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Our Children

Learn your rights as a young player so you can look after yourself and stand up for your friends on and off the court.

Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities

You have the absolute right to feel and be safe—every single day, no matter where you are.

Your Rights as a Player

  • Safety and Respect: You should never have to deal with bullying, hurt, or being made to feel uncomfortable by a teammate, coach, or any other adult.

  • Privacy and Boundaries: Your personal space matters. No one has the right to touch you or take photos of you in a way that feels wrong, strange, or unsafe.

  • Using Your Voice: You always have the right to speak up. Sharing a concern isn't "dobbing" or getting people in trouble—it is a brave step to protect yourself and your teammates.

  • A Strong Support System: You are never on your own. There are always trusted adults and organizations ready to stand by you and help whenever you need it.

Your Responsibilities

Safety goes both ways. Your rights come with the responsibility to respect the boundaries and safety of others, just as you expect them to respect yours. Everyone on and off the court deserves to feel safe, welcome, and supported.

Teamwork Off the Court: Spotting the Red Flags

Part of staying safe in pickleball means keeping an eye out for your friends and teammates, too. If a friend seems down or something feels wrong—even if you aren't completely sure—it is always important to trust your instincts.

Unhealthy behavior or abuse can happen in different ways, and it isn't always easy to see. Noticing small changes in your friends and speaking up can make a massive difference.

Changes in Behaviour

A friend suddenly becoming very quiet, sad, or moody; stopping completely or withdrawing from games; constantly talking badly about themselves; or avoiding specific people and places.

Red Flags at the venue

An adult wanting to be alone with a specific player a lot; someone breaking club safety rules; or a player getting special gifts, private messages, and extra attention.

Changes in Appearance

Seeing lots of unexplained bruises, cuts, or scratches; a friend who is exhausted and tired all the time; or sports injuries that just don’t make sense.

What to Do If a Friend Confides in You

If a friend opens up to you about something that is hurting or worrying them, you can be a great teammate by following these steps:

  1. Stay calm and listen: Let them speak without interrupting.

  2. Support them: Tell your friend that you believe them and that they did the right thing by sharing it.

  3. Get help: Encourage them to talk to a trusted adult, and let them know kindly that you need to tell a trusted adult too, so everyone can stay safe.

Talking to Someone You Trust

If something happens that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe—or if you notice it happening to a teammate—the most important step you can take is to tell an adult you trust.

Who Can You Talk To?

  • A parent or guardian

  • Your coach

  • A school teacher or counselor

  • the Pickle Power Kids Child Safe Officer

Reporting It Yourself

If you feel confident doing so, you can also report your concerns directly:

  • Email: Send a message to childsafe@picklepowerkids.com.au or call 0481 832 240

  • Call STOPLINE: Dial 1800 11 SAFE (1800 117 233) to talk to someone without having to give your name.

  • If Someone Is in Danger Right Now: Find a trusted adult immediately and call the Police on 000. Do not wait.

Frequently asked questions

What if I feel left out or uncomfortable, but no one is being mean?

Feeling safe is about more than just avoiding bullies—it means feeling included, welcome, and treated with kindness. If a situation on or off the court doesn't feel right to you, please talk to a friend, a parent, or an adult you trust. You don’t have to sit with those feelings alone

Can I say no to something in training if it makes me uncomfortable?

Yes, absolutely. You can always say no. No one should ever force you to do something that feels wrong, even if it is part of a practice drill or exercise. It is always okay to speak up if a situation feels unsafe or makes you worry.

What if adults don’t believe me when I speak up?

That can feel incredibly frustrating, but please do not give up. You have a right to be heard, and there are people who truly want to help you. Keep reaching out to different trusted adults until someone listens. 

What if an adult tells a joke that makes me feel weird?

Even if they claim it’s "just a joke," you have every right to dislike it. Adults should always treat you with respect. If a joke or comment makes you feel uncomfortable, or if it keeps happening, let a trusted adult know.

What should I do if I am worried about a teammate or friend?

If a friend seems upset, scared, or is acting differently, tell a trusted adult about it. You don’t have to solve the problem yourself—just speaking up for them can make a massive difference.

Is it still wrong if it happens online, like in private chats or comments?

Yes, online behavior is just as serious as what happens face-to-face. If someone sends you messages that feel strange, asks you for photos, or posts comments that make you uncomfortable, tell a trusted adult right away.

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