Code of Conduct

North Irvine Water Polo Club Code of Conduct

By enrolling in NIWPC programs or participating in any club activities, you agree to uphold our values and foster a safe, positive, and growth‑oriented environment.

1. Sportsmanship

We value and promote good sportsmanship on and off the pool deck. Treat opponents, teammates, coaches, officials, and spectators with fairness, integrity, and grace—whether in victory or defeat.

2. Respect

Show respect for yourself, teammates, coaches, officials, volunteers, spectators, and the facilities we use (e.g., Woollett and Northwood). Foster dignity, inclusivity, and professionalism in all interactions.

3. Commitment

Demonstrate dedication to personal growth, skill development, and team success. Attend practices and competitions prepared, punctual, and ready to give your best. Communicate early if unable to attend.

4. Discipline

Maintain high standards in training and competition. Follow coaches’ instructions, adhere to team rules, exhibit self‑control in challenging situations, and support a focused environment.

5. Safety

Prioritize well‑being. Follow all safety guidelines, report hazards to coaches or officials, and abide by our device policy—phones stay off‑deck and out of view unless coach permission is granted.

6. Communication

Maintain open, respectful communication with coaches, teammates, and club officials. Raise concerns constructively and collaborate toward solutions.

7. Personal Conduct

Represent NIWPC positively at all times. Avoid inappropriate language, bullying, harassment, or any behavior that could harm the club’s reputation.

8. Compliance & Fair Play

Follow all club policies and live by the rules and spirit of water polo, as defined by NIWPC and USA Water Polo. Uphold integrity in every play.

9. Care for Equipment & Facilities

Respect and maintain all gear, uniforms, and venues—club‑owned or used during travel. Any damage, accidental or intentional, must be reported immediately.

10. Responsible Social Media Use

Use social media responsibly. Your words and images reflect on NIWPC—avoid derogatory or inappropriate content.

Device Policy

To maintain focus and team connection, athletes must put away devices during official club activities. If needed for communication (e.g., contacting a parent), athletes must inform a coach before use.

For Parents and Guardians

  1. Positive Support — Encourage athletes and the entire NIWPC community with respectful energy.

  2. Model Sportsmanship — Display grace in both victory and defeat. Avoid negative sideline behavior.

  3. Respect Officials & Opponents — Recognize their crucial role in athlete development.

  4. Coach Communication — Approach coaches respectfully outside scheduled activities; include athletes in discussions.

  5. Let Coaches Coach — Stay off‑deck during practice, observe from designated areas, and refrain from sideline coaching.

  6. Timely Arrival & Pickup — Ensure athletes arrive and are picked up promptly.

  7. Review & Reinforce — Discuss this Code with your child so expectations are clear and understood.

Conflict Resolution

If issues arise, please follow this sequence:

  1. Speak with the athlete’s head coach

  2. If unresolved, escalate to the age group or high school director

NIWPC is committed to fair, respectful conflict resolution.

Why We Uphold This Code

NIWPC is one of the fastest‑growing programs in the country, dedicated to teaching water polo correctly, building confidence, and nurturing a supportive community.  Recognized as USA Water Polo’s Club of the Month (August 2015), NIWPC balances community, camaraderie, teamwork, and discipline usawaterpolo.org. Our athletes train at premier facilities like Woollett and Northwood, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and safety.

Consequences for Violations

Violations of this Code may lead to disciplinary action—including warning, suspension, or removal—according to severity. These measures are intended to maintain a respectful, supportive, and thriving club environment.

By being part of the North Irvine Water Polo Club, you contribute to our legacy of respect, growth, teamwork, and fun. Thank you for embracing these values and supporting our mission.