Dulles Farms Devil Rays

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

As an ODSL swimmer, I agree to the following statements:

• I will always respect and show courtesy to my teammates and coaches.
• I will demonstrate good sportsmanship at all practices and 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. Swimmers 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 ODSL 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 and the ODSL board of directors. 

As an ODSL parent, I agree to the following statements:

• I will not criticize a coach in the presence of my swimmer – the bond between swimmer and a coach is important and should not be undermined.
• I will refrain from entering onto poolside during training or competition unless invited to do so by the coach.
• I will discuss any concerns regarding my swimmer, as per my team policy, with the coach at a convenient and appropriate time.
• I will actively participate in helping the team progress by offering assistance and support to the coaches, committees, and team boards.
• I will strongly encourage my swimmer to abide by the ODSL rules.
• I will discourage unfair play and arguing with officials and coaches while encouraging good sportsmanship.
• I will help my swimmer to recognize good performance, not just results.
• I will set a good example by recognizing fair play and applauding good performances by all swimmers.
• I will never punish or belittle my swimmer for losing or making mistakes.
• I will publicly accept the officials’ judgments.
• I will support my swimmer’s involvement and help him/her to enjoy swimming.
• I will use correct and proper language at all times.
• I will encourage and guide swimmers to accept responsibility for their own performance and behavior.
• I agree bullying is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

Disciplinary matters for unacceptable conduct are at the discretion of the coach, teams and/or ODSL board.

All ODSL Coaches must:

• Put the well-being, health, and safety of swimmers above all considerations, including performance.
• At all times, adhere to the ODSL rules.
• Consistently display high standards of behavior and appearance.
• Treat all swimmers with respect and dignity, value their worth, and treat everyone equally, recognizing their needs and abilities within the context of their sport.
• Develop an appropriate swimmer/coach relationship based on mutual trust and respect.
• Always ensure that all teaching, coaching, and competition programs are appropriate for the age, ability, and experience of the individual swimmer.
• Always identify and meet the needs of the individual swimmer, as well the needs of the team.
• Be fair and equal in team and training group selection.
• Never exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or gain. This includes coaches not using their position to establish or pursue a sexual or improper relationship with a swimmer.
• Encourage and guide swimmers to accept responsibility for their own behavior and performance.
• Treat all information of a personal nature about individual swimmers as confidential, except in circumstances where to do so will allow the swimmer to be placed at risk of harm or continue to be at risk of harm.
• Encourage all swimmers to obey the spirit of the ODSL rules both in and out of the pool.
• Cooperate fully with other coaches and officials in the best interests of the swimmers.
• Never encourage or condone swimmers, volunteers, officials, or parents to violate the rules of the ODSL, the team, or the sport, and report any violations appropriately.
• Observe the authority and the decision of the officials, and only question those decisions in the appropriate manner.
• Treat all competitors and other teams with respect, whether that is in victory or defeat, and encourage all team members and parents to do the same.