Absence Policy
Advisory Board Policy
Appeal Procedure
Board Policy
Chain of Command
Club Evaluation Policy
Code of Conduct Policy
Coaching Certification Process
Coach Selection Process
Competitive Team Participation Policy
Discipline Policy
Driving Policy
Extracurricular Activities Policy
Late Payment Policy
Parental Policy
Payment Policy
Player Evaluation Policy
Policy Adoption Policy
Quitting Policy
Recruitment UPDATED 8-2008
Scholarship Policy
Secondary Sport Policy
Tardy Policy
Team Selection Process UPDATED 8-2008
Travel UPDATED 8-2008
Absence Policy: The intent of this policy is to not "punish" a player for missing a practice or game, but to favor those players who put in the time and commitment required by the Club. Special circumstances and exceptions may be reviewed and approved in advance by the Director, otherwise the following chart will be used by all coaches at all levels. Excused absences include illness and family emergencies. All other absences are considered unexcused without advanced approval from the Director. Each player may miss one practice during Christmas break for any reason without penalty in relation to this policy.
Adopted 05-03 (revised 8-07)
Advisory Board Policy: The Board of Directors has commissioned an Advisory Board that will work with the Director and advise him on issues that arise throughout the year. The Advisory Board is comprised of two coaches, two parents and the Director. Each of the four at-large members is asked to serve for one year (Sept.-Aug.), and is selected through an application process. A parent that desires to be on the Advisory Board must have a player involved in the Club for at least one year prior to the current season. The Advisory Board will meet bi-monthly or when the Director deems it necessary. Although the Advisory Board has no voting or decision making power, the Board hopes that the Advisory Board will serve as a sounding board for the Director by keeping him informed on what is happening within the organization and the general thoughts of the players, parents and staff members within the club. If your player is a member and you are interested in serving on the Advisory Board, contact the Club's Director.
Adopted 07-02 (revised 8-07)
Appeal Procedure: The Board of Directors acknowledges that within any set of policies, exceptions may arise that are not completely covered or seem unfair to an individual situation. Therefore, the Board has established an appeal process that may be used for any disciplinary actions or consequences administered due to Club policies. The player or parents involved must give written notice to the Director within seven days and must include an explanation as to the reason for the appeal and request a formal review. The Director will convene the Advisory Board within 10 days of receiving the written request. The Advisory Board will review the actions taken and the appeal petition. The Advisory Board will then make a recommendation to the Board of Directors to either uphold the current actions taken by the Director or offer an alternative course of action. The final decision will rest with the Board of Directors.
Adopted 10-03
Board Policy: The Board of Directors will act as the legal entity for the WCVBC, Inc. The Board of Directors will establish policies and determine the general direction for the organization. The Board of Directors will annually hire a Director who will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Club. The Board of Directors will meet bi-annually to discuss and review necessary corporate business. Adopted 7-99
Chain of Command Policy: The Club's expectation is that everyone within the WCVBC will follow the established chain of command. All players and parents with concerns or issues must first contact their respective coach. If a coach cannot adequately handle the situation, the coach will contact the Director and ask for assistance. If a parent or player first contacts the Director, he will only act as a sounding board and will not take any actions until the coach is contacted. At no time is any person within the organization to contact a board member without first contacting the Director. Anyone not adhering to the chain of command may be dismissed from the WCVBC. Adopted 7-00 (revised 8-03)
Club Evaluation Policy: The Board of Directors has deemed that it is important for each family involved in the Club to have the opportunity to provide constructive feedback to the Club regarding their experience. The Director will provide a yearend evaluation that will be available for each family. The Club desires to seek feedback from both the parents and the players since they may view the club experience from different points of view. The Advisory Board will review the evaluations each year with the Director and prepare a summary for the Board of Directors. The Board will review the summary and determine if they need to review current policies and procedures, and if any changes or new policies need to be developed.
Adopted 07-99 (revised 10-03)
Code of Conduct Policy:
Basic Principle
Our goal is to establish a well-respected program within the Rocky Mountain Region of the USAV. We will accomplish this by setting goals to obtain, taking pride in our program, and we will do it with dignity and self control. The basic rule of this program is not to do anything that would embarrass the program, your coaches or yourself. If you use this basic guideline prior to your actions, we believe you will make the correct choices.
General Appearance
While the WCVBC recognizes the importance of the individual, volleyball is a team sport. Players need to present themselves as not to attract exceptional attention to themselves or become a distraction to the "team concept." This may include, but is not limited to, hair color, body piercing, or unusual clothing. If a player's appearance is deemed unsatisfactory or is in violation of this policy, the team's coach will notify the Director in writing, who will determine the resolution to the situation based on the circumstances. Players are encouraged to check with the Club's Director prior to making significant changes to their appearance.
Team Rules
1. The team comes first. There is no "I" in team.
2. Any involvement or suspected involvement with alcohol, tobacco, or any other illegal substance is grounds for immediate dismissal from the program.
3. Inappropriate language will not be tolerated. If a player uses this type of language, they will face a stiff penalty at the next practice and could be suspended from the next match. Continual violation with inappropriate language could result in dismissal from the program.
4. Any outward display of anger and/or frustration by a player will not be tolerated. We cannot afford to lose our emotional composer during competition; therefore, it will not be tolerated at any time a player is with the team.
5. Any behavior by a player that puts the program, coaches or other players at risk is strictly prohibited and is grounds for immediate dismissal from the program, no exceptions.
Practice Rules
1. All practices are mandatory. You must notify your coach prior to practice if you cannot attend. Excused absences include illness and family emergencies. All other missed practices are considered unexcused and will effect playing time. Homework is not an excused absence. Some family activities may be excused, but must be cleared in advance by the Club's Director in order to be treated as an "excused absence". Failure to make practices or team activities will effect your potential playing time at the next tournament. Remember that we must all have the same commitment to the team.
2. Practices will start on time, so be early. All players should arrive at least ten minutes early to help put up equipment. A player being late to practice will be penalized according to the Club policy. Repeat offenders will receive limited playing time at the next tournament.
3. Since our gym time is valuable, all players will come ready to practice. Remember that intensity never fails. You will give 100% at all times during practice or you may be asked to leave. When we are in the gym you must have a single focus - volleyball.
4. Only parents, guardians or responsible persons will be allowed to watch practices. However, parents who attempt to coach during practices will be asked to leave. They are there only as spectators.
5. Any player using abusive language or showing outward signs of anger will be asked to leave practice. Continual behavior of this type could result in a tournament suspension or dismissal from the program.
6. Since our gym time is valuable, there will be no sitting during a practice unless instructed to do so by a coach. Therefore players will run at all times during practice with the exception of water breaks. Remember, champions hustle.
7. To form good habits for competition, players will hustle after every ball, call every ball, and never let the ball hit the ground without a player on the ground as well.
8. No players will wear jewelry during practice. NO EXCEPTIONS - this includes any type of body piercing.
9. Players will wear practice T-shirts to practice without exception. Players will dress neatly and will keep their shirts tucked in at all times. All players will wear kneepads to practice. Hair will be properly managed so that it is off of your face at all times.
10. No one will leave the gym at anytime during or after practice without your coach's approval. Failure to comply will result in a one-tournament suspension. Coaches must know where players are at all times.
11. All bags and personal belongings will be neatly placed at one end of the gym or in a spot designated by your coach.
12. We will always leave the gym in the same condition we found it. At no time will a player leave anything at a gym, including trash and athletic tape.
13. Everyone will always be active in practice. If you are not directly in a drill then you will concentrate on shagging balls or following the instructions of your coach. Never let a coach run out of balls. Practice will break down when we do not all do our part to keep things moving.
14. All players will continually encourage each other throughout practice by encouraging one another. The beginning of the end on a volleyball court always starts with a lack of communication.
15. Finally, always be thinking about volleyball at practice. Do not allow your thoughts, actions, or conversations to stray. There is always something for you to be thinking about or learning in a practice situation.
Competition Rules
1. You are responsible for knowing when and where you are to be at all times. You are always to let your coach know where you are. Failure to be at the right place and the right time will either result in a one-match suspension or dismissal from the team.
2. Players are not permitted to drive to any out of town functions unless their parent(s) are in the vehicle. Players found to have driven to an outside event will be suspended from the program until a disciplinary hearing can be convened.
3. All players must obey any and all facility rules at all times. Remember that we are guests at these places.
4. Only the floor captain or the coach is allowed to talk with the officials. Keep your comments to yourself.
5. All players on the bench must stay warm and mentally prepared to enter the game at any time in any position. Failure to be ready may cause an immediate substitution.
6. The teams will leave for tournaments, sites, meals, etc. on time. Do not be late or you will be left behind!
7. Your team will stay together at all times. If you are not with the team, you are probably in the wrong place. Only the coach may give a player permission to go with a parent and only a parent.
8. Everyone is responsible for the balls we have. It is everyone's responsibility to keep track of our equipment. Remember lost balls means more cost to everyone.
9. You will be responsible to help with officiating, scoring, line judging, etc. You need to know when and where the team will be helping with these duties. We must be early when responsible for the officiating or the team can be fined or penalized.
10. We will try to support our other Club teams whenever possible. Remember that we are a program that takes pride in each other as well as ourselves.
11. Failure to comply with competition rules will result in an automatic one-day suspension and will most likely result in being dismissed from the Program. We are liable for you and your actions, and these guidelines and regulations will not be taken lightly.
**Please remember that you are guaranteed to practice and you will be given the opportunity to earn playing time.**
Adopted 7-99 (revised 8-07)
Coaching Certification Process: Each coach that is assigned a team must complete the necessary certification process to coach at that age level. There are four levels of certifications: Level 1 may coach 12-13 year olds, Level 2 may coach any team 14 and under, Level 3 may coach any team 16 and under, and Level 4 coaches may coach any level of teams. A coach obtains each level by taking a 4-hour coaching course and passing the test with a score of 80% or better for that level. A coach can challenge any level once by taking the test and getting a passing score. If they do not pass the challenge test, they must take the required course and retest. Adopted 8-06
Coach Selection Process: Each person that desires to coach for the WCVBC must submit a completed application that can be obtained from the Director. Each applicant must pass a background check and submit a finger print card. Once an application is complete and submitted to the Director, he will conduct a personal interview and determine which positions a perspective coach may apply. The Board of Directors has deemed that the Director will make all personnel hiring decisions within the Club. Only the Board of Directors can terminate a hired position within the organization. All positions with the Club are on a year-to-year basis. The WCVBC represents a multitude of schools and programs throughout Western Colorado and desires to see all programs succeed. Therefore, the Board of Directors have decided to avoid hiring staff members affiliated with local high schools to avoid the appearance of favoritism toward any one program.
Adopted 6-99 (reviewed 8-07)
Competitive Teams Participation Policy: Those players chosen to one of the Club's competitive teams must make participation a high priority. Each player selected is expected to be available for all predetermined tournaments, including those that are held on holiday weekends or during Spring Break. Failure to comply with this policy may result in the player not being eligible to make the program the following year. As with any policy, special considerations can be considered by providing in writing a letter of explanation to the Club's director prior to the start of the season. Adopted 10-06
Discipline Policy: The WCVBC discipline policy is two pronged. Infractions are divided into legal violations and club violations. Listed below are the consequences for those decisions and actions. Legal Violations: If a player is arrested for any violation, found to have activity participated in any illegal activity, that player will immediately be removed from the program. A player may appeal the dismissal (see Appeal Procedure). If a player is removed for a legal violation, they are not eligible to rejoin the club for two years. Club Violations: The team coach and Director will discuss the most appropriate course of action for each violation. Furthermore, that player will be immediately placed on probation for the remainder of the year. If a player commits a second violation, the player will be immediately suspended from their team until the Director can set up a meeting with the player and parent(s) to determine if the player is to be dismissed from the program. Should a third violation occur, the player will be dismissed from the program without question and is not eligible to play the following season. Absences and Tardiness have there own policies and are not covered under this policy.
Adopted 06-00 (revised 10-03)
Driving Policy: No player (no matter of age) who plays with the WCVBC may drive to any Club function outside the Grand Junction area unless at least one biological parent or legal guardian is in the vehicle. No player may leave a WCVBC function with anyone except a parent or guardian. A parent may grant permission in writing for a player to leave a function with another family member who is over the age of 25 years old. If a player violates this policy they may be immediately dismissed from the program or other disciplinary actions will be taken. Adopted 07-01
Extracurricular Activities Policy: It is important for anyone involved with the WCVBC to understand the Team concept. Strong teams are built because individuals come together to play and support each other. While the Club does not condone certain activities during the season, players and their families must consider the impact on the Team when choosing the various extracurricular activities available. The Club encourages players to avoid high risk activities during the club season like snow skiing, snowboarding and other activities with a high injury potential. Adopted 10-06
Late Payment Policy: Base fees need to be paid prior to a team's third practice or no later than January 15th. A player is not permitted to compete until their account is brought current or other arrangements have been made with the Director. An account is considered delinquent if not paid in full by February 1st and is subject to a 10% late fee penalty. All delinquent accounts are subject to 1.5% interest per month until the account is paid in full. If an account in more than 10 months delinquent, the account may be forwarded to a collection agency. The Board of Directors will annually review delinquent accounts. No player who has a delinquent account is eligible to play for the Club the following year until their account is made current. Adopted 10-03
Parental Policy: It is an expectation of the Club that our parents set an example for all players. Parents are expected to show support of the program, its leaders, and the coaches at all times. If a parent sets an example or demonstrates behavior that is unacceptable, inappropriate or contrary to the standards of the Club, a player may be removed from the program without any refund of fees or payments. Adopted 08-00
Payment Policy: The parent(s) of each player is responsible for any and all financial responsibilities to the Club. Payments can be made via cash, check or credit card. The Club has set up a web page that gives a family the option of paying their appropriate fees by credit card. The base fee payment is considered delinquent if not paid by February 1st of each club season. Any player who's account is delinquent for any reason may not compete with their team until either the account is brought current or other arrangements have been made and approved by the Director. Any player that does not meet their financial agreements from a previous year is not eligible to participate within the Club until the account is paid in full.
Adopted 06-00 (revised 09-03)
Player Evaluation Policy: At the conclusion of each season, coaches will complete and turn in to the Director a player evaluation that will be placed in a player's file. Any family or player that completes a Club Evaluation may request a copy of the player evaluation, which will be given to them or sent through the mail. The evaluation will evaluate a player's skill level in several categories, as well as make suggestions on what to work on during the off-season. Adopted 07-01
Policy Adoption & Change Policy: The Board of Directors has the authority to add, change or revise any existing policy. The Advisory Board may make recommendations to the Director who will review those recommendations and determine if they will be forwarded to the Board of Directors for consideration. Adopted 07-99 (revised 8-03)
Quitting Policy: Any player who has been selected to the program and quits for any reason without permission from the Director is not eligible to participate in the program for that current year and the following year. A player is considered selected to the program once they have participated during tryouts and is officially offered a position on a team.
Adopted 06-02 (reviewed 08-03)
Recruitment: Coaches may tactfully approach perspective players or parents with general information about the Club. Coaches may encourage perspective families to checkout the Club's web site for more information and inform players of upcoming events, including age appropriate tryouts. Coaches may not make any promises to a perspective player or their families about making the program prior to participating in the tryout process. There is an exception for select competitive teams. See Team Selection Policy for further information. (Adopted 8-08)
Scholarship Policy: Any person who has financial needs may request help from the organization. A player may request a scholarship up to one half the total amount of their base fees. The parent(s) of a player with need, must submit in writing a letter to the Director explaining the need for financial assistance and ask for a specific amount of scholarship funds. The Director, and if needed, the Advisory Board will review scholarship request, and make a determination based on need and available funds. Adopted (8-03)
Secondary Sport Policy: Players participating in the Juniors program may play another sport concurrently as long as club volleyball is deemed their first priority. If the Director, along with input from their coach, determines that a player has made another sport their priority by missing practices, club activities or matches, that player will not be allowed to participate in the next club season. Everyone must have the same level of commitment to make the program successful and players indicate this when they sign their Club Commitment Form.
Adopted 07-01 (revised 08-03)
Tardy Policy: The intent of this policy is to not "punish" a player for being tardy to a practice or game, but to favor those players who fulfilled their commitment to be on time. Special circumstances and exceptions may be reviewed and approved in advance by the Director, otherwise the following chart will be followed by all coaches at all levels.
Adopted 05-01 (revised 10-03)
Team Selection Process: A basic philosophy of the WCVBC is to develop "volleyball players". A volleyball player is someone who has the basic skills to play any position at any time and play the game. We realize that players have strengths and weaknesses, but a volleyball player understands, and can play the complete game, not just a position.
The WCVBC uses a point system to determine team selection. Each player is evaluated for skills, attitude, and hustle at a yearly tryout. Players are awarded points based on overall skills, coach's evaluations, parental involvement and years in the program.
For Gold Cup Teams, the players who have the ten highest scores in each age division will be invited to join the program. In some cases there will be a second team in some age divisions, which means the next ten highest scores will be offered a position. The goal of each team is to find ten "volleyball players" to fill the roster.
The Competitive Teams will be comprised of seven to nine players. The Director has the option of assigning a tenth position if he feels it will strengthen a team. The tenth position is generally filled by a defensive specialist. While in general, defensive specialists do not fit into the Club's basic philosophy, there is on occasion, a place for this to strengthen a team. Coaches of Competitive Teams may tactfully approach perspective parents and players with information about the upcoming club season prior to the tryouts held in early November. All 15's team members will be determined by an evaluative tryout process and no invitations will be made until after these tryouts have been completed. Coaches of the 16's and 17's teams may approach perspective players during the high school season and may offer a predetermined number (not to exceed six) of pre-tryout team positions, which must be approved by the Director. Players who are offered team positions prior to tryouts must submit the required Club paperwork, along with a $500.00 non-refundable deposit before the established deadline. The remaining team spots will be filled through an evaluative tryout process. The 18's team will be determined by invitation only with the approval of the Director. (revised 08-08)
Travel: Players are responsible for their transportation to and from out of town tournaments. Players may travel with their parents or someone over 21 years old with their parent's permission. Players are not allowed to drive alone to away tournaments. The Club is not responsible or liable for players during travel to or from tournaments unless they are traveling with the team's coach or while the team is together at a Club sanctioned activity. Players may opt to stay with their parents providing their parents stay at the same hotel as the coach and team. Only the Director can make exceptions to this rule. The Club will offer rooms to players and parents at the same contract amount. Players are responsible to attend any and all team meetings, meals and functions at tournaments. Exceptions can be made by prior approval of the team's coach. Any exceptions must be communicated to the Club's Director. (Adopted 8-08)