Code of Conduct

CODE OF CONDUCT AND GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS AND WRESTLERS
Approved 25 November 2025

CLUB EXPECTATIONS

1. The Dexter Wrestling Club (DWC) expects excellent conduct from wrestlers, coaches, and parents—on and off the mat.

1. Wrestlers will show respect at school, practice, competitions, home, and in the community.

2. We hold each other to high standards of discipline, sportsmanship, and integrity.

COACHING PHILOSOPHY

1. Wrestling is demanding—our coaches are here to support growth and effort.

2. Feedback will focus on attitude and effort, not ability.

3. Coaches and wrestlers will avoid profanity or inappropriate language.

4. Parents may observe but not coach during practices or tournaments.

CODE OF CONDUCT

1. No Fooling Around or Horseplay -- “Fooling around” or “horseplay” refers to rough, careless, or unserious behavior that distracts others or risks injury. Examples include:

1. • Yelling or teasing

   • Distracting others during instruction

   • Fake punches, pushing, or mock fighting

   • Messing with others’ gear

   • Throwing objects or running in unsafe areas

   • Playing with equipment or jumping off furniture

Such behavior disrupts learning and safety. Coaches must be free to teach without distractions.

2. Sportsmanship & Safety -- Aggressive, illegal, or retaliatory acts will not be tolerated. Wrestlers must train safely and help teammates improve.
   
   

   • Report issues to a coach immediately.

   • Retaliation or intentional harm will result in removal.

   • Repeated issues may result in dismissal from the club.

3. Respect at Competitions -- Wrestlers should support teammates respectfully. Fooling around on or near the mat is distracting and disrespectful and may result in removal to sit with parents.

4. Mat Access -- Only wrestlers and designated coaches are allowed on the mat. Parents may not coach unless credentialed by DWC.

5. Zero Tolerance -- Aggressive or disrespectful behavior toward referees, opponents, coaches, or parents—by wrestlers or adults—will not be tolerated.

6. Responsibility -- Coaches will provide a safe, positive learning environment. Parents must ensure their child follows DWC rules.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION

1. Practice:

• First offense -- verbal warning.

• Second -- brief time-out (minimum five minutes).

• Third -- removal from practice and parent contact.

2. Tournaments:

• Any disciplinary action or disqualification will be reviewed by the DWC Board, which may issue consequences such as an apology, suspension, or tournament restriction.

• A second disqualification for aggression or illegal conduct will result in removal from DWC.

COMMUNICATION

1. E-mail, text, and social media are for information only—not for complaints. Speak directly with a coach or board member for concerns.

2. 24-Hour Rule: Wait 24 hours before addressing issues after a practice or tournament to allow for calm, productive discussion.