24 Hour Policy

24 Hour Policy

Preamble

1. Water Polo is a dynamic sport that physically and mentally challenges athletes in the water. Coaches, Minor officials, Volunteers and Directors all work together to provide a positive supportive practice and competitive environment for the athletes. Our Coaches are trained and certified through the Canadian Association of Coaches. Trust in their abilities to understand the game, rules and their athletes is vital for the success of the Club. As parents we will not always agree with a coach’s decision. However, it is important to recognize that a coach’s role is to make decisions for the team first and player second. Often, we tend to recognize our coaching staff’s decisions through our player first and team second. Also, we need to understand that most players are not aware of any problems until we, as parents, bring it to their attention. Waiting 24 hours before confronting coaches allows all parties time to reflect. A new perspective may have been gained and many arguments naturally are eliminated in the process.

Definitions

2. Club – Calgary Torpedoes Water Polo Club

3. Confrontation – any conversation that becomes elevated from a normal speaking tone and demeanor to one that involves yelling, profanity, or derogatory remarks toward another participant

4. Participants – members, athletes, coaches, volunteers, directors

Purpose

5. All participants of the Club are governed by the Code of Conduct at all times. However, the 24 Hour Policy works to allow time to dissipate highly charged emotions that may lead to unwarranted confrontations between participants.

Application

6. This Policy applies to all participants of the Club.

Process

7. The 24 hour Policy will be applied when situations arise that could lead to a confrontation.

8. The Athletic Director will serve as the liaison responsible for receiving communications about the situation and informing the coach involved, head coach and Board.

9. If the Team Manager Athletic Director is involved in the situation, the President may step in as liaison.

10. Unless the decision in question has contributed to injury or compromises the safety of the participant, participants must wait 24 hours before contacting the Athletic Director should an incident related to their athlete occur.

11. If the situation cannot be resolved in a respectful manner, the issue may be referred to the Discipline and complaints policy.

Suggestions for Participants

12. Respect in Sport for Parents is mandatory for all athletes registered within the Alberta Water Polo Association. (Water Polo Canada’s Safe Sport Compliance Program)

13. Encourage your athlete to follow the True Sport Principles

14. Do not force your children to participate in sports, but support their desires to play their chosen sport. Children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment. Make it fun.

15. Encourage your child to play by the rules. Remember that children learn best by example, so applaud the good plays of both teams.

16. Do not embarrass your child by yelling at players, coaches, or officials. By showing a positive attitude toward the game and all of its participants, your child will benefit.

17. Should you wish to confront your child’s coach about a practice or game related issue, refer and use the 24 hours outlined above.

18. Be conscious that emotions can cause miscommunication and misunderstandings, and make an effort to avoid acting on emotion.

19. Emphasize skill development and commitment to practice and how they benefit your young athlete.

20. Know and study the rules of the game, and support the officials in and out of the pool. This approach will help in the development and support of the game. Any criticism of the officials only hurts the game.

21. Applaud a good effort in victory and in defeat and enforce the positive points of the game.

22. Never threaten or punish your child, emotionally or physically due to performance in water polo. This is harmful and destructive.

23. Work toward removing the physical and verbal abuse in youth sports.

24. Recognize the importance of coaches. They are important to the development of your child and the sport.

25. If you enjoy the game, learn all you can about the game, and volunteer!

Review Date and Approval Date

26. This policy can be reviewed annually either by the Board or a committee assigned by the Board for such purpose. Changes should be recommended and presented to the Board for approval.