USA SWIMMING CODE OF CONDUCT

FOR ATHLETES

This document serves as a reminder of consistent behavioral expectations for all athletes of MLAC. By signing this code of conduct, I agree to the following statements:

• I will respect and show courtesy to my teammates and coaches at all times.

• I will demonstrate good sportsmanship at all practices and meets.

• I will set a good example of behavior and work ethic for my younger teammates.

• I will be respectful of my teammates’ feelings and personal space and will refrain from sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise inappropriate behavior.

• I will attend all team meetings and training sessions, unless I am excused by my coach.

• I will show respect for all facilities and other property (including locker rooms) used during practices, competitions, and team activities.

• I will refrain from foul language, violence, behavior deemed dishonest, offensive, or illegal.

• If I disagree with an official’s call, I will talk with my coach and not approach the official directly.

• I will obey all of USA Swimming’s rules and codes of conduct.

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I understand that if I violate this code of conduct, I will be subject to disciplinary action determined by my coaches and MLAC’s Board of Directors.

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FOR COACHES

This document serves as a reminder of common expectations for all MLAC coaching staff members. It should be used as a guide to promote a positive team environment and good sportsmanship as we fulfill our MLAC mission each and every day.

• Adhere to USA Swimming’s rules and code of conduct at all times

• Set a good example of respect and sportsmanship for all participants and fans to follow

• Act and dress with professionalism and dignity in a manner suitable to the profession

• Respect officials and their judgment and abide by the rules of the event

• Treat opposing coaches, participants, and spectators with respect

• Instruct participants in sportsmanship and demand that they display good sportsmanship

• Coach in a positive manner and do not use derogatory comments or abusive language

• Win with humility and lose with dignity

• Treat every athlete fairly, justly, impartially, intelligently, and with sensitivity

• Always place the well-being, health, and safety of swimmers above all other considerations, including developing performance

• Continue to seek and maintain their own professional development in all areas in relation to coaching and teaching children

• Always maintain a professional separation between coach and athlete

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Any complaints of a coach violating this code of conduct should be brought to the attention of the Head Coach, Swimming Director, and/or President.

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FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS

As a parent of a swimmer and member of MLAC, I will abide by the following guidelines:

• Practice teamwork with all parents, swimmers and coaches by supporting the MLAC Mission values of Discipline, Loyalty, Commitment and Hard Work.

• As a parent, I will not coach or instruct the team or any swimmer at a practice or meets (from the stands or any other area) or interfere with coaches on the pool deck.

• Demonstrate good sportsmanship by conducting myself in a manner that earns the respect of my child, other swimmers, parents, officials and the coaches at meets and practices.

• Maintain self-control at all times. Know my role: Swimmers – Swim… Coaches – Coach… Officials – Officiate… Parents – Parent.

• Not unduly burden Board members or coaches by directing excessive telephone calls or e-mails to them.

• Enjoy involvement with the MLAC by supporting the swimmers, coaches and other parents with positive communication and actions.

• I have been instructed on USA Swimming Safe Sport initiatives, and I agree to abide by the locker room policies, deck policies, photography/videography policies, volunteer clearance policies, and other Safe Sport policies set forth by USA Swimming. 

• I understand that criticizing, name-calling, use of abusive language or gestures directed toward the coaches, officials, any participating swimmer and/or parent of a swimmer will not be permitted or tolerated.

• During competitions, questions or concerns regarding decisions made by meet officials are directed to a member of our coaching staff. Parents address officials via the coaching staff only.

 

Should I conduct myself in such a way that brings discredit or discord to MLAC, or USA Swimming, I voluntarily subject myself to disciplinary action. MLAC maintains the right to terminate any membership with/without cause in the interest of our vision, mission and objectives.