Statement: ESSA invites codes to contribute to a unified solution on regulating sports scientists
February 12, 2013
Professor David Bishop, a board member of Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) and Research Leader, Sport at Victoria University, issued the following statement:
There is an expectation by the Australian Government that the sporting industry will implement measures to safeguard athletes and maintain the integrity of their codes.
ESSA now believes a national, unified solution is called for, to protect clubs and athletes from future accusations of wrongdoing. At this time, we invite all sport codes to join us in ensuring fairness, respect, responsibility and safety become the hallmark of every sport.
Central to this standard is the introduction of an independent, consistent arbiter for sports scientists. Our organisation is uniquely qualified to serve in this capacity.
As a national, independent arbiter, ESSA would fulfil the ACC’s recommendations by:
Implementing a robust regulatory system;
Preventing code hopping by de-registered sports scientists;
Ensuring sporting codes are consistent on sports scientists’ entry level, code of ethics and complaints management system; and
Alleviating the administrative burden associated with individual sports running their own systems.
As a single regulator, ESSA would deliver benefits to both sports and government bodies. We can offer a clear definition of “sports scientist”; the lack of clarity at present leads to confusion for sports, athletes, governments, agencies and employers. Our regulation structure also provides recognition of qualifications, minimum entry standards, assurance of practice standards, a code of conduct and ethics and an avenue for complaints. Moreover, ESSA will soon provide equivalent functions to the Government-created National Registration and Accreditation System boards.
To expedite the implementation of a unified solution, we can invoke our strong, existing links to international professional accreditation systems, such as the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences, and Sport and Exercise Science New Zealand. Our organisation can also count on the support of The Council for Heads of Exercise, Sport and Movement, representing the 30 Australian universities with degree programs in exercise, sport and movement sciences, which recently stated its support for ESSA’s system of accreditation.
As a final and critical piece of the equation, we’d like to call upon sports science professionals who are not currently accredited to publicly establish their credibility. ESSA stands ready, as an external auditor, to review the credentials of such professionals and determine eligibility for accreditation.
For over two decades, ESSA has been calling for compulsory accreditation for sports scientists. We have a robust accreditation system that’s been in place for nearly a quarter of a century.
When the sporting industry is ready to contribute to a unified solution, we are prepared to move forward at once.
For more information about ESSA please visit www.essa.org.au.
Ends.
ABOUT ESSA
Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) is the peak professional body for exercise and sports science in Australia and provides national leadership and advocacy on key issues. It supports its over 3,500 members and the community through fostering excellence in professional practice, education, training and research.
Website: www.essa.org.au
Official Media Spokesperson for this release:
Professor David Bishop BHMS Ed Hons PhD (QLD)
Board Member
Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA)
and
Research Leader, Sport, Institute of Sport, Exercise and Active Living
Victoria University, Melbourne
david.bishop@essa.org.au
P: 03 9919 9471
M: 0435 962 364
For further media information, please contact Maya from Fresh PR & Marketing on 0410 109 102 or email maya@freshprm.com.au.
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