FlippaBall at Claremont Pool — Game Safety Guide

FlippaBall is a junior version of water polo designed for fun, skill development and teamwork. Games are short, fields are smaller, contact is limited, and all players rotate so everyone gets a turn.

(Water Polo Australia)

Claremont Aquatic Centre requires that:

• Children under 5 must be accompanied in the water by a supervising adult (16+).

• Children under 10 must be actively supervised by someone aged 16+.

(Town of Claremont – Aquatic Centre)

2. Parent Responsibilities

Before the Game

• Arrive early so your child can warm up and be calm before play.

• Ensure they have their towel, and water bottle.

• Remind them: “Listen to your coach, show respect, and have fun.”

• Plan how you’ll supervise any younger siblings.

During the Game

• Cheer effort, teamwork, and good sportsmanship.

• Respect referees and coaches

• Keep younger children close and safe while games are running.

• No diving or bombing during gameplay or in active lanes. Encourage safe entry and calm poolside behaviour.

• Follow all lifeguard directions and pool safety signage.

• If there’s a concern, speak with the coordinator after the game, not during play.

After the Game

• Congratulate your child on trying their best.

• Encourage reflection: “What was fun?” “What did you learn?”

• Support any feedback from coaches regarding behaviour or teamwork.

• Collect belongings and ensure safe change-over with the next team.

4. Roles & Responsibilities

 Junior Coaches

• Teach skills, encourage teamwork, and ensure every player participates 

• Reinforce safety, inclusion, and positive team culture.

• Manage the team during play but are not responsible for supervising or disciplining children outside gameplay.

Junior Referees

• Enforce FlippaBall rules and ensure a fair, safe, enjoyable game.

• Their decisions are final — parents, players and coaches must show respect.

• Many are young officials in training; they deserve encouragement and patience.

• Referees are not responsible for children’s general behaviour or supervision, only for the safe conduct of the game itself.

5. Key Message

Dolphins FlippaBall and Claremont Pool share one goal —

a safe, friendly place where children can learn, grow, and enjoy being part of a team.

By modelling calm, respectful behaviour and remembering that parents are the primary supervisors, we create an environment where every child feels supported, safe, and confident in and around the water.