Ground Manager Job Description

Responsibilities

The Ground Manager is responsible for overseeing the safe, orderly and effective operation of all off-field areas at the venue while games are in progress. They should remain visible, approachable, alert and aware of activities occurring around the venue and actively monitor the conduct of players, officials and spectators to promote a safe and positive game day environment.

The Ground Manager is responsible for facilitating the efficient delivery of match day operations and ensuring compliance with relevant NRL, NSWRL and local League rules, policies, procedures and Codes of Conduct. Where issues arise, the Ground Manager should take appropriate action within the scope of their role and, where necessary, refer or report matters to the appropriate League official or authority.

Ground Managers should have a sound working knowledge of the rules, policies and procedures that apply at both League and State level and assist in ensuring they are applied consistently throughout the game day.

The Ground Manager should be a mature person who is at least 18 years of age.

Duties

Prior to Games Commencing 

• Inspect the playing area to ensure it is safe and suitable for play.
• Ensure three working game timers and a suitable siren or bell are available.
• Ensure the playing area is appropriately roped or fenced off.
• Ensure appropriate keys or access arrangements are available for ambulance access to the playing area if required.
• Wear the designated Ground Manager vest and remain clearly identifiable and accessible throughout the day.

Before Each Game

• Introduce yourself to the visiting team officials, referee and touch judges.
• Ensure appropriately accredited Sports Trainer(s) are in attendance in accordance with the NRL On-Field Policy.
• Ensure all players have the correct identification and are signed on at least 15 minutes prior to kick-off.
• Ensure all team staff have the correct identification, are listed on the sign-on sheet and have signed on prior to the commencement of the game.
• Ensure the game commences on time.

During Play

• Monitor the behaviour of coaches to ensure they remain within the designated team area and comply with the NRL National Code of Conduct.
• Ensure Sports Trainers comply with the NRL On-Field Policy.
• Monitor player interchanges to ensure they are conducted in accordance with the applicable rules.
• Ensure all replacement players have signed on before entering the field of play.
• Monitor spectator behaviour and respond to breaches of the NRL National Code of Conduct in accordance with League procedures.
• Receive and action any reports from the referee regarding breaches of the rules.
• Manage the administration of players who are sin-binned or sent off during play.
• Ensure any player removed from the field with a suspected Head Injury Assessment (HIA) or concussion is not permitted to return to play and is appropriately recorded as "HIA" on the sign-on sheet.

After Each Game

• Ensure the referee signs the sign-on sheet.
• Ensure all sign-on sheets have been completed correctly.
• Request that each Team Manager takes a photo of their respective sign-on sheet.
• Collect all sign-on sheets and store them securely for submission to the League.
• Reset all game clocks in preparation for the next match.
• Ensure all benches and tables are left clean and ready for the following game.

Reporting

• Submit reports relating to unsportsmanlike behaviour to your local League and/or NSWRL, as required.
• Report any breaches of the NRL National Code of Conduct to your local League and/or NSWRL.
• Follow the NSWRL Critical Incident Flowchart in the event of any critical incident occurring at your Club's venue on game day.

Notes

Ground Managers can complete the online induction through the NRL Online Learning Centre here.