CODE OF CONDUCT FOR CHILDREN

All junior members are required to abide by the following Code of Conduct.

• Play fairly and have fun.
• Abide by the rules set down by team managers when travelling to away events.
• Behave in a manner that avoids bringing the game of tennis into disrepute.
• Respect officials and accept their decisions.
• Talk to one of the Children’s Officers if I have concerns.
• Respect opponents and always shake hands at the end of a match.
• Use my best efforts in competitive matches.
• Refrain from the use of bad language and inappropriate gestures.
• Refrain from ball/racquet abuse.
• Refrain from the use of coaching during competition.
• Never use unfair or bullying tactics to gain advantage on or off the court.
• Never use bullying tactics to isolate another player.
• Never pass on gossip about another player or adult.
• Never make false allegations about another player or adult.
• Never keep secrets about anyone who has caused me harm.
• Win with grace and lose with dignity.

The undertaking to abide by and support the club’s Child Protection Policy given by the parent/legal guardian of junior members is deemed to be agreement on the part of the junior member to abide by this Code of Conduct.

Code of Conduct for Parents/Guardians 

 Glenalbyn Tennis Club believes that parent/guardians should:

• Be a role model for their child and maintain the highest standards of conduct when interacting with young people, other parents, officials and organisers.
• Always behave responsibly and do not seek to unfairly affect a player or the outcome of the game.
• Never intentionally expose any young participant to embarrassment or disparagement by the use of flippant or sarcastic remarks.
• Always recognise the value and importance of the officials and volunteers who provide sporting and recreational opportunities for their child. Do not publicly question the judgement or honesty of referees, umpires, coaches or organisers.  Respect convenors, professionals, coaches, referees, umpires, organisers and other players. Parents are welcome to attend events and coaching sessions but should not interfere with the coach or organiser while working with the player.
• Encourage their child to play by the rules of tennis. Teach their child that honest endeavour is as important as winning and do all you can to encourage good sportsmanship.
• Set a good example by applauding  good play on all sides. Encourage mutual respect for other junior members, teammates and opponents.
• Support all efforts to remove abusive behaviour and bullying behaviour in all its forms.

As a Parent / Guardian I will:

1. Understand and ensure my child abides by the Club Code of Conduct

2. Respect the rules and procedures set down by Irish Sports Council Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children’s Sport.

3.  Respect my child’s teammates and leaders as well as players, parents and coaches from opposing teams. I will encourage my child to treat other participants, professionals, coaches, convenors, selectors and managers with respect.

4.  Give encouragement and applaud only positive accomplishments whether from my child, his/her teammates, their opponents or the officials.

5.  Respect my child’s leader(s) and coaches and support his/her efforts.

6.  Respect the officials and their authority during sessions and events whether within the club or outside.

7.    Never demonstrate threatening or abusive behaviour or use foul language.

The undertaking to abide by and support the club’s Child Protection Policy given by the parent/legal guardian is deemed to be their agreement to abide by this code of conduct.