The purpose of a code of conduct for athletes is to establish a consistent expectation for

athletes’ behavior. 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 swim 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. Athletes who exhibit sexist, racist, homophobic or otherwise inappropriate behavior will be faced with consequences.
• 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.

I understand that if I violate this code of conduct, I will be subject to disciplinary action

determined by my coaches.

The purpose of this code of conduct for coaches is to establish common expectations for all members of the coaching staff of the club. It is to be used as a guide to promote a positive team environment and good sportsmanship. I agree with the following statement

• I will, at all times, adhere to USA Swimming’s rules and code of conduct.
• I will set a good example of respect and sportsmanship for participants and fans to follow.
• I will act and dress with professionalism and dignity in a manner suitable to my profession.
• I will respect officials and their judgement and abide by the rules of the event.
• I will treat opposing coaches, participants, and spectators with respect.
• I will instruct participants in sportsmanship and demand that they display good sportsmanship.
• I will coach in a positive manner and not use derogatory comments or abusive language.
• I will win with humility and lose with dignity.
• I will treat every athlete fairly, justly, impartially, intelligently, and with sensitivity.
• I will always place the well-being, health, and safety of athletes above all other considerations, including developing performance.
• I will continue to seek and maintain my own professional development in all areas in relation to coaching and teaching children.
• I will always maintain a professional separation between coach and athlete.

Any complaints of a coach violating this code of conduct will be brought to the attention of his/her supervisor.

The purpose of a code of conduct for parents is to establish consistent expectations for

behavior by parents. As a parent/guardian, I understand the important growth and

developmental support that my athlete’s participation fosters. I also understand that it

is essential to provide the coaching and team staff with respect and the authority to

coach and run the team. I agree with the following statements:

• I will set the right example for our athletes by demonstrating sportsmanship and showing respect and common courtesy at all times to the team members, coaches, competitors, officials, parents, and all facilities.
• I will get involved by volunteering, observing practices, cheering at meets, and talking with my athlete and their coach about their progress.
• I will refrain from coaching my child from the stands during practices or meets.
• I understand that criticizing, name-calling, use of abusive language or gestures directed towards coaches, officials, volunteers, and/or any participating athlete will not be tolerated.
• I will respect the integrity of the officials.
• I will direct my concerns first to the appropriate head site coach; then, if not satisfied, to the appropriate supervisor.

I understand the above expectations and that my failure to adhere to them may result

in disciplinary action.

The following Best Practice Guidelines are strongly recommended for all USA

Swimming members.

1. Parents should be encouraged to appropriately support their children’s swimming experience.
2. All swimming practices should be open to observation by parents.
3. Coaches should not initiate contact with or accept supervisory responsibility for athletes outside club programs and activities.
4. When only one athlete and one coach travel to a competition, at the competition the coach and athlete should attempt to establish a “buddy” club to associate with during the competition and when away from the venue.
5. Relationships of a peer-to-peer nature with any athletes should be avoided. For example, coaches should avoid sharing their own personal problems with athletes.
6. Coaches and other non-athlete adult members should avoid horseplay and roughhousing with athletes.
7. When a coach touches an athlete as part of instruction, the coach should do so in direct view of others and inform the athlete of what he/she is doing prior to the initial contact. Touching athletes should be minimized outside the boundaries of what is considered normal instruction. Appropriate interaction would include high fives, fist bumps, side-to-side hugs and handshakes.
8. Coaches should avoid having athletes as their favorites. They should also avoid creating a situation that could be perceived as them having favorites.
9. Gift-giving, providing special favors or showing favoritism to individual athletes is strongly discouraged.

USA Swimming Code of Conduct