Safety & Injury Reporting
- Dec 3, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 3
Player safety is our number one priority.
As an umpire, you play a vital role in creating a safe environment before, during and after every match. While injuries are sometimes unavoidable, how they are managed can make a huge difference to a player's recovery and wellbeing.
This guide explains your responsibilities for player safety, injury management and reporting.
Pre-Game Player Safety Checks
Before the game begins, check that every player is ready to play safely.
Nails
Nails must be short and smooth.
If a player's nails are too long and cannot be shortened, they must wear suitable protective gloves.
Hair
Long hair must be securely tied back.
Jewellery
No jewellery may be worn during play.
If an item cannot be removed (such as a wedding ring), it must be securely taped.
Clothing
No hoods may be worn while playing.
Peaked hats are not permitted.
Prescription sunglasses are permitted if required.
Watches
Watches must not be worn on the wrist.
They may only be worn on the ankle underneath a sock.
If a player does not meet these safety requirements, they cannot take the court until the issue has been resolved.
When Does an Injury Need Reporting?
An injury must be reported whenever a player:
Leaves the court because of an injury.
Is unable to continue playing.
It doesn't matter whether the injury appears minor at the time. If the player cannot return to the game, it must be reported.
What To Do At The Time of the Injury
If a player is injured:
Stop play if required.
Assess the situation.
Provide basic first aid from your kit bag if appropriate (this is usually an instant ice pack).
Ensure the player is safe and comfortable.
If the player is unable to continue, collect the following information and write it on the back of your scorecard:
Player's full name
Date of birth
Contact number
This allows you to complete the online Injury Report after the game if you're busy during fixtures.
Reporting the Injury
All injuries must be submitted using the Flyt Netball Injury Report Form.
We understand that umpiring can be busy, especially when you're officiating multiple games or working alone. Recording the player's details during the game allows you to complete the report afterwards.
All injury reports should be submitted within 24 hours so that we can:
Check on the player's wellbeing.
Provide any support required.
Maintain accurate safety records.
Serious Injuries
If an injury appears more serious, additional information may be required.
Please include details of anyone who clearly witnessed the incident, such as:
Players
Umpires
Captains
Officials
Spectators (where appropriate)
Witness information helps if we need to investigate the incident further.
If a Player Leaves the Court Injured
If a player leaves the court because of injury, encourage them not to return to play until they have fully recovered.
Players will often want to continue, but returning too soon may worsen the injury or increase the risk of further damage.
When in doubt, always prioritise player safety.
Your Umpire Kit Bag
Every umpire should ensure their kit bag contains basic first aid supplies, including:
Instant ice packs
Gloves
Basic first aid essentials
If any supplies are missing or running low, please report this as soon as possible by emailing:
Before the Game: Court Safety Checks
Before every match, carry out a quick visual inspection of the playing area.
Check:
Court surface for water, debris or damage.
Goal posts and nets are secure.
Match balls are fully inflated and undamaged.
Surrounding areas are clear of hazards, bags or loose equipment.
If anything presents a safety risk, report it immediately.
Do not allow play to begin if the court is unsafe.
During the Game
Remain alert throughout the match for anything that could compromise player safety.
Look out for:
Dangerous or reckless contact.
Players attempting to continue despite injury.
Signs of fatigue, pain or restricted movement.
Unsafe behaviour from players.
Your responsibilities include:
Stopping play when necessary.
Managing injuries appropriately.
Ensuring safe restarts.
Maintaining a safe playing environment.
After the Game
Before leaving the venue:
Check that any injured players have support.
Complete any Injury Report Forms within 24 hours.
Report any damaged equipment.
Report any court hazards.
Report low or missing first aid supplies.
Why Injury Reporting Matters
Accurate injury reporting helps Flyt Netball to:
Support injured players.
Follow up on player welfare.
Identify recurring safety concerns.
Improve the safety of our leagues.
Meet our safeguarding and insurance responsibilities.
Every report makes a difference.
Final Thoughts
As an umpire, you're responsible for much more than applying the rules.
By carrying out safety checks, managing injuries calmly and reporting incidents promptly, you help ensure every player can enjoy netball in a safe and supportive environment.
Thank you for helping keep our Flyt community safe, both on and off the court.
