Parent Code of Conduct

Parent Accountability:

Our culture is predicated on positivity, and we hold our parents accountable the same as we do our athletes.

We WILL NOT tolerate the following actions from parents:

  • Gossip or rumors in and around the program.
  • Negativity towards other parents, athletes, coaches or staff.
  • Withholding practice attendance or competition attendance as punishment.
  • Any violations of our communication policy stated below.
  • Inappropriate behavior at events/competitions, you as the parent are an extension of the Grove City Kids Association, therefore representing the program just as the athletes do.

We understand that the success of your athletes is important to you as a parent and emotions can sometimes run high on all sides of the spectrum. We also understand that we as coaches/staff and parents are held accountable for our actions in front of our athletes and we will not tolerate repeated instances of these actions above or below. We will handle each situation on a case-by-case basis and operate on a 2 Infraction Policy. First infraction will be a warning, and the second infraction will terminate the relationship/agreement of Grove City Kids Association with the parent/athlete. Depending on the severity of the infraction, it may be recommended to the Board for immediate removal from the program.

Parent-Coach Relationship:

Both parenting and coaching are extremely difficult roles, especially in a competitive environment. By establishing an understanding of each role, we are better able to accept the actions of each other and provide a greater benefit to our children. Parents, when your child becomes involved in our program, you have the right to understand what expectations will be placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of your program.

Communications to expect from your child’s Coach:

  • Squad requirements (uniform/attendance)
  • Practice/Competition schedule and updates
  • Squad rules, guidelines, and consequences for any infractions
  • Injuries, extra practices

Communications Coaches expect from Athletes/Parents

  • Any concerns are expressed directly to the coach.
  • Provide 2-week notification of any schedule conflicts or absences. This should be communicated to the coach from the parent, not the athlete.
  • Advanced notification of any illness or injury – when possible.
  • It is the goal that each cheerleader will experience some rewarding moments in these growing years. It is important to understand that there may be times when things do not go the way you and/or your child wish. When this occurs, discussion with the Coach is encouraged. It is the first and most integral step to understanding and resolution.

Concerns are to be expressed at the appropriate time, that IS NOT:

  • During practice
  • During a team meeting
  • During a game/competition. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach. Meetings of this nature usually do not promote positive resolution.
  • On a public chat group such as social media or in a team chat group (never).
  • In front of an athlete

Appropriate times are:

  • We operate on a 24 cool down period. If you have an issue, wait 24 hours before you contact the Coach or Commissioner.
  • After a practice is complete and in private.
  • Scheduling a call or sit-down meeting with the Coach and/or Commissioner.

Inappropriate Concerns to Discuss with Coaches:

  • Squad Placement
  • Squad Strategy and Stunts
  • Cheer Selection
  • Other Athletes

What can a parent or coach do if the discussion did not provide a satisfactory resolution?

  • Call and discuss with the Commissioners
  • The appropriate next step can then be determined.

10 Expectations of Good Sportsmanship:

  • Taunting, trash talk, and intimidating behaviors have no place in our program.
  • Attending competitions/events does not give you the right to abuse coaches, judges, athletes, and other spectators.
  • Treat others as you want to be treated.
  • Be a positive role model.
  • Control your emotions at practices, games, or other events.
  • Whether we win or lose, we will uphold a level of sportsmanship to other athletes and programs.
  • Your child is always watching.
  • Always look for that moment to lift someone up.

 

Athlete Code of Conduct

As a team member, you are now an ambassador of the GKCA Cheer Program. This means you will be held to the highest standard of behavior at all GCKA events, practices, games or competitions. We know that you will do your best to represent GCKA in the most positive way and contribute to your team this season. Please review this Code of Conduct for all of our expectations in regard to behavior, uniform, sportsmanship etc.

What to expect from your Coaches:

  • A positive attitude
  • Lots of encouragement
  • Speaking with respect

Your commitment to your Coaches:

  • You will respect your coaches judgement and instructions.
  • You will come to practice dressed in athletic attire and proper footwear with no jewelry on.
  • You will come to practice with a positive attitude.
  • You will do your very best at every practice.

Your commitment to your team:

  • You will be respectful to other athletes at all times, even when you aren’t at a practice or other team event.
  • You will not gossip about or put down other athletes at any time.
  • You will support and encourage your teammates.
  • You will not participate in any bullying. The 2 Infraction Policy will apply to any incidence of bullying.