The Ultimo Community Centre, located in Sydney, is a popular sports club that offers a range of exciting activities for members of all ages. With a mission to promote a healthy and active lifestyle, the centre provides a safe and inclusive environment for individuals to engage in various sports and recreational activities.
The centre strictly adheres to a “Zero Tolerance” policy towards any behaviour that is considered inappropriate or anti-social by game officials or City of Sydney staff. Any physical or verbal misconduct will not be tolerated and may result in penalties, suspensions, or even expulsion from competitions. These rules are in accordance with the “Official Rule Book” and the “Social Sport Rules, Terms & Conditions” provided by the respective governing bodies of each sport.
Safety is of utmost importance at Ultimo Community Centre, and all participants are expected to demonstrate a duty of care towards others, including players, officials, staff, and spectators. Dangerous and reckless play is strictly prohibited. Additionally, it is mandatory for players in futsal competitions to wear shin pads for their own safety.
In order to maintain a fair and competitive environment, the centre disallows participation from individuals who are believed to be impaired by drugs or alcohol, according to the judgement of officials such as court supervisors, referees, or umpires. They have the authority to deny entry or request players to leave the centre under such circumstances.
When it comes to attire, all players are required to remove any jewellery, including studs and wedding rings, before playing. Taping is not allowed, and finger nails that protrude past the fingertip must be cut or covered with gloves. It is also the responsibility of the teams to provide their own same-colour singlets or shirts for ease of identification during matches.
Footwear plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of participants, and the staff and court officials have the right to refuse player participation if they deem their footwear to be unsafe, inappropriate, or lacking in proper support.
Game times at Ultimo Community Centre are published on the City of Sydney website, and participants are advised to check for any potential changes due to special events, maintenance, or weather conditions. The lunch games run between 12:00pm-2:00pm, while the evening games take place from 6:00pm-8:00pm. Competitions consist of a minimum of 10 rounds, not including finals, which typically last for 2 weeks and involve the top 4 teams. While the centre cannot guarantee the number of forfeits incurred by teams, they ensure a minimum of 10 rounds for each competition.
The length of games at the centre varies depending on the number of teams involved. Lunchtime games consist of 2 halves, each lasting 13–15 minutes, while evening games follow the same format. However, grand finals have longer halves that extend to 20 minutes each.
Clock stoppages during games differ depending on the sport. In netball, volleyball, and futsal, there are no stoppages during regular play. In basketball, the clock stops on every whistle and during baskets in the final minute of the game if the scores are 7 points or less (10 points or less for grand finals). Teams are allowed one 30-second timeout per half, and the clock also stops for injury stoppages.
Ultimo Community Centre is committed to providing a friendly and enjoyable sports experience for all participants. With a focus on fair play, safety, and community spirit, the centre welcomes individuals of all skill levels to join their various sporting competitions and activities.