How can you plan meaningful new member programs that don’t involve hazing?
First, talk about what you want your members to accomplish. For example:
- Learn your organization’s history
- Develop skills
- Grow as a leader
- Create friendships among the entire group
- Promote a positive culture in the group
Next, look at current activities to see which ones safely accomplish those goals.
Could any of your programs be crossing the line into hazing by causing embarrassment or putting a member’s safety at risk?
If the answer is yes, discuss ways to create new traditions to replace harmful ones.
Left unchecked, even one activity that crosses into hazing can easily escalate into more dangerous hazing in the future.
If you’re not in charge of the new member program, share your concerns with other members you trust. Then together, talk with your group’s leaders to suggest more positive activities.
Below are handouts that include a few ideas for activities that challenge new members to work together, test their personal courage, and teach them new skills:
Check out the planning meaningful new member programs video below:
Athletics: Positive Team Building
You want new teammates to feel like they worked hard to achieve something great—the privilege of representing your school and contributing to a winning team.
Welcome new teammates by focusing on activities that promote the best aspects of athletic teams – developing athletic abilities, growing leadership skills, and creating friendships.
Team traditions should promote:
- respect
- dignity
- teamwork
- caring
- friendship
A cohesive team builds each other up and helps everyone performs at their best. Hazing has the opposite effect and results in feelings of shame and resentment towards those who harm them. Hazing impacts psychological strength needed for peak performance. If teammates are afraid to say ‘no,’ they can’t give consent to an activity.
Plan activities that can provide healthy challenges to achieve your personal best on and off the field while making sure activities don’t involve hazing. Promoting friendship while working together can create a winning team.
- What activities could involve the entire team?
- How can you build unity across classes?
- How can you plan activities that are related to team goals, but are not excessive or dangerous?
Focus on creating experiences that are safe and positive for everyone.
