BEND SWIM CLUB, INC.
Parent Code of Conduct

Parents and guardians play a vital role in supporting the experience and development of athletes. The Parent Code of Conduct outlines expectations for creating a positive, safe, and respectful environment. These standards help us maintain the integrity of the club and support athlete well-being.

Parent Expectations

  • Support the Bend Swim Club mission by modeling respect, integrity, and sportsmanship.
  • Demonstrate courtesy toward athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and other families at all times.
  • Direct concerns or questions to the appropriate coach or team leader, rather than discussing them with other parents or swimmers.
  • Ensure your athlete is on time for practice and meets and is picked up promptly.
  • Avoid interfering with practices or entering the pool deck unless authorized.
  • Use positive language when speaking about athletes, coaches, and club decisions.
  • Never coach or instruct athletes (including your own) during practice or competition unless specifically asked by a coach.
  • Read team communications and volunteer as needed for meets, events, and fundraisers.
  • Alert coaches to medical conditions, absences, or special circumstances impacting your child’s participation.
  • Respect the authority of coaches, team administrators, and meet officials.
  • Refrain from any conduct that is unsportsmanlike, intimidating, or detrimental to the team’s culture.

Safety and Communication

All parents must follow the Bend Swim Club Social Media & Electronic Communication Policy, which is based on USA Swimming Safe Sport standards. This includes refraining from engaging in one-on-one digital communication with minor athletes other than your own, and using respectful, professional channels.

Parents are strongly encouraged to complete USA Swimming’s free Parent Safe Sport Training, available at: https://www.usaswimming.org/safe-sport

Consequences for Violations

Parents who violate this Code of Conduct may be subject to disciplinary action at the discretion of the Head Coach and Board of Directors. Consequences may include warnings, removal from events, or in serious cases, restriction from club participation.

Additional Expectations

  • Never challenge an official’s decision at a meet. If you have a question or concern, raise it respectfully with your child’s coach.
  • Refrain from the use of alcohol, tobacco, or vaping on deck or during club events.
  • Possession of any item that may be considered a weapon is strictly prohibited at all club activities.
  • Notify coaches in advance if your child will be absent from a meet or practice, preferably via email.

Club Roles and Communication

The following individuals have specific responsibilities within the Bend Swim Club:

  • The Head Coach oversees all training programs, coaching philosophy, and competitive decisions.
  • The Board of Directors governs the club’s strategic direction, employment of the Head Coach, and fiscal oversight.
  • The Team Administrator implements policies, manages billing, and supports team operations.
  • The Meet Director oversees home meet logistics in accordance with USA Swimming and Oregon Swimming rules.

If you have concerns or questions, please contact the appropriate individual directly. If the matter cannot be resolved by email or direct conversation, a meeting may be requested. If you are still unsatisfied, please refer to the Grievance Policy.

Approach to Resolution

We understand that not all requests can be fulfilled. Denying a request does not mean your concern was ignored — it simply means a different decision was made. Please approach discussions with the intent to understand, not to vent, and seek resolution from the individual with authority to address the issue.