Code of Conduct

The following Code of Conduct has been developed to promote a foundation of sportsmanship, respect, inclusivity, and our shared love for the game of Pickleball. It outlines the expectations for all members and guests to ensure a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable environment for everyone. By becoming a member of Loco Pickleball, you agree to abide by this code at all times whilst participating in any club activity.

· Advise the Coaches of any medical condition or ailment that they should reasonably know about that may impact on your ability to participate. If you are ill or have a contagious condition, please refrain from all playing activities to protect the health of others.

Understand that whilst our sessions are designed with safety in mind, as with any sporting activity, participation in Pickleball involves some risk. By taking part, you acknowledge and accept these risks, including but not limited to: physical injuries (sprains, factures, etc) falls or trips, collisions with other players and equipment,, sudden illness or other unforeseen medical events.

· Always warm up your body before playing with some easy stretche: back, arms, shoulders, hamstrings etc. Seek advice from a medical professional if unsure about whar is appropriate for you.

Report any injury incurred whilst playing to the attending session Coach.

· Keep well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids before, during and after playing.

· Take care when running forward to get any low bouncing ball and to take care when moving to get to a ball over your head. Do not run backwards.

· Any personal possessions left unattended, are the sole responsibility of the owner should they accidentally be damaged or lost. Ensure you do not leave any personal possessions behind after your session. Any items found will be left with the Leisure Centre Management.

· Having gained permission to bring a guest, members are responsible for their behaviour. Ensure your guest understand and adhere to this Code of Conduct.

1. Personal Responsibilities:

2. Sportsmanship & Respect

· Adhere to a zero-tolerance policy for any form of harassment, bullying, or discriminatory behaviour. This includes, but is not limited to, adverse verbal comments, physical intimidation, unwanted sexual advances and unsolicited coaching from fellow players.

· Be proactive in including players of all levels in rotations, especially those who are new.

· Always make honest and prompt line calls. When in doubt, the call should always favour your opponent. Respect your opponent's calls without argument.

3. Safety & Court Etiquette

· Do not enter another court to retrieve a ball while a point is in play. Always shout "BALL ON COURT" loud and clear if the ball on your court goes onto another court and to never run onto the adjoining court to retrieve your ball - wait until the players on that court throw the ball back to you.

· Never walk behind a court when there are players playing a point on that court - wait until they are between points and let them know you want to cross behind their court.

· Wear appropriate athletic clothing and non-marking court shoes. Ensure your equipment is in good condition.

· Respect your fellow players and refrain from any dangerous or reckless play that could injure yourself or others.

· Never engage in physical contact with another person in a threatening or aggressive manner.

4. Inclusivity & Fair Play

· Treat all players, opponents and spectators with courtesy, dignity, and respect, regardless of their skill level, age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, or background.

· Win with humility and lose with grace. Congratulate your opponents and partners in a genuine manner after every match.

· While competitive spirit is encouraged, negative outbursts, throwing paddles, using profanity, or engaging in unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated.

· Be supportive and respectful of players of all skill levels.

5. Facilities & Equipment

· Treat nets, paddles and balls with care and respect. Assist with deployment and recovery of court nets.

· Do not to take extraneous materials (bags, bottles, towels) on the court or hang them on the net posts.

· Dispose of rubbish properly and report any court damage or hazards to coaches immediately.

· Keep the courts and surrounding areas clean and free from hazards.

· Adhere to all court booking procedures.

6. Communication & Conflict Resolution

· If a dispute arises on the court, address it calmly and respectfully. If a resolution cannot be reached, replay the point or if needed, consult the attending Coach for a resolution.

· Report Issues: If you witness or experience behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, report it promptly and confidentially to a Coach, either verbally or via email.

· Strive to contribute positively to the club's community and culture. Lead by example.

7. Violations & Enforcement

We are committed to enforcing this Code of Conduct. Violations may be addressed through the following actions, depending on the severity and frequency:

1. Verbal Warning: An informal discussion to address minor issues.

2. Written Warning: A formal notice outlining the violation and expected change in behaviour.

3. Temporary Suspension.

4. Permanent termination of membership for serious or repeated violations.

All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and confidentially.

By taking part in any of our activities you agree to adhere to the above Code of Conduct and freely, voluntarily and accept all the risks, known and unknown. and release, waive and discharge LOCO Pickleball, it's owners and affiliiates from all liiability for injury, loss or damage sustaeined during your participation.

In turn LOCO Pickelball will undertake Risk Assessments at all our venues, ensure adherence to the Code of Conduct to promote a safe, respectful and inclusive playing environment for all.