Constitution – Cricket Club

Description

The Constitution of the Rutgers Cricket Club is the supreme governing document of the organization, outlining the fundamental principles and framework under which the club operates. This constitution establishes the structure, responsibilities, and procedures that guide the actions and decisions of the members and leadership of the Rutgers Cricket Club.

Key Dates

Founded: January 2023 by Fauzan Amjad
Adopted: February 1st 2023
Amended: August 14th 2023

The Constitution of the Rutgers Cricket Club

The name of the organization shall be “The Rutgers Cricket Club”.

Section 1: Purpose of the Organization
- The purpose of the Rutgers Cricket Club is to develop a high-level interscholastic sport organization for students seeking the challenge of competing in cricket or an outlet to experience cricket as a new sport through developing physical, social, and mental wellbeing. The organization shall also serve as a forum for members to discuss and socialize over the cricket sport.
- The Rutgers Cricket Club shall be non-Academic student organization that competes two or more times inter-collegiately sanctioned by a governing body or association excluding regional or national competitions.
Section 2: Anti-Discrimination Statement
- The organization does not and shall not discriminate against anyone on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, political affiliation, and status as a veteran.
Section 3: University Regulation
- The organization shall abide by all justifiable rules and regulations of the University, including those that apply to non-discrimination and equal opportunity.
Section 4: Federal, State, and Local Laws
- The organization shall abide by all justifiable laws of the State of New Jersey and the United States as well as any local statutes which may affect the actions of the organization.
Section 5: Land Acknowledgement
- We acknowledge that the land on which we stand is the ancestral territory of the Lenape People. We pay respect to Indigenous people throughout the Lenape diaspora – past, present, and future – and honor those who have been historically and systemically disenfranchised. We also acknowledge that Rutgers University, like New Jersey and the United States as a nation, was founded upon the exclusions and erasures of Indigenous peoples.

Section 1: Membership
- Membership shall be open to all Rutgers University students and must comply with federal laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, military service, and veteran status, and any other category protected by law.
Section 2: Recreational Department Provisions
- All full-time enrolled students (under-graduate, graduate, professional and doctoral) on the Rutgers New Brunswick-Piscataway Campus paying the University Recreation Fee are eligible to participate in Club Sports. All faculty & staff with a recreation membership are eligible to participate. All students must complete and be approved on Do Sports Easy to practice or compete. Do Sports Easy is the Club Sports departments administrative website to assist with risk management for Clubs and members. Individual leagues and governing bodies may have different requirements for competing.
Section 3: Satellite Campus Eligibility
- Students at Rutgers- Camden or Rutgers- Newark are eligible to participate if the campus they attend classes on does not have an active Club Sport organization in cricket.

Section 1: Founding Board of Directors
- The Founding Board of Directors of the Rutgers Cricket Club shall be selected and confirmed by the current Executive Board for the 2023-2024 term.
- The Founding Board of Directors shall consist of 11 seats.
  - Three Founding Board of Directors shall serve an initial term for 1 year.
  - Three Founding Board of Directors shall serve an initial term for 2 years.
  - Four Founding Board of Directors shall serve an initial term for 3 years.
- The Founder of the Cricket Club shall hold a reserved seat on the Board of Directors, which shall never expire. The Founder may choose to serve in this capacity or appoint a designee, subject to the approval of the Nominating Committee if he chooses. In the absence of such a designation, the Nominating Committee shall make the determination.
Section 2: Term and Vacancies
- Each member of the Board of Directors, with the exception of the Founder of the Cricket Club, shall serve a term of three (3) years.
- In the event of a vacancy on the Board of Directors, the Board shall issue an application for interested candidates.
- Members of the Board of Directors are only allowed to serve one term.
- Removal of a Director should be a unanimous vote by the remaining directors on the Board of Directors.
Section 3: Nominating Committee
- The Board of Directors shall establish a Nominating Committee to review applications and nominate candidates for vacant seats.
- The full remaining members of the Board of Directors shall confirm the nominated candidates.
Section 4: Responsibilities and Powers
- The Board of Directors shall oversee and manage various aspects of the Rutgers Cricket Club, including but not limited to the following:
  - Running elections for the positions of President, Vice President, and Treasurer.
  - Confirming the election certificates for the aforementioned positions.
  - Approving the annual budget of the Cricket Club.
  - Establishing committees to review policies and initiatives under the guidance of the Cricket Club President.
  - Confirming members of the President’s cabinet.
  - Approving the creation of new departments within the Cricket Club, based on the advice of the Cricket Club President.
  - Facilitating fundraising initiatives and maintaining connections with Cricket Club alumni.
  - Reviewing and resolving internal conflicts brought before the Board.
Section 5: Meetings and Decision Making
- The Board of Directors shall convene at least once every two (2) months during the academic school year. The final meeting of the academic year shall serve as the organizational meeting for the Rutgers Cricket Club.
- Additional meetings may be proposed by the President of the Cricket Club as special meetings. Such proposed special meetings shall be subject to approval by the Board of Directors.
- Decisions made during regular and special meetings of the Board of Directors shall be determined by a simple majority vote of the seated members.
Section 6: Necessity of Board of Directors
- Clause 1: Strategic Guidance and Long-Term Planning
  - The Board of Directors brings together individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity enriches discussions and decision-making processes, leading to well-informed strategies and plans. The Board collaborates with the Executive Board to develop a vision that aligns with the mission of the Cricket Club. Through its collective expertise, the Board ensures the Cricket Club’s activities remain purposeful and forward-looking.
- Clause 2: Accountability and Transparency
  - The Board of Directors serves as a check-and-balance mechanism to ensure that the Cricket Club operates transparently and remains accountable to its members, supporters, and stakeholders. By providing oversight and actively participating in decision-making, the Board fosters an environment of responsible governance. This transparency strengthens trust within the Cricket Club community.
- Clause 3: Stewardship of Resources
  - Effective management of resources is integral to the success of any organization. The Board of Directors is entrusted with reviewing and approving the annual budget, ensuring financial stability, and overseeing fundraising efforts. By taking a holistic view of the Cricket Club’s financial health, the Board ensures that resources are allocated wisely to support its initiatives and objectives.
- Clause 4: Leadership Succession and Continuity
  - The Board of Directors plays a pivotal role in ensuring leadership succession and organizational continuity. By actively participating in the selection and confirmation of new board members, the Board maintains a dynamic and engaged team that can guide the Cricket Club through changing times. This approach fosters a culture of mentorship and leadership development.
- Clause 5: Conflict Resolution and Decision Making
  - In the course of organizational operations, conflicts and challenges may arise. The Board of Directors provides a platform for impartial assessment and resolution of such issues. By maintaining a fair and objective perspective, the Board assists in maintaining a harmonious and productive environment within the Cricket Club.
- Clause 6: Institutional Memory and Alumni Engagement
  - The Board of Directors often includes experienced individuals with historical knowledge of the organization. This institutional memory preserves the legacy and traditions of the Cricket Club. Additionally, the Board can facilitate connections with Cricket Club alumni, fostering a sense of community and supporting ongoing initiatives.

Section 1: Overview of the Executive Board
- The Executive Board shall be the President, Vice President, and Treasurer, with the Vice President and Treasurer reporting directly to the President.
Section 2: The President (Chief Executive Officer)
- Clause 1: Chief Executive Officer and Club Sport Liaison
  - The President of the Rutgers Cricket Club is the Chief Executive Officer of the Rutgers Cricket Club.
  - The President of the Rutgers Cricket Club serves as the primary contact between the Club and the Club Sport Department.
  - As the Chief Executive Officer of the Rutgers Cricket Club, the President holds the responsibility of leading the organization’s activities and initiatives.
  - The President is required to attend the monthly President’s Meetings, which serve as a platform to receive updates from the University, Division of Student Affairs, and Recreation department. These meetings provide an opportunity for interaction with other Club Sport leaders and feature guest speakers.
  - If the President cannot attend a President’s Meeting due to prior commitments, they should inform the Club Sport Office and arrange for another Officer to attend on their behalf.
- Clause 2: Responsibilities and Compliance
  - The President is responsible for ensuring that all Club officers, members, and coaches are properly registered through the Do Sports Easy platform.
  - The President must have a comprehensive understanding of and ensure compliance with all University policies outlined in the Club Sport Manual.
  - Throughout the semester, the President should hold regular meetings with the Club Sport Advisor, either in-person or via Zoom, to discuss Club-related matters.
  - The President is obligated to attend all required Club Sport events or ensure that the Club is appropriately represented at such events.
- Clause 3: Administrative Duties
  - The President is responsible for submitting facility requests for practices, home competitions, or special events as needed.
  - If applicable, the President coordinates the competition schedule with the league or opponents.
  - The President oversees and manages the annual election process for new officers, in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Club Constitution.
  - The President collaborates with the Club Sport office to maintain an accurate count of unique participants in the Club through the Do Sports Easy platform.
- Clause 4: Leadership and Communication
  - The President serves as the bridge between the Rutgers Cricket Club’s Board of Directors and the Club’s administration, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
  - The Vice President and Treasurer report directly to the President, providing updates on their respective areas of responsibility.
  - The President proposes the creation of new departments and nominations for cabinet positions within the Club.
  - The approval of new departments and nominations for cabinet positions shall be decided by the Board of Directors.
  - As the face of the Rutgers Cricket Club, the President represents the organization at various internal and external events.
- Clause 5: Significance of Position
  - The President of the Rutgers Cricket Club occupies a central role in its functioning, acting as the liaison between the Club, the Club Sport Department, and the Board of Directors. Their leadership, adherence to University policies, and proactive engagement with the Club Sport community contribute significantly to the Club’s success.
Section 3: The Vice President (Chief Operating Officer)
- Clause 1: Chief Operating Officer and Risk Management Oversight
  - The Vice President of the Rutgers Cricket Club holds the position of the secondary officer within the organization.
  - The Vice President is responsible for overseeing the implementation of Club Sport risk management policies and ensuring their enforcement within the Club team.
- Clause 2: Travel Coordination and Compliance
  - For Club teams that engage in travel activities, the Vice President ensures that the Club designates at least two defensive drivers who meet the necessary qualifications.
  - The Vice President is responsible for completing all travel requests, post-travel reports, and incident reports by the designated deadlines on the Do Sports Easy platform.
- Clause 3: Equipment and Safety
  - The Vice President maintains an accurate and up-to-date inventory of Club equipment and supplies, ensuring that they are well-managed and available as needed.
  - The Vice President ensures the Club’s compliance with safety officer policies and guidelines, contributing to a safe and secure environment for all Club activities.
- Clause 4: Home Competitions and Officiating
  - The Vice President takes charge of scheduling officials for home competitions, ensuring that these events run smoothly and adhere to the necessary regulations.
- Clause 5: Risk Management and Reporting
  - Serving as the primary Risk Manager, the Vice President collaborates with the President and other Club members to identify potential risks and implement strategies to mitigate them.
  - The Vice President reports directly to the President, providing updates on all aspects related to their responsibilities.
- Clause 6: Cabinet Leadership and Support
  - All cabinet members report to the Vice President, who serves as a central point of contact and coordination.
  - The Vice President is the Chief Operating Officer of the Rutgers Cricket Club, overseeing the day-to-day operations to ensure effective functioning.
  - The Vice President plays an active role in the hiring process of directors, managers, and general members working for cabinet members, supporting the President in building a capable and efficient team.
- Clause 7: Significance of Position
  - The Vice President of the Rutgers Cricket Club holds a pivotal role in the organization, particularly in managing risk, ensuring compliance, and overseeing essential Club activities. Their leadership, coordination, and operational oversight contribute significantly to the Club’s success and overall effectiveness.
Section 4: The Treasurer (Chief Financial Officer)
- Clause 1: Financial Oversight and Training
  - The Treasurer of the Rutgers Cricket Club is designated as the financial officer of the organization.
  - The Treasurer is responsible for completing mandatory training provided by the Student Activities Business Office (SABO) to ensure proper financial management.
- Clause 2: SABO Account Management
  - The Treasurer must have a comprehensive understanding of the policies and procedures governing the SABO account.
  - The Treasurer is responsible for submitting payments for purchases to the SABO account and ensuring compliance with all financial guidelines.
  - All club funds must be deposited into the SABO account under the oversight of the Treasurer.
- Clause 3: Budgeting and Reporting
  - The Treasurer is responsible for preparing and submitting the annual budget by the spring deadline to the President and the Board of Directors, outlining projected expenses and revenue for the upcoming year.
- Clause 4: Dues Collection and Fundraising Tracking
  - The Treasurer is responsible for collecting all dues payments from Club members in accordance with established timelines.
  - The Treasurer tracks and manages all revenue generated from fundraising efforts.
- Clause 5: Chief Financial Officer and Cabinet Coordination
  - The Cricket Club Treasurer holds the role of the Chief Financial Officer of the organization.
  - Each cabinet within the organization should collaborate with the Office of the Cricket Club Treasurer (Office of the Cricket Club Chief Financial Officer) to outline their budgetary needs.
  - It is recommended that each department within the Club have a designated treasurer or financial liaison who works closely with the Office of the Treasurer.
- Clause 6: Dual Reporting and Decision-Making
  - Cabinet members can be designated by the Board of Directors to hold positions that report to both the Vice President and the Treasurer (e.g., fundraising).
  - In cases where dual reporting is necessary, decisions for such cabinet positions should be jointly made by the Vice President and the Treasurer.
  - The Board of Directors shall serve as the final authority to resolve any disputes or disagreements arising from dual reporting arrangements.
- Clause 7: Significance of Position
  - The Treasurer of the Rutgers Cricket Club serves as a critical financial steward, managing the organization’s finances, budgeting, and revenue tracking. Their role includes coordination with the various Club departments, ensuring proper financial practices, and contributing to the financial health and sustainability of the Cricket Club.
Section 5: Appointment of a Captain and Hardball Team Selection Committee
- Clause 1: Captain Appointment and Selection Committee
  - The President of the Rutgers Cricket Club shall have the authority to nominate Captains and Selection Committees for league matches and tournaments.
  - All nominations made by the President for Captain positions and Selection Committees must be confirmed by the Board of Directors.
  - The President shall serve as a non-voting ex-officio member of the Selection Committee.
  - The President is not eligible to nominate themselves for any Captain position or Selection Committee role while serving in the position of President.
- Clause 2: Match and Tournament Selection
  - The Selection Committee, composed of individuals nominated by the President and confirmed by the Board of Directors, shall be responsible for making selections relating to matches and tournament participation.
  - The Selection Committee will determine the team composition for league matches, tournaments, and other competitive events.
  - This includes the crucial decision of selecting the team that will represent the Rutgers Cricket Club at the National College Cricket Tournament.
- Clause 3: National Tournament Decision and Confirmation
  - The President holds the authority to choose which national cricket tournament the Rutgers Cricket Club will participate in.
  - The chosen national tournament must be confirmed by the Board of Directors to ensure alignment with the Club’s goals and resources.
Section 6: Cabinet Members and General Administrative Members
- Clause 1: Cabinet Members and Departments
  - The Rutgers Cricket Club establishes Cabinet Members and Departments to manage various vital aspects of the organization’s functioning. These positions are created to address common Club responsibilities and initiatives, promoting efficient management and collaboration.
  - Cabinet Members are designated individuals appointed to lead specific departments within the Club. These departments encompass roles such as fundraising, trademark and licensing, community service, social media, and concussion testing.
- Clause 2: Responsibilities of Cabinet Members
  - Cabinet Members hold distinct responsibilities associated with their respective departments. Their roles include, but are not limited to:
    - Fundraising: Planning and executing fundraisers while ensuring strict adherence to University fundraising policies for student organizations.
    - Trademark and Licensing: Submitting all required trademark and licensing approvals to the Sport Club officer before any branded merchandise is purchased, in order to ensure compliance.
    - Community Service: Coordinating and organizing community service events for Club members to actively engage with the local community and foster a positive impact.
    - Social Media: Maintaining all Club social media accounts to effectively communicate with members, promote Club events, and establish a strong online presence.
    - Concussion Testing: Ensuring that all Club members undergo the necessary concussion testing, maintaining a safe environment for all participants.
  - Clause 3: General Administrative Members
    - General Administrative Members provide support to Cabinet Members and contribute to various administrative tasks and activities that facilitate the seamless operation of the Rutgers Cricket Club.
    - General Administrative Members may undertake responsibilities that align with their skills and interests, making valuable contributions to the Club’s operations.
  - Clause 4: Creation of Departments
    - The President is recommended to propose the creation of new departments based on the evolving needs and goals of the Rutgers Cricket Club.
    - The Board of Directors holds the authority to confirm the creation of new departments, ensuring alignment with the Club’s mission and objectives.
    - If the President believes a department is no longer needed, he can recommend for its dissolution. The dissolution shall be require confirmation by the Board of Directors.
  - Clause 5: Nominations for Cabinet Members
    - Cabinet Members shall be nominated by the President for terms expiring at the end of the academic year they’re appointed in.
    - Nominated Cabinet Members must receive confirmation from the Board of Directors before officially assuming their roles.
    - Cabinet Members report directly to the Vice President by default. In cases where the Board of Directors orders dual reporting to the Vice President and Treasurer, such an arrangement shall be followed.
  - Clause 6: Advisory Role
    - Cabinet Members are not voting members of the Executive Board. However, they are invited to attend Executive Board meetings and have the privilege to offer advice to the President on matters within their respective departments.
  - Clause 7: Significance of Cabinet Members and General Administrative Members
    - Cabinet Members and General Administrative Members play crucial roles in managing various aspects of the Rutgers Cricket Club. By creating departments and positions that address essential responsibilities, the Club ensures effective coordination, compliance, community engagement, communication, and safety. Cabinet Members’ advisory role underscores their valued contributions to the Club’s ongoing success.

Section 1: Election Process
- The positions of President, Vice President, and Treasurer of the Rutgers Cricket Club shall be directly elected by active members of the Club in the Spring semester.
- All elections must be completed by April 1st of each Spring semester.
Section 2: Active Members and Definition
- The determination of active members eligible to participate in elections shall be made by the Board of Directors, with recommendations from the President.
Section 3: Election Oversight and Commission
- The President shall oversee the election process, ensuring its fairness and integrity.
- The Board of Directors shall serve as the Elections Commission, responsible for ensuring the proper execution of the election.
Section 4: Election Oversight Independence
- Individuals overseeing the elections, including the President, shall not be candidates in the election to avoid any potential conflict of interest.
Section 5: Conflict of Interest Form
- A conflict of interest form shall be adopted and signed by all candidates, ensuring that no candidate attains extra support or advantage over others during the election process.
Section 6: Candidate Eligibility
- Candidates must be in good standing with the university and pledge to execute their office to the best of their ability if elected.
- The Board of Directors will establish the regulation and guidelines of candidate eligibility, with the recommendation of the President.
Section 7: Board of Directors Approval
- After the election, the Board of Directors shall ceremonially approve the election certificates, acknowledging the results of the election.
Section 8: Election Result
- The Board of Directors cannot overturn an election result.
Section 9: Running as a Ticket
- Candidates for President, Vice President, and Treasurer are recommended to run as a ticket, with the understanding that they will be elected together as a cohesive leadership team.
Section 10: Regulations and Guidelines
- The Board of Directors holds the authority to approve regulations and guidelines pertaining to the election process, ensuring transparency and fairness.
Section 11: Impartiality and Bias Free Execution
- Members of the Board of Directors shall execute their election-related duties without favoritism or bias, upholding the integrity of the process.

Section 1: Impeachment Procedure
- The impeachment of Executive Board (E-Board) members and Cabinet members of the Rutgers Cricket Club is a process initiated by the membership to address concerns about the conduct or performance of a Club officer.
- To initiate an impeachment process, a letter signed by at least 50% of the Club’s membership must be submitted to the President of the Club, detailing who should be removed and the reasons for impeachment. The letter shouldn’t include any other purposes in it and signatories should know that it is an impeachment document.
- Upon receiving the signed letter, the President shall verify the signatures and promptly request a special meeting of the Board of Directors to address the impeachment matter.
- Each signature should include name, netID, Rutgers email address, and the following:
  - I, [INSERT NAME], support the impeachment of [INSERT NAME OF THE MEMBER], [SIGNATURE], [DATE].
Section 2: Board of Directors Trial and Vote
- The Board of Directors shall conduct a closed-to-public trial to evaluate the grounds for impeachment and provide the accused member with an opportunity to respond.
- Following the trial, the Board of Directors shall vote on whether the member should be removed from their position.
Section 3: Removal by Vote
- Cabinet officers can be removed from their positions by a simple majority vote of the Board of Directors.
- Executive Board members (President, Vice President, and Treasurer) require at least a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the Board of Directors for removal.
Section 4: Impeachment of the President
- If the President is the individual facing impeachment, there are two mechanisms in which to bring up the matter:
  - (1) The President shall be considered impeached with a letter signed by at least 50% of the Club’s membership stating support of impeachment. This matter should be brought to the attention of the Vice President and Treasurer. The Vice President and Treasurer shall jointly verify the signatures and request a special meeting of the Board of Directors to address the impeachment of the President.
  - (2) The President shall be considered impeached with a letter signed by at least 50% of the Club’s membership stating support of impeachment. The Board of Directors is recommended to establish a dedicated line of direct communication, such as an email address or online form, where matters related to impeachment can be brought up directly by the membership.
Section 5: Significance of Impeachment
- The impeachment process outlined in this article provides a structured and fair mechanism for addressing concerns about the conduct or performance of Executive Board members and Cabinet members. By following these procedures, the Rutgers Cricket Club ensures accountability, transparency, and due process in matters of impeachment.

Section 1: Amendment Procedure #1
- Proposed amendments can be presented to the Executive Board (E-Board), consisting of the President, Vice President, and Treasurer.
- The E-Board shall vote on the proposed amendment, requiring a unanimous vote for consideration.
- If the proposed amendment is unanimously approved by the E-Board, it shall be added to the agenda for the next Board of Directors meeting.
- The proposed amendment must then be ratified by a unanimous vote of the Board of Directors to become effective.
Section 2: Amendment Procedure #2
- Amendments can be proposed by submitting a letter to the Board of Directors, signed by at least 50% of the Club’s membership.
- The letter shall include the names, netIDs, Rutgers email addresses, signatures, dates, and statements of support from the members endorsing the proposed amendment.
- The letter shall be sent to the established line of direct communication for the Board of Directors, with the President of the Club included in the communication.
  - The Board of Directors shall maintain a transparent and open line of communication to facilitate the submission and confirmation of proposed amendments.
- The Board of Directors shall confirm the proposed amendment by a unanimous vote for it to be ratified.
Section 3: Significance of Amendment Procedures
- The process outlined in this article establishes a clear and comprehensive framework for proposing and ratifying amendments to the constitution of the Rutgers Cricket Club. By providing two distinct methods for proposing amendments, the Club ensures a balanced approach to constitution modification and maintains transparency in its governance.

Respectfully Submitted,

Fauzan Amjad

Fauzan Amjad, President of the Rutgers Cricket Club (Winter 2023- Spring 2024) & Founder

Haris Abdul-Rashid

Haris Abdul-Rashid, Vice President of the Rutgers Cricket Club (Winter 2023- Spring 2024)

Shiddah Patel

Shiddah Patel, Treasurer of the Rutgers Cricket Club (Winter 2023- Spring 2024)