South West London Gymnastics

SQUAD Programme policy

SWL Gymnastics Squad Code of Conduct & Expectations Policy

SWL Gymnastics Squad - Code of Conduct & Expectations

This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for all SWL Gymnastics Squad members. Selection is a privilege requiring dedication from gymnasts and support from families to foster a positive, safe, respectful, disciplined, and high-achieving training environment aligned with SWL values. Adherence is mandatory for continued participation.

Section 1: Gymnast Commitment & Conduct

All squad gymnasts must consistently:

  • Respect & Teamwork: Treat coaches, teammates, staff, officials, and facilities respectfully. Support teammates positively and listen attentively.

  • Positive Attitude & Coachability: Maintain a positive, resilient, and constructive attitude. Be receptive to feedback, apply corrections, and respond positively to instruction. Avoid negativity, complaints, and gossip.

  • Effort & Focus: Apply consistent, high-quality effort and focus throughout all training aspects (warm-ups, skills, conditioning, etc.). Demonstrate self-discipline and dedication to improvement.

  • Attendance & Punctuality: Attend all required sessions and events punctually, arriving fully prepared before the start time. Notify unavoidable absences as far in advance as possible via Management@swlgymnastics.co.uk / 07803458795. Persistent lateness or poor attendance is unacceptable.

  • Safety & Responsibility: Strictly follow all safety rules and coach instructions. Wear correct attire (hair secured, no jewellery). Use equipment correctly under supervision and report damage. Act responsibly, representing SWL Gymnastics with high standards of conduct.

  • Health & Readiness: Arrive physically and mentally ready for training. Communicate any injuries or concerns immediately. Persistent inability to train due to recurring issues may necessitate a review of programme suitability.

Section 2: Training Session Standards

  • Upholding Standards: Maintain the conduct, effort, and focus standards (Section 1) throughout every session.

  • Addressing Issues: Coaches will address insufficient effort, focus, attitude, or behaviour progressively:

    • Verbal reminders, encouragement, or targeted coaching.

    • Assignment of relevant preparatory work if needed.

    • Brief temporary removal from activity for focus/composure.

  • Consequences for Non-Engagement: Persistent inability or unwillingness to participate constructively and safely may result in removal from the remainder of the session. Parents/guardians will be contacted.

Section 3: Parent/Guardian Partnership & Support

We expect parents/guardians to partner with the Club by:

  • Reinforcing these standards with their gymnast.

  • Ensuring punctual arrival/collection and timely absence notifications.

  • Communicating respectfully with staff via appropriate channels (avoiding disruption during coaching).

  • Positively supporting coaching staff and Club decisions (training, selection, etc.). Raise concerns respectfully through designated channels.

  • Refraining from coaching or interfering during training sessions.

  • Fulfilling financial and administrative commitments promptly.

Section 4: Policy Enforcement & Consequences

  • Fair Application: Standards applied fairly and consistently.

  • Feedback & Warnings: Issues typically addressed via verbal feedback first. Written warnings may follow for persistent/significant concerns.

  • Disciplinary Actions: SWL Gymnastics reserves the right to implement disciplinary measures, including temporary suspension or permanent removal from the squad, at any time. Warnings are not always a prerequisite.

  • Grounds for Action: Action may be taken if a gymnast’s conduct, effort, focus, attendance, attitude, coachability, or safety practices are deemed significantly or persistently detrimental to the training environment, safety, team dynamics, or Club objectives.

  • Finality: Decisions by the SWL Gymnastics Head Coach and Club Management regarding policy enforcement and squad participation are final.

Section 5: Acknowledgement of Policy

By accepting or continuing a place in the SWL Gymnastics Squad, gymnasts and parents/guardians confirm they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct & Expectations Policy and its enforcement, including potential suspension or removal from the programme.