matches.
  • Hockey Skills: All players nominating must have good basic skill levels. We want all players to have played consistently at county or state level or at the very least, a good local club level. We play against high level opposition and we must be competitive. Selected players attending a tournament who we find do not have good ability will not play in any tournament matches.
  • Commitment to the Club: Players join to represent the Club, initially within their age group, not a specific team. If not selected for their usual team, they are expected to play for the team they are selected for. Players understand that selection is not guaranteed, even if they indicate availability. (Refer to the Selection Policy)
  • Conduct: Players must behave appropriately on and around the pitch. Where this does not happen, the EXCO will intervene.
  • Representation: Players are ambassadors of the Club’s traditions and history. They should conduct themselves in a manner that reflects this responsibility.
  • Respect: Umpires, match officials, opposition players, fellow team members, supporters, coaches, and CMs must always be treated with respect and courtesy.
  • Welcome: Opposition players, supporters, and officials should be made to feel at home.
  • Administration: Membership and tournament fees must be paid, and forms completed and registered on time. Until this is done, players cannot be registered or selected.
  • Support for Umpiring: Players are encouraged to umpire where eligible, and to assist the Club by qualifying as umpires.

Player Expectations of the Club

(VP = Vice President, CM = Category Manager)

  • Communication: Players are expected to respond promptly to invitations or availability requests, by the closing date.
  • Selection: EXCO officials, CMs, coaches, and VPs will do their utmost to ensure all available players are selected for tournaments. Selection will be based on physical and skills ability and also the level of the competition. While this may not always be possible, every effort will be made to include nominees. Please be aware, your nomination does not mean automatic selection.
  • Clarity: Players should be able to gain clarity on selection decisions. They are encouraged to approach selection committee members, VPs, or CMs if anything is unclear.
  • Notification: Players will receive selection notifications promptly, via the Spond App, or via emails and then final team lists will be published on the website and on Spond.
  • Development: Players can expect opportunities for feedback and personal development.
  • Voice: Players’ views are welcome, via the VP’s of the  Women’s  or Men’s sections, and through them to the EXCO. Feedback on what is going well — or where improvements are needed — is encouraged.
  • Environment: The Club is committed to maintaining an inclusive, supportive environment for playing, coaching, umpiring, and socialising.

Management and Captaincy Policy – Selection

  • VPs, selection teams, and CMs must use the Club’s Spond App, and/or email to communicate selections to players.
  • Team lists will then be published on the website and on Spond.

Information should be shared centrally via Spond, email, and/or the website to ensure transparency.

  • Match reports and good news should also be shared through these channels, as well as on social media, and made accessible to all members.
  • VPs and CMs represent the best interests of their players, helping them play at the right level.
  • Selection decisions should balance the interests of both the Club and individuals, prioritising ability, fitness, competition requirements, and relevant rules.
  • VPs and/or CMs are responsible for collecting and monitoring availability for each tournament, using Spond or the website, within the stated deadlines.
  • Player commitment is a factor in selection.
  • VPs and CMs must publish team sheets on Spond and the website, and communicate with each other to ensure smooth selection processes.
  • Performance, attitude, and commitment should be discussed across teams to promote fairness and meritocracy.
  • Club VPs must be included in all selection communications to maintain oversight.
  • Any concerns about selection, coaching, or player management should be raised with the relevant VP, who may escalate them to the Executive Committee if necessary.

Competitions

  • Attendance at competitions is important and will influence future selection for all teams.
  • Players should only enter the pitch when directed by an official or team captain; otherwise, they do so at their own risk.
  • All players, CMs, Managers, and Captains must read and abide by the Club’s Code of Conduct, Safeguarding Policy, and other relevant policies.

Privacy Policy

Alliance International Hockey Club (“the Club”) collects and stores personal data only for specific purposes, in line with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This Privacy Policy sets out how data is collected, stored, used, and protected.

1. Background

From 25 May 2018, the Club has been obliged to comply with EU legislation on data protection and privacy. At the General Assembly on 26 June 2018 (Barcelona), members agreed to adopt a GDPR Protocol.

2. Data Collected

The Club keeps a record of certain personal information. In the past, this has been included in the Player Identity Sheets (PIS) and has covered:

  • Name
  • Date of Birth
  • Nationality
  • Place of Residence
  • Email Address
  • Contact Telephone
  • Hockey Playing Position
  • Umpire Credentials
  • Hockey History
  • Name of Companion
  • Languages
  • Professional Activities

3. Storage and Access

  • The complete membership database (from PIS) is held by the Honorary Secretary and Membership Secretary.
  • Access is restricted to the Executive Committee (EXCO) and the Club Board.
  • Certain officers (e.g. Selection Committee members, Webmaster) may be given limited access to relevant data to perform their duties.

4. Use and Publication of Data

  • A members’ list (name, nationality) may be published on the Club website, accessible only to members via a password issued by the Honorary Secretary. This password must not be shared with third parties.
  • Tournament team lists (including shirt numbers) may be published on the Club website and are publicly visible.
  • Before tournaments, some personal details (e.g. email addresses) may be shared with Captains/Managers and team members to facilitate communication and logistics.
  • Information may also be provided to WGMA/WMH/FIH and tournament committees for team and umpire registration.

5. Photos and Media

  • The Club may publish photos of members playing, in team photos, or at social events.
  • Individual photos will not be published without the member’s permission.
  • Team or group photos may be published; members not wishing their photograph to be published should not be part of the photograph moment. If members wish their photo to be removed then the IT Manager should be contacted.

6. Restrictions

  • Mobile numbers will not be circulated by the Club. Members may choose to share their details directly with Captains or teammates if they wish.
  • Membership lists will never be released to outside parties for commercial purposes. If at any time this is proposed (e.g. to attract sponsorship), it will only proceed with the approval of a majority vote at an Annual General Meeting.

7. Newsletters

  • The Club may publish newsletters from time to time.
  • Newsletters are distributed to members via email (bcc mode) and are also published on the Club website.
  • Newsletters will not include private member data such as emails, or phone numbers.

8. Data Minimisation

The Club intends to reduce the amount of personal data collected from future members. The EXCO will decide what information is appropriate and necessary.

Policy Reviews

All Club policies, including this Privacy Policy, are reviewed regularly in accordance with the Club’s Policy Review Procedure.

Equity Policy

Alliance International Hockey Club (the Club) respects the rights, dignity, and worth of every person. We are committed to treating everyone equally within the context of our sport, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, or socio-economic background.

We are committed to embedding equity across all aspects of the Club. In doing so, we adopt the Sport England definition of sports equity:

Sports equity is about fairness in sport, equality of access, recognising inequalities and taking steps to address them. It is about changing the culture and structure of sport to ensure that it becomes equally accessible to all members of society, whatever their age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, or socio-economic status.

The Club believes everyone has the right to enjoy hockey in an environment free from discrimination, intimidation, harassment, or abuse.

  • All members share responsibility for challenging discriminatory behaviour and promoting equality of opportunity.
  • Any incidents of discriminatory behaviour will be taken seriously and addressed through the Club’s Disciplinary Procedures.

If you wish to report an issue, or discuss matters in confidence, please refer to our Commitment to Inclusivity policy below.

Commitment to Inclusivity

The Club is committed to providing a safe and welcoming home for anyone wishing to enjoy hockey, regardless of age, background, or any other characteristic. Inclusivity and safeguarding are at the heart of our ethos.

Our Club’s values are enshrined in the Constitution and policies, including the Equity Policy, and align with the principles of WMH, WGMA, and wider best practice in sport.

To ensure this commitment is lived out, the Club has a dedicated group of volunteers — including the EXCO and others seconded for this purpose — who provide guidance and support on diversity, equity, inclusivity, and belonging.

  • If you have concerns relating specifically to diversity, equity, inclusivity, or belonging, please contact any member of the group or email secretary@alliancehockey.club. Your concern will be handled in confidence.
  • All welfare and safeguarding issues should be raised with a member of the EXCO.

Safeguarding Policy

The Club is committed to ensuring that hockey is enjoyed in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment. The safety and welfare of all members is paramount.

We accept responsibility, in line with WMH and WGMA, to promote the welfare of members and protect them from harm, working alongside players, coaches, officials, spectators, and families.

Principles

  • All members, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, belief, gender reassignment, or sexual orientation, have the right to be protected from harm.
  • The EXCO promotes good safeguarding practice and acts as the point of contact for members, coaches, CMs, and players.
  • The EXCO understands the sensitive and complex nature of safeguarding concerns and is responsible for taking appropriate action if issues are raised.
  • The EXCO is also responsible for ensuring that checks and safeguarding requirements are compiled with in line with WMH and WGMA standards.

Responsibility
Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone at the Club. All concerns must be reported to the EXCO.

Safety Equipment Policy

Alliance International Hockey Club (the Club) is accredited to WMH and WGMA and is committed to ensuring members can enjoy hockey in a safe environment, in line with WMH, WGMA, and FIH guidance.

When joining the Club, members acknowledge the following:

“I recognise that hockey can be a dangerous sport. While the Club has public liability and other insurance, I acknowledge that I am primarily responsible for my own welfare and that of my children and guests. I am aware of the risks of playing or watching sport. In the event of an emergency (accident, illness, or otherwise), I authorise the Club’s coach or another Club officer to take any action they reasonably believe is necessary to protect, heal, or save me.
I accept that it is my responsibility to ensure I have the correct equipment. It is not the responsibility of the Club to provide protective equipment for myself.”

1. Protective Equipment

Gum Shields and Shin Pads

  • WMH and WGMA require all players to wear shin pads and recommend gum shields.
  • Gum shields significantly reduce the risk of injury. They should be shock-absorbable, well-fitted (preferably by a dentist or reputable provider), and replaced annually.
  • The Club’s policy is that:
    • Shin pads are mandatory for all players in matches and competitions.
    • Gum shields are strongly recommended in all matches and competitions.
  • Coaches will remind players if they are not wearing the required equipment. However, it remains the responsibility of each player to comply.

Face Masks

  • In line with FIH, WMH, and WGMA rules, defenders must wear face masks at short corners, regardless of age group or playing format.
  • Players should provide their own face mask to ensure proper fit and hygiene.
  • Borrowing face masks is strongly discouraged due to risks of damage, contamination, or poor fit. During pandemics (e.g. COVID-19), sharing face masks or other personal protective equipment is strictly prohibited.
  • The Club will not require any player to participate in a short corner without the correct equipment. Players should always assess their own safety before taking part.

2. Medical Details

  • The Club collects members’ medical and emergency contact details for safety purposes. Members must keep this information up to date.
  • Players should inform their captain, coach, or manager of any relevant medical conditions.
  • Anyone with allergies must inform their match Captain, Manager or Coach and should avoid consuming food without confirming the ingredients. If in doubt, decline.

3. First Aid

  • Teams do not have dedicated first aiders. Members with first aid skills are encouraged to notify their captain, coach, or manager so this can be taken into account during matches and training.

4. COVID-19 and Other Pandemic Guidance

Players are encouraged to:

  • Avoid sharing equipment (especially face masks).
  • Maintain social distancing in line with WMH, WGMA, and government advice.
  • Follow good hygiene practices, including handwashing before and after sessions/matches.
  • Wear clean kit for each session/match (except during same-day tournaments).
  • Self-isolate if they or household members develop symptoms or test positive, following government guidance.
  • Notify their VP if they test positive for COVID-19 or any other infectious illness.

Conflicts of Interest Policy

Alliance International Hockey Club (the Club) is committed to protecting the integrity of its decision-making processes. This policy ensures transparency in the work of the Executive Committee (EXCO) and in team selection, safeguarding the reputation of those who volunteer as VPs, CMs, and coaches, who often face difficult decisions.

This policy complements the Selection Policy, which sets out the criteria for player selection.

1. Purpose

The aim of this policy is to:

  • Provide members with confidence in the fairness of EXCO and selection decisions.
  • Protect volunteers and officials from allegations of bias.
  • Ensure that actual and perceived conflicts of interest are managed responsibly.

2. Declarations of Interest

  • Anyone involved in EXCO and/or team selection (whether a paid coach or unpaid volunteer) must disclose any actual or potential conflict of interest before the start of each season.
  • Conflicts include both real and perceived situations where impartiality could reasonably be questioned.

Examples include:

  1. An EXCO member or selector who is also a player and therefore has influence over their own selection.
  2. An EXCO member or selector who is related to a player.
  3. An EXCO member or selector who has (or has had) a personal relationship with a player.

Members with a declared conflict are welcome to share their objective views but must not be involved in making final EXCO or selection decisions.

3. Role Acceptance Procedure

In addition to completing the WMH and WGMA role acceptance form, each selector (EXCO member, VP, CM, staff member, volunteer, or committee member) must also complete a Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form upon appointment:


Disclosure Form
Name of EXCO member, VP, CM, selector (staff, volunteer or committee member) declaring a conflict of interest:

         ____________________________________________________

Name of person where a conflict of interest could arise:

____________________________________________________

Reason for a possible conflict of interest:

____________________________________________________

I understand that anyone with a conflict of interest cannot participate in EXCO decisions and/or selection processes and must be protected from allegations of bias.
Date: ____________