Kingston Women’s Soccer Club Code of Conduct

Purpose

This Code of Conduct sets out and delineates the behavioural standards expected of each person participating in soccer-related activities through the Kingston Women’s Soccer Club. This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations and standards of behaviour for players, team representatives, officials, and spectators.

Introduction

Kingston Women’s Soccer Club is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all participants involved in our club.  The Club supports equal opportunity, prohibits discriminatory practices, and is committed to providing an environment in which all Persons are treated with respect and fairness.

Application of this Code

This code applies to persons’ conduct during the Club’s business and activities including but not limited to games, events, programs, and meetings.

Persons who violate this Code may be subject to sanctions pursuant to Ontario Soccer Operational Procedures, Section 12 Discipline and/or Section 15 Dispute Resolution. These policies are available at: OSA Operational Procedures.

Responsibilities

1)     All persons have the responsibility to maintain and enhance the dignity and self-esteem of Kingston Women’s Soccer Club Members and other individuals by:

  a)     Demonstrating respect to individuals regardless of body type, physical characteristics, athletic ability, age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, sex, and sexual orientation;

  b)     Consistently demonstrating the spirit of fair play, sport leadership, and ethical conduct;

  c)     Consistently treating individuals fairly and reasonably;

  d)     Demonstrating respect for the principle of fair play, which include:

i)       Respect for both the letter and spirit of the rules;

ii)     Respect for referees and their decisions;

iii)    Respect for opponents, including modesty in victory and composure in defeat;

iv)    Facilitation of access to sport; and

v)     Maintenance of self-control at all times.

 e)     Promoting the sport in the most constructive and positive manner possible;

 f)      Respecting the property of others and not willfully cause damage.

2)     Refrain from any behaviour that constitutes harassment, where harassment is defined according to the Canadian Human Rights Commission as a form of discrimination that involves any unwanted physical or verbal behaviour that offends or humiliates. Generally, harassment is a behaviour that persists over time. Serious one-time incidents can also sometimes be considered harassment.

3)     Refrain from any behaviour that constitutes violence, where violence is defined as the exercise of physical force, that causes or could cause physical injury; an attempt to exercise physical force that could cause physical injury; or a statement or behaviour that it is reasonable to interpret as a threat to exercise physical force.

4)     Refrain from any behaviour that constitutes sexual harassment, where sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual comments and sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, or conduct of a sexual nature.

Additional Responsibilities

Players'

Respect: Treat teammates, opponents, team representatives, officials, and spectators with respect, both on and off the field.

Fair Play: Play by the rules and exhibit good sportsmanship at all times.

Teamwork: Strive to work collaboratively with teammates, promoting a positive and supportive team environment.

Self-Control: Avoid aggressive behavior, foul language, or any actions that may harm others or damage the reputation of the club.

Team representatives'

Respect: Treat players, officials, opponents, and parents with respect, demonstrating good sportsmanship at all times.

Fair Play: Adhere to the rules and spirit of the game, promoting players to do the same.

Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with members.

Lead by Example: Set a positive example through behavior, attitude, and professionalism.

Spectators'

Positive Support: Support all participants in a positive and sportsmanlike manner.

Respect Boundaries: Respect the decisions made by officials, team representatives, and players.

Behavior: Refrain from the use of foul language, harassment, or any other disruptive behavior.

Facility Rules: Adhere to the rules and regulations of the facility where the games are being played.

Agreement

By participating in soccer organized by the Kingston Women’s Soccer Club, all members agree to abide by this Code of Conduct and contribute to creating a positive and respectful soccer community.