Governance & League Rules
The Southern Squash League operates under a clear and transparent structure to ensure fairness, accountability, and consistency across all levels of competition.
This section outlines the key principles, policies, and procedures that guide how SSL is managed and how competitions are conducted throughout the season.
League Rules & By-Laws
The SSL League Rules and By-Laws define how the competition is structured and managed across all pennants.
They are designed to provide clarity for clubs, players, and administrators and to maintain the spirit of fair play within the league.
Key Areas Covered
- Committee structure and governance
- Match procedures and results submission
- Player registration and eligibility
- Finals qualification
- Team order, substitutions, and walkovers
- Transfers between clubs or divisions
- Forfeits and default procedures
Important Information
Each participating club and player is expected to be familiar with these rules.
For full details, download the official By-Laws document or contact the SSL Committee for clarification.
View Constitution → View By-Laws →Disciplinary Process
SSL maintains a transparent and fair disciplinary process to deal with any issues that may arise during the season.
The process ensures that all players and clubs are treated consistently and with respect.
1. Incident Reporting
Any complaint or breach of conduct must be submitted via the online Complaint Submission Form within seven days of the incident.
2. Initial Review
The SSL Committee or nominated subcommittee will review the report to determine whether further action or a formal hearing is required.
3. Disciplinary Hearing
If a hearing is deemed necessary, the committee will notify the parties involved in writing.
4. Decision & Communication
All findings and penalties (if applicable) will be communicated in writing with reference to relevant by-laws.
5. Right of Appeal
Any player or club may appeal the decision within seven days of receiving the outcome.
The process is designed to be fair, confidential, and in accordance with the principles of natural justice.
Lodge a Complaint → Submit an Appeal →Penalties & Conduct
To maintain a positive and respectful environment, SSL enforces conduct standards and appropriate penalties when required.
Penalties may apply to both individual players and clubs depending on the nature of the breach.
Possible Outcomes Include:
- Warning or written notice
- Fines for teams or clubs
- Temporary suspension of a player
- Disqualification from matches or finals eligibility
- Expulsion from the league in serious cases
All penalties are determined by the SSL Committee or its disciplinary subcommittee and recorded for future reference.
SSL also promotes proactive education on sportsmanship and respect. Players are encouraged to resolve disputes on court respectfully and in line with the WSF Code of Conduct.
Match Behaviour & Code of Conduct
The Southern Squash League expects all participants to uphold the highest standards of behaviour, both on and off the court.
Respect for opponents, referees, and spectators is fundamental to the culture of the league.
General Guidelines:
- Always play in the spirit of fairness and sportsmanship.
- Accept referee decisions without dissent.
- Avoid any verbal or physical misconduct.
- Maintain a safe and positive environment.
- Represent your club and the league with integrity.
Poor behaviour may result in penalties as outlined above.
For detailed rules, refer to the WSF Code of Conduct and the SSL By-Laws.
Junior & Child Safety Policy
The Southern Squash League is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for all players — especially children and young people.
We follow the Victorian Child Safe Standards and Squash Australia’s Child Safeguarding Policy to ensure that every junior player can participate safely and confidently.
Our key commitments:
- Promoting participation and empowerment of junior players.
- Ensuring valid Working with Children Checks (WWCC).
- Responding promptly to concerns raised.
- Protecting the privacy and wellbeing of children.
Important Contacts
Each affiliated club must ensure that its staff, volunteers, and representatives comply with these standards.
Concerns or reports can be made confidentially to the SSL Child Safety Officer or emailed to:
info@southernsquashleague.com.au
If a child is in immediate danger, contact 000 or Victoria Police.
View SSL Junior & Child Safety Policy (2025) →Volunteer & Committee Involvement
SSL is entirely volunteer-run and thrives on the time and dedication of its community.
If you are passionate about squash and want to contribute to the growth of the league, consider joining the committee or volunteering for a specific role.
Volunteer Opportunities Include:
- Match and Pennant Support
- Event and Social Coordination
- Refereeing and Coaching Support
- League Administration
To express your interest, complete the Volunteer Registration Form or email info@southernsquashleague.com.au.
Volunteer Registration Form →Resources & Links
Closing Statement
Governance and fairness are at the heart of the Southern Squash League.
Every decision, rule, and policy is shaped by a commitment to respect, transparency, and community spirit.
By working together — clubs, players, and volunteers — we continue to build a league that represents the best of squash in Victoria.
For more information or clarification on any policies, contact the SSL Committee at: info@southernsquashleague.com.au