TOPS Mission Statement

TOPS seeks to provide a safe, healthy, positive, and disciplined atmosphere for our pre-team to National level swimmers.  This training environment will help our athletes achieve their personal level of excellence in competitive swimming.

Team Philosophy
TOPS Swimming philosophy is rooted in:

TRUST - TOPS swimmers and parents can trust that  the coaches will provide a safe and productive training environment that will foster personal growth for each swimmer. TOPS coaches trust that swimmers, and parents, will care about others, through word and action, when representing TOPS.

OPEN COMMUNICATION - TOPS emphasizes the need for clear and honest communication.  Any dialogue will be rooted in respect and civility. Any concerns should be expressed in a kind, timely, and appropriate manner.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY- The coaches are responsible for creating, and implementing, a training program that will meet the needs of all swimmers. TOPS swimmers, and parents, are responsible for partnering with the coaches, taking personal responsibility for their progress, being coachable, and meeting TOPS practice expectations.

SUPPORT - TOPS coaches will support our swimmers through honest feedback, assessment, and attendance to issues pertinent to the swimmer. TOPS swimmers and parents, are expected to lend their support, in words and actions, at practice and meets.

TOPS CODE OF CONDUCT : ATHLETES

The purpose of a code of conduct for athletes is to establish a consistent expectation for

athletes’ behavior. By signing this code of conduct, I agree to the following statements:

❏ I will respect and show courtesy to my teammates and coaches at all times.

❏ I will demonstrate good sportsmanship at all practices and meets.

❏ I will set a good example of behavior and work ethic for my younger teammates.

❏ I will be respectful of my teammates’ feelings and personal space. Swimmers who

exhibit sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise inappropriate behavior will be faced with

consequences.

❏ I will attend all team meetings and training sessions, unless I am excused by my coach.

❏ I will show respect for all facilities and other property (including locker rooms) used

during practices, competitions, and team activities.

❏ I will refrain from foul language, violence, behavior deemed dishonest, offensive, or

illegal.

❏ If I disagree with an official’s call, I will talk with my coach and not approach the official

directly.

❏ I will obey all of USA Swimming’s rules and codes of conduct.

*I understand that if I violate this code of conduct, I will be subject to disciplinary action

determined by my coaches and the swim club’s board of directors.

TOPS SWIMMING CODE OF CONDUCT : PARENTS

The purpose of a code of conduct for parents is to establish consistent expectations for behavior

by parents. As a parent/guardian, I understand the important growth and developmental

support that my child’s participation fosters. I also understand that it is essential to provide the

coaching staff with respect and the authority to coach the team. I agree with the following

statements:

❏ I will set the right example for our children by demonstrating sportsmanship and showing

respect and common courtesy at all times to the team members, coaches, competitors,

officials, parents, and all facilities.

❏ I will get involved by volunteering, observing practices, cheering at meets, and talking

with my child and their coach about their progress.

❏ I will refrain from coaching my child from the stands during practices or meets.

❏ I understand that criticizing, name-calling, use of abusive language or gestures directed

toward coaches, officials, volunteers, and/or any participating swimmer will not be

tolerated.

❏ I will respect the integrity of the officials.

❏ I will direct my concerns to first to TOPS Swimming, via email, then, if not satisfied, to the

appropriate supervisor.

*I understand the above expectations and that my failure to adhere to them may result in

disciplinary action.