Code of Conduct

The underlying basis of the code of conduct is respect both for each other and for Club property so that members and visitors can all enjoy their tennis at Aylsham Tennis Club. A high level of sportsmanship is expected at all times. A breach of the Code of Conduct could lead to disciplinary action.

  • Any disputes, including line calls, MUST be resolved quickly & quietly to avoid disturbance to other users. If the issue cannot be resolved, play the point again.
  • Noisy and offensive behaviour, including foul language or gesturing, WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. 
  • Appropriate clothing MUST be worn on the courts, including soft – soled, non marking tennis shoes or sports trainers. Tops MUST be worn at all times. It is not necessary to wear tennis whites. 
  • The Club’s facilities should be respected at all times.  Sharp toys, roller skates, bicycles and scooters etc are NOT permitted on the courts.  Please do NOT damage the fences & nets by leaning on them or climbing or jumping over them.  ANIMALS ARE NOT ALLOWED ON THE COURTS.
  • After using cups, plates etc in the Club Hut, please ensure they are all washed, dried & put away before leaving the premises. ONLY non-breakable drinks bottles are permitted on court.
  • Take all balls, belongings & litter with you – there are bins in the Club Hut & car park.
  • Please leave the toilets in a clean & tidy state for the benefit of all members of both the Tennis Club and Bowls Club. Lock the doors and replace the keys after use.
  • Smoking, vaping & chewing gum are STRICTLY FORBIDDEN on the courts & in the Club Hut.

Aylsham Tennis Club is committed to providing a SAFE and INCLUSIVE environment. Safeguarding procedures MUST be followed and any instance of bullying or other concern should be reported to the Club’s Welfare Officer (contact details and procedures are in the Club Hut or on the Website).

OTHER GUIDANCE & CLUB RULES

  • Before leaving the premises, please ENSURE the Club Hut is locked at both ends and the gates are closed and locked if you are the last to leave. 
  • Any personal belongings found will be placed in the lost property box in the Club Hut for ONE MONTH & if not claimed then donated to charity.
  • Use the Accident book in the Club Hut to report ANY ACCIDENT OR NEAR MISS & inform a committee member.
  • Members MUST complete a form in the Club Hut and pay for ANY playing guests they bring to the Club. Pay & Play visitors MUST register at the Town Hall.
  • To avoid trip hazards during play, ENSURE that any balls lying on the courts are either against the net or close to the back fence.  CALL A LET if play is interrupted by a ball coming from another court or if any other intrusion is endangering players.
  • If you have any concerns for the well-being of a Junior during coaching, please speak to the coach in the first instance and contact the welfare officer if appropriate.

GENERAL PLAYER ETIQUETTE

  • DO NOT WALK BEHIND A COURT (or interrupt a point on another court) when play is in progress, please wait until the point is over. If moving behind a court, please pass as quickly as possible during the break in play.
  • CALL THE SCORE : remember to call the score, it should be the server’s job & we suggest you call the score before each point.
  • SERVES: Wait until your opponents are ready. Both the receiver of the serve and their partner should watch the serve and call out immediately following a fault. To ensure smooth flow, please do NOT return the first serve if a fault is called. Safely position the first ball in the net or against the fence behind you.
  • A BALL IS OUT ONLY IF IT IS CLEARLY OUT – make your call clearly so your opponents can hear/see your call. RESPECT YOUR OPPONENTS LINE CALL & DON’T ARGUE … no matter how flagrant you think it may be, you could be wrong. If you’re unsure you can always agree to play a let.
  • DON’T CRITICISE YOUR PARTNER OR OPPONENT: be positive & encouraging.
  • RESPECT THE COURT & EQUIPMENT. Please look after the facilities we have and don’t lean on the nets (or let them down at the end of play). CONTROL YOUR TEMPER and do not abuse your own equipment.

and most importantly, enjoy your tennis while allowing others to enjoy it too.