Code of Conduct
Adopted by the Board of Trustees: August 2026
Next Review Date: August 2027
Richmond Volleyball aims to provide a safe, inclusive and positive environment where players and coaches of all ages can develop their skills, enjoy the sport and respect others.
All members, players, coaches, parents and spectators are expected to uphold the following standards.
1. Respect Others
Treat teammates, coaches, referees, opponents, volunteers and venue staff with respect at all times. Abusive, discriminatory or aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated.
Everyone involved in Richmond Volleyball has the right to participate in an environment that is safe, welcoming and supportive.
2. Follow Coaching and Club Guidance
Players are expected to listen to coaches and follow reasonable instructions during training sessions and matches, provided these are consistent with the club’s safeguarding and safety guidance.
Coaches and volunteers should provide guidance in a supportive, respectful and constructive manner.
Parents and spectators should allow coaches to coach and avoid sideline coaching during training sessions or matches.
3. Support a Positive and Clean Environment
All participants should contribute to an environment where players feel encouraged, respected and able to develop. Bullying, intimidation, harassment or exclusion of others is not acceptable. Players and parents should recognise effort, teamwork and improvement, not just results.
Members must leave venues clean, look after shared equipment and behave respectfully towards venue staff.
4. Respect Officials and the Rules of the Game
Referees and officials are essential to the sport.
All participants must respect their decisions and conduct themselves appropriately during matches and competitions.
Spectators must not abuse or challenge referees or officials during matches.
Concerns about officiating should be raised after the match through appropriate club channels.
5. Prioritise Safety and Welfare
The safety and wellbeing of players, particularly children and young people, must always come first.
All members must follow the club’s safeguarding guidance and the policies of Volleyball England.
Any safeguarding concerns should be reported to the club’s Welfare Officer.
6. Communicate Respectfully
All communication related to the club, including messaging groups, email and social media, should remain respectful and appropriate.
Online behaviour that harms individuals, undermines coaches or volunteers, or damages the reputation of the club may result in disciplinary action.
7. Represent the Club Positively
Members represent Richmond Volleyball when participating in training sessions, matches, competitions and club events.
Participants should behave in a way that reflects positively on the club and the sport.
Members should also follow all relevant club policies and guidance, including safeguarding procedures and any regulations set by Volleyball England.
8. Support Club Volunteers
Richmond Volleyball relies heavily on volunteers.
Members and parents should respect the time, effort and commitment contributed by coaches, referees, team managers, committee members and other volunteers.
Constructive feedback is welcome, but it should be offered respectfully and through appropriate channels.
9. Raise Concerns Constructively
If concerns arise, they should be raised calmly and respectfully with the appropriate club representative.
Concerns should normally be raised outside training sessions or matches rather than during play.
Where possible, concerns should first be discussed directly with the relevant coach, team manager or programme lead before escalating further.
10. Respect Club Processes
All members agree to abide by the club’s policies, including the Richmond Volleyball Disciplinary Procedure.
Breaches of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the club’s disciplinary procedures.
Membership of Richmond Volleyball implies acceptance of this Code of Conduct and the club’s policies.
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