Code of Conduct & Safety Policy

Effective Date: Jan 01, 2025

1. Purpose & Scope

This Code of Conduct & Safety Policy applies to all club members, guests, participants, staff, coaches, and visitors while on club premises or using any of the club’s facilities (courts, lounge, change rooms, corridors, etc.). Our goal is to maintain a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all.

By entering or using the facility, you agree to abide by this Code. Violations may lead to warnings, suspension of privileges, or expulsion from the facility (with or without a refund) at the club’s discretion.

2. Waiver & Assumption of Risk

• Waiver Requirement: All players (or their legal guardians, for minors) must sign a Release, Waiver, and Indemnity Agreement prior to playing on any court. No player is permitted to use the courts until the waiver is completed and accepted.
• Assumption of Risk: Participants acknowledge that playing pickleball, squash, or related physical activity involves inherent risks (injuries, accidents, or illnesses). Participants voluntarily assume all such risks.
• Release of Liability: Participants release the club, its directors, staff, agents, and affiliates from liability for injury, damage, or loss, to the fullest extent permitted by law, whether caused by negligence or otherwise.
• Compliance & Medical Treatment: Participants agree to comply with all facility rules, act responsibly, and authorize the club to obtain emergency medical treatment if necessary.
• Minor Participants: For minors, a parent or guardian must sign on their behalf, confirming understanding of risks and agreement with all terms.

LINK TO WAIVER HERE:  https://brockvilleracquetclub.com/non-member-waiver-and-release-form/

3. Safety & Court Conduct

To reduce risk and enhance enjoyment, all users should adhere to the following safety and court conduct rules:

3.1 Before Play / Warm-Up

• Arrive early and warm up for at least 5–10 minutes (light cardio, stretching) to reduce injury risk.
• Inspect court surfaces. If a court is wet or damp (e.g. leaves a mark under the toe when twisting), do not play on it and  report it immediately.
• Wear appropriate court shoes with non-marking soles. Outdoor shoes, cleats, boots, or dirty/soiled shoes are not permitted on playing surfaces.
• Use recommended protective equipment (e.g., eye protection/goggles), especially in fast play, as paddles, racquets and  balls can cause injury.

3.2 During Play

• Play in control; avoid reckless swings, throwing paddles, or aggressive behavior that endangers others.
• If someone yells “Ball!”, immediately stop play and allow safe retrieval of the errant ball (do not chase into another court).
• Do not cross into adjacent courts during play. Be aware of your surroundings and adjacent activities.
• If you or a partner feel pain or discomfort, stop immediately and tend to the injury.
• Comply with any instructions by club staff regarding court usage or safety.
• Avoid distractions: no loud or abusive language, no harassment or discrimination of any kind. Treat others respectfully.
• Use only approved equipment; damaged rackets, cracks, splinters or broken grips should be repaired or replaced.
• In case of emergencies, alert front desk staff. If after hours please call 911.

3.3 Court Etiquette & Rotation

• Remove personal items (bags, bottles, etc.) from court edges to avoid tripping hazards.
• During open play If courts are fully occupied, use a fair rotation method (e.g. paddle line, wait your turn) rather than crowding or interrupting ongoing matches.
• Be mindful of different skill levels on the court.
• Play cooperatively and with good sportsmanship so everyone has a positive experience.
• Limit stay on court if others are waiting; see above.
• Avoid playing across multiple courts; stay within your assigned court boundaries.
• Respect posted times, reservations, and court assignments.

4. Lounge / Change room / Facility Etiquette

To maintain a clean, safe, and pleasant environment:

• Leave no trace: clean up after yourself — dispose of trash, collect personal belongings, wipe benches or tables used.
• No unattended items: do not leave personal items unattended in common areas for extended periods. The club is not responsible for lost or stolen property.
• No outdoor shoes in the lounge or changerooms: always remove outdoor shoes (boots, street shoes) before entering lounge, changerooms, or carpeted/soft zones.
• Respect quiet zones: lower voices and avoid disruptive behavior in the lounge and adjacent spaces.
• Respect changeroom rules: correct behavior in shared spaces and try not engage in behavior that makes others uncomfortable.
• Report spills, wet floors, or unsafe conditions to staff immediately.
• Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on site.
• Items left overnight may be removed without notice. We do not have a lost and found but will try to make an attempt to notify members if items are turned in or left behind before we remove them.
• Non club related resources and courts/fields are not to be used at anytime without checking in with the front desk staff.

5. Guests, Spectators & Child Supervision

• Members who bring guests are responsible for their guests obeying this Code.
• Spectators must stay in designated areas and must not interfere with play.
• Children under 12 must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.
• Misbehaviour by guests or children may result in removal of privileges for the sponsoring member.
• The soccer field and adjacent businesses are not accessible by members unless registered with the front desk.

6. Enforcement & Disciplinary Measures

• Violations of this Code may result in warnings, temporary suspension, loss of privileges, or expulsion from the club at the discretion of management.
• In serious infractions (e.g. severe misconduct, repeated violations, endangering others), privileges may be revoked without refund.
• Decisions regarding discipline are final.
• The club reserves the right to amend this Code at any time; changes will be posted and notified to members.

7. Acknowledgement & Acceptance

By registering as a member, booking court time, or entering the facility, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct & Safety Policy and the associated Waiver/Release. Failure to comply may result in loss of facility privileges.