Squash Wales Code of Conduct for Spectators, Parents and Guardians.
1. Introduction and Definitions.
- This Squash Wales Code of Conduct outlines the standards of conduct expected at all times from all spectators, parents and guardians within squash in Wales.
- As the NGB, Squash Wales is responsible for setting the standards and values that apply at every level. This Code encapsulates all of the sporting, moral and ethical principles that squash represents.
- We believe squash is a sport for all that anyone can enjoy however they choose to participate – as a player, coach, match official, volunteer, parent, guardian or spectator.
- If you are a spectator, parent or guardian involved at any level of the game, then this Code applies to you.
- Although Squash Wales is responsible for setting the standards of conduct which are detailed in this Code, everyone in squash has a responsibility to promote the sport, making sure that there is equal access and opportunity for all and that fairness and respect is upheld.
- This Code enables Squash Wales to uphold the values and highest standards of integrity that we all believe in as a sport and provides a mechanism to deal with any breaches of the Code in a consistent manner.
- Note that for the purposes of this Code, and in conjunction with the criteria for membership of Squash Wales, any references to a “child” or “children” are a reference to an individual who is 18 years of age or younger.
2. Code of Conduct: Spectators, Parents and Guardians.
- This Code of Conduct policy applies to all spectators, parents and guardians involved in squash in Wales.
- Spectators, parents and guardians have a responsibility at all times to encourage all players to settle disagreements amicably without resorting to hostility or violence and support all efforts to remove bad or abusive language and unsporting behaviour. Spectators, parents and guardians may also remind players that any breach of acceptable behaviours is likely to invoke disciplinary action and penalties.
- All such individuals involved in squash will at all times be expected to:
- Respect the decisions of officials and teach children to do the same;
- Focus on the efforts and enjoyment of children rather than winning or losing;
- Never ridicule or admonish a child for making a mistake or losing a match;
- Teach children that honest effort and teamwork are as important as victory or individual performances;
- Appreciate good performances and skilful play by all players;
- Show an appreciation for volunteer coaches and administrators;
- Inform any coach or other appropriate individual of any new or changed injury, health or welfare issue which a parent or guardian considers is appropriate for that individual to know about their child;
- Behave legally, ethically and morally in accordance with the standards an individual would expect of other spectators, parents and guardians.
3. Breaches of this Code.
- It is important that any behaviour amounting to a breach of this Code is dealt with quickly and appropriately.
- Any alleged breach of this Code should be set out in writing and sent to Squash Wales for handling in accordance with Squash Wales’ conduct, complaints and disciplinary process.
- The relevant Squash Wales policy which applies here is the Squash Wales Conduct and Complaints Procedure.
- Full details of the procedure to be followed and the available sanctions will be found in the policy itself.