Practice Policies
Massad Marlins Summer Swim Team Practice Behavior Policy
We’re committed to providing a safe, supportive, and spirited environment where every swimmer can thrive. To make that possible, swimmers and families must understand and uphold the following standards.
Expectations at Practice
All swimmers are expected to:
- Arrive on time with all necessary gear.
- Listen and respond respectfully to coaching direction.
- Treat teammates, coaches, and volunteers with kindness and support.
- Remain in their assigned lanes unless excused by a coach.
- Encourage, not discourage, others.
Unacceptable Behavior
Disrespect toward Coaches or Team Staff
- Talking back, ignoring instructions, eye-rolling or muttering under breath.
- Yelling or expressing anger toward staff during or after practice.
Bullying or Exclusion
- Teasing, name-calling, or mocking appearance, ability, or effort.
- Encouraging other swimmers to exclude a teammate.
- Spreading rumors or messages that harm another swimmer’s confidence or well-being.
Physical or Verbal Aggression
- Pushing, dunking, aggressive splashing, or pool horseplay.
- Threats or physically intimidating behavior, even as a “joke.”
Sibling Conflict at Practice
- Arguing, tattling, or interfering with one another’s workouts.
- Fighting—verbal or physical—before, during, or after practice.
- Parents stepping in from the sidelines rather than going through coaches.
Disruptive Behavior
- Excessive talking during drills or instruction.
- Purposefully interfering with another swimmer’s progress.
- Leaving the water without permission or repeated tardiness.
How Behavior Issues Are Addressed
| Offense Level | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Minor/first-time disruption | Verbal correction by coach |
| Continued or elevated behavior | Timeout or lane reassignment; logged in coach notes |
| Serious disrespect, bullying, or aggression | Immediate removal from pool; parent phone call, formal email to parents |
| Ongoing or repeated behavior | Temporary Practice Suspension |
| Severe or unresolved conduct | Removal from the team |
> Note: Coaches use discretion and will always prioritize swimmer safety and fairness in applying consequences.
A Note to Parents
We value your partnership in reinforcing respectful and safe behavior. Please support coaching decisions, talk with your swimmer regularly about their role as a teammate, and direct any concerns through proper channels.
Violation of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including warnings, suspension from practices or meets, or dismissal from the team.
A guardian is required to stay on the pool deck for swimmers 10 years and under. The only exception to this rule is daily YMCA campers. However, YMCA campers may lose this privilege due to behavior issues.
RSL Rules and other helpful resource documents can be found at