Parent and Family Code of Conduct

Established in 2015, the Santa Barbara 805 Water Polo Club serves young athletes ages 3 to 19 in the Santa Barbara area and is committed to upholding a positive and respectful environment. Every member of the club, including athletes, coaches, families, and spectators, is obligated to conduct themselves in a respectful and responsible manner, to cooperate with club regulations and those of USA Water Polo, and to represent the club in a positive manner. The following guidelines outline expected conduct of all parents, guardians, families and spectators, both on and off the pool deck.

  1. Respect and Sportsmanship

    • I will treat all athletes, coaches, families, spectators, and officials with respect, fairness, and courtesy. This includes both members of the Santa Barbara 805 Water Polo Club and opposing teams.

    • I will demonstrate and encourage good sportsmanship and fair play at all times.

    • I will support my child’s participation in a positive and encouraging manner, and that of their teammates, understanding that my role is not to coach or referee but to provide positive encouragement

    • I will promote a positive and inclusive team culture.

    • I will refrain from using obscene, profane, derogatory or vulgar language while at any 805 WPC Event

    • I will respect the decisions of officials and referees, refraining from public criticism or gestures of disagreement, understanding that mistakes are part of the game.

    • I will accept victory with humility and acknowledge defeat with grace.

    • I will not engage in or tolerate any form of harassment, discrimination, bullying, or physical or emotional hazing. I will not be silent if I witness such behavior. 

    • I will encourage academic excellence and personal growth alongside athletic performance.

  2. Safety

    • I will prioritize the safety and well-being of myself and all players during practices, games, and club events.

    • I will follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by coaches and officials.

    • I will bring any concerns about the safety or well-being of any SB 805 athlete to the attention of SB 805 coaches, management, or board members

  3. Integrity

    • I will be straightforward and honest in my communication and my actions, even in cases where it may negatively affect the result of competition.

  4. Respect for Facilities and Equipment

    • I will treat facilities, equipment, and uniforms with care and respect.

  5. Compliance

    • I will adhere to all club and USA Water Polo policies, rules, and guidelines, including those related to conduct, eligibility, and participation.

    • I will adhere to all facility rules at home and away.

  6. Communication

    • I will maintain open and respectful communication with coaches, officials, and fellow club members.

    • I will develop a positive rapport and communicate effectively with athletes, coaches, other parents, and the Board of Directors

    • I will address any concerns or issues through the proper channels provided by the club.

  7. Representing the Club

    • I will be mindful of my behavior and actions, as they reflect on the reputation of the club.

    • I will strive to uphold a positive image of the club within the broader community.

    • I will model good sportsmanship and encourage the same among other spectators.

  8. Nondiscrimination

    • I will treat all players, families, and coaches equally and with respect regardless of sex, race, religion, national origin, economic status, disability, and other factors, consistent with law and our mission, values, and objectives.

Consequences of Violations: Violations of this code of conduct may result in disciplinary actions as determined by the club’s coaches, administration, and Board of Directors, which may include warnings, corrective or restorative actions, suspension, or dismissal from the club, depending on the severity of the offense.

Acknowledgment: By participating in Santa Barbara 805 Water Polo I acknowledge that I, and any involved family, have read, understood, and agree to abide by this code of conduct.

Last edited: August 31, 2024