DV Sharks Code of Conduct

Swimmer’s Code of Conduct

Please take a moment to review with your swimmer(s)

The Dominion Valley Swim Team strives to provide a fun, competitive, and family-centered environment that will inspire every swimmer to challenge their minds and bodies to do their very best. Our ultimate goal is to instill a love of swimming that will last a lifetime. To further these objectives, the Dominion Valley Swim Team has developed this Code of Conduct Pledge modeled after other athletic leagues in the area. It applies to all swimmers and their parents/guardians.

1.) I will maintain control of my emotions, avoiding use of abusive and profane language, humiliating remarks and/or gestures, and threats or use of physical abuse. I fully understand that such behavior will not be tolerated.

2.) I will respect the coaches and swimmers on the Dominion Valley Swim Team and opposing teams, demonstrating appropriate gestures of good sportsmanship throughout practices and meets.

3.) I will not engage in behavior that is disruptive to the Dominion Valley Swim Team, including the following:

Pushing others into the pool
Running on deck
Towel snapping
Diving (unless directed by a coach)
Excessive splashing
Dunking or holding someone under water
Pulling on a swimmers foot during swim practice
Refusing to allow a swimmer to pass during circle swim practice
Talking back or refusing to obey the coaches
Any behavior that interferes with the safety and the respect due to others

4.) I will respect the swimming officials, and refrain from addressing them during meets unless directed to by the coach, and then I will address them courteously. I understand that officials can make mistakes, but I will refrain from criticizing them or blaming them if I am disqualified from an event.

5.) I will respect the property of the swim team and the pool area.

I fully understand that violation of the Code of Conduct will not be tolerated and may result in permanent loss of participation privileges for me with the Dominion Valley Swim Team.

Parent’s/Guardian’s Code of Conduct

Acknowledgement required during registration of your swimmer(s)

1.) I will maintain control of my emotions, avoiding use of abusive and profane language, humiliating remarks and/or gestures, and threats or use of physical violence. I fully understand that such behavior will not be tolerated.

2.) I will cheer for my team and offer only positive encouragement. I will help my child set goals other than winning as more success will come by focusing on the process and not the outcome. I will never criticize my swimmer(s), any Shark swimmer, the opposing team or its coaches.

3.) I will trust that the coaches know the rules and not question their judgment. I will respect the coaches, and refrain from addressing them during practices and meets. I fully understand that abuse of the coaches at any time can result in my loss of participation privileges, and possibly my child’s, in the Dominion Valley Swim Team.

4.) I will respect and accept the decisions of the coaches regarding practice drills, procedures, etc. and I will not coach my child from the sidelines. I will also respect and accept the decisions of the coaches regarding entries of individuals and relay teams in the meets.

5.) I will respect the swimming officials, and refrain from addressing them during meets. I understand that officials can make mistakes, but I will refrain from criticizing them or blaming them if my child is disqualified from an event.

6.) I will maintain control of children whom I bring to the pool area, and not allow them to be beyond my direct supervision.

7.) I will be responsible for other guests I bring with me and be sure that they understand and abide by this Code of Conduct.

8.) I understand that if I have concerns and questions I may present my concerns and questions to a member of the board.

I fully understand that violation of the Code of Conduct will not be tolerated and may result in permanent loss of participation privileges for me, and possibly my child, with the Dominion Valley Swim Team.

Coaches Code of Conduct

1.) I understand that winning is a consideration, but not the only one, nor the most important one. I will care more about the swimmer than winning the game. Remember, swimmers are involved in swimming for fun and enjoyment.

2.) I will be a positive role model to all the swimmers, display emotional maturity and be alert to the physical safety of swimmers.

3.) I will be generous with my praise when it is deserved; be consistent and honest; be fair and just; not criticize swimmers publicly; learn to be a more effective communicator and coach; not yell at swimmers or use inappropriate language.

4.) I will adjust to the personal needs and problems of swimmers; be a good listener; never verbally or physically abuse a swimmer, parent, volunteer, or official; give all swimmers the opportunity to improve their skills, gain confidence and develop self-esteem; teach them the basics.

5.) I will organize practices that are fun and challenging for my swimmers; familiarize myself with the rules, techniques and strategies of swimming; encourage all my players to be team players.

6.) I will maintain an open line of communication with my swimmers’ parents and clearly explain the team's goals and objectives.

7.) I will be concerned with the overall development of my swimmers, stressing good health habits and clean living.

8.) I understand that playing the game is great, but to love the game is greater.

I fully understand that violation of the Code of Conduct will not be tolerated and may result in permanent loss of employment and/or participation privileges for me with the Dominion Valley Swim Team.

Text Area

Simple formatted text