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2014 Saint’s Gym Club Inc. Handbook for Members
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2014
Saint’s Gym Club Inc. Handbook for Members
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Contents
Club Mission Statement .............................................. 5
State Peak Body .......................................................... 5
Welcome to Saint’s Gym Club Inc. .............................. 6
Our Club Personnel ..................................................... 7
The Management Committee ............................................................... 7
Administration ...................................................................................... 7
Coaching Staff ....................................................................................... 7
Expectations of the Levels Gymnast ........................... 8
Uniform Requirements ......................................................................... 8
Training ................................................................................................. 8
Competition Attendance ...................................................................... 8
Organisational Chart ................................................. 10
Our Club Programs .................................................... 11
Gym For All/Recreation Gym .............................................................. 11
Pre-Levels ............................................................................................ 11
Men's Artistic Gymnastics (MAG) ....................................................... 11
Women's Artistic Gymnastics (WAG) ................................................. 11
Competitive Vs Recreational Gymnastics ........................................... 12
Expectations ........................................................................................ 12
Fees Policy ................................................................ 13
Club Membership and Registration .................................................... 13
Fee Payments ...................................................................................... 13
Priority Re-registering System ............................................................ 13
Hours of Training ...................................................... 14
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Term Length .............................................................. 14
Training Session Cancellations .................................. 14
Make up Classes ....................................................... 14
Public Holidays .......................................................... 14
Other Activities, Extra Training ................................. 15
Competition Entry Fees ...................................................................... 15
Refund Policy ...................................................................................... 15
Clothing ............................................................................................... 15
Other Procedures And Information .......................... 16
Hot Weather Policy ............................................................................. 16
Notification of Changes to Medical and Contact Details .................... 16
Medical Clearance ............................................................................... 16
Dropping off and Picking up Gymnasts ............................................... 16
School Holiday Classes ........................................................................ 17
Changes to Coaching Staff .................................................................. 17
Positions in Classes and Program Content ......................................... 18
Fire & Emergency Procedure .................................... 18
Procedure for Gymnasts ..................................................................... 18
Procedure for Parents & Spectators ................................................... 18
Safety Rules .............................................................. 19
Assumption of risk .................................................... 20
Hand care.................................................................. 20
Lost property ............................................................ 21
Viewing from inside the gym .................................... 21
Fundraising ............................................................... 21
Sponsorship .............................................................. 21
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Media Liaison ............................................................ 22
Feedback ................................................................... 22
Privacy Statement ..................................................... 22
Grievance Procedure ................................................ 23
Administrative & Payment Related Matters ....................................... 23
Coaching Related Matters .................................................................. 23
Saint’s Gym Club Member Protection Policy ............ 23
Gymnasts Code of Conduct ....................................... 24
Parents Code of Conduct........................................... 25
Coaches Code of Conduct ......................................... 26
Judges Code of Conduct ............................................ 27
Waiver ...................................................................... 28
Our Policies ............................................................... 29
Useful Links ............................................................... 29
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Club Mission Statement
To encourage every gymnast to maximise their gymnastic potential, reaching the highest levels of artistry and performance
to which they are capable and to which they aspire.
State Peak Body
Gymnastics South Australia (GymSA)
National Peak Body Australian Gymnastics Federation (GA)
International Peak Body Federation of International Gymnastics (FIG)
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Welcome to Saint’s Gym Club Inc.
Saints Gym Club is a volunteer led, community based club which has been operating since 1980. We provide fun and safe gymnastics training for girls and boys at the gymnasium at Saint Peters Collegiate Girls’ School, Stonyfell Road, Stonyfell.
Saints Gym Club is an incorporated body run by the Saints Gym Club Management committee. Committee members can be identified at training sessions by the white and light blue badge. The committee is made up of volunteer parents of gymnasts and other interested people.
Office bearers are elected at the Annual General Meeting in March each year. Membership of the management committee is an opportunity for interested parents to support their children’s participation in sport and to develop a range of skills. As well as membership of the committee parents are strongly encouraged to support their children’s participation in Gym-sport by performing a number of other tasks. Any interested parents are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM), join as a general committee member, train as a judge or become involved in event organisation for the club. Please speak to a committee member about how you can support the club.
The rules and conditions in this Handbook are those which the gymnast and parents/guardians agree to comply with by enrolling at Saints. However, the committee are always open to suggestions about future conditions and policies.
Contact Details:
Saints Gym Club PO Box 1192
Kensington SA 5068
Mobile: 0433 392 352
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Our Club Personnel
The Management Committee
The Management Committee meets monthly.
All matters for the general m e e t i n g m u s t be in writing to the Club one week beforehand. Non-agenda items will not be discussed at this meeting. Although ou r coachin g & set up staff are paid professionals, our management committee and other helpers are volunteers who offer their time for the benefit of the club. Some of these positions demand a great deal of time and effort. Understanding and patience is appreciated when dealing with club matters.
The Saint’s Gym Club Management Committee is elected by the club members every year at the AGM and we are always looking for enthusiastic, creative people to join the committee. If you would like to be involved in this area please contact our Club President/s.
Administration
The Club phone and email is attended from during normal business hours.
Coaching Staff
All senior coaches hold a minimum qualification of Level 1 under the Australian Coaching Council’s National Coaches Accreditation Scheme (NCAS) or are in the process of gaining accreditation. Coaches who are in training are under the supervision of a qualified coach. Accreditation procedures also require that coaches hold a current senior First Aid certificate or equivalent.
We also employ younger coaches who are often current or ex competition gymnasts & possess high levels of up to date technical expertise in gymnastics. For this reason they are employed in the area of Recreation and sometimes as assistants in the Competition streams. Don’t be fooled by their size as most gymnasts are older than they look.
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Expectations of the Levels Gymnast
Uniform Requirements
The Levels Gymnasts both MAG & WAG are expected to arrange and purchase the club competition outfit/leotard. In communication with your child’s coach & the Uniform Officer you will need to purchase the correct leotard depending on if you are a female Level 1-3 (blue & white leotard) or Level 4 female gymnast and above (navy & gold leotard) or a MAG gymnast.
All gymnasts are expected to have and wear the SAINTS Club Jacket, bag and black pants. Gymnasts walk on the floor and compete barefooted; hence there are no shoe requirements. Hair styles and ribbons are communicated by the coach prior to the Competition. Girls are not to wear underpants under their leotards.
Training
Once the gymnast is offered and accepted into the Levels program there is a significant increase of training time. Attendance at all training sessions and a satisfactory level of commitment to training is expected from every gymnast. The gymnasts shall abide by the Club’s code of conduct and will at all times display a positive team spirit. Saints members are expected to show respect to their team mates, coaching staff and members of other clubs.
Competition Attendance
Throughout the year there are several competitions held at Marion and some country events are also offered. Attendance is expected at these competitions. Circumstances may be such that require discussion well in advance of the upcoming competitions as to the contrary. If a gymnast cannot attend a competition post the entries being submitted a refund will only be given on the grounds of a medical certificate produced. This must be received within 10 days of the competition being held. The gymnast shall be entered and paid for by the club and families will be invoiced for the cost of the competition entry prior to the entry closing dates. The club attempts to keep the cost of entries to competitions to a
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minimum. We aim to only cover the entry cost and the cost of having coaching staff in attendance.
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Organisational Chart
Management Committee
Other people around the gym:
As a leading gymnastics club we frequently have coaches from other clubs observing or assisting with training as a means of meeting their compulsory annual updating requirements for the National Coaches Accreditation Scheme (NCAS). These coaches are under the supervision of our own coaching staff.
We also sometimes have coaches and gymnasts from other clubs visiting to take advantage of our facility and experienced coaches.
President &/or Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary,
Registrations Officer, Communication Manager,
Uniform Officer and General Members
MAG Head Coach
Squad Leaders
Gym For All
Head Coach
Junior Coaches
WAG Head Coach
Squad Leaders
Junior Coaches
Set-Up Manager
Set-Up Crew
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Our Club Programs
Gym For All/Recreation Gym
This is a fun and exciting class in which to learn basic skills in a friendly environment. This program can provide sufficient challenge for all gymnasts, by introducing new skills involving coordination, balance, strength and flexibility. Gymnasts attend classes of the appropriate age bracket (5-7, 8-12 and 10 +) once per week. Warm up is done as a class; gymnasts are then divided into groups (max. 8 per coach) to complete activities around the gym. Four rotations are completed per session.
Pre-Levels
Pre Levels is a transitional program for girls under 8, focusing on preparation for Level 1. Gymnasts learn more complex gymnastics skills and correct techniques. Training sessions will incorporate more specific skills, including foundation and developmental skills, as well as introducing strength, conditioning and flexibility training. Skills covered include those required for entry into the Level 1 program. However, invitation to join Pre Levels does not guarantee a subsequent position in the Levels Program. Both Pre Levels & Levels entry is by invite and Head Coach assessment only.
Men's Artistic Gymnastics (MAG)
Is comprised of gymnastics skills and routines of progressively increasing difficulty on six apparatus; Vault, Pommel Horse, High Bar, Parallel Bars, Floor Exercise and Rings. MAG training is offered & attendance expected twice a week, on Thursdays and Fridays.
Women's Artistic Gymnastics (WAG)
Gymnastics skills and routines of progressively increasing difficulty. There are 4 apparatus: Vault, Uneven Bars, Balance Beam and Floor Exercise. Level 1-7 State and National streams are offered & expected on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
In line with the National guidelines the ‘State Stream’ of competition will be gradually phased out.
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Competitive Vs Recreational Gymnastics
Our club recognises a clear distinction between recreational and competitive gymnastics. From Recreation, gymnasts who are suitable to pursue competitive gymnastics may be invited into a competitive training group.
The content and delivery of training programs is different for competitive and recreational groups. Recreational groups have a philosophy of fun, fitness, friendship and fundamentals. These programs aim to give a broad introduction to gymnastics equipment and activities and allow children to progress at their own pace.
In competitive training groups there are high expectations placed on the gymnasts to work hard and improve their physical abilities and skills. Positions in competitive groups are offered on the understanding that the gymnast aspires to high levels of performance and intends to fully meet all of the training commitments of that group.
Expectations
What can the gymnasts and parents expect from Saint ’s Gym Club?
The gymnast can expect the dedication of their coaches to the task of developing their gymnastic ability to their maximum potential. Additionally they can expect that the coaching staff will abide by professional and ethical standards of the highest degree. No guarantees can be made regarding the outcomes of competitions or the level of competence to which a gymnast will rise. We can only assure you that the programs we put in place will give your child the best chance to maximise their own potential if correctly followed with effort, persistence and determination.
What are the expectations of a gymnast & parent when joining a class?
The gymnasts will be expected to arrive on time, follow instructions, and apply themselves to the program. Parents are expected to be supportive, ensure that adequate sleep and a nutritious diet are provided, and ensure that their child arrives at the appropriate time and is picked up on time. Both children and parents are expected to abide by their respective rules at the back of this book.
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Fees Policy
Club Membership and Registration
The Club Membership package includes Club Membership, Gymnastics South Australia Registration and Sports Insurance. This is non-refundable. The GymSA registration and Sports Insurance is transferable between clubs but not from one gymnast to another. The GymSA registration is valid from the date of payment until the end of December of that year. A family discount of 10% applies for the 2nd and subsequent family members for Membership fees only. Membership fees are renewable each term and must be paid prior to your child's first class, this includes new registrations.
Fee Payments
Class fees pay for your child's position in a class. Non-attendance does not qualify you for a refund or credit except under special circumstances, where an application must be made to the President. All term fees are due in their entirety prior to your child’s first lesson.
Priority Re-registering System
Re-registering allows us to be fully prepared for the following term's classes, maintaining our low gymnast to coach ratios and staffing with the best available and most suitable coaches. Reregistering emails will be sent out towards the end of term. Reregistering can be done at the gym. Our priority reregistering system affords first priority to those who are already in a class when rebooking for the new term. After the priority reregistering week however, positions are open for anybody to book into any suitable class where a vacancy exists. It is important therefore, that if you wish to retain your place in the class for the new term, you should rebook during the priority reregistering week. If for some reason you cancel your booking you will forfeit 2 weeks of fees. The President may consider special circumstances. Rebooking is not compulsory, however if you don't you may lose your child's position in that class. Rebooking fees will not be accepted until any prior outstanding debts to our club or any other club have been finalised.
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Hours of Training
If gymnasts leave early or arrive late this does not entitle a discount on fees as all the club's costs are the same regardless of gymnast leaving.
Term Length
Fees are calculated on a term basis, with typically 9-11 weeks in each term and approximately 40 weeks per year, generally aligned with the public school terms. New gymnasts starting part way through the term are charged on a pro rata basis.
Training Session Cancellations
Any session cancelled by the head coach or club will be made up for at a later date or a credit applied to your account.
Make up Classes
Gymnasts are allocated 2 make up classes per term to be used in the event of their child being unable to attend their class. You must inform the club that your child will not be attending prior to their class starting to be able to claim a makeup. The make up lessons are offered only if a position is available in that particular type of class and must be taken during the current term. If a child is unable to attend for two or more weeks due to illness or injury, a refund for missed classes can be obtained by presenting the President with an appropriate medical certificate for the period.
Public Holidays
There are classes on public holidays.
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Other Activities, Extra Training
Competitions and extra training sessions, etc are to be paid for at the time of booking; however club fees must be completely up to date in order to book for one of these activities.
Competition Entry Fees
Competition fees are partly dependent on the entry fees charged by the hosting body. MAG and WAG will be invoiced for each competition in advance and must be fully paid prior to the entry closing date. Non payment will result in gymnasts being unable to attend the event.
Refund Policy
Please note that State or Nationally Sanctioned Events or events organised by other clubs, will have closing dates and refund policies as set by those organisations.
Circumstances not covered in this handbook will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis by the Head Coach, President or the Club's Management Committee.
Clothing
Gymnasts representing the club at GymSA competitions wear a club leotard, black long pants and a club jacket. Junior Levels leotards are made by Jem Designs, 128 Main North Rd. Prospect. Club leotards are made to order and can take up to 8 weeks to be ready. Senior Levels (4+) leotards are purchased online. Details are available from the Uniform Officer. The club jacket is available from the Uniform Officer and black, full length jazz pants may be purchased from any retail outlet.
For Recreational gymnasts that compete at Gym For All competitions, the club uniform is our Club t-shirt and black bike pants. Please see the Uniform Officer.
Please Note:
NO Bobby Pins are allowed to be used as it can be dangerous.
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Other Procedures And Information
Hot Weather Policy
If the forecast temperature (or gymnasium temperature) is 38 degrees or over then all gym sessions will be cancelled on that day.
If the forecast temperature is 36 degrees or over then a modified gym program will be conducted on that day.
Parents should also assess their own child’s individual tolerance to heat; and make their own decision as to whether it is appropriate for their child to exercise in hotter weather. If the child appears distressed or complains of feeling unwell, they should stop exercising.
Make up classes (for cancelled classes) will be offered where possible. Alternatively, the following term fees will be adjusted.
Notification of Changes to Medical and Contact Details
Parents must immediately notify the Club of any change in address, email or telephone contact details or any medical or disability information which may be significant to the coaching of the child. You may be required to fill in a new membership form indicating the new conditions. All medical conditions require an action plan. Please collect a form with your registration. Having an email address and mobile phone number on our file will enable you to receive more information and earlier notification. Enrolment forms & associated medical plans are to be renewed annually for new & existing club members.
Medical Clearance
Gymnasts may at some time be required to produce a medical certificate confirming their fitness for classes or their general health status prior to being permitted to participate.
Dropping off and Picking up Gymnasts
Parents are required to come into the foyer to drop off and pick up their children. The club is not responsible for the safety of your child before & after their designated class. Please remind your children to wait inside the gym for you after class. Please be 5 minutes early to drop off and on
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time to pick up your children. If you will be late to pick up or drop off, please contact the gym and advise of your expected arrival time. If somebody other than usual will be picking up your child please notify the office or their coach beforehand. If there is a specific person/s not permitted to pick up your child, please notify the club in writing.
School Holiday Classes
Classes are at times offered during the school holidays. You will be advised towards the end of the term if these training will be occurring and these classes are charged for separately.
Changes to Coaching Staff
While we attempt to give the children consistency in coaching staff the club reserves the right to change coaching staff without prior notice.
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Positions in Classes and Program Content
Positions in any Levels class are offered at the discretion of the Head Coach and may be withdrawn by the Head Coach. Coaches are the correct people to make decisions about any gymnast's readiness to progress, the content of a program or any other coaching related matter.
Fire & Emergency Procedure
Please read the Fire and Emergency Procedure and explain it to your child.
Procedure for Gymnasts
1. Stop all gymnastic activities
2. Follow the directions of the coach or person in charge
3. Leave the building via the nearest safe exit in a calm, orderly manner
4. Wait in the Parking area on the northern side of the administration building for further instructions.
Procedure for Parents & Spectators
1. Leave the building via the nearest safe exit in a calm orderly manner
2. Wait in the Parking area on the northern side of the administration building for further instructions.
3. The coaching staff will take the children to the nearest exit so please do not attempt to take your own children out of the building.
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Safety Rules
The following are the club’s safety rules which must be followed by
gymnasts, parents and siblings:
1. No running in foyer area of the gym AT ANY TIME.
2. After class, the gymnast must remain in the foyer area until collected by their parent/guardian.
3. Equipment may only be used by gymnasts under the supervision of a coach.
4. During class, the gymnast is to walk between pieces of equipment and run on the floor only when asked by the coach.
5. Gymnasts are to seek permission to leave the class at all times. If the gymnast is leaving early, please ensure the coach is aware of this.
6. Food or drinks are not permitted in the gym floor area. Regular drink breaks will be provided to enable gymnasts to have a drink within the foyer area. This will particularly be the case in hot weather (see separate hot weather policy).
7. No photography or videoing during training, unless permission has been granted from the management committee.
8. All bags and personal effects are to be neatly stored in the cubby holes and not present a trip hazard to other gymnasts and visitors to the club.
9. Please keep the foyer area free of clutter and rubbish. Put rubbish in bins provided.
10. If a gymnast is feeling unwell or is injured, please report this immediately to the coach. First aid equipment is available onsite.
11. In an emergency, coaches will try to contact parents but if necessary, the most appropriate medical assistance will be called upon including an ambulance (at the gymnast’s expense), if deemed needed.
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12. Saints Gymnastics Club is a SMOKEFREE environment and no alcohol is allowed on the gym premises.
13. Dogs are not allowed on the school grounds.
14. Saints Gym Club is a nut free club. Please do not bring any food/snacks that might contain nuts. If your child is allergic to nuts, please provide an up-to-date action plan with the medical form and ensure an Epi-pen or medication is given to your coach at every training.
Assumption of risk
Like any sport or physical activity, participation in gymnastics carries an inherent risk of injury. Because many gymnastics activities require inversion (turning upside down) of the body, the sport by its nature carries a risk of head and spinal injury. This risk is greatly controlled in a supervised class with a qualified and experienced instructor. Parents should explain this risk to their children prior to accepting membership.
Hand care
Swinging by the hands often causes blisters. A blister which has broken while swinging is called a rip. Because the superficial layer of skin has been removed in the case of a rip, there is potential for infection. The hands should always be washed thoroughly following training to remove all chalk and dirt. Blisters should not be broken. If a blister has broken the area should be kept clean. To avoid hardening of the area which may cause cracking of the skin, vitamin E oil or cream should be applied to the area. This must be completely washed off before the gymnast comes into class. If the area appears to become infected please consult your doctor.
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Lost property
Lost property is placed in the lost property basket in the foyer. Items may not be removed from here unless they belong to you. At the end of each term the lost property is donated to charity.
Remember that if your child has gymnastics gear/clothing there is a great likelihood that there are identical to other gymnasts in the club. We strongly suggest that you label all clothing and equipment with your child's name. The club accepts no responsibility for any items left behind at the gym. We strongly advise that you do not leave valuables unattended in the foyer, cubby holes, toilets or car park. Gymnasts should not bring valuables to the gym.
Viewing from inside the gym
Please do not allow other children to wander into the training area or touch any equipment. Children or adults who may accidentally wander into the path of a gymnast risk serious injury to themselves and the gymnast. Viewing from the foyer is permitted but please do not enter the gym floor at any time. Your co-operation regarding this matter helps us to better look after the personal safety of the children.
Fundraising
All fundraising activities at the club must be approved in advance by the management committee.
Sponsorship
Our club has many benefits to offer a potential sponsor. If you would like to advertise your business in our monthly newsletter, or if you know of any business owners or companies who may be interested in sponsoring the club please contact the Executive Committee.
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Media Liaison
All media liaison which mentions the club, its programs, gymnasts, staff or management committee must first be cleared with the Executive Committee to ensure that information is appropriate and accurate.
Feedback
The committee and staff welcome your feedback on improving our club.
Privacy Statement
In accordance with the Privacy Amendment (Private Sector) Act (2000), the information we collect about you will be used primarily for matters specifically related to participating in gymnastics and/or if a secondary purpose is related to the primary purpose and one could reasonably expect such use or disclosure. To assist in providing our services, the organisations to which we disclose information include outsourced service providers who manage the services we provide to you, including:
Gymnastics SA
Gymnastics Australia
Insurers
Sport Education Section (ASC)
Our professional advisors, including our accountants, auditors and lawyers
Government and regulatory authorities and other organisations, as required or authorised by law
We limit the use and disclosure of any personal information provided by us to such organisations for the specific purpose for which we supplied it.
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Grievance Procedure
Administrative & Payment Related Matters
In the first instance such matters should be discussed with the Club's President. If the matter is not resolved to your satisfaction then you may write to the Management Committee who will consider your case.
Coaching Related Matters
In the first instance such matters should be brought to the attention of the Head coach of your child's program. If the matter is not resolved to your satisfaction then you should speak or write to the Executive Committee.
You may ask to be present at a committee meeting to present your case, however you may be asked to leave while the committee discusses and decides on your matter.
No complaint or request will be considered unless the correct grievance procedure is followed.
Saint’s Gym Club Member Protection Policy
This policy has been developed to ensure that our members are provided with a safe and respectful sporting environment whilst participating in activities run by this club. The Saint’s Gym Club is committed to providing a safe environment for children that is free from harassment and abuse for everyone, and promotes respectful and positive behaviour and values.
This policy provides a code of conduct forming the basis of appropriate and ethical conduct which everyone must abide by. This is an essential part of our organisation's proactive and preventative approach to tackling inappropriate behaviour. The Management of this organisation is committed to ensuring that everyone associated with the Saint’s Gym Club complies with this policy at all times. The full policy can be found at our club or by request from the Management Committee.
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Gymnasts Code of Conduct
1. Gymnasts must participate within these club rules and the general class safety rules.
2. Gymnasts must respect all Saints Gym coaches and helpers by listening and paying attention to what they are being asked and expected to do. Gymnasts are encouraged to give suggestions and feedback to their coaches but not to argue.
3. Gymnasts must respect opponents in competition by praising and applauding all efforts and achievements.
4. Gymnasts must respect judge’s decisions in competition.
5. Their coach will seek clarification of any questionable results.
6. Gymnasts must respect fellow club members by being kind to each other, taking turns fairly, helping each other and providing encouragement i.e.; saying well done.
7. Bullying is never acceptable and will not be tolerated at Saint’s Gym.
8. Gymnasts must wear suitable clothing. Our dress code is bare feet, leotards, fitted shorts and T-shirts (no baggy clothing.) Track suit bottoms may only be worn during the warm up exercises & they should be of ankle length & have an elasticised waist. Hair needs to be tied back wherever possible and all jewellery removed, earrings for newly pierced ears can remain in place but need to be protected by plasters or tape. The Head Coach must be advised of all jewellery or body adornments worn for religious or medical reasons so that a risk assessment can be made regarding personal safety.
9. Gymnasts should help to take care of all the equipment and only use it as instructed by the coaches and helpers. Gymnasts must never use equipment when they are unsupervised by a coach.
10. Gymnasts must concentrate on what they are doing when performing a skill in order to keep themselves safe.
11. Gymnasts must make sure that the Head Coach has been
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informed of any existing injuries or illness they have before the warm up begins.
12. Gymnasts must not eat any food or chew gum during training.
13. Gymnasts must not use bad or offensive language
14. Gymnasts must remain with coaches at the end of a class until collected by their parent or guardian.
Parents Code of Conduct
As a parent/guardian of an athlete/participant in any activity held by or under the auspices of Saint’s Gym, you must meet the following requirements in regard to your conduct during any such activity or event:
1. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of others.
2. Remember that your child participates in sport for their own enjoyment, not yours.
3. Focus on your child’s effort and performance rather than winning or losing.
4. Parents must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
5. Never ridicule or yell at your child and/or other children for making a mistake or losing a competition.
6. Show appreciation for good performance and skilful display by all athletes (including opposing athletes).
7. Parents must develop an appropriate supportive relationship with both the coach and their child based on mutual trust and respect.
8. Parents should at the outset and where appropriate seek clarification with the coach, exactly what is expected of them and their gymnast and also what they are entitled to expect from the coach.
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9. Parents must co-operate fully with specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in their own interest.
10. Respect officials’ decisions and teach children to do likewise.
11. Demonstrate a high degree of individual responsibility especially when dealing with or in the vicinity of persons under 18 years of age, as your words and actions are an example.
12. Do not physically or verbally abuse or harass anyone associated with the sport (other parents, gymnasts, coaches, judges, administrators and so on).
13. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
14. Be a positive role model.
15. Understand the repercussions if you breach, or are aware of any breaches of, this code of conduct.
16. Parents/guardians have the responsibility to ensure that the child is dropped off and collected from the gym and not at the carpark.
Coaches Code of Conduct
1. Set a good example which others can follow.
2. Think Safe – act safe – be safe (you are responsible for the safety of your gymnasts).
3. Arrive in plenty of time to set up your activities.
4. Remember always that children also participate for pleasure - winning is only part of the fun.
5. Keep yourself informed about sound coaching practices and the principles of children’s growth and development.
6. Be reasonable in your demands on children’s time, energy and enthusiasm - they need other interests too.
7. The successful coach invests in the well-being and interests of
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their gymnasts and does not place undue emphasis on their win/loss record.
8. Teach your group that honest effort is more important than victory so that the result of each training session and event is accepted without undue disappointment.
9. Never ridicule or shout at a child for making a mistake or losing.
10. Divide your time equally between all standards of gymnasts.
11. Ensure you and your gymnasts have respect for their opponents, the officials and opposing coaches and supporters.
12. Follow advice from a professional when determining if an injured gymnast is ready to come back into the gym to train or compete.
13. Take responsibility for the young people in your care until they have safely left the training session or competition.
14. Be responsible for updating and developing your knowledge and skills in relation to being a coach and keeping records of the courses attended.
Judges Code of Conduct
1. Interpret rules and regulations fairly and to the best of your abilities.
2. Be consistent, objective and courteous in calling all infractions.
3. Publicly encourage rule changes which will reinforce the principles of participation for fun and enjoyment.
4. Actions speak louder than words. Ensure that both on and off the floor your behaviour is consistent with the principles of good sportsmanship.
5. Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed of any new or changing judging requirements and the principles of growth and development of children.
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6. Help the education process in gymnastics. Judges can help gymnasts and coaches learn to maximize gymnasts potential by ensuring requirements are understood, and by encouraging good sportsmanship.
Waiver
This handbook, its references and attachments are general in nature and their brevity could lead to misinterpretation. No responsibility can be accepted for those who act on their contents without first consulting the Executive Committee to obtain specific advice.
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Our Policies
Our complete policies are available on request from the Management Committee:
Member and Child Protection Policy
Privacy Policy
Fees Policy
Health and Safety Policy
Acquiring Images of Children Policy
Useful Links
Gymnastics Australia - www.gymnastics.org.au
Gymnastics SA - www.gymsa.com.au
Jem Design - 128 Main North Rd. Prospect
Australian Sports Commission - www.ausport.gov.au
Office of Sport & Recreation - www.recsport.sa.gov.au
Australian Institute of Sport -www.ais.org.au
AIS Nutrition - www.ais.org.au/nutrition
