Sports Club Social Media Policy: How to Protect Your Club and Grow Online

If your sports club is on social media without a clear policy, you’re leaving yourself open to risk. From safeguarding issues to reputational damage, one bad post can undo years of hard work. A sports club social media policy sets the rules, protects your members, and makes sure your content reflects the values of your club.

Here’s how to write one that works.

Why Your Club Needs a Social Media Policy

A good policy isn’t about stopping people from posting — it’s about setting clear expectations so everyone knows the boundaries.

Without one, you risk:

• Safeguarding breaches — especially with junior members.

• Brand damage from offensive or inaccurate posts.

• Confusion over who can speak for the club.

• Legal trouble if copyright or privacy rules are ignored.

A policy makes sure everyone — players, coaches, parents, and volunteers — knows what’s acceptable.

Step 1: Define Your Purpose

Decide what your club wants to achieve with social media. This will shape your rules.

Examples:

• Promote matches, events, and achievements.

• Grow membership and sponsorship opportunities.

• Celebrate players and teams.

• Build a sense of community.

Step 2: Set Content Guidelines

Outline what can and can’t be posted on official club channels. Keep it simple:

• Post positive, inclusive content that represents the club’s values.

• Never share private information about members without consent.

• Avoid offensive language, discriminatory remarks, or unverified claims.

• Use only approved logos, photos, and graphics.

Step 3: Clarify Who Can Post

Decide who has access to your accounts and their responsibilities.

• Assign named administrators for each platform.

• Require approval for major announcements or sensitive content.

• Agree on who responds to messages and comments.

Step 4: Safeguarding Rules for Youth Clubs

If you work with under-18s, safeguarding must be a core part of the policy:

• Always get written consent from parents/guardians before sharing images or videos.

• Never tag children in photos.

• Avoid posting training or match locations in real time.

Reference: NSPCC – Social Media and Children in Sport

Step 5: Handling Personal Accounts

Players, coaches, and volunteers often post about the club on their own channels. Make expectations clear:

• Speak positively about the club.

• Don’t share confidential information.

• Report any issues or incidents to the club’s social media lead.

Step 6: Set an Incident Response Process

If something goes wrong:

1. Remove the offending post immediately.

2. Notify the club’s committee or safeguarding officer.

3. Decide on a public statement if needed.

4. Review the policy to prevent repeat issues.

Step 7: Keep It Updated

Social media changes quickly. Review your policy every year to keep it relevant.

• Check platform changes (privacy settings, community guidelines).

• Update consent forms.

• Review admin access.

Key Takeaways

A strong sports club social media policy should:

• Protect members and the club’s reputation.

• Be easy to understand.

• Apply to everyone involved in the club.

• Be reviewed regularly.

It’s not about limiting your reach — it’s about creating a safe, consistent presence that helps your club grow.