Sparring policy


Purpose

This policy outlines the mandatory procedures and safety controls for full contact sparring at SouthCity Boxing & Fitness. It is designed to:

  • Protect the health and safety of all members
  • Minimise risk of injury and transmission of blood-borne diseases (e.g. HIV, Hepatitis B/C)
  • Define participant eligibility and conduct expectations
  • Demonstrate our commitment to compliance with WA legal and safety standards

Scope

This policy applies to all:

  • Members participating in sparring sessions
  • Coaches and staff supervising contact drills
  • Boxing and combat-sport related sparring on premises

Legal Framework

SouthCity Boxing & Fitness operates in accordance with:

  • Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA)
  • Civil Liability Act 2002 (WA)
  • Combat Sports Act 1987 (WA)
  • Guidelines from the Combat Sports Commission of Western Australia

Assumption of Risk

Full contact sparring involves inherent risks, including injury and potential exposure to blood-borne viruses. All sparring participants must:

  • Sign a Sparring Risk Acknowledgment & Waiver
  • Confirm understanding and acceptance of these risks

Eligibility Requirements

  • Participants must be 17+ years (13+ with parent/guardian consent)
  • All participants must complete a pre-sparring induction
  • Competitive fighters must submit a valid serology clearance certificate (dated within 12 months)
  • No participant may spar if they have open wounds, infections, or are under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Sparring Safety Protocol

Before Sparring:

  • Coach conducts visual health check
  • All gear (gloves, wraps, mouthguards, headgear) must be worn
  • Warm-up and stretching mandatory

During Sparring:

  • Supervision by qualified coach required
  • Controlled contact only – no unsanctioned full-force sparring
  • Immediate stop if bleeding, uncontrolled aggression, or injury occurs

After Sparring:

  • Disinfect any affected equipment or mats
  • Log all incidents in the Injury & Exposure Register

Injury & Bleeding Management

If a participant bleeds:

  • Sparring stops immediately
  • First aid is administered using PPE
  • Contaminated equipment is cleaned or removed
  • The incident is documented and reviewed

Equipment Hygiene

  • Shared gear must be disinfected after each use
  • Members are encouraged to use personal gloves and wraps
  • Mats are sanitised daily and after any exposure

Coach & Staff Responsibilities

  • Enforce this policy without exception
  • Maintain valid First Aid & CPR certification
  • Complete incident reports and verify documentation (waivers, certificates)

Documentation & Records

SouthCity Boxing & Fitness securely maintains:

  • Signed Sparring Waivers
  • Serology Clearance Certificates (for competitive fighters)
  • Injury & Exposure Logs
  • First Aid Reports

All records are retained for a minimum of 5 years.

Non-Compliance

Any member or coach failing to comply with this policy may face:

  • Suspension from sparring
  • Termination of membership
  • Report to governing authorities (if applicable)

Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or following:

  • A serious injury
  • Legislative changes
  • Updated guidance from sports or health authorities

Contact Us

For questions or concerns, contact us at [email protected]

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