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Sports chaplaincy is a Christian cross-denominational service providing support for sports organisations. This includes sports men and women, administrators, supporters and family networks.
Why Chaplaincy?
Sports organisations and welfare officers recognise that sports people are whole human beings. The condition of other areas of an athlete's life including unplanned circumstances can and do affect their performance, both on the field and in the public arena. Sporting demands can also have an impact on vocational responsibilities and relationships.
Through sports chaplains the welfare office makes pastoral care available for players, partners, families and staff, offering:
- a neutral person with whom to 'off-load',
- support for staff as they facilitate and maintain positive, focused attitudes in athletes
Pastoral Care takes place through:
- the Chaplain just 'being there' and available;
- the Chaplain's personal assessment of the individual needs of an athlete;
- referral by, and in liaison with club personnel;
- outcomes from meeting with the Welfare Officer/Coach;
Pastoral care happens in an ad hoc, informal way at training and social events, over the telephone, in hospital, or more formally on the basis of appointments.
Read more on our Professional Service Expectations.
An Honour to Serve
Our sports chaplains consider their role a honour and serve without expectation of remuneration. They are authentic, Christian men and women who are trained in sports pastoral care. They are relational and integrate exceptionally well into the life of the sports organisation where they serve. Our SCA chaplains also abide by a professional code of conduct.
Becoming a Chaplain
SCA recommends that people seeking to become a club chaplain or who have been approached to become a chaplain register their interest with SCA. Accreditation is an important and straight-forward activity. It ensures sports chaplains are competent, of good character and accountable. It also provides chaplains with protection, tremendous resources and a quality support network throughout Australia.
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