SWL Gymnastics Squad Policy

Code of Conduct, Expectations, Pathway Alignment and Disciplinary Framework

This policy sets out the standards required of all SWL Gymnastics squad members and how gymnasts progress through our pathway structure. A squad place is a privilege. It requires consistent effort from gymnasts and active support from families to maintain a safe, focused and performance driven environment. These expectations apply to every squad member at every level.

This policy should be read alongside our official Pathways structure:

https://www.swlgymnastics.co.uk/pathways

Pathway and grading structure

Our squad system is aligned directly with the SWL Pathways model. Progression is based on technical standards, physical readiness, attitude, attendance and competitive preparation.

We operate three squad grades:

In-Club Grade

This is the default squad grade. Gymnasts train within the SWL pathway structure and compete in SWL in-club competitions only. The focus is on fundamentals, shapes, strength development and routine building.

Prep Grade

Gymnasts in Prep continue to compete in SWL in-club competitions. Training emphasis shifts toward routine construction, execution quality and physical standards required for out-of-club competition in future terms. Being in Prep does not guarantee external competition entry that term.

Performance Grade

Performance is the only grade eligible for entry into the next available out-of-club competition. This grade is typically reached after sustained progress in Prep and demonstration of readiness across skill level, physical capacity and training standards.

Assessment and communication

Gymnasts are assessed at the start of each term and placed in the grade appropriate to their current standard and readiness. Parents are contacted if a gymnast moves into Performance grade. If no communication is received, the gymnast remains on the in-club competition pathway for that term. Parents may request confirmation of grade at any time.

Effort based skill eligibility and disciplinary action

Skill progression is a privilege, not an entitlement.

If a coach determines that a gymnast is not applying sufficient effort, focus or discipline in training, the following action may be implemented:

The gymnast will be required to downgrade the level of skills they are currently working on.

They will not be permitted to train or compete higher level skills until standards improve.

They will be assigned specific conditioning targets to build the strength required for the level they wish to regain.

They will be given structured preparation drills and technical foundations before progressing again.

This action is not a punishment. It is a performance reset designed to protect safety, reinforce pathway standards and rebuild physical readiness.

If a gymnast remains in this status, they may not have the required skills ready to compete a full routine at their intended level. This will be reflected in the end of term review reports, including comments on effort, application, conditioning compliance and competitive readiness.

Restoration of skill privileges will occur once coaches are satisfied that:

Consistent effort has been demonstrated

Conditioning standards have improved

Preparation tasks are completed to required quality

Training behaviour aligns with squad expectations

Gymnast commitment and conduct

All squad gymnasts must consistently meet the following standards.

Respect and teamwork

Treat coaches, teammates, officials and facilities with respect. Listen when coaches speak. Support teammates and maintain a positive training culture.

Attitude and coachability

Accept feedback and apply corrections. Show resilience when challenged. Avoid disruptive behaviour, negative talk or resistance to instruction.

Effort and focus

Maintain full effort across warm ups, basics, drills, routines, conditioning and flexibility. Complete assigned tasks properly. Stay on programme.

Attendance and punctuality

Attend all required sessions on time and prepared to train. Notify unavoidable absences as early as possible via Management@swlgymnastics.co.uk or 07803458795. Persistent absence or lateness will trigger a suitability review.

Safety and responsibility

Follow all safety instructions. Wear correct attire with hair secured and no jewellery. Use equipment appropriately and report concerns immediately.

Health and readiness

Inform coaches of any injury or pain before training. Repeated inability to train fully may result in a pathway or grade review.

Session standards and immediate consequences

Coaches may apply progressive consequences where standards are not met. These may include:

Verbal correction

Focused reset tasks

Temporary removal from an activity

Removal from the remainder of the session

Parents will be informed if a gymnast is removed from a session.

Competition Squad probation

Competition Squad includes an additional status: Probation.

Probation provides one further term to demonstrate alignment with technical standards, effort, behaviour, attendance and pathway expectations. Parents will be notified in writing if probation is applied.

If sufficient improvement is not demonstrated, the gymnast may be moved to a different pathway at the end of the term.

Parent and guardian partnership

Parents and guardians are expected to:

Reinforce squad standards at home

Ensure punctual arrival and collection

Communicate respectfully through appropriate channels

Support coaching decisions regarding grading and competition

Avoid coaching from the sidelines

Maintain financial and administrative responsibilities

Enforcement and removal

Standards are applied consistently. Concerns are normally addressed verbally first and may escalate to written warning, probation, suspension or removal depending on severity or persistence.

SWL Gymnastics reserves the right to take disciplinary action at any time where conduct, effort, focus, attendance or safety practice undermines the training environment, team culture or pathway objectives. Formal warnings are not always required.

All decisions made by the Head Coach and Club Management regarding grading, competition entry, skill eligibility and squad placement are final.

Acknowledgement

By accepting or continuing a squad place, gymnasts and parents confirm they have read, understood and agree to follow this policy, including pathway alignment, effort based skill eligibility rules and disciplinary procedures.