Gonzaga High Performance Volleyball ClubCoach & Team Manager Policy

Effective Date: May 2026

1. Introduction

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines and expectations for coaches, team managers, and any other staff representing Gonzaga High Performance Volleyball Club ("the Club"). All coaches and team managers are responsible for maintaining a professional, safe, and positive environment for athletes, parents, and fellow staff members.

2. Code of Conduct

All coaches and team managers must adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, including:

Treating athletes, parents, officials, and fellow staff with respect and professionalism.
Encouraging sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal development.
Avoiding favoritism or discrimination in team decisions.
Using appropriate, constructive, and respectful communication.
Refraining from any form of verbal, physical, or emotional abuse.
Reporting any concerns regarding misconduct, safety, or inappropriate behavior immediately.

3. Responsibilities

Coaches are expected to:

Plan and conduct effective training sessions tailored to athletes' skill levels and development.
Promote athlete development through structured coaching methods.
Supervise athletes at all practices, games, tournaments, and club activities.
Communicate schedules, expectations, and feedback to athletes and parents.
Ensure all athletes follow club rules, safety guidelines, and codes of conduct.
Comply with all league, tournament, and governing body regulations.

Team Managers are expected to:

Assist coaches with administrative and logistical responsibilities.
Coordinate team schedules, travel arrangements, and accommodations when required.
Serve as a communication liaison between parents and club officials.
Ensure all required forms and documentation are completed and submitted.
Support coaches in enforcing club policies and expectations.

4. Safety and Welfare

Coaches and team managers must always prioritize the safety, health, and well-being of all athletes.
Coaches and team managers must not leave minors unattended before, during, or after practices, games, or team activities.
Any injuries must be documented and reported to the Club Director as soon as possible.
Rule of Two: Coaches and team managers must ensure that no one-on-one interactions occur between an adult and a minor without another screened adult present. This applies to in-person interactions, online communication, and electronic messaging. Refer to the Club’s Rule of Two Policy for additional information.

5. Background Checks & Certifications

All coaches and team managers must complete a background check prior to working with athletes.
Required certifications must be obtained and maintained, including but not limited to:
- Safe Sport training
- Concussion awareness training
- CPR and First Aid certification
Attendance at mandatory club meetings, training sessions, and coaching development programs may also be required.

6. Communication & Social Media

Coaches and team managers must maintain appropriate professional boundaries when communicating with athletes.
Electronic communication with athletes must remain professional and appropriate, and when applicable, should include parents or guardians.
Personal social media interactions with athletes are discouraged.
Coaches and team managers must not post negative, defamatory, or inappropriate content about the club, athletes, parents, officials, or other staff.

7. Disciplinary Actions

Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to:

Verbal or written warnings
Suspension from coaching or team management duties
Termination of coaching or management position
Reporting to appropriate governing bodies if required

8. Acknowledgment & Agreement

All coaches and team managers must sign an acknowledgment form confirming that they have read, understood, and agreed to comply with this policy.

9. Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact: