Over recent months the club has moved forward in many ways from attainment of Swim 21 status, through to the results being achieved by our swimmers at galas. Our coaches continue to work hard with the support of parents and the club committee to develop pool sessions, the ultimate aim being to allow the club to build on the successes achieved to date.

In recent weeks a number of issues concerning the discipline of some swimmers during training sessions, have been brought to my attention. Good behavioural standards from our swimmers is important, for the following reasons:

The safety of swimmers during poolside.

 It is far easier for coaches and lifeguards to spot problems if all swimmers are training in an orderly manner. Swimmer safety is paramount.

Club image.

We are a sports club and to succeed, we need to maintain a disciplined approach to our training and the competitions we engage in. A disciplined approach to sport, forms the basic fabric of success.

Club morale

Continued issues with club discipline sap morale undermine coaches and waste considerable amounts of time, for all those involved with the club.

During 2009 I spoke to all swimmers regarding club discipline explaining its importance and the consequences for swimmers, if discipline did not improve. In recent weeks some swimmers have forgotten the importance of maintaining acceptable standards of behaviour.

I do not wish to undermine the confidence and enthusiasm of the majority of our swimmers, so I will again speak to the senior squad, regarding their achievements over the last year. I will also remind them of the standards of behaviour expected during training and the consequences if these standards are not adhered to.

The protocol for the minority unable to adhere to the standards required, the club will act as follows:

· In the first instance of poor behaviour swimmers will be spoken to by coaches or poolside helpers
· Coaches may communicate poor behaviour of swimmers to parents
 
If standards do not improve:
 
· Swimmers will be asked to leave the pool, get changed and await collection from parents.
 
· In the last instance swimmers will meet with me, together with a club coach and the club child protection Officer, to discuss behavioural issues. Swimmers will be warned that continued poor discipline, will result in a temporary or permanent exclusion from the club.

I would stress this process will be followed in instances where, this is the first period where behaviour is below standards expected. Where swimmers have already been spoken to by coaches, then the further actions as noted above will be invoked.

We are a club manned largely of volunteers, relying on the goodwill of all, to create an atmosphere in which swimmers can achieve and whilst doing so enjoy the company and friendship of their peers. I trust you will understand the need to report to you in this way and look forward to your continued support as the club moves forward.

Regards to all

Andrew Moss

Chairman