SWL Gymnastics Squad Policy

Code of Conduct, Expectations and Grading Pathway

This policy explains the standards expected of all SWL Gymnastics squad members and how we progress gymnasts through our squad grading system. A squad place is a privilege. It requires commitment from gymnasts and support from families to keep training safe, respectful and high quality. These expectations apply to every squad member regardless of grade.

  1. Squad grading pathway and what it means

We use a three tier grading system for squad gymnasts: In-Club, Prep and Performance.

In-Club Grade (default)

Most gymnasts will be in this grade for a period of time. Gymnasts train and compete in SWL in-club competitions only.

Prep Grade

Gymnasts in Prep still compete in SWL in-club competitions only. Training focus shifts toward building routines and standards needed for out-of-club competitions in the future. Prep does not mean a gymnast is being entered for out-of-club competitions that term.

Performance Grade

Performance is the only grade where a gymnast is in line to compete at the next available out-of-club competition. This grade is normally reached after one or more terms in Prep.

Assessment and communication

At the start of each term we assess gymnasts during the first week or so and confirm what grade they will work on for that term. We only email parents if a gymnast is moved into Performance grade. Parents can enquire at any time what grade their gymnast is working on. If you have not been notified that your gymnast is in Performance, they are working toward in-club competitions only.

  1. Gymnast commitment and conduct

All squad gymnasts must consistently:

Respect and teamwork

Treat coaches, teammates, staff, officials and facilities with respect. Listen when coaches are speaking. Support teammates and avoid negative talk.

Attitude and coachability

Be receptive to feedback and apply corrections. Show resilience when challenged. Avoid complaining, gossip and disruptive behaviour.

Effort and focus

Train with consistent effort and concentration across warm ups, basics, routines, conditioning and flexibility. Follow tasks properly and stay on plan.

Attendance and punctuality

Attend all required sessions on time and arrive ready to start. Notify unavoidable absences as early as possible via Management@swlgymnastics.co.uk or 07803458795. Persistent lateness or poor attendance will trigger a review of suitability for squad.

Safety and responsibility

Follow all safety rules and coach instructions. Wear correct attire, hair secured and no jewellery. Use equipment correctly under supervision and report any damage or concerns immediately.

Health and readiness

Arrive physically and mentally ready to train. Gymnasts must tell a coach about any injury, pain or concern straight away. Recurring inability to train may lead to a review of programme fit or grade placement.

  1. Training session standards and immediate consequences

Standards apply throughout every session. Coaches may respond to issues progressively depending on severity:

  • Brief reminders and redirection

  • Targeted tasks to reset focus

  • Temporary removal from an activity to regain composure

  • Removal from the remainder of the session if behaviour, effort or safety is not acceptable

If a gymnast is removed from a session parents will be contacted.

  1. Probation grade for Competition Squad only

Competition Squad has an additional status: Probation.

Probation means a gymnast has one more term to keep their place within Competition Squad. Parents will be notified by email if a gymnast is placed on probation.

Probation may be used when a gymnast’s skill level, attitude, attendance, behaviour or general standards are not aligning with the expectations of Competition Squad. During the probation term we expect clear improvement and consistent alignment with squad standards.

If sufficient improvement is not shown, the gymnast may be moved out of Competition Squad at the end of the term. This may include moving to a different squad pathway where appropriate.

  1. Parent and guardian partnership

We expect parents and guardians to support the programme by:

  • Reinforcing these standards with their gymnast

  • Ensuring punctual arrival and collection and timely absence notifications

  • Communicating respectfully with staff through appropriate channels without disrupting coaching

  • Supporting coaching decisions on training, selection, grading and competition entry

  • Not coaching or interfering during sessions

  • Keeping financial and admin commitments up to date

  1. Enforcement, warnings and removal

Standards are applied fairly and consistently. Concerns are usually addressed with verbal feedback first and may be followed by written warnings depending on severity or repetition.

SWL Gymnastics may apply disciplinary action at any time, including probation (Competition Squad only), temporary suspension or permanent removal from squad. Warnings are not always required.

Action may be taken if conduct, effort, focus, attendance, attitude, coachability or safety practice is significantly or persistently harmful to safety, the training environment, team culture or club objectives.

Decisions by the Head Coach and Club Management regarding grading, competition entry and squad participation are final.

  1. Acknowledgement

By accepting or continuing a place in SWL Gymnastics Squad, gymnasts and parents or guardians confirm they have read, understood and agree to follow this policy, including the grading pathway, probation process and potential suspension or removal.