Clubs dive into good governance

TWO Ballarat swimming clubs were part of the first of three online sessions aimed at boosting governance and committee members’ capabilities in sporting clubs.

Members of Ballarat Gold and Ballarat GCO swimming clubs participated in Swimming Victoria’s Boardroom School event yesterday, which will reach 22 swimming clubs across the state.

Ballarat Gold president Marissa Cofield said their taking part is about improving how the club operates.

“This is a great opportunity for us to develop skills and knowledge in the area of governance,” she said.

“We’re a volunteer committee but from a sporting organisation perspective this is a new experience for us. I think this might be the first time this has been delivered by Swimming Victoria, certainly post-COVID.

“It is absolutely vital that we practice and promote responsible and strong governance to ensure ethical behaviour, legal compliance, and long-term sustainability for the club.”

Each session is being led by Olympic bronze-medal rower Margot Foster.

Ms Cofield said good governance at Ballarat Gold is especially important given their increase in younger members post-COVID.

“We’ve more than doubled in size, and we’ve certainly welcomed a lot of younger players,” she said.

“We have a number of swimmers now between eight and 12 that have joined in the last 10 to 16 months.

“I’m really looking forward to getting a clearer understanding of our responsibilities as a committee for a club that’s growing exponentially.

“Moving forward it’s really important we have really solid processes in place to help meet our strategic goals and protect the club, and ensure everyone’s safety.”

Ballarat Gold and Ballarat GCO swimming clubs currently have 153, and 43 athletes respectively with parent volunteers assisting.