Code of conduct

In addition to the club rules, as a member of Magdalen Park Tennis Club (MPLTC) you and any guest you bring to the club are expected to abide by the following Code of conduct.  

1. The Club expects that members respect and support each other, the club, and visitors to the club. Any conduct demonstrating a failure to show respect, including abusive, aggressive, discriminatory or inappropriate behaviour or language will be considered a breach of the rules of the Club and render a member liable to such sanctions, including expulsion or suspension from the club, as decided by the MPLTC Board Members.

  • Safety: Whilst at the club members must act in a reasonable manner for their own safety and the safety of others both in the clubhouse and on court.
  • Members should abide by the rules of good sportsmanship on court, both during matches and social play
  • Bona fide tennis clothes and trainers only must be worn on the courts.
  • Members should adhere to the rules of the pegboard at club social sessions, welcoming and including any new members to the club.
  • There is no smoking in the clubhouse or in the areas around the courts. Smoking is allowed on the area behind the patio.
  • Dogs must be kept on leads.
  • Please respect the premises at all times with regard to damage and litter, and clear up any glasses, mugs or debris on the courts and in the clubhouse.

2. The MPLTC social WhatsApp group is for organising games, matches, and for advertising upcoming events or news. Any personal or inappropriate posts will be taken down by the moderator of the group.

3. Please be considerate to our neighbours, especially regarding language and general noise especially when leaving the premises.

4. All members of staff, volunteers and members agree to:

  • Prioritise the well-being of all children and adults at risk at all times
  • Treat all children and adults at risk fairly and with respect
  • Be a positive role model. Act with integrity, even when no one is looking
  • Help to create a safe and inclusive environment both on and off court
  • Not allow any rough or dangerous behaviour, bullying or the use of bad or inappropriate language
  • Report all allegations of abuse or poor practice to the club Welfare Officer
  • Not use any sanctions that humiliate or harm a child or adult at risk
  • Value and celebrate diversity and make all reasonable efforts to meet individual needs
  • Keep clear boundaries between professional and personal life, including on social media
  • Have the relevant consent from parents/carers, children and adults before taking or using photos and videos
  • Refrain from making physical contact with children or adults unless it is necessary as part of an emergency or congratulatory (e.g. handshake / high five)
  • Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol during club activities or coaching sessions
  • Ensure roles and responsibilities are clearly outlined and everyone has the required information and training
  • Avoid being alone with a child or adult at risk unless there are exceptional circumstances
  • Refrain from transporting children or adults at risk, unless this is required as part of a club activity (e.g. away match) and there is another adult in the vehicle
  • Not abuse, neglect, harm or discriminate against anyone; or act in a way that may be interpreted as such
  • Not have a relationship with anyone under 18 for whom they are coaching or responsible for
  • Be acutely aware of the power that coaches and coaching assistants develop over players in the coaching relationship and avoid any intimacy (sexual or otherwise) with players

5. All children agree to:

  • Be friendly, supportive and welcoming to other children and adults
  • Play fairly and honestly
  • Respect club staff, volunteers and Officials and accept their decisions
  • Behave, respect and listen to your coach
  • Take care of your equipment and club property
  • Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of age, gender, ability, race, culture, religion or sexual identity
  • Not use bad, inappropriate or racist language, including on social media
  • Not bully, intimidate or harass anyone, including on social media
  • Not smoke, drink alcohol or drugs of any kind on club premises or whilst representing the club at competitions or events
  • Talk to the club Welfare Officer about any concerns or worries they have about themselves or others

6. All parents and carers agree to:

  • Positively reinforce your child and show an interest in their tennis
  • Use appropriate language at all times
  • Be realistic and supportive
  • Never ridicule or admonish a child for making a mistake or losing a match
  • Treat all children, adults, volunteers, coaches, officials and members of staff with respect
  • Behave responsibly at the venue; do not embarrass your child
  • Accept the official’s decisions and do not go on court or interfere with matches
  • Encourage your child to play by the rules, and teach them that they can only do their best
  • Deliver and collect your child punctually from the venue
  • Ensure your child has appropriate clothing for the weather conditions
  • Ensure that your child understands their part of the Code of Conduct
  • Adhere to your venue’s safeguarding policy, diversity and inclusion policy, rules and regulations
  • Provide emergency contact details and any relevant information about your child including medical history

Updated: October 2022