Benefits of Becoming an Inclusive Club

Welcoming and inclusive sporting environments are ones where everyone is made to feel welcome, regardless of their ability, background or personal attributes.  These sporting environments are friendly and safe places that are free of harassment and discrimination.

As a result of embracing and welcoming all people from the community, your Club can expect to realise the following benefits:

• Increased Club membership whether as players or social members
• Financial benefits gained as extra revenue is generated from new members and their families
• A greater awareness of your Club and its achievements in the community. Your local council, sponsors and government agencies all have an interest in encouraging people of all abilities and backgrounds to participate in gymnastics
• Extra Volunteers at your Club in a variety of capacities as a result of recruiting new players as well as their families and friends
• A welcoming Club environment in which no-one feels unwanted or discriminated against
• A family friendly atmosphere attracting new people to your Club
• Increased skills within your Club as a result of new memberships and new volunteers around the Club
• An ability to make a positive contribution to the overall health and well-being of the community
•  Improved image within community
• So why would your sport or club want to make itself more welcoming and inclusive? Welcoming and inclusive sporting environments 

o    Help to attract and retain participants

o    Help to attract and retain volunteers

o    Create a positive image of a club and assist with public relations

o    Ensure everyone feels respected and valued, regardless of their ability, cultural background or religion

o    Officials feel respected and are more likely to continue

o    May assist with attracting sponsorship

o    Junior participants are more likely to enjoy their sport and continue on

o    Are friendlier and safer places to be

o    Enables more people to be involved in sport

·      The more the club endeavours to make itself a welcoming and inclusive place, the easier the challenge of attracting new people and keeping them will be.