Code of Conduct
The Silicon Valley Triathlon Club (SVTC) strives to create a safe and welcoming environment for all athletes interested in participating in multi-sport events. This Code of Conduct outlines the standards by which SVTC members are expected to uphold in order to retain the membership privileges. Certain behaviors are unacceptable for members regardless of when or where they occur whether they affect: other SVTC members, the reputation and well-being of the club, or other participants in sporting events. Failure to abide by the guidelines may result in suspension or revocation of membership in SVTC. Expectations for members include, but are not limited to, the following:
Be Honest: Members shall be honest in their dealings with SVTC and sporting officials. Members shall not knowingly submit false information to the club or to organizers of sporting events.
Train and Race Safely: When participating in SVTC events, or at any time when representing SVTC by wearing a team kit or gear, members will conduct themselves in a way that ensures their personal safety and the safety of others. This includes wearing appropriate safety gear, such as bike helmets, and riding safely and respectfully on a bike. Members shall be personally responsible for familiarizing themselves with the rules of the road, the rules of the sport, necessary safety precautions, and handling skills.
No Discrimination: SVTC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran's status, religion, creed, or athletic ability. No manner of discrimination by club members, verbal or otherwise, will be tolerated in any function of the club whether in-person or on-line.
Be Respectful to Others: Members are expected to be courteous and cordial to others (including, but not limited to, club members, spectators, guests and officials, and SVTC Board of Directors) at any club or sporting event. In the context of club interactions (both in-person and on-line), members shall not use any form of communication that is derogatory or personally damaging, nor conduct or condone any programs, activities, publications, speeches or conduct which is offensive, in poor taste, or otherwise considered detrimental to the best interests of the club.
No Abuse: Members shall not engage in behavior that may threaten or appear to threaten other individuals, nor shall they create a hostile environment at SVTC events, in official SVTC on-line forums, emails, or on social media. Members shall refrain from inappropriate language or unsportsman/unsportswoman-like conduct toward club members or other participants, officials, and spectators at sporting events. We will not tolerate abuse in any form - physical, mental, sexual, or verbal.
No Substance Abuse: SVTC supports a club environment where all members train and race clean. Members shall not participate in SVTC events while impaired by illegal substances. Members will adhere to the anti-doping guidelines set forth by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Members choosing to drink at club social events must do so responsibly.
No Illegal Activities: Members shall not cause or participate in any illegal activity as defined by local, state, or federal law while participating in an SVTC event.
Be Responsible: When signing up for a SVTC event which is volunteer, for which entry is limited or a fee is required, members shall exercise their best efforts to attend, and if unable to attend, shall notify the event's organizer as early as possible but no later than 24 hours in advance.
Make Payments Promptly: Members shall make prompt payment to the club of any outstanding balance, including but not limited to payment of fees for membership, special events, and any clothing or equipment.
Respect Club Partnerships: SVTC may have official partnerships with local and national businesses which provide members access to benefits, discounts, and services. Members shall use discretion when dealing with our partners, including the use of discounts and adherence to our partner's policies, to ensure the club maintains strong relationships.
For any questions regarding these expectations, or if you feel that another club member is not following the code of conduct, please contact SVTC leadership immediately.
President@svtriclub.org
vicepresident@svtriclub.org
Based on the DC Triathlon Club Code of Ethics and Conduct
Social Media Rules
The following rules pertain to all SVTC social media platforms. This includes the Forum and the Facebook Group in particular but also any other platform we use currently or in the future.
No Promotions or Spam: Self-promotion, spam, and irrelevant links are not allowed and will be removed. Promotions from sponsors are controlled by the Sponsorship Director.
Limit Links to Fundraisers: Please limit charity posts to one time per year only. SVTC has hundreds of members involved in many awesome charities, but unfortunately these posts alone would overwhelm the majority of content on club social media sites.
Be Kind and Courteous: Healthy debates are natural, but civility is required. Members are responsible to create and maintain a welcoming environment and to treat everyone with respect.
Respect Privacy: The SVTC page is a public group, and therefore members shall consider what content is appropriate to share and allow other group members to decided what is appropriate for themselves. This includes tagging individuals in photos and giving them shout-outs for upcoming races.
Post Photos: With privacy and desgretion in mind, members are encouraged to post photos of their group workouts, races, and events. Members shall be mindful of quantity; i.e. when posting more than two photos, create an album as opposed to posting photos individually.
Report Infractions: Club administrators and moderators are volunteers and may not see every post immediately. Members shall report any content that is in violation of the club rules. Use the “report” button (if there is one) or email the Communications Director at communications@svtriclub.org
Violation of these rules will be cause for removal from the Facebook group and/or moderated in club Forums.
Sincerely,
SVTC Board of Directors