Communication

Summer swim season is fast and furious - which means there is always a lot to communicate! To ensure you are well informed on what is happening in DDSC, it is important to read all DDSC communication. The DDSC Executive is working hard to streamline communication so parents can be as well informed as possible.  Regular avenues of communication include:

• providing as much information upfront here on the website as possible

• inviting all families to connect via the BAND app for quick notifications and an easy way to reach out to exec or coaches

• regular emails with pertinent information pretaining to upcoming meet registration, fun days, etc

Pathways of Communication

Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful organizations. Questions or concerns regarding the swimming program or administration may arise over the course of the season, and the Club would like to make sure that everyone understands just how to address these. The following pathways will help you choose the best communication method for your question or concern, and for whom to start:

• For Swimming 'Program' Issues from Coach(es) to Swimmers and/or Parents: 
  • Coach will talk directly to swimmer(s)
  • Coach will talk directly to the parent, or the swimmer and parent together (if needed & appropriate)
  • Coach will talk directly to the swimmer and parent along with the head coach
  • Coach will talk directly to the swimmer and/or parent along with the head coach and a member of the Executive

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• For Swimming 'Program' Issues (pertaining to practices or swimming) from Parent to Coach: 
  • ​Parent will talk directly to the coach of their child, or the coach working with the athletes on that given day (before or after practice, not during)
  • Parent will talk directly to the head coach
  • Parent will contact the DDSC president or vice-president, in writing (email)

Parents are encouraged to keep in regular contact with their child's coach. Coaches are happy to answer questions and discuss a swimmer’s progress and development, providing this does not interfere with the regular practice schedule; a great time to check in with coaches is after practice.  Communication outside of the pool hours can be made via the BAND app where coaches can comment in return when they are available, or arrange a time for further discussion.

• For Swimming ‘Administrative’ Issues (pertaining to club process/policy, expectations, fundraising, etc): 
  • ​Parent will contact a member of the DDSC Executive
  • Parent will contact the DDSC president or vice-president, in writing (email)
  • Parent will request to present at a board meeting

When conflicts arise, please try hard to increase communication between the affected parties. Refrain from discussing disagreements with other parents; not only is the problem never resolved that way, but this approach often creates new problems. 

If another parent uses you as a sounding board for complaints about a coach’s performance or policies, encourage the other parent to follow these pathways in order to try and resolve their concern directly.

Please note that our coaches are responsible for coaching, not for the operation of DDSC.  Any cocerns, complaints, or grievances with the Devon Dolphins Swim Club should be addressed to the Executive and NOT to the coaching staff.

Thank-you for playing your part in ensuring the summer swim season runs smoothly, minimizing conflict with clear communication!