Team Policies

Respect and Sportsmanship

All team members are expected to demonstrate respect and good sportsmanship at all times:

• Treat coaches, teammates, officials, opponents, and pool staff with respect
• Use appropriate language and tone when communicating with others
• Show support for teammates during practices and competitions
• Accept constructive feedback from coaches professionally
• Win with humility and lose with grace
• Refrain from negative comments about teammates, opponents, coaches, or officials

Code of Conduct Violations

The following behaviors are considered violations of our code of conduct and may result in disciplinary action:

• Bullying, hazing, or harassment of any kind
• Discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or any other characteristic
• Violence or threats of violence
• Theft or vandalism of property
• Cheating during competitions
• Insubordination or disrespect toward coaches or officials
• Use of social media to disparage teammates, coaches, or the club

No Tolerance Policy

Ghana BlueFins Swim Club has a zero-tolerance policy for the following:

• Use or possession of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs at any team function
• Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs during team activities
• Sexual misconduct or inappropriate physical contact
• Criminal activity of any kind

Violations of this no-tolerance policy may result in immediate dismissal from the team.

Appropriate Physical Contact

In a swimming environment, certain types of physical contact may be necessary for instructional purposes. However:

• Physical contact should only be instructional and appropriate in nature
• Coaches will ask for permission before making physical corrections to swimming technique
• Swimmers should respect each other’s personal space
• Any concerns about inappropriate contact should be reported immediately

General Pool Safety

• No running on the pool deck
• No diving in shallow areas
• No horseplay or pushing others into the pool
• No glass containers in the pool area
• No food or drinks (except water) on the pool deck
• Shower before entering the pool
• Inform coaches of any injuries or health concerns before entering the water
• Never swim alone – always follow the buddy system

During Practice

• Follow lane etiquette – swim to the right side of the lane
• Maintain appropriate distance from other swimmers
• Wait until the previous swimmer has reached a safe distance before starting
• Do not hang on lane lines
• Listen to and follow all coach instructions
• Exit the pool immediately if instructed to do so by a coach or lifeguard
• Report any unsafe conditions to coaches immediately

Changing Facilities Policy

• "No Deck Changes" policy – swimmers must use designated changing rooms
• Maintain privacy and respect others’ privacy in changing areas
• No cell phones or recording devices in changing facilities
• Keep changing areas clean and tidy
• Younger swimmers should be supervised by same-gender parent/guardian when needed

Emergency Procedures

In case of emergency:

• Exit the pool quickly but calmly
• Follow coach or lifeguard instructions
• Assemble at designated meeting points
• Report any injuries immediately to coaching staff
• Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and procedures

Parent-Coach Communication

Effective communication between parents and coaches is essential:

• Coaches are available to discuss swimmer progress by appointment
• Do not approach coaches during practice sessions or meets
• Email is the preferred method for initial contact
• Allow 24-48 hours for coaches to respond to communication
• Parent-coach meetings should be scheduled outside of practice times
• Concerns should follow the communication chain: Assistant Coach → Head Coach → Club Administration

Respectful Communication

All communication should be:

• Respectful and professional in tone
• Solution-oriented rather than purely critical
• Focused on specific issues rather than generalizations
• Private when discussing sensitive matters
• Mindful of appropriate timing

Disrespectful communication, including yelling, threatening, or using inappropriate language will not be tolerated.

Safe Sport Environment

Ghana BlueFins is committed to providing a safe environment for all swimmers:

• Any concerns about misconduct should be reported immediately
• The club has designated Safe Sport representatives who can be contacted confidentially
• We adhere to all national swimming organization guidelines regarding athlete protection
• Allegations of abuse or misconduct will be taken seriously and investigated promptly
• Confidentiality will be maintained throughout the reporting process

Contact information for Safe Sport representatives: safesport@ghanabluefins.com

Membership Requirements

• All swimmers must be registered with Ghana Swimming Association
• Annual membership fees must be paid in full
• Swimmers must have completed all medical and emergency contact forms
• Swimmers and parents must sign the code of conduct agreement

Financial Policies

• Monthly dues are to be paid by the 5th of each month
• A late fee of GHS 50 will be charged for payments received after the 10th
• Meet fees are separate from monthly dues and will be billed accordingly
• Families experiencing financial hardship should speak with administration about payment plans
• No refunds will be issued for missed practices or meets
• Swimmers with outstanding balances may not be permitted to participate in meets

Equipment and Uniforms

• All swimmers must have required equipment for their training group
• Team caps must be worn at all competitions
• Team suits are required for competitions
• Lost or damaged team equipment must be replaced promptly
• Swimmers are responsible for maintaining their equipment
• Equipment lists will be provided by coaches at the beginning of each season

Parent Volunteer Expectations

Parental involvement is crucial to our team’s success:

• Each family is expected to volunteer at a minimum of two meets per season
• Volunteer positions include timers, officials, meet administration, and hospitality
• Training will be provided for volunteer positions
• Families unable to fulfill volunteer obligations may be charged a fee
• Volunteer hours must be logged in the team management system