Crawley YBC Constitution

Crawley Youth Bowling Club (YBC) aims to inspire young people to enjoy, learn, and excel in the sport of tenpin bowling within a friendly and inclusive environment.

1. Name and Affiliation

The club shall be known as Crawley Youth Bowling Club (YBC) and shall be affiliated with the British Tenpin Bowling Association (BTBA).

2. Objectives and Purposes

The aims of Crawley Youth Bowling Club (YBC) are:
To promote and develop the sport of tenpin bowling among young people in affiliation with the BTBA.
To provide opportunities for all bowlers aged 6–21 inclusive, regardless of background, ability, or experience, to participate, learn, and improve in a safe and inclusive environment.
To foster teamwork, fair play, respect, and sportsmanship both on and off the lanes.
To support members in progressing from grassroots to higher levels of competition and personal achievement.
To encourage the development of volunteers, coaches, and young leaders within the club community.

3. Membership

Membership shall be open to bowlers aged 6–21 inclusive, of any skill level. Bowlers become full members upon payment of the weekly fee. After a set period of membership, bowlers are required to join the BTBA. Parents and supporters are welcome to join as supporting members.
Membership fees are set at £12 per bowler per week and will be reviewed annually, with discretion for the committee to raise fees in line with venue cost increases.

4. Committee and Subcommittee

The management of the club shall be vested in the following committee members:
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer

Subcommittee positions:
Tournament Manager
Centre Representative
Head Coach
Safeguarding Contact

Committee membership renews annually and is voted for by bowlers and supporters. The committee shall meet as required, with a minimum of one meeting per quarter. Should a committee member resign mid-season, the committee may appoint an existing member to fill the role or call an election, depending on the timing within the season.

5. Finance and Fundraising

The Treasurer shall maintain a dedicated bank account in the name of Crawley Youth Bowling Club. The Treasurer has the ability to make electronic payments as a single signatory, with the agreement of the Committee. Financial statements shall be available upon seven days’ written notice and will not be formally audited, in line with BTBA requirements. Funds must be used solely for the benefit of the club and its members.
Fundraising and sponsorship activities shall be managed at the discretion of the committee and used only to support the running of the league, tournaments, and experiences for bowlers.

6. Coaching and Safeguarding

Coaching shall be led by the Head Coach and supported by qualified coaches. All coaching staff will hold a coaching licence and up-to-date DBS check. Committee members shall hold, or be in the process of obtaining, an up-to-date DBS check. A Safeguarding Lead shall be appointed to oversee all safeguarding matters.

7. Discipline and Conduct

All members, coaches, and parents/supporters are expected to uphold the BTBA and club codes of conduct. Any disciplinary concerns will be reviewed by the President and Safeguarding Lead. Possible sanctions include verbal or written warnings, suspension, or termination of membership.

8. Meetings and Voting

An Annual General Meeting (AGM) shall be held each year, at which all bowlers and supporters are entitled to vote. Decisions shall be made by majority vote, with the President holding the final say in the event of a tie.

9. Policies

The club is committed to providing equal opportunities for all members regardless of age, gender, ability, ethnicity, or background.
The club shall maintain a safe and healthy environment, ensuring first aid equipment and emergency procedures are in place.
Member information shall be handled in accordance with data protection regulations and used solely for club purposes.
Photographs and social media posts shall only be used with appropriate consent and must promote a positive image of the club and its members.

10. Adoption of Constitution

This Constitution is in effect, following a majority vote at AGM held 22nd November 2025.