Code of conduct

Wandsworth Swimming Club

established 1902
affiliated to the ASA, London Swimming, SCWP&SA and WASA

Code of conduct

Wandsworth Swimming Club Code of Conduct

The purpose of this document is to establish a set of guidelines and procedures which

outline the responsibilities and behaviour of teaching, coaching and lifeguarding staff,

swimmers, parents, carers and other members of Wandsworth Swimming Club.

Section One applies to the general behaviour expected of all staff and club members

who attend club galas, training sessions, training camps and any other related activity.

Section Two is specifically for Club officials/Volunteers.

Section Three is specifically for Parents and Carers.

Section One – General Behaviour

• Behaviour and personal conduct must at all times be of a high standard and reflect

favourably on the sport and club. Language in public or relevant group situations must

always be appropriate and socially acceptable.

• Consumption of Alcohol is totally forbidden for athletes under age as defined by UK

law. It must not be consumed by swimmers or staff members, prior to, or following a

competition event, training camp, and training or team activities, without specific consent

of the Team Manager. During competition alcohol is strictly forbidden to all swimmers and

staff.

• Smoking is prohibited by swimmers and staff whilst en route, prior to, during or following

a competition event, training session or team activities.

• Personal Appearance shall be appropriate to the circumstances and as indicated by the

Team Manager/Management Coach. Team kit and equipment shall be worn as directed

by the Team Manager/Management Coach when competing and training, when

assembling or travelling, at official team functions on other occasions as notified.

• Attendance at all activities is expected unless agreed by the Team

Manager/Management Coach. Throughout the duration of the trip swimmers should

inform staff of their whereabouts. Punctuality on all occasions is essential and any curfew

must be observed.

• Illegal and Performance Enhancing Drugs and Substances are strictly forbidden.

Swimmers are expected to be aware of the current list of banned substances and

particular care must be exercised if anyone is on medication prior to or during a meet.

• Illegal Drugs and Substances The use of these, even though they may not appear on

the official banned list in respect of performance enhancing drugs, is nonetheless

prohibited.

• Accommodation at hotels or equivalent must be directed by the club staff and at no

times must anyone extra be accommodated in swimmers’ rooms.

• Medication It is important that information on all medication being currently taken should

be reported to the Team Manager/Management Coach who will report it to the relevant

personnel. Allergies to any medication must be reported to the Team

Manager/Management Coach.

• Sanctions Breaches of the Code of Conduct shall be dealt with in the first instance by

the Team Manager or Coach. He/she will report the incident to the Club Chair or Club

Secretary and the matter will be discussed at the next committee meeting.

Section Two - Club Officials/Volunteers

The club promotes a high standard of ethical conduct and practice. All club officials/volunteers

must follow the principals set out below.

• Consider the well being and safety of participants before development of performance.

• Develop an appropriate working relationship with swimmers, based on mutual trust and

respect.

• Make sure all activities are appropriate to the age, ability and experience of those taking

part.

• Promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play).

• Display consistently high standards of behaviour and appearance.

• Follow all guidelines laid down by the National Governing Body and the club.

• Work to gain and maintain the appropriate, valid qualifications.

• Never exert undue influence over swimmers to obtain personal benefit or reward.

• Never condone rule violations, rough play, or use of prohibited substances.

• Encourage all swimmers to value their performances and not just results.

• Undertake the continuing professional development (training) necessary to discharge

your duties to the best of your ability in the light of current knowledge.

Section Three – Parents and Carers

The club encourages appropriate ethical behaviour amongst its members. Parents and Carers

are important role models and can best support the club by displaying the behaviours set out

below.

• Encourage your child to learn the rules and play within them.

• Discourage unfair play and arguing with officials.

• Help your child recognise good performances, not just results.

• Never force your child to take part in sport.

• Set a good example and applaud the good performances of competitors, teams with

respect, in victory and defeat.

• Never punish or belittle a child for a poor swim, making mistakes or losing.

• Publicly accept officials’ judgments and comply with the codes, rules and laws as set out

by the ASA.

• Support your child’s involvement and help them enjoy their sport.

• Use correct and proper language at all times.

• Keep up to date with club information posted on the club website and notice boards

• Inform the club promptly of a change in any contact information and any other relevant

information we need to know to facilitate your child’s participation, safety and welfare.

• Do not allow your child to swim if they are unwell, particularly if they have any open

wound or have an upset stomach.

• Tell us promptly of any concerns you may have regarding the behaviour or welfare of

others.

• Inform the club of any health concerns your child may have.

For more information contact Steven Wahnon or Nigel Rendell WSC’s Co-Chairs

at chair@wandsworthsc.com or any committee member.