A growing Tradition of Excellence
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Table of Contents Greetings from Head coach……………………………………………….. 3 Introduction……………………………………………………………….. 4 Why Swim……………………………………………................... 4 Defining Paseo Aquatics…………………………………………………... 5 Mission……………………………………………………………… 5 Vision……………………………………………………………….. 5 Philosophy………………………………………………………….. 6 Values……………………………………………………………….. 7 Paseo Aquatics Team……………………………………………………… 8 Coaches…………………………………………………………….. 8 Parent/Guardian Role………………………………………………. 10 Parent Code of Conduct……………………………………………. 10 Release of Liability…………………………………………………. 12 Team Structure…………………………………………………………… 13 Move Up Policy……………………………………………………. 13 Flex Group…………………………………………………………….14 Swimmers Role…………………………………………………………… 15 Pyramids/Groups…………………………………………………... 16 Swimmers Code of Conduct……………………………………………... 16 Consequences of Violation………………………………………… 16 Safety and Behavior……………………………………………….. 17 Equipment………………………………………………………………… 17 Team attire………………………………………………………… 18 Lost and Found……………………………………………………. 18 Payment Terms…………………………………………………………… 19 Monthly Tuition……………………………………………………. 19 Registration………………………………………………………… 19 Annual Break……………………………………………………………… 20 Trial Membership…………………………………………………………. 20 Paseo Aquatics Scholarship………………………………………………. 20 Communication…………………………………………………………… 21 Concerns…………………………………………………………… 21 Swim Meets……………………………………………………………..... 21 Swim Meet Procedures……………………………………………. 22 Swim Meet Events………………………………………………… 22 Meet Fees………………………………………………………….. 23 PASEO AQUATICS Page 2 of 39
Sign Ups…………………………………………………………… 23 Relays……………………………………………………………… 24 Important Swim Meet Information………………………………………. 24 Volunteering………………………………………………………………. 25 USA Swimming…………………………………………………………… 25 Parent Commandments…………………………………………….. 25 Best Practice Guidelines…………………………………………… .26 Bullying…………………………………………………………….. 27 What Is?......................................................................... 28 Reporting……………………………………………………. .29 How do we Handle…………………………………………... 29 Support………………………………………………………. 30 Electronic Communication Model…………………………………………. 31 Parent Pick-­‐up……………………………………………………………… 32 New Parents………………………………………………………………… 33 Glossary of Terms…………………………………………………………. 34 New Parents…………………………………………………………………36 Private Lessons…………………………………………………………….. 37 Closing………………………………………………………………………38 Relaeas…………………………………………………………………………39 PASEO AQUATICS Page 3 of 39
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Introduction:
The purpose of this handbook is two-fold: to explain to new members just what
Paseo Aquatics is and to outline various policies that affect all swimmers, year
after year. All families should read it so that they may become familiar with
important facts and rules of the club.
Why the Sport of Swimming?
The USA Swimming age group swimming program is America's largest
program of guided fitness activity for children. Age group swimming builds a
strong foundation for a lifetime of good health, by teaching healthy fitness
habits.
Physical Development
Many physicians and pediatricians consider swimming the ideal activity for
developing muscular and skeletal growth. Why do doctors like it so much?
Swimming develops high quality aerobic endurance, the most important key
to physical fitness. In other sports an hour of practice may yield as little as 10
minutes of meaningful exercise. Age group swimming teams use every
precious minute of practice time developing fitness and teaching skills.
Swimming does a better job in proportional muscular development by using
all the body's major muscle groups. No other sport does this as well.
Swimming enhances children's natural flexibility (at a time when they
ordinarily begin to lose it) by exercising all of their major joints through a full
range of motion.
Swimming helps develop superior coordination because it requires
combinations of complex movements of all parts of the body, enhancing
harmonious muscle function, grace, and fluidity of movement.
Swimming is the most injury-free of all children's sports.
Swimming is a sport that will bring kids fitness and enjoyment for life.
Participants in Master's Swimming programs are still training and racing well
into their 80's.
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Intellectual Competence
In addition to physical development, children can develop greater intellectual
competence by participating in a guided program of physical activity.
Learning and using swimming skills engages the thinking processes. As they
learn new techniques, children must develop and plan movement sequences.
They improve by exploring new ideas. They learn that greater progress
results from using their creative talents. Self-expression can be just as much
physical as intellectual. Finally their accomplishments in learning and using
new skills contribute to a stronger self-image.
Defining Paseo Aquatics:
Paseo Aquatics (LLC) is governed by the United States Swimming, Inc. and
Southern California Swimming (SCS) organizations. We operate under the
Local Swimming Committee (LSC) based in Santa Barbara and compete in the
Coastal Division. Paseo Aquatics began in January of 2012 and provides year
round programs for athletes. Paseo Aquatics is centered in Valencia, Ca but
provides programs for the greater Santa Clarita Valley.
Paseo Mission:
At Paseo Aquatics our objective is to cultivate a healthy, supportive and
education/training centered program conducive to sustained swimming
excellence and performance while promoting the sport of swimming.
We will pursue the highest level of education, instruction (water safety),
strength-building and conditioning to generate a positive and healthy
environment—one that prepares our swimmers for short-term goals and long
term success, both in the water and out.
Paseo Vision:
Paseo Aquatics is a place where excellence is encouraged, supported, admired,
protected, nurtured, respected, emulated, and valued. We are passionate
about the sport of swimming and offer a premier swim program geared
towards the education of the serious athlete—from Novice to National
Caliber—who has the courage and desires to pursue his or her dreams with
inspiration, dedication and discipline.
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Paseo Philosophy:
Building from the bottom up and inspiring from the top down The Fact is, the future of Paseo Aquatics starts at the Beginner Level. We have
put this Action Plan together to help to outline our ever-growing commitment
to excellence. The Chart represents how we vision the Swimmer Enrichment
Program to work through the integration of Mentors.
Bronze Mentors Enrich the Advanced Group
Silver Mentors Enrich the Intermediate Group
Gold Mentors Enrich the Beginner Group
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Paseo Values:
Paseo Aquatics - “The Path to Excellence” is not just a catchy phrase. Rather,
it is meant as constant reminder of our values for Swimmers, Coaches,
Administration, and parents.
• The Path to Excellence is multi dimensional as it relates to the structure of
Paseo Aquatics.
-There is a progression (path) to the Developmental Process and we make
sure to build the foundations of success appropriately with detailed
instruction.
- It means providing Performance Opportunities within each group to gain
experience to be able cope with the pressures from small Intra-squad meets to
International Level competitions.
-It directly relates to the advancements through the Pyramids of the Team
Structure. Athlete performance is not the only indicator of and upward
progression. Focus is put on to the emotional IQ and is the athlete ready to
meet the challenge of the higher level.
-The measure between varying Group Coaches to assure the Linear
Reinforcement System. (LRS)
-The continued education of parents as their child evolves through the
program
Paseo Team Structure Values:
• Paseo Aquatics has established a Linear Reinforcement System (LRS) as a
measure between Coaches.
-Technique and Drill Sequences mirror one another from Novice to Senior
Level.
- Terminology remains the same through the Black and Gold Pyramids. In the
White Pyramid coaches focus on buzzwords and tips.
- The growth of Swim Practice Intelligence and the clear understandings of
Practice knowledge. (Equipment, pace clock, breath control)
- Kicking development is a constant factor through all Pyramids.
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- Basic Development and Finite Development of all strokes including the
tremendous value of USA-Swimming classification of the 5th Stroke.
(Underwater Dolphin kick)
- A constant communication between Senior Level Coaches and Age Group
Coaches.
- A Coach/Swimmer Partnership at all levels. This partnership is formed
through trust, honesty and dedication to each other.
- A constant reminder that swimming is not based on moments of success but
rather the journey of long-term gains.
- The growth of the Emotional Intelligence (EQ) of the athlete through mental
focus exercises.
-The importance of rest and nutrition to maintain a healthy athlete for
practices and competition.
Paseo Aquatics Team:
Coaches:
All Paseo Aquatic coaches must meet high criteria set forth by USA Swimming. Each
coach holds a certification for Safety Training for Swim Coaches and holds a current
First Aid and CPR Training as well as Lifeguard. Paseo Aquatic coaches have also
passed a background check. All of the above requirements must be kept up to date for
a swim coach to remain in good standing with USA Swimming and Paseo Aquatics.
Paseo Aquatics coaches’ main responsibility is to mold all of our swimmers into the
best swimmers that they can be. In addition, coaches mentor swimmers in life skills
and positive values.
Coaches shall build relationships with team families, to achieve mutually set goals for
each swimmer.
Coaches also help the team to build relationships with other aquatic organizations.
Coaches shall at all times promote USA Swimming Safe Sport Act.
Parent/Guardian’s Role:
As the Parent/Guardian of a competitive swimmer, your main responsibility is to
provide a caring, supporting environment. This support will encourage your child to
feel good about his or her interest in competitive swimming. Show your support by
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ensuring your swimmer’s attendance at practices and swim meets.
Parents/guardians are not participants on their child’s team but contribute to the
success experienced by the swimmer and his or her team. Parents/guardians serve
as role models, and children frequently emulate their attitudes. Strive to be a positive
role model. Most important, show good sportsmanship at all times toward coaches,
officials and other teams.
Mandatory rule For Parents:
1. You are responsible for your child up to the point of he or she entering the pool
and under the coach’s supervision.
2. Coaches are not babysitters and are therefore not responsible for the actions
of your kids during ht time you are to be in supervision role.
3. This mandate can and will come with disciplinary actions and fines of up to
$50.00 if it is repeatedly done.
Parent Code of Conduct:
As a Parent of the Paseo Aquatics Program, I will abide by the following code
of conduct:
1. Practice teamwork with all parents, swimmers & coaches by supporting the
values of Discipline, Loyalty, and Commitment & Hard Work.
2. As a parent, I will not coach or instruct the team or any swimmer at a
practice or meets (from the stands or any other area) or interfere with
coaches on the pool deck. Any communication with the coaching staff will
occur either prior to the start of a coach’s shift or after the conclusion of
his/her coaching day.
3. Demonstrate good sportsmanship by conducting myself in a manner that
earns the respect of my child, other swimmers, parents, officials & the
coaches at meets & practices.
4. Maintain self-control at all times & know my role. Rule of thumb S.C.O.P.E
Swimmers – swim,
Coaches - coach,
Officials – officiate,
Parents – parent.
Everyone - Enjoys
5. Enjoy involvement with the Paseo Aquatics Team by supporting the
swimmers, coaches & other parents with positive communications & actions.
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6. During competitions, questions or concerns regarding decisions made by
meet officials are directed to a member of our coaching staff only.
7. As a parent, I understand that criticizing, name-calling, use of abusive
language or gestures directed toward the coaches, officials, &/or any
participating swimmer will not be permitted or tolerated.
I understand and agree to the above terms and condition of the Paseo
Aquatics Team in exchange for the privilege of my child(ren), registered with
this agreement, to participate in the activities and swimming program of the
Paseo Aquatics Team.
Should I conduct myself in such a way that brings discredit or discord to
Paseo Aquatics, or USA Swimming I voluntarily subject myself to disciplinary
action. Paseo Aquatics maintains the right to terminate any membership
with/without cause in the interest of our vision, mission and objectives.
Release of Liability:
The release of Liability can be found on the registration site and must be
signed by all families joining Paseo Aquatics. It reads ‘Parent/Guardian hereby
releases Paseo Aquatics, its employees, directors and volunteers and any
facility used by Paseo Aquatics LLC, Paseo Aquatics Sports 501C3, from any
liability arising out of any injury to the Swimmer(s) which may occur while
the Swimmer(s) is/are participating in the Paseo Aquatics swim program,
including, but not limited to, practices, meets, travel trips, and other team
activities, or while the Swimmer(s) is/are using facilities leased or used by
Paseo Aquatics’.
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Flex Group:
We feel at Paseo Aquatics that in order for our athletes to reach the goals set
forth it requires constant attention, dedication, and by all means focus with
their coach during training sessions. The concept of Flex Group is to protect
the integrity of the group standards, to eliminate the Athlete “getting
Comfortable” and not producing the daily outcome needed. As well as to
insure parents dues will produce accountable and sustainable results.
How does Flex Group work? It is simple. All Athletes’ at the beginning of the
season are assigned to a group that represents their current swim level. Flex
Group is in place to keep your athletes on their toes. As a parent your
financial obligations are the dues assigned to the group your Athlete is
entered in.
During the course of the season if an Athlete begins to display the following
attributes;
1.
Being to comfortable in group
2.
A constant disturbance to others in practice
3.
A negative outlook
4.
A disturbance to coaches on deck
5.
A lack of training output that is deemed necessary
6.
Constantly late to practice
7.
Missing practice
8.
Not in the water warming up on time
9.
They will immediately be flexed to the group below them. This flex will take
place the very next day at practice and will last for one (1) day. If an athlete is
flexed it is their responsibility to know and do the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Inform Parents they have been flexed.
Know when and where the group they have been flexed to trains
Be at the flexed group practice the next day
After completion of flexed practice talk to their coach before reentering their group.
If an Athlete gets Flexed five (5) times during the course of one (1) season
they will be asked to finish the season in the Flexed Group and the parents
will still be accountable for the dues associated with their original assigned
group.
Parents, this in no way is a penalty to you, it is a way for Paseo Aquatics to
ensure your dues are going directly towards producing desirable results for
your athletes.
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Swimmer’s Role:
It is the role of the swimmer to adhere to their assigned coaches schedules. To
be at practice on time and to be ready to be in the water right at the start of
the groups practice scheduled hours. It is their role to have with them at all
times their mesh bag with all their training supplies. It is their role to have
hydration during practice hours. It is their role to respect the facility and the
employees of the Aquatic center in which they are assigned to train. The
coach has the right to disciplinary action if any of the above is not adhered to.
Pryamids/Groups:
Paseo Aquatic’s practice group guidelines have been developed by its
coaching team to maximize the growth and development of swim techniques
for its swimmers of all levels. Swimmers of similar age and abilities will be
grouped together to reach the goals set for each Pyramid.
The assignment of swimmers to a Pyramid/Group shall be the decision of the
coaching staff. Upon fulfillment of the group’s goals, swimmers may be
promoted (MOVE UP POLICY) to JUMP from one pyramid to another pyramid.
These JUMPS will happen at specific times during the two seasons, In rare
instances, an assignment may be modified instantly during the swim year, if
the coaching staff believes a different squad would be more appropriate for
the swimmer.
Swimmer Code of Conduct:
As a swimmer & member of the Paseo Aquatics Swim Team, I will abide by the
following code of conduct:
1. I will conduct myself with dignity and respect for others and for the
property of others.
2. I will be on time for practice, training sessions, and meets.
3. I will comply with all team rules.
4. As a matter of team pride & courtesy to meet hosts, pool facility operators,
& janitorial staff member, swimmers I will leave the Paseo Aquatics team area
in a neat & clean condition at the conclusion of each practice session. I
understand this also applies to pool locker/rest rooms, bleacher areas, pool
decks, etc.
5. I will practice and teach good sportsmanship.
6. I will promote positive team spirit and morale.
7. I will offer congratulations and encouragement to his/her opponents.
8. I will support my teammates at practice and at competition. Working
together as a unit will benefit each team member and is an important part of
PASEO AQUATICS spirit.
9. I will follow verbal directions of the coaching staff. At no time will
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disrespectful attitudes by any swimmer be tolerated.
10. I will respect the rights and space requirements of other groups using the
swimming facility.
11. I will follow the Code of Conduct at home, at away events and at any event
where Paseo Aquatics is represented.
Prohibited Behavior:
I understand that at no times will the following be accepted:
1. Use or possession of any illegal substance (i.e. alcohol, drugs, tobacco).
2. Destructive behavior.
3. Inappropriate or unruly behavior, including fighting or striking another
athlete.
4. Inappropriate language (swearing or derogatory comments) or lying.
5. Stealing and vandalism.
6. Bullying or isolating another swimmer.
7. Interference with the progress of another swimmer during practice or at
any other time.
Consequences for Violation of the Code of Conduct:
This code shall be in force for all PASEO AQUATIC swimmers during practice,
during swim meets, and at events sponsored by, or in which, PASEO AQUATIC
Swim Team is represented. Disciplinary actions can range from, but are not
limited to; reprimands, repetitions of a drill, push ups, etc., being sent home
from practice or meets at the parents’ expense, expulsion from the team,
being barred from competition, or receiving any other disciplinary action that
the Club deems necessary if a member fails to adhere to the Code in part or in
whole.
SUSPENSION: Coaches may suspend a swimmer from practice for
disciplinary reason for a maximum of three days. Coaches may also expel a
swimmer from the club if in his/her judgment; the swimmer is unable to
conform to the disciplinary guidelines established for swim practice and club
participation.
Safety and Behavior:
Paseo Aquatics reserves the right to terminate the membership of any
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individual whose behavior places the Paseo Aquatics Program in an
unfavorable light or jeopardizes our participation in any pool use or sporting
event. All swimmers are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship and act
as appropriate ambassadors for the club. They should act as role models for
other swimmers at all times.
Equipment:
Equipment: Check with your coach–not all items is required for all groups:
Practice Suit (must be specifically designed for competition and training)
Goggles
Cap – Official Paseo Aquatic practice caps
Fins
Paddles (hand & finger)
Pull Buoy
Snorkels
Specific equipment per each group is listed under the Pyramid structure.
Team Attire:
Paseo Aquatics Team Suit or other pre-approved suits required for all
swimmers at meets. Tech suits must be FINA approved suits. Tech suits are
discouraged at regular age group meets. They should be worn only at
championship meets or when a swimmer is trying to qualify for a
championship meet.
PaseoAquatics Team Cap (required for all swimmers at meets)
Practice equipment and team suits may be purchased currently at
Swimworks.
Team caps can be purchased on deck at The Paseo Club pool. We also try to
have team caps available at meets.
T-shirts, sweatshirts and other items, marked with the team name and/or logo
are available for purchase in the Paseo Aquatics office. Team attire is strongly
suggested to be worn at all meets. Parkas are a highly recommended item to
keep swimmers comfortable after workouts, between events at meets and
during inclement weather
Lost & Found:
You are strongly encouraged to label all of your swimmers equipment. Labeled
equipment found at practice can easily be returned to the swimmer. Unlabeled
equipment found around the pool deck will be placed in facility lost and found
bin. It will be kept for 30 days and then if not claimed donated to a local
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charity. Swimmers should keep all personal belongings on the pool deck and
not in the locker room during practice sessions. The locker rooms can be used
by others groups. The club is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Payment terms
Monthly Tuition:
In consideration of the participation of the swimmer(s) in Paseo Aquatic’s
swim program, the Parent/Guardian agrees to pay the tuition for the
Swimmer’s practice level that is set forth. Monthly payment of tuition shall be
due and payable on the first day of each month, for 11 months, September
through July.
Tuitions may be prepaid at any time. Swimmers are expected to pay for the
entire month no matter how many days they attend practice. If the Swimmer
is transferred to a different squad by the coaching staff, the fees for the new
squad level will be invoiced in the next billing cycle. If advance payments have
been made the difference will be invoiced to the swimmers account.
If the monthly tuition payment is not received in full by the 10th of the
month, a late fee of $20 per month will be assessed to the family’s tuition
account. Online payments are made via Credit Cards, but are aware
sometimes your cards may be declined for various reasons. Checks are not an
acceptable form of payment but on rare occasions we may make an exception.
In Activity of Account:
Families are expected to pay dues for the entire month no matter how many
days they attend practice. However, if the swimmer/parent notifies our Billing
Specialist in writing at least 5 days prior to the start of the month in which
they plan to not swim, tuitions shall be waived subject to a $25 fee for
processing the inactivation.
In order to reactivate the account the swimmer/parent notifies the billing
specialist in writing at least 5 days before the start of the month in which the
swimmer will return. This action will be subject to a $25 fee for processing the
reactivation.
In Activity is not to be confused with Temporary Suspended Activity.
Temporary Suspended Activity- Parents can suspend the account for a
period of 4 weeks throughout the year. This suspended activity needs to be
supported with a Doctors note. Family vacations are not a reasonable reason
for suspension of activity. This will be a case-by-case situation. The ACF
remains in tact during the suspension of tuition activity.
Leaving the Program:
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If a family or athlete decides to leave the program it will need to be done with
a written notice to the Head Coach. There is no prorated return of fees for the
ACF and the Monthly Dues.
Registration:
USA Swimming/Southern California Swimming Membership:
All swimmers must be registered with Southern California Swimming (SCS),
our local USA Swimming organization. This annual registration fee is $85
per swimmer. It is due upon new membership registration and upon renewal
of memberships in September. The SCS membership is an annual
membership from September 2013 through December 2014.
Birth Certificate:
All New families must show proof of Birth Certificate at time of USA swimming
Registration.
A discounted annual SCS membership fee of $7 per swimmer is available, if
the Parent/Guardian submits a current Federal Subsidized Lunch letter from
their child’s school with initial registration and/or upon renewal. (An original
of the letter must be sent to SCS with the SCS form and fee.) New swimmers
will be suspended from practice with the team until the issue is resolved if
their SCS registration has not been completed within 10 days of registration.
Renewing swimmers must pay for SCS renewal and provide any required
paperwork (forms, letters, etc) at time of registration.
Involuntary Suspension:
If the monthly tuition payment is not received in full by the last day of the
month, a notice of delinquency will be e-mailed. If Parent/Guardian fails to pay
any delinquent tuition or ACF, including late fees, within 14 days from the
date of such notice of delinquency, the Swimmer shall be suspended from
further participation in all Paseo Aquatics activities, including, but not limited
to, practices and meets.
If Parent/Guardian becomes delinquent in payment of tuition or ACF because
of financial hardship, he/she may apply to the Paseo Aquatics for a waiver of
late fees and suspension. A waiver may be granted if satisfactory
arrangements are made for payment of the delinquent amounts.
Annual Break:
All squads receive a two-week break at the end of the summer competition
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season. This is typically at the beginning of August. This break has been
factored in when calculating monthly payment of annual dues.
Trial Memberships:
Trial Memberships are available to new members only. The purpose of trial
membership is to give families an opportunity to try the sport of competitive
swimming prior to making a substantial financial commitment. Trial
memberships last for two consecutive swim weeks and cost $25.
Paseo Aquatics Scholarships:
Paseo Aquatics offers a limited amount of scholarship memberships annually.
The number of scholarships available each year is based on the Paseo
Aquatics annual budget. The swim scholarships allow families to participate
on the Paseo Aquatics swim team at a discounted rate. Families on Paseo
Aquatics scholarships must meet the fundraising requirement and volunteer
requirement through active participation. Scholarship participants are not
permitted to ‘buy out’ of volunteer or fundraising requirements.
Further assistance can be had by meeting with the Head Coach or Managing
Partners.
Club Communication:
Web site:
Paseo Aquatic’s primary methods of communication are e-mail and the team
website, www.paseoaquatics.org. The website includes calendars, news and events
and job sign-up tabs. The site is updated regularly. Please check for new and updated
information.
Paseo Aquatics encourages open communication. Please feel free to email coaches or
Club members, or telephone us at 818 633 3917
E-mail:
E-mails will be sent to inform parents/guardians and swimmers of upcoming events,
such as swim meets, team social events, fundraising opportunities, volunteer events,
etc. Be sure to keep your e-mail address current on the website. If you need help
updating it send an email to info@paseoaquatics.org.
You may visit our website to send an e-mail to the coaches or managing partners.
You may also e-mail info@paseoaquatics.org with any questions, concerns, or
notifications.
Please see the Electronic Communication Methods Section at end of handbook. The
Head Coach can communicate with the top tier athletes via ECM
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Concerns:
As in any large organization involving significant numbers of families Paseo
Aquatics cannot always be all things to all people. Although conflicts in our
club are few, they occasionally arise, and we have a protocol for dealing with
them.
If you have a concern about administration of the club, coaching, finances,
other swimmers’ behavior, other parents’/guardians’ behavior, or other
related matters, please contact us on deck or via email. Your concern will be
brought to our attention and will be handled timely. In any emergency
circumstances that will be dealt with immediately.
Swim Meets:
By its very name, the purpose of competitive swimming is to compete and that
means attending swim meets! Individuals seeking membership in the Paseo
Aquatics Program should understand that we are a competitive team, not a
recreational team. Swimmers should be willing to accept the responsibility of
membership and participate in meets.
For many new swimmers, taking the first step and going to their first
competitive meet is a big undertaking. Our coaches understand this and are
happy to share information about each meet and what meets may be good for
beginners.
Addendum-added 2/21/2014
Warm Ups
Swimmers are expected to be on time just like their coaches. We do a
structured workout and it is very disruptive to have athletes jump in the
middle of a warm up once it has begun. On Occasion, teams are assigned lanes
and a specific warm up slot. If a swimmer misses the first 5 minutes he or she
will be directed by the warm up coach as to what to do.
Short & Long Course Seasons:
USA Swimming recognizes two seasons within each calendar year. The season
beginning around Labor Day and ending in mid-February is referred to as the
short course season. During the short course season meets are recognized as
“yard” events. There is also a long course swim season that begins in March
and ends in early August. Meets during long course season are recognized as
“meter” events.
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Schedule of Swim Meets:
Meets are posted on our web site under the events tab. There you will be able
to identify which pyramid structure corresponds to the upcoming meets.
Swim Meet Procedures:
As a competitive swim team, we encourage all of our swimmers to attend
swim meets and compete in events recommended by their coaches. Swim
meets provide an opportunity for the swimmers to measure the progress of
their training and practice. They are also a social time, which enables the
swimmers to build friendships with fellow teammates.
All swimmers must compete in all of the Paseo Aquatics home meets they
qualify for, unless excused by the coach.
Swimmer Events:
Your swimmer’s coach will select the events that they will participate in.
The coaching plan, swimmer ability, coach-swimmer goals, and other factors
will be considered as the events are being selected. Swimmers and
parents/guardians are able to request events during the sign up process, but
the coach’s make the final decision.
Newer swimmers will initially be placed in events that they will succeed in. As
their skills build, they will be placed in more challenging events as determined
by their coach.
Scratches:
All scratches are the soul decision of the coach. Parents/swimmers do not
make the call to scratch and event. We understand that at times there are
extending circumstances that might require a group decision.
Addendum-added 1/11/2014
In the event that a parent/swimmer chooses to scratch an event or second
day of a meet the following repercussions will apply.
Scratch of event:
1. The individual will be scratched from the rest of the meet
2. The individual will not be permitted to practice for 3 days.
3. There will be a fine of $25.00 per event missed.
4. The events that were scratched or missed the swimmer will be ineligible
to enter at the next meet that is assigned to the specific swim group.
Missing second day of meet:
If it is determined that the parent/swimmer just entirely blew of the second
day of a swim meet the repercussions will be as follows;
PASEO AQUATICS Page 22 of 39
1. The swimmer will not be permitted to swim at practice for 3 days
2. The next assigned meet for that swimmer he or she will be ineligible to
compete
3. A fine of 50.00 per event will be assessed to Swimmers account.
Meet Fees:
Meet fees for swim meets are the responsibility of the parent. Most meets cost
about $25-$30 dollars to enter. The Meet Administrator will invoice the
swimmer’s account and payments may be made along with the following
month’s dues. Delinquent meet fees will result in a suspension in meet
privileges until the swimmer’s account becomes current.
Upon passage of the meet sign up deadline, Paseo Aquatics submits all entries
and meet fees to SCS. Meet fees are non-refundable to Paseo Aquatics once
they have been submitted to SCS. If a swimmer is unable to attend the meet
(for any reason) after the submission of the entries and payment, the
swimmer will still be responsible for payment of the meet fees. If Paseo
Aquatic coaches or staff makes an error in a swimmer’s entries, the team will
be responsible for the subsequent erroneous fees.
Signing Up for a Swim Meet:
Not all squads attend the same meets throughout the season, so please check
with you pyramid coach to determine if a swim meet is appropriate for your
swimmer’s level before you commit.
Please pay particular attention to the deadline and commit your swimmer
through your www.paseoaquatics.org account as early as possible!
E-mail from Team:
Each family will receive an e-mail from Paseo Aquatics approximately 3
weeks before each swim meet. The e-mail will contain a link to the Paseo
Aquatics website.
Click on the link to go to the EVENT SIGN UP page of the Paseo Aquatics
website.
Home Page Access:
If signing up through the home page of the Paseo Aquatics website find the
swim meet you would like to enter under EVENTS. Click on the rectangular
box beneath the heading “Attend this event.” ”Attend this event” will also take
you to the EVENT SIGN UP page of the Paseo Aquatics website.
PASEO AQUATICS Page 23 of 39
Commit to this Event:
The EVENT SIGN UP page will bring up a chart with the swimmer(s)’ name(s)
from your family. Click on the swimmer’s name in the left column. A commit
to the event heading will appear for that swimmer. When accessing the pull
down bar, there will be a choice of “yes, please sign (name) up for this event”
or “no, thanks (name) will not attend this event.” Please mark NO if you do
not plan on attending, so that the coach knows that you have considered your
attendance at the meet. If you mark YES, you will have a choice of session to
attend. If the meet is held on Saturday and Sunday, you may select one or
both days to attend. Make sure to select the rectangular box on the bottom
right corner that states “save changes” or your request will not be processed.
The screen will change to show the athlete’s name, a box with a check mark,
and “committed.” You must repeat this process for each of the swimmers in
your family.
Notes to the Coach:
On the EVENT SIGN UP page, there is a rectangular box for notes. Although
the coaches will select the events that your swimmer will participate in, you
may place a request or suggestion to the coach in the notes section. Please
note that your swimmer may not be able to participate in various events due
to a minimum or maximum time requirement. The coach will ultimately
determine if the event is appropriate for the swimmer.
Confirming your Events:
Paseo Aquatics recommends that you return to the EVENT SIGN UP page to
see which events your coach has selected for your swimmer. Do this as soon
as possible after the meet closing date, which can be found on the meet form.
If you find an error, please contact your coach immediately.
Relays:
Relay selection is at the coach’s discretion and is not up for debate. The swim Leg
assignments cannot be altered or the relay team will be disqualified. Being asked to
swim on a relay is an honor and should not be taken lightly. All swimmers
assigned to a relay should show up for warms up on time. Not showing up for a relay
lets down the team and your teammates and will be dealt with seriously. Relays are
an amazing experience of team unity and offer the opportunities to qualify for
National and International Level meets. It’s a privilege and an honor to represent you
team and your country at National and International level meets.
If a swimmer does not uphold their responsibility to their team and relay teammates
they may be permanently removed from their position on that relay. This is solely a
Head Coaches Decision.
PASEO AQUATICS Page 24 of 39
Addendum-added 2/21/2014
If you are assigned to a TEAM Relay at the meet you are expected to participate in
that team relay. It is the athlete’s responsibility to check with coaching staff if they
have a relay responsibility. If they do and they don’t commit to it and leaver their
teammates without the opportunity to compete as a team the following will be
imposed.
First offense- a warning to the athlete.
Second offense – the athlete will be fined 100.00
Third offense- the athlete loses spot on relay, fined 100.00 and is suspend from
practice for 2 weeks.
Important Swim Meet Information
Meet Sheet:
Each swim meet will have a meet sheet that will provide information such as
location, date, time, directions, events, cost of events, etc. Please consult this
meet sheet prior to signing up.
It can be accessed through the Paseo Aquatics website, Events tab. This will
take you to the Event page where you can select the meet and see a brief
description. The meet sheet may be found under the
Forms/Documents heading, as a .pdf document listed in red. Click on the .pdf
heading and the meet sheet will open.
Timeline for the Swim Meet:
Some swim teams provide a timeline for the swim meet. The timeline will
show the estimated time for each event, which will allow you to better plan
your weekend. You may visit the same Forms/Document heading as for the
meet sheet above, to see if a timeline is available. Do not use this timeline to
determine your arrival time at the meet. Your swimmers’ coach will tell them
when to arrive for warm-up.
Timing Assignments:
Timers must be at least 16 years of age. PASEO AQUATICS will provide timing
assignments based on the number of chairs required, the number of
swimmers/families in attendance. In most cases you will receive an e-mail on
the Thursday or Friday prior to the meet letting you know your
assignment(s). Timing assignments will also be posted in the team EZ Ups at
the swim meet.
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Volunteering:
Paseo Aquatics Home meet volunteering:
Its not mandatory but Paseo Aquatics relies on parent volunteers to help
support theses athletes. The time required of the volunteer depends upon the
size and duration of the meet and the number of volunteers that sign up. Each
year the meets for this season are listed on the web site along with a job sign
up sheet.
Away meet volunteering:
Your family is required to volunteer time at away meets that your
swimmer(s) participates in. A timing chair list will be published and emailed
to you a day or so prior to the meet. If you are not able to work it is YOUR
responsibility to find someone to work for you. The penalties for failing to
meet timing requirement are as followsFirst offence: Written warning
Second offense: $50 fine
Third offense: $75 fine
Other Away Meet Assistance:
In order to make a more organized and enjoyable meet experience for all swim
meet participants, Paseo Aquatics requests that parents/guardians
participate in various volunteer opportunities. A team commune is essential
for cohesiveness and comfort, and to achieve this we need parents/guardians
to set up the team’s easy ups at each meet.
Paseo Aquatics encourages its families to help orient new swimmers to meet
protocol at their first swim meet. We ask that you mentor a new family at one
meet during the year. The swimmers enjoy partaking of the snack table
during the meet, so we hope that families will contribute a little snack at one
meet during the year. Please consider our athletes’ well being and bring
healthy snacks. Remember, we are the direct reflection of the club we swim
for.
USA Swimming Organization:
USA Swimming is the National Governing Body for the sport of swimming in
the United States, USA Swimming is a 400,000- member service organization
that promotes the culture of swimming by creating opportunities for
PASEO AQUATICS Page 26 of 39
swimmers and coaches of all backgrounds and abilities to participate and
advance in the sport through clubs, events and education.
Paseo Aquatics strongly urges the parent members and swimmer members to
visit the USA Swimming website (www.usaswimming.org) and read through
all the valuable information contained within.
Parents 10 Commandments:
I. Thou shall not impose thy ambitions on thy child.
II. Thou shall be supportive no matter what.
III. Thou shall not coach thy child.
IV. Thou shall only have positive things to say at a competition.
V. Thou shall acknowledge thy child's fears.
VI. Thou shall not criticize the officials.
VII. Thou shall honor thy child's coach.
VIII. Thou shall be loyal and supportive of thy team.
IX. Thy child shall have goals besides winning.
X. Thou shall not expect thy child to become an Olympian.
Best Practice Guidelines:
The following Best Practice Guidelines are strongly recommended for all
USA Swimming members.
1. Parents should be encouraged to appropriately support their children’s
swimming experience.
2. All swimming practices should be open to observation by parents.
3. Two-deep Leadership: One coach member and at least one other adult who
is not in the water should be present at all practices and other sanctioned club
PASEO AQUATICS Page 27 of 39
activities whenever at least one athlete is present. Clubs and coaches should
evaluate their seasonal plans and map out how to
best accomplish this strongly recommended guideline.
4. Open and Observable Environment: An open and observable environment
should be maintained for all interactions between adults and athletes. Private,
or one-on-one situations should be avoided unless they are open and
observable. Common sense should be used to move a
meeting to an open and observable location if the meeting inadvertently
begins in private.
5. Coaches should not invite or have an athlete(s) to their home without the
permission of the athlete’s parents (or legal guardian).
6. During team travel, when doing room checks, attending team meetings
and/or other activities, two-deep leadership and open and observable
environments should be maintained.
7. Athletes should not ride in a coach’s vehicle without another adult present
that is the same gender as the athlete, unless prior parental permission is
obtained.
8. During overnight team travel, if athletes are paired with other athletes they
shall be of the same gender and should be a similar age. Where athletes are
age 13 & over, chaperones and/or team managers would ideally stay in
nearby rooms. When athletes are age 12 & under, chaperones and/or team
managers may stay with athletes. Where chaperones/team managers are
staying in a room with athletes, they should be the same gender as the athlete
and written consent should
Be given by athlete’s parents (or legal guardian).
9. When only one athlete and one coach travel to a competition, at the
competition the coach and athlete should attempt to establish a “buddy” club
to associate with during the competition and when away from the venue.
10. Communications between non-athlete adult members and athletes should
not include any topic or language that is sexual or inappropriate in nature.
11. Non-athlete adult members should respect the privacy of athletes in
situations such as changing of clothes, showering, etc. Non-athlete adult
members should protect their own privacy in similar situations.
12. Relationships of a peer-to-peer nature with any athletes should be
avoided. For example, coaches should avoid sharing their own personal
problems with athletes.
PASEO AQUATICS Page 28 of 39
13. Coaches and other non-athlete adult members should avoid horseplay and
roughhousing with athletes.
14. When a coach touches an athlete as part of instruction, the coach should
do so in direct view of others and inform the athlete of what he/she is doing
prior to the initial contact. Touching athletes should be minimized outside the
boundaries of what is considered normal instruction.
Appropriate interaction would include high fives, fist bumps, side-to-side hugs
and handshakes.
15. Coaches should not initiate contact with or accept supervisory
responsibility for athletes outside club programs and activities.
16. Coaches should not engage in sexual intimacies with a former athlete for
at least two years after the cessation or termination of professional services.
Because sexual intimacies with a former athlete are frequently harmful to the
athlete, and because such intimacies undermine public confidence in the
coaching profession and thereby deter the public’s use of needed services,
coaches should not engage in sexual intimacies with
former athletes even after a two-year interval except in the most unusual
circumstances. The coach who engages in such activity after the two years
following cessation or termination of the coach-athlete relationship bears the
burden of demonstrating that there has been no exploitation,
in light of all relevant factors, including:
1. The amount of time that has passed since the coach-athlete relationship
terminated;
2. The circumstances of termination;
3. The athlete’s personal history;
4. The athlete’s current mental status;
5. The likelihood of adverse impact on the athlete and others; and
6. Any statements or actions made by the coach during the course of the
athlete coach relationship suggesting or inviting the possibility of a posttermination sexual or romantic relationship with the athlete or coach.
7. Both the athlete and the coach must be 18 years of age or older.
Bullying:
Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at Paseo Aquatics and will not be
tolerated. Bullying is counterproductive to team spirit and can be devastating
to a victim. The Club is committed to providing a safe, caring and friendly
environment for all of our members.
If bullying does occur, all athletes and parents should know that incidents
would be dealt with promptly and effectively. Anyone who knows that bullying
is happening is expected to tell a coach, or athlete/mentor.
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Objectives of the Club’s Bullying Policy and Action Plan:
1. To make it clear that the Club will not tolerate bullying in any form.
2. To define bullying and give all, coaches, parents and swimmers a good
understanding of what bullying is.
3. To make it known to all parents, swimmers and coaching staff that there is
a policy and
protocol should any bullying issues arise.
4. To make how to report bullying clear and understandable.
5. To spread the word that (Name of Club) takes bullying seriously and that all
swimmers and parents can be assured that they will be supported when
bullying is reported.
WHAT IS BULLYING?
The USA Swimming Code of Conduct prohibits bullying. Generally, bullying is
the use of aggression, whether intentional or not, which hurts another person.
Bullying results in pain and distress. The USA Swimming Code of Conduct
defines bullying in 304.3.7. Bullying is the severe or repeated use by one or
more USA Swimming members of oral, written, electronic or other
technological expression, image, sound, data or intelligence of any nature
(regardless of the method of transmission), or a physical act or gesture, or
any combination thereof, directed at any other member that to a reasonably
objective person has the effect of:
i. Causing physical or emotional harm to the other member or damage to the
other member’s property.
ii. placing the other member in reasonable fear of harm to himself/herself or
of damage to his/her property;
iii. creating a hostile environment for the other member at any USA
Swimming activity;
iv. infringing on the rights of the other member at any USA Swimming
activity; or
v. materially and substantially disrupting the training process or the orderly
operation of any USA Swimming activity (which for the purposes of this
section shall include, without limitation, practices, workouts and other events
of a member club or LSC).
REPORTING PROCEDURE:
An athlete who feels that he or she has been bullied is asked to do one or more
of the following things:
· Talk to your parents;
· Talk to a Club Coach, or other designated individual;
· Write a letter or email to the Club Coach, or other designated individual;
· Make a report to the USA Swimming Safe Sport staff.
There is no express time limit for initiating a complaint under this procedure,
PASEO AQUATICS Page 30 of 39
but every effort should be made to bring the complaint to the attention of the
appropriate club leadership as soon as possible to make sure that memories
are fresh and behavior can be accurately recalled
and the bullying behavior can be stopped as soon as possible.
HOW WE HANDLE BULLYING:
If bullying is occurring during team‐related activities, we STOP BULLYING
ON THE SPOT using the following steps:
1. Intervene immediately. It is ok to get another adult to help.
2. Separate the kids involved.
3. Make sure everyone is safe.
4. Meet any immediate medical or mental health needs.
5. Stay calm. Reassure the kids involved, including bystanders.
6. Model respectful behavior when you intervene.
If bullying is occurring at our club or it is reported to be occurring at our club,
we address the bullying by FINDING OUT WHAT HAPPENED and
SUPPORTING THE KIDS INVOLVED using the following approach:
FINDING OUT WHAT HAPPENED:
1. First, we get the facts.
a. Keep all the involved children separate.
b. Get the story from several sources, both adults and kids.
c. Listen without blaming.
d. Don’t call the act “bullying” while you are trying to understand what
happened.
e. It may be difficult to get the whole story, especially if multiple athletes are
involved or the bullying involves social bullying or cyber bullying. Collect all
available information.
2. Then, we determine if it's bullying. There are many behaviors that look
like bullying but require different approaches. It is important to determine
whether the situation is bullying or something else.
a. Review the USA Swimming definition of bullying;
b. To determine if the behavior is bullying or something else, consider the
following questions:
What is the history between the kids involved?
Have there been past conflicts?
Is there a power imbalance? Remember that a power imbalance is not
limited to physical strength. It is sometimes not easily recognized. If the
targeted child feels like there is a power imbalance, there probably is.
PASEO AQUATICS Page 31 of 39
Has this happened before? Is the child worried it will happen again?
c. Remember that it may not matter “who started it.” Some kids who are
bullied may be seen as annoying or provoking, but this does not excuse the
bullying behavior.
d. Once you have determined if the situation is bullying, support all of the kids
involved.
SUPPORTING THE KIDS INVOLVED:
3. Support the kids who are being bullied
a. Listen and focus on the child. Learn what’s been going on and show you
want to help. Assure the child that bullying is not their fault.
b. Work together to resolve the situation and protect the bullied child. The
child, parents, and fellow team members and coaches may all have valuable
input. It may help to:
Ask the child being bullied what can be done to make him or her feel safe.
Remember that changes to routine should be minimized. He or she is not at
fault and should not be singled out. For example, consider rearranging lane
assignments for everyone. If bigger moves are necessary, such as switching
practice groups, the child who is bullied should not be forced to change.
ii. Develop a game plan. Maintain open communication between the Club and
parents. Discuss the steps that will be taken and how bullying will be
addressed going forward.
c. Be persistent. Bullying may not end overnight. Commit to making it stop
and consistently support the bullied child.
4. Address bullying behavior:
a. Make sure the child knows what the problem behavior is. Young people who
bully must learn their behavior is wrong and harms others.
b. Show kids that bullying is taken seriously. Calmly tell the child that
bullying will not be tolerated. Model respectful behavior when addressing the
problem.
c. Work with the child to understand some of the reasons he or she bullied. For
example:
Sometimes children bully to fit in or just to make fun of someone is a little
different from them. In other words, there may be some insecurity involved.
ii. Other times kids act out because something else—issues at home, abuse,
stress—is going on in their lives. They also may have been bullied. These kids
may be in need of additional support.
d. Involve the kid who bullied in making amends or repairing the situation.
The goal is to help them see how their actions affect others. For example, the
PASEO AQUATICS Page 32 of 39
child can:
i. Write a letter apologizing to the athlete who was bullied.
ii. Do a good deed for the person who was bullied, for the Club, or for others in
your community.
iii. Clean up, repair, or pay for any property they damaged.
e. Avoid strategies that don’t work or have negative consequences:
i. Zero tolerance or “three strikes, you’re out” strategies don’t work.
Suspending or removing from the team swimmers who bully does not reduce
bullying behavior. Swimmers may be less likely to report and address bullying
if suspension or getting kicked off the team is the consequence.
ii. Conflict resolution and peer mediation don’t work for bullying. Bullying is
not a conflict between people of equal power who share equal blame. Facing
those who have bullied may further upset kids who have been bullied.
f. Follow‐up. After the bullying issue is resolved, continue finding ways to help
the child who bullied to understand how what they do affects other people. For
example, praise acts of kindness or talk about what it means to be a good
teammate.
5. Support bystanders who witness bullying. Every day, kids witness
bullying. They want to help, but don’t know how. Fortunately, there are a few
simple, safe ways that athletes can help stop bullying when they see it
happening.
a. Be a friend to the person being bullied;
b. Tell a trusted adult – your parent, or coach
c. Help the kid being bullied get away from the situation. Create a distraction,
focus the attention on something else, or offer a way for the target to get out of
the situation. “Let’s go, practice is about to start.”
d. Set a good example by not bullying others.
e. Don’t give the bully an audience. Bullies are encouraged by the attention
they get from bystanders. If you do nothing else, just walk away.
Electronic Communication Policy of the Paseo Aquatics:
The Club recognizes the prevalence of electronic
communication and social media in today’s world. Many of our swimmers use
these means as their primary method of communication. While the Club
acknowledges the value of these methods of communication, the Club also
realizes that there are associated risks that must be considered when adults
use these methods to communicate with minors.
General
All communications between a coach or other adult and an athlete must be
professional in nature and for the purpose of communicating information
about team activities. The content and intent of all electronic communications
must adhere to the USA Swimming Code of
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Conduct regarding Athlete Protection. For example, as with any
communication with an athlete, electronic communication should not
contain or relate to any of the following:
· drugs or alcohol use;
· sexually oriented conversation; sexually explicit language; sexual activity
· the adult’s personal life , social activities, relationship or family issues, or
personal problems; and
· inappropriate or sexually explicit pictures
· Note: Any communication concerning an athlete's personal life, social
activities, relationship or family issues or personal problems must be
transparent, accessible an professional.
Whether one is an athlete, coach, or parent, the guiding principle to always
use in communication is to ask: “Is this communication something that
someone else would find appropriate or acceptable in a face‐to‐face meeting?”
or “Is this something you would be comfortable saying out loud to the intended
recipient of your communication in front of the intended recipient’s parents,
the coaching staff, or other athletes?”
With respect to electronic communications, a simple test that can be used in
most cases is whether the electronic communication with swimmers is
Transparent, Accessible and Professional.
Transparent: All electronic communication between coaches and athletes
should be transparent. Your communication should not only be clear and
direct, but also free of hidden meanings, innuendo and expectations.
Accessible: All electronic communication between coaches and athletes should
be considered a matter of record and part of the Club’s records. Whenever
possible, include another coach or parent in the communication so that there
is no question regarding accessibility.
Professional: All electronic communication between a coach and an athlete
should be conducted professionally as a representative of the Club. This
includes word choices, tone, grammar, and subject matter that model the
standards and integrity of a staff member. If your communication meets all
three of the T.A.P. criteria, then it is likely your method of communication
with athletes will be appropriate.
FACEBOOK, MYSPACE, BLOGS, AND SIMILAR SITES:
Coaches may have personal Facebook (or other social media site) pages, but
they are not permitted to have any athlete member of the Club join their
personal page as a “friend.” A coach should not accept any “friend” request
from an athlete. In addition, the coach should remind the athlete that this is
not permitted. Coaches and athletes are not permitted to
“private message” each other through Facebook. Coaches and athletes are not
PASEO AQUATICS Page 34 of 39
permitted to “instant message” each other through Facebook chat or other IM
method. The Club has an official Facebook page that athletes and their parents
can “friend” for information and updates on team‐related matters. Coaches
are encouraged to set their pages to “private” to prevent athletes from
accessing the coach’s personal information.
TWITTER:
Best Practice: The Club has an official Twitter page that coaches, athletes and
parents can follow for information and updates on team‐related matters.
Coaches are not permitted to follow athletes on Twitter. Likewise, athletes are
not permitted to follow coaches on Twitter. Coaches and athletes are not
permitted to “direct message” each other through Twitter.
Alternative Option: Coaches and athletes may follow each other on Twitter.
Coaches cannot retweet an athlete message post. Coaches and athletes are not
permitted to “direct message” each other through Twitter.
TEXTING:
Subject to the general guidelines mentioned above, texting is allowed between
coaches and athletes during the hours from 7am until 9pm. Texting only shall
be used for the purpose of communicating information directly related to team
activities.
EMAIL:
Athletes and coaches may use email to communicate between the hours of
7am and 9pm. When communicating with an athlete through email, a parent,
another coach, must also be copied.
REQUEST TO DISCONTINUE ALL ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS:
The parents or guardians of an athlete may request in writing that their child
not be contacted by coaches through any form of electronic communication.
Parent Pick-Up:
Paseq Aquatics expects Parents or Guardians to be concerned about their
Childs safety as much as the coach’s do. Therefore it is deemed absolutely
mandatory to be at practice to pick your child up on time. Paseo Aquatic
coaches cannot constantly be waiting around for late parents to pick up their
child. This policy is ever more apparent when we train away from The Paseo
Club facility.
Parents please respect your coaches and be on time to pick your child up or
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make necessary arrangements to have them picked up. If the situation
continues Paseo Aquatics has the right to enforce a financial penalty to the
constant offender.
New Parents to Paseo Aquatics:
All families that join during the open enrollment in August of each year will be
required to attend the New Parents Meeting, which is normally held the
second week of September. The topics include the following;
General Topics:
- Welcome
- Head Coach Background
- Head Coach Philosophy
- Introduce all other Coaches (in person)
- Highlight written material
Specific Topics:
- Mission
- Basic Team Rules
- How to communicate with Coaches
• USA S - states that communication with a coach during “on deck” coaching
of any group levels could constitute non-compliance and breach the Clubs
liability coverage.
- Meet Schedule and Entry Procedure
- Facility and Safety Issues
• EAP
• Facility EAP
• All Coaches are trained through the AMR
- Outfitting and Equipment
- Expectations of Parents
Communication Topics:
- We try to hold two-way forms of communication as much as possible
- Newsletters 2-4 times per month
- Blast Emails contain important information
- Importance of having correct information on team unify
- Website Information
Novice Parent Topics:
- Benefits of participation at novice level (friendship, water safety, dedication,
confidence)
- What your child is learning and doing in practice (fundamentals of
swimming, safety, fitness)
- Basic expectations of being a swim member parent and swimmer
•Parent- support your child, support your team, Are you a pressure parent?
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•swimmer participation
- How to help and volunteer
Glossary Of Terms:
Please find the document of terminology as a PDF on web site.
A few Words of WisdomPASEO AQUATICS - “The Path to Excellence” is not just a catchy phrase.
Rather, it is meant as a constant reminder of our values for Swimmers,
Coaches, Administration, and Parents.
• The Path to Excellence is multi-dimensional as it relates to the structure of
Paseo Aquatics.
• There is a progression (path) through the Developmental Process and we
make sure to build the foundations of success appropriately with detailed
instruction.
• It means providing a Performance Opportunity within each group to gain
experience of handling the pressures from small Intra-squad meets to
International Level meets.
• It directly relates to the advancements through the Pyramids of the Team
Structure. Athlete performance is not the only indicator of and upward
progression. Focus is put on the emotional IQ of the athlete to determine if
they are ready to meet the challenges ahead.
• The measuring system between varying Group Coaches to assure the Linear
Reinforcement System.
• The continued education of parents as their child evolves through the
program.
Private Lessons:
A USA Swimming member coach can conduct a private lesson with a USA
Swimming Athlete Member. In this situation the activity is covered by USA
Swimming.
USA Swimming Safe Sport Code of Conduct should be followed which states
that any and all activities that are one on one situations be 2 deep with
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supervision. Therefore this requires the parent or another form of supervision
to be present during the course of activity.
Paseo Aquatics will uphold that our coaching staff is proprietary to Paseo
Aquatics and all private lessons be between a USA Swimming Coach Member
that is attached to Paseo Aquatics and a USA Swimming Athlete Member(s)
that are attached to Paseo Aquatics. To avoid any "Conflict of Interest" with
other Clubs and to maintain our proprietary of coaching all other activity is
not permitted.
If the coach doing the private lesson is coaching an athlete that is outside of
their normal group level they must communicate with that athlete’s coach
first to make sure the same verbiage is being used and consistency is being
applied as it relates to technique.
The Coach must abide by Paseo Aquatics Code of Conduct and be professional
at all times. It is the Coaches duties to deal with lateness, tardiness and any
financial arrangements.
100 percent of the fees paid to the Coach is theirs.
Closing:
The Paseo Aquatics Handbook is an ever evolving and ever changing tool. We
hope that you found the information useful and it becomes a tool to help
continue to grow and structure our team for many years to come. Thank you
for being a member in good standings with Paseo Aquatics.
PASEO AQUATICS Page 38 of 39
Paseo Aquatics Team Handbook
Team Policies, Terms, Membership Agreement
This is an acknowledgement that I have received the PASEO TEAM
HANDBOOK for the CURRENT swim season.
I have read, CLEARLY understand, and agree to all PASEO team policies AND
terms stated in the PASEO Team Handbook.
Parent Name____________________________ Date__________
Parent Signature_________________________ Date__________
***NOTE: This form must be signed and turned into Coach CHRIS
by no later then September 17th. Swimmers who have not turned
this form into Coach CHRIS by September 17th, will not be allowed
in the water until it is turned in.***
PASEO AQUATICS Page 39 of 39