Training Policy

1. Introduction and Scope

This policy aims to establish a robust framework for the safe use of both outdoor net facilities and indoor training venues utilised by Rayleigh Cricket Club. All members, including parents of colt and young adult members, are encouraged to acquaint themselves with this policy.

2. Outdoor Net Facility

The following section outlines general rules and conditions for use of the outdoor dual net facility at Rawreth Lane.

2.1 Use of the Nets

Usage of the nets is contingent upon availability and nets must be booked via the Club's website. The committee retains the right to revoke cricket net privileges from members who fail to adhere to the enclosed regulations or use the facilities without permission.

Members are prohibited from disclosing the combination code for the nets to any other individual. The club actively changes the combination to ensure the facility is not used inappropriately.

Access to the outdoor nets is permissible under the following conditions:

• You are a fully paid-up and registered playing member of Rayleigh Cricket Club. Parents of members aged 18 or under may also use the net while supervising their children.
• Adherence to safety regulations for the nets, including the wearing of appropriate protective equipment.
• Individuals under the age of 18 are supervised by a responsible adult.

2.2 Conditions for Use

To maintain the quality of our cricket nets and ensure safety for all members, the following conditions must be adhered to:

• The nets are not to be utilised during the off-season unless prior agreement has been obtained from a member of the management committee. This measure is essential to safeguard the surface of the nets and prevent any damage that may occur following maintenance work.
• Under inclement weather conditions, or when the nets' surface is wet, usage is prohibited. This precautionary measure is aimed at preserving the longevity of the nets, shielding them from potential damage, and ensuring the safety of individuals using them.
• The net gate must remain closed but unlocked during use. The gate must be locked immediately after the session ends.

2.3 Use Outside of Scheduled Training Sessions

Use of the nets is permitted outside of scheduled training sessions; however, priority will be given to pre-arranged sessions (e.g., colts training). Details of pre-arranged sessions can be found on the club's website, Play-Cricket site, and social media pages.

The only way to use the nets outside of dedicated training sessions is by making a booking via the Club website.

3. Indoor Net Sessions

Indoor nets present unique risks due to hard floors and enclosed spaces. The following section outlines general rules for indoor net sessions — usually held at The FitzWimarc School.

3.1 General Rules

• Footwear: Strictly non-marking trainers only. No spikes, even with rubber "studs," are permitted in sports halls.
• Facility Rules: Members must respect the specific rules of the indoor venue and look after hired facilities.
• Netting: Ensure that the netting is pulled out and put away appropriately. Any issues must be escalated to the committee, or the venue, immediately.
• Arrival/Departure: Do not begin training until the previous booking has vacated. Ensure all RCC equipment is stored away promptly at the end of the session.

3.2 Medical Emergency Action Plan (MEAP)

4. Equipment Rules

The below rules apply when using the nets — both outdoor and indoor. The club cannot accept responsibility, or liability, for any damages or injury resulting from non-compliance.

• No kit bags should be inside the enclosed artificial playing surface or cricket lanes.
• Suitable footwear must be worn — rubber-soled (non-marking) shoes or trainers. Cricket spikes and non-sport shoes are not permitted.
• Batters working with a hard ball must wear adequate protection.
• All under 18s must bat in a helmet and full protective equipment.
• Please refrain from tapping bats excessively at the crease.
• The surface of the nets must not be marked with chalk or any other material. Cones, discs, or similar non-marking items should be used instead.
• Only proper leather cricket balls, bowling machine balls, tennis balls, or purpose-made cricket training balls may be used in nets.
• Loose balls should be collected to minimise accidents or damage.
• No climbing, leaning, or bouncing off the nets.
• All rubbish and litter is to be placed in the bin.
• There is to be no foul language in or around the nets. This is to respect other club members and uphold the image of the club.

5. Safety Rules

The below rules apply when using both the indoor and outdoor nets:

• To ensure safety, a maximum of eight players may be in each lane at any one time.
• No spectators are to be in the active net area.
• Batters must pad up outside the net area.
• Bowlers must only bowl when the batter is ready.
• Loose balls should be removed before bowling in the net.
• A loud cry of "STOP" should result in all activity stopping immediately to address any potential safety issue. The nearest first aid point can be found in the clubhouse, or at marked locations at hired venues.
• Bowlers should take care not to cross into another lane to retrieve a ball.
• Bowling must be in accordance with the Laws of Cricket.
• The bowling machine should only be used by those qualified and/or authorised to do so by the management committee.
• Under 18s must always be supervised by a responsible adult.

6. Injury & Reporting

6.1 Injury Protocol

Use the "STOP" method for all net injuries:

• S — Stop Play: Shout "STOP" loudly. All lanes must cease bowling/batting immediately to prevent a secondary injury.
• T — Talk & Think: Ask the player where it hurts. Check for red flags (loss of consciousness, neck pain, deformity).
• O — Observe: Look for swelling or bruising.
• P — Plan:
  • Minor (bruise/strains): Use the POLICE method — Protection, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, Elevation.
  • Head/neck hit: Mandatory removal. If a player is hit on the helmet or head, they must not resume training that day.
  • Major (fracture/unconscious): Do not move them. Call 999.

6.2 Reporting of Accidents and Injuries

All organised junior sessions must have at least one person present with an appropriate first aid qualification. A qualified first aider is recommended for adult sessions but may not always be possible.

An entry in the accident book should be promptly recorded in the event of an accident.

7. Governance

Any issues or concerns should be brought to the attention of a committee member. This policy will be reviewed two years from the date of issue.

Document History

Version 2.0 — Issued February 2026. Next review due February 2028.