MVM Code of Conduct

(Revised October 2023)

Mission

MVM seeks to help our community’s swimmers achieve a healthy balance between fitness, fun, and competition. This requires a positive, safe, and welcoming environment. To that end, the MVM Code of Conduct defines our expectations for members, staff, spectators and visitors – all of whom must agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Participants enter into this agreement by signing our code of conduct and/or by participating in any MVM activity. The privileges of membership and participation may be withdrawn or denied if an individual’s behavior is inconsistent with mission and values of MVM or US Masters Swimming (USMS) or if such behavior is deemed detrimental to the reputation of MVM and/or USMS.

Code of Conduct

By registering as members of MVM, or registering as members of USMS or trial members of USMS and swimming with our team, team members and participants of team practices acknowledge and accept the opportunity to participate in our team activities is a privilege and as such shall conduct themselves with integrity and in a manner consistent with our team mission and ideology. Therefore,

  • Swimmers shall obey all facility and government-imposed rules and share the pool responsibly and courteously. 
  • All members and visitors are expected to maintain an environment of kindness and respect which is free from harassment and intimidation of any kind. Members and visitors shall refrain from publicly judging, criticizing, or otherwise creating a hostile environment. Physically or verbally abusive behavior is unacceptable at the pool, any MVM-sponsored activity, or any USMS event.
  • Members shall listen to directions and comply with decisions of the coaches. Coaches are responsible first and foremost for the safety of all swimmers present at a workout. Swimmers shall follow all coaching staff instructions and make honest efforts to follow workouts as given. In the event of a dispute, the member will first speak with the coach in an effort to resolve the issue. If resolution cannot be reached, the member may submit a written grievance to the MVM Board of Directors.

How to Submit a Grievance

Any team member may register a complaint against another team member or coach for alleged misconduct prejudicial to the best interests of the team. Written charges (see email below) must be filed with the board within 3 months of the incident. Full details of the grievance process are available under our bylaws.  

Violation of the MVM Code of Conduct

The MVM Board, in partnership with coaches, are responsible for disciplining team members for violations of the Code of Conduct. It is expected that the board and coaches will use reasonable judgment based on the following factors:

  1. The nature and severity of the conduct
  2. The intention of the party engaged in conduct contrary to the Code of Conduct
  3. Any prior disciplinary actions regarding the team member
  4. The adverse effect of the conduct on other team members and/or Mountain View Masters/USMS
  5. The application of the Code of Conduct

Penalties for Violation of the Code of Conduct

If a member, spectator  or visitor violates the Code of Conduct, any or all of the following penalties may be applied at the discretion of the board and/or coaching staff:

  • Private verbal reprimand
  • Removal from a practice or team activity
  • Suspension from practices or team activities without reimbursement of fees paid
  • Revocation of team membership
  • Notification to USMS of violations under Article 402 of the USMS rule book (available online at www.USMS.org)
  • Notification to the local authorities should the violation be illegal or criminal in nature

At the MVM Board’s discretion, any member of the coaching staff determined to be violating the Code of Conduct may be subject to disciplinary action, including termination of employment.

Conclusion

MVM aims to be a diverse group of people who can safely enjoy time together both in the water and away from the pool. We rely deeply on each other’s commitment to uphold the highest standards of conduct. Everyone is expected to behave considerately, and witnesses to deviations from our values are asked to speak up. 

The board may be reached via email at mvmcontact@gmail.com.