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Legal Responsibilities and Risk Management

Sports officials are a vital part of the sporting experience. Without umpires, referees, judges, marshals, timekeepers, scorers, starters and so on, sport in New Zealand just wouldn’t happen.

A key role for sports officials is to ensure that the competition is carried out in accordance with the rules of the sport and that the spirit of fair play is observed by all. Equally important is ensuring the safety of the sporting environment for all participants. This includes athletes, coaches, spectators and other officials.

By completing this Legal Responsibilities and Risk Management eLearning module you will be able to:

  • Recognise the legal obligations of sports officials and how best to meet these obligations
  • Manage the risks to reduce the likelihood of an injury or accident
  • Reduce the chances of neglecting your responsibilities

While the increased risk of liability is a concern, it is important to remember that the roles and the responsibilities of officials have not changed all that much. What has changed, however, is the expectation from the general public that officials are fully aware of their legal rights and responsibilities and act in the best interests of their sport.

Most sports officials are already meeting these requirements, and in doing so provide an invaluable service to New Zealand sport.

If you are unable to view the eLearning module we have CD ROMs’ available which can be sent to you. Please contact SPARC for a free copy should you require one.

Download the e-learning module (Flash, 122kb)

You will require Adobe Flash Player to view the e-learning module. Download Adobe Flash Player.

Updated | 20 Dec 2007.

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