Code of Conduct Policy
At Skate Wheatley, we are committed to providing a safe, respectful, inclusive, and welcoming environment. This Code of Conduct outlines how everyone involved in our club—skaters, parents, coaches, officials, volunteers, and board members—is expected to act, on and off the ice, in person and online. We support Skate Ontario and Skate Canada’s zero-tolerance approach to misconduct, bullying, discrimination, and harassment.
This Code applies to:
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Skaters and parents/guardians
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Coaches and officials
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Board and committee members
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Volunteers and contractors
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Anyone participating in Skate Wheatley events, programs, practices, competitions, meetings, and related activities
Note: It also applies to conduct outside club activities if it could harm the reputation or safety of Skate Wheatley or its members.
Misconduct includes:
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Bullying, harassment, discrimination
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Physical, psychological, or sexual abuse
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Neglect or grooming
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Retaliation, intimidation, or filing false claims
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Damaging property or acting dishonestly
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Any act or behaviour that could harm others physically or emotionally
Everyone’s general responsibilities:
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Show respect, fairness, and good sportsmanship
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Avoid public criticism of others; communicate concerns through proper channels
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Follow club policies, bylaws, and Skate Canada rules
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Respect property and not cause damage
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Comply with all laws
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Promote figure skating positively
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Never use confidential information for personal gain
Additional expectations by role:
Board & Committee Members:
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Know Skate Wheatley and Skate Ontario bylaws and values
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Avoid conflicts of interest; put the club’s interests first
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Keep meeting discussions confidential
Support board decisions even if you disagreed during discussion
Represent the club respectfully and only speak on its behalf when authorized
Coaches:
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Follow Skate Canada and Skate Ontario standards and maintain membership in good standing
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Be honest about qualifications and experience
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Discuss training plans only through the skater’s base coach
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Communicate openly and respectfully with skaters and parents
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Keep athletes’ best interests first, both physically and emotionally
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Act as a positive role model
Skaters:
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Arrive prepared, dressed appropriately, and on time
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Follow club rules and respect others
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Report injuries or health issues that affect skating
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Keep private matters about other skaters confidential
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Represent Skate Wheatley positively, including at competitions and events
Officials:
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Be fair, objective, and respectful at all times
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Follow Skate Canada and ISU officiating standards
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Declare conflicts of interest when they arise
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Discuss marks only when appropriate and keep judging confidential
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Avoid public criticism of other officials or skaters
Parents/Guardians & Spectators:
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Support and encourage all athletes and coaches respectfully
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Accept officials’ decisions and help athletes do the same
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Keep the focus on enjoyment, growth, and fair play
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Use club processes (not personal contact) for concerns or complaints
Breaches may lead to:
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Verbal or written warnings
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Restrictions or suspension from club activities
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Loss of membership or coaching privileges
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For minors, consequences may also apply to parents/guardians as part of membership
All decisions are made by the Board based on the situation, evidence, and in line with club bylaws and dispute policies.
This policy is reviewed and re-approved by the Board each year after the AGM, or sooner if laws or Skate Ontario / Skate Canada requirements change.