Policies

ORGANIZATION AND LEADERSHIP 

Swan City Soccer Club, Inc. (“Swan City SC” or “Club”) is a community- oriented  organization supporting recreational and competitive soccer playing under affiliation with  the Florida Youth Soccer Organization and U.S. Club Soccer. The Swan City SC Club organization is exempt from tax under IRS Section 501c(3). The Club’s website is located  at www.swancitysc.com 

MISSION 

To provide a fun, competitive soccer experience for youth in Central Florida.

VISION 

To be the premier youth soccer Club in Central Florida. Driven by a focus to develop youth, on and off the field, celebrated for its commitment to community, and defined by a lasting legacy of producing talent and inspiring passion for the game.

PURPOSE 

The purpose of these policies are to provide for the Swan City board, staff, coaches, volunteers,  players, and parents a guide to the operation and expectations of the organization. The  manual does not take away the power and effect of the Club By-Laws and in any area of  conflict, the by-laws shall prevail. This manual is intended to be amended frequently to  reflect the changing conditions of Swan City operations. 

ADMINISTRATION 

Board 

The Board of Directors shall be placed in accordance with the By-Laws. The Board shall be  responsible for administration and development of the Club policies and procedures as well  as longer term strategic planning. 

Administrative Team 

The Technical Director of Coaching and his staff are responsible for the overall administrative  leadership and management of the organization according to the strategic direction set by  the Board of Directors. 

Director of Coaching (DOC) 

The DOC is responsible for managing and leading the coaching and player development of  all Swan City programs as well as running the day-to-day operations of the Club’s Interleague,  Academy, and Travel soccer programs, and summer camps, and Leagues.

In the event that training sessions or games are affected by weather, every effort will be made by the club to make up the session or game.

LIGHTNING POLICY

We expect all players, families, spectators, coaches, employees alike to follow the procedures in order to keep all parties safe.

Coaches, with the support, of parents must monitor lightning using any lighting phone app.

SUSPENSION & RESUMPTION OF ACTIVITY

Outdoor activity must be suspended when lightning is a maximum of six miles away.

The "30/30 Rule" should be followed when evaluating lightning danger: if lightning is 30 seconds away, it is too close, and do not resume play for 30 minutes from the last seen flash or last heard thunder.

SUSPENSION

The preferred method of determining a lightning strike is using an electronic lighting detection device. However, the Flash-to-Bang method for detecting lightning in the area is also acceptable. To utilize this method:

• • When a lightning flash is spotted begin counting until you hear the first sound of thunder.
  • The number of seconds between the flash of lightning and sound of thunder is then divided by 5. This number represents the distance, in miles, from the lightning hit.

For example, when the Flash-to Bang count reaches 30 seconds, the lightning has struck 6 miles away. The 30-30 rule states that when the Flash-to-Bang count is 30 seconds or below, all activity should be stopped and all individuals should seek a safe shelter. You cannot resume play for 30 minutes. It may seem safe to return to activity after the storm has passed, but this is not true. Therefore, every time lightning is seen or thunder is heard, the 30-minute clock should be reset.

Lightning should be monitored with the first flash of lightning or clap of thunder, no matter how far away the storm is. It is critical to monitor how far away the lightning is occurring and how fast the storm is approaching, relative to the distance of a safe shelter.

In the event that play is suspended, all individuals, including athletes, coaches, referees, and spectators, should immediately go indoors or to their cars to wait for the storm to pass. If unable to reach safe shelter, stay away from the tallest trees or objects (such as light poles or flag poles), metal objects (such as fences or bleachers), individual trees, standing pools of water, and open fields.

RESUMPTION

Lightning safety experts recommend waiting 30 minutes after both the last sound of thunder and after the last flash of lightning is at least six miles away, and moving away from the venue.

CHAIN OF COMMAND

The team coaches are responsible for ensuring that their players are safe during the storm. If lightning occurs during a practice or a clinic, the team coaches and/or the technical staff coaches are responsible for monitoring weather conditions. The coaches are responsible for ensuring that all players are safe during the storm.

Parents/Spectators

• I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, game officials, and administrators at all times.
• I will place the emotional and physical well-being of all players ahead of any personal desire to win.
• I will support the coaches, officials, and administrators working with my child, in order to encourage a positive and enjoyable experience for all.
• I will remember that the game is for the players, not for the adults.
• I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, game officials, administrators, and fans with respect.
• I will always be positive.
• I will always allow the coach to be the only coach.
• I will not get into arguments with the opposing team's parents, players, or coaches.
• I will not come onto the field for any reason during the game.
• I will not criticize game officials.
• I shall not possess, consume or distribute before, during, or after any game or at any other
time at the field and/or game complex alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, or unauthorized prescription drugs.
• I will refrain from any activity or conduct that may be detrimental or reflect adversely upon SCSC, its members, or its programs.
Failure to comply may result in the suspension of your privilege to participate in SCSC-sanctioned events, for the following periods:
1st offense -- suspension for a minimum of thirty (30) days to a maximum of five (5) years. 
2nd offense -- suspension for a minimum of one (1) year to a maximum of ten (10) years. 
3rd offense -- suspension for a minimum of five (5) years to a maximum of fifty (50) years.
NOTE: Any individual charged with a violation of this Code of Ethics shall be afforded due process as defined in FYSA's Rule Section 600 before the implementation of any suspension. 

Players

• I will encourage good sportsmanship from fellow players, coaches, officials, and parents at all times.
• I will remember that soccer is an opportunity to learn and have fun.
• I deserve to play in an environment that is free of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol; and expect everyone to refrain from their use at all soccer games.
• I will do the best I can each day, remembering that all players have talents and weaknesses the same as I do.
• I will treat my coaches, other players and coaches, game officials, other administrators, and fans with respect at all times; regardless of race, sex, creed, or abilities, and I will expect to be treated accordingly.
• I will concentrate on playing soccer. Always giving my best effort.
• I will play by the rules at all times.
• I will at all times control my temper, resisting the temptation of retaliation.
• I will always exercise self-control.
• My conduct during competition towards the play of the game and all officials shall be in accordance with appropriate behavior and in accordance with FIFA's "Laws of the Game," and in adherence to SCSC rules.
• While traveling, I shall conduct myself so as to bring credit to myself and my team.
• I shall not possess, consume or distribute before, during, or after any game or at any other time at the field and/or game complex alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, or unauthorized prescription drugs.
• I will never use abusive or insulting language. I will treat everyone with dignity. 

Coaches / Volunteers

• I will never place the value of winning before the safety and welfare of all players.
• I will always show respect for players, other coaches, and game officials.
• I will lead by example, demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship at all times.
• I will demonstrate knowledge of the rules of the game, and teach these rules to my players.
• I will never use abusive or insulting language. I will treat everyone with dignity.
• I will not tolerate inappropriate behavior, regardless of the situation.
• I will not allow the use of anabolic agents or stimulants, drugs, tobacco, or alcohol by any of my players.
• I will never knowingly jeopardize the eligibility and participation of a student-athlete.
• Youth have a greater need for example than criticism. I will be the primary soccer role model.
• I will at all times conduct myself in a positive manner.
• Coaching is motivating players to produce their best effort, inspiring players to learn, and encouraging players to be winners.
• My actions on the sidelines during games shall be in the spirit of "good sportsmanship" at all times. Profanity, profane gestures, arguing, inciting disruptive behavior by spectators and/or players, or any conduct not in the spirit of good sportsmanship, shall require disciplinary action from the affiliate.
• I shall not possess, consume or distribute before, during, or after any game or at any other
time at the field and/or game complex alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, or unauthorized
prescription drugs.
• I will refrain from any activity or conduct that may be detrimental or reflect adversely upon SCSC, its members, or its programs.
• I will accurately and completely complete the coach/volunteer application form and by application attest to the accuracy of the information submitted

Under Florida law, a player who has a suspected concussion or head injury must be removed from play or practice. Before the player may return to practice or competition a written medical clearance to return stating that the youth athlete no longer exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion or other head injury must be received from an appropriate healthcare professional trained in the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of concussion. In Florida, an appropriate health-care professional (AHCP is defined as either a licensed physician (MD, as per Chapter 458, Florida Statutes), a licensed osteopathic physician (DO, as per Chapter 459, Florida Statutes), a licensed physician's assistant under the supervision of an MD/DO (as per Chapters 458.347 and 459.022, Florida Statutes) or a healthcare professional trained in the management of concussions.
 All participants will be required to complete the concussion policy and procedure acknowledgment during the registration process. 

Communications are an important and essential tool to address issues and provide information for our players, parents and members. We use a variety of tools to communicate with you and have established policies to ensure a highly safe and secure communication environment.

 ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS & SOCIAL MEDIA

 All electronic communications between a coach and minor athlete must be professional in nature and for communicating information about the program. 

As with any communication, the content of any electronic communication should be readily available to share with the athlete’s family. At the request of a parent or guardian, any email, electronic text, social media, or similar communication will copy or include the athlete’s parent or guardians.

FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, BLOGS AND SIMILAR SITES

Any coaches or volunteers that communicate with minor athletes through sites like Facebook or Instagram must communicate only in group and public form (no private communication). Coaches may not have athletes join a personal or team social media page. All posts, messages, texts, or media of any kind shared among athletes or between coach and athlete must be professional in nature and for communicating information about team activities or for team-oriented motivational purposes.

TWITTER, INSTANT MESSAGING AND SIMILAR MEDIA

All communication is to be public in Coaches and minor athletes may “follow” each other. Coaches cannot “re- tweet” athlete message posts. Coaches and volunteers are not permitted to “direct message” minor athletes through Twitter (or similar media).

EMAIL AND SIMILAR ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS

Athletes and coaches may use email to communicate if the athlete is at least 14 years of age. All email content between coach and athlete must be professional in nature and for communicating information about program activities. Where possible, the minor athlete’s parent should be copied on email communications. Email communication between coaches and minor athletes is allowed during the hours of 7 am and 9 pm.

TEXTING, SNAPCHAT, AND SIMILAR ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS

Texting is prohibited between coaches and the minor athlete. Any texting should be done in a group. Any communication through text to a minor athlete must include a parent/guardian. All texts between a coach and an athlete must be professional and for communicating information about team activities. No texting is allowed between a coach, athlete, and parent before 7 am or after 9 pm, unless there is a specific soccer activity that requires text communication.

• The use of Snapchat (and similar apps) with minor athletes is not permitted. 

 ELECTRONIC IMAGERY

From time to time, digital photos, videos of practice or competition, and other publicly obtainable images of the minor athlete – individually or in groups – may be taken. These photos and/or videos may be used for athlete instruction (i.e. practice and game films), team videos, team websites, or offered to athletes’ families. The use of photos/videos is permissible if the athlete or athletes are in public view and such imagery is both appropriate and in the best interest of the athlete and the program. Photo or video imagery must not be contrary to any rules or guidance outlined in this Code of Conduct.

REQUEST TO DISCONTINUE

The parent or guardian of a minor athlete may request in writing that their athlete not be contacted by coaches through any electronic communication; that request must be honored. Additionally, a parent or guardian of a minor athlete may request in writing that photographs or videography of their athlete not be posted on program or team websites, understanding that group photography or videography may render this impracticle; to the extent this request is practicable, it should be honored. Any such requests shall be in writing and provided to the coach and an SCSC representative.

MISCONDUCT

Social media and electronic communication can be used inappropriately. (i.e., emotional abuse, sexual abuse, bullying, harassment, and hazing). Such communication by coaches, volunteers, officials, administrators, parents or other athletes will not be tolerated. 

Electronic communication should not contain or relate to any of the following:

• Drugs or alcohol use;
• Sexually oriented conversation, sexually explicit language, or sexual activity;
• An adult’s personal life, social activities, relationship or family issues, or personal problems; and
• Inappropriate or sexually explicit pictures.

Any communication concerning a minor athlete’s personal life, social activities, relationships, family issues, or personal problems must be transparent, accessible, and professional.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

Swan City SC (“SCSC”) recognizes the importance of the Internet in shaping the public’s perception of our organization. SCSC also recognizes the importance of our players, parents, coaches, directors of coaching, administrative staff, and board of directors in leading and setting the tone of social media interactions in a manner that advances SCSC’s mission and goals.

Applicability

This Social Media Policy applies to all SCSC players, parents, coaches, directors of coaching, administrative staff, and board of directors (“SCSC Members”).

This Social Media Policy applies to all social media content posted by SCSC Members in their professional and personal capacity to the extent such content is related to SCSC.

All questions regarding social media shall be forwarded to Swan City COMMUNICATIONS.

GUIDELINES

All SCSC Members shall abide by the following guidelines when using social media:

• SCSC members shall not post content that would harm SCSC or damage SCSC’s reputation. Remember, even while you are on your own personal time, you are a representative of SCSC, and people may interpret your online postings or social interactions as though they were official SCSC statements.
• SCSC members should use good judgment when posting comments on any official SCSC sites. SCSC members should keep in mind that his/her comments can create liability for SCSC. If an SCSC member is unsure whether a comment is appropriate to post, the member shall either not post the comment or obtain prior approval from the SCSC staff.
• SCSC members shall use good judgment about what he or she publishes on Social Media. Once something is posted, it exists online forever.
• SCSC members shall encourage others to engage in positive interactions on social media. If an SCSC member is concerned about any SCSC member’s use of social media, he/she should bring his/her concerns to the attention of an SCSC director of coaching or a member of the SCSC Board of Directors.
• Personally identifiable information (information, such as a name and date of birth and/or a street address which, when taken together, can identify a particular individual) should not be disclosed in any manner on official SCSC social networking sites without the approval of an SCSC Director of Coaching or SCSC Board of Directors. 
• SCSC members shall take full responsibility for their online profile, including their posts and any photos, videos, or their recordings posted by others in which he/she appears. 
• SCSC members shall not degrade their opponents before, during or after games. 
• SCSC members shall post only positive things about his/her teammates and coaches. opponents, and officials.

VIOLATIONS OF SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

• SCSC shall have the authority to monitor and enforce this Social Media Policy. SCSC reserves the right to remove any inappropriate or offensive comments from official SCSC sites and to block any individual or organization from posting on any official SCSC social media platform if they determine, in their sole discretion, that such removal or block is in the best interests of SCSC.
• SCSC members shall post only positive things about his/her teammates, coaches, opponents and officials. 
• The failure of any SCSC Member to adhere to this Social Media Policy shall be considered a violation of the SCSC Code of Conduct, and any SCSC Member who fails to adhere to this Social Media Policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of such individual’s involvement in SCSC, in accordance with the SCSC Disciplinary Procedures.

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Accepting a position on a travel team is done with the understanding that there is NO GUARANTEED GAME/PLAYING TIME.

Once you have accepted the position and paid your first installment, you understand that the balance must be paid in full. Failure to pay the balance in full by the end of the travel play period will result in the player being designated as "not in good standing" with the governing associations affiliated with the Club. The club (SCSC) has the right to refer the unpaid balance to a debt collection agency.

With the exception of the below, there are no refunds.

Exceptions are:

• Medical: In the event of medically documented proof of player injury that prevents him/her from playing for more than sixty (90) days.
• Relocation: Due to a parent's job relocation out of the area, beyond 100 miles. Proof of location shall be accompanied by the online release form.
 Proration will be applied with proper documentation. The online release form is available on the Resources and Forms tab on the SCSC website.



Swan City SC provides a 10-month payment plan option for families to fulfill their financial obligation. Installment payments ("Payment Plan") may be selected in the registration portal. If an installment plan is selected, a credit card must be added to the player profile.
The first payment must be paid upon registration and payments will be automatically processed on the 2nd of each month beginning in August. 
Individual monthly statements will not be mailed all monthly payments are the responsibility of the player's guardian.




A late fee of $25 will be imposed after the 30th of each month if the draft is declined or payment has not been received.

Installment plans do incur a finance charge.

Installment plans are provided to cover the full seasonal year.

Installments are to be paid regardless of time off due to high school play, minor injuries, vacations, etc.

FAILURE TO FULFILL FINANCIAL COMMITMENT

Failure to fulfill the player's financial obligations within thirty (30) days of the fee due date, may result in the revocation of the player's pass by the Club Registrar and noted: "Not in Good Standing." This could result in the player's playing privileges, practices, camps, games, and tournaments, being suspended until all the contract obligations are fulfilled. SCSC does realize that emergencies may result in financial strain on the family. In order to prevent a "Not in Good Standing" status, please communicate in advance with the Club, who will work to find appropriate solutions.

Releases

We are not obligated to release a player. For any player release to be considered, all fees must be paid in full.

INTRODUCTION

Swan City Soccer Club (“SCSC”) recognizes that involvement in premier soccer can present significant (and sometimes unforeseen) costs such as special events, tournaments, showcases, and out-of-state travel expenses. The Club provides avenues for which our members may meet those financial obligations through fundraising activities.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this “Fundraising Policy” is to ensure that SCSC players, team managers, coaches, and parents understand the Club’s fundraising policies and authorized activities.

SCSC is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and it is vital for the Club to protect this nonprofit status. Any unauthorized fundraising activities could put the Club’s nonprofit status in jeopardy.

FUNDRAISING APPROACH- CLUB

SCSC, as a non-profit entity, must utilize fundraising as a means to benefit the Club's annual operating budget, the Club Scholarship program, and to provide some contribution back to teams as needed. The SCSC Board of Directors serves as the Club-wide fundraising arm and the Club President may appoint Club members to the Fundraising Committee to assist in this endeavor.

• Approval of Fundraisers: The SCSC Board of Directors must approve any fundraisers (including that of all teams) prior to authorization or commencement. Failure to receive approval may result in event cancellation and in extreme cases, forfeiture of the proceeds to the Club’s general fund.
• Special Events: The Club may, at times, host club-wide “special events” such as the End of year Gala, Tournaments, Camps, and other fundraising events. These events are planned, coordinated, and communicated by the SCSC Board of Directors and / or any committees assigned to the planning and execution of such events. No team may plan or execute a “special event” without prior approval.

FUNDRAISING APPROACH - TEAM

Team fundraising activities provide an opportunity for teams to raise funds to help offset team costs such as team-specific tournaments, events, or travel costs not paid for by the Club. The following process must be followed for all team fundraising activities: 

• All team fundraising activities that do not appear in section V (Pre-Approved Fundraising Activities) must be pre-approved prior to executing the fundraising activity. The team must submit the Request to Fundraise form (found on our website under the policy tab) with a detailed plan to the Board of Directors at least thirty (30) days prior to enacting the fundraising activity.
• If a team chooses to participate in a team fundraising activity, then each player is expected to participate in the event. Players may be excused from events only if they “opt out” of the fundraiser by contributing the equal value of the net financial benefit to the team prior to the fundraiser beginning. 
• Any funds raised must be utilized for the equal benefit of all members of the team (e.g. hotel, air,or van rental costs, fees, etc.) and may not benefit any specific player or a subset of players. 
• Team fundraising Coordinator will collect any funds raised and deposit them to the team account. The Coordinator will keep records of all funds raised and funds disbursed.

TEAM FUNDRAISING – PRE-APPROVED FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES

Teams that desire to engage in the following fundraising activities do not require prior approval from the Board of Directors, but, must provide written confirmation and details of the plan, thirty (30) days prior, to the Club Director. Approved events include:

• Service Projects – car washes, can collection, clean-ups
• Activities involving parents – spaghetti dinner, restaurant spirit night
• Sale of commercial products – popcorn, candy, donuts, candy bars

TEAM FUNDRAISING - GUIDELINES & LIMITATIONS

The following guidelines and limitations will be strictly enforced.

• Team-specific fundraising activity may not occur at Club facilities, fields, or other club-wide events to avoid any partiality toward a specific team.
• SCSC may issue a fundraising “day or area” at a Club-wide event (such as interleague game day). If a team fundraising area is established at a club-wide function, all teams will be offered an opportunity to schedule times to utilize the area. Those that wish to take advantage will be awarded equal time.
• Products sold must not duplicate items that may be offered by vendors solicited to work the club-wide event unless approved.
• The sale of any alcohol or tobacco products is strictly prohibited
• The sale of home-made food items is prohibited
• Any calendar or like-product featuring photographs of SCSC players, coaches, or members is prohibited
• All fundraising activities must take place inside of the SCSC boundaries as defined by FYSA or be previously approved by the SCSC Board of Directors and the “home” club of the area in which the event will take place.
• Retaining corporate sponsorship for individual SCSC teams is prohibited. If any individual wishes to negotiate with a vendor or business regarding corporate sponsorship for the Club, that negotiation shall be with the express permission of the SCSC Board of Directors. Should anyone negotiate with any corporation or organization without explicit Board approval, that individual may be held responsible for any financial commitment, liability, or damages stemming from the negotiation. Should a team parent own a business and wish to sponsor that specific team event (travel, tournament, etc.), the request must be made in the Request to Fundraise plan.

FUNDRAISING REQUEST PROCEDURE

Team fundraising requests must be made in writing using the Request to Fundraise form and must contain the following information. Incomplete requests will not be processed.

Fundraising event:

• Description of what raised funds will be used for
• Date(s) and location(s) event will be held
• Description of activities that will occur at the event
• Description of items to be sold at the event (if applicable)
• Name and contact information of the adult in charge of the event
• Insurance requirements of event/location, if applicable
• All proper signatures must be present including those of the team Head Coach and Team Manager

Donation Request:

• Purpose of a monetary donation or description of product/service
• When donation request will be made and from whom
• Amount of donation or value of product/service
• Name and contact information of the donor
• All proper signatures must be present

TEAM FUNDRAISING- USE OF LOGOS, MARKS & OTHER IDENTIFYING BRAND MARKS

SCSC has a detailed marketing and communications policy which can be found on the Policy tab of the SCSC website. For these purposes, the use of SCSC logos, company names, trademarks, product names, or images of SCSC coaches, board members, or staff is strictly prohibited without prior approval from the SCSC Board of Directors. If you would like to use the brand in your fundraising plans, please complete the Request to Fundraise form and include any specific details on how, where, and when the marks will be utilized.

TEAM FUNDRAISING – USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

SCSC understands that social and digital media is an important mediums in fundraising activities. Teams should refer to the Marketing and Communications policy for guidelines regarding social media use.

To avoid partiality of teams, SCSC will not utilize the Club's social media channels to advertise, market, or solicit support for individual team fundraisers.

Teams may elect to set up a Go Fund Me or crowd-sourcing fundraising page. Those pages are meant for team friends and family and should not be marketed, advertised, or solicited to Club Members at games, practices, or Club facilities.

SCSC TEAM SCHOLARSHIP FUND

The SCSC Board of Directors applaud and supports all SCSC teams and wants to recognize their success. The SCSC Board of Directors has established the Team Scholarship Fund, which will provide monetary support/donations for teams achieving marked success such as regional or national invitations. Teams are encouraged to submit the Team Scholarship Fund request at least sixty (60) days in advance. The Team Scholarship Fund request can be found on the Policy tab on the SCSC website.

NON-COMPLIANCE

Anyone failing to comply with the SCSC Fundraising Policy is subject to being barred from participation or attending any Club function. To be sure that all team activities are coordinated with the team's Head Coach and Team Manager, their signatures must appear on the Fundraising Request Form. Should an SCSC Team not comply with the rules set forth in this document, the offending team's Head Coach and/or Team Manager is subject to disciplinary action at the discretion of the SCSC Board of Directors.

Anyone found to have misrepresented Swan City SC for personal financial gain, misused Club funds, or entered into financial or contractual agreements for personal gain are subject to criminal punishment.

It is the opinion of the USSF, the governing body of FYSA and Swan City SC that the vast majority of concerns and/or complaints received by a youth soccer organization can be adequately addressed internally by the club’s coaches, Director(s) of Coaching and /or the club's Director. 

Swan City SC encourages direct communication among coaches, players, and parents. Parents have the right to make complaints about issues regarding the treatment of their child but must follow the procedures set forth below.

PROCEDURE FOR ISSUES REGARDING SOCCER COACHING ACTIONS OR DECISIONS

If an SCSC player or parent has an issue with their coach regarding a coaching action or decision, the following steps should be followed:

• Any player or parent that has an issue with a coaching action or decision should wait at least 24 hours following the event to address the issue. This provides all parties time to process the circumstances at issue.
• Following the 24-hour waiting period, the player and/or parent should contact their head coach to discuss the issue.
• If the issue is not resolved after speaking with the head or lead coach, the parent/ player should contact the Technical Director with the following information: name of the person making the complaint, player’s name, coach’s name, team name, and a detailed description of the issue at hand, steps taken to resolve the issue, along with a recommended solution.
• The TD will address the matter as soon as reasonably possible and if necessary, the TD will meet with all parties involved to discuss the issues and come up with a solution. 
• After gathering and reviewing all the necessary information, the TD will notify all parties involved of his All decisions by the TD regarding soccer coaching issues are final.

PROCEDURE FOR ISSUES REGARDING VIOLATION OF SCSC POLICIES

If a coach, parent, or player is in violation of SCSC policies and procedures (including but not limited to any policies in this manual), that individual and/or incident should be reported to the Club’s Technical Director immediately. Once a violation is reported, the following steps will be taken:

• The TD will contact all parties involved and gather all the pertinent information;
• The information gathered will be submitted to the SCSC Disciplinary Committee;
• The Disciplinary committee will schedule a meeting with the parent, player, or coach accused of policy violations and allow the accused an opportunity to present their version of the facts at issue;
• The Disciplinary committee will review all the information gathered and make a disciplinary recommendation to the Technical Director; and
• The Technical Director will give the proposed disciplinary action and then notify the accused of the final ruling. In the event that the Technical Director or any Board Member has any conflict of interest with the accused, the club’s President shall make the final ruling.

DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE

The SCSC Disciplinary committee will include five (5) SCSC Directors. The SCSC Board President, with Board approval, may appoint outside counsel, or any other outside party for the protection of both the Club and the individual if deemed necessary.

Any coach, parent, or staff member who is the subject of a complaint may not serve on the SCSC Disciplinary Committee for the duration and purpose of the grievance in which they are involved. That individual will be replaced by another SCSC Director or staff member not named or involved in the complaint.

For some SCSC activities, travel is a standard aspect of a competitive season, and SCSC provides the following policies to reduce the risk of abuse and misconduct. Adherence to these travel guidelines will increase athlete safety and improve the competitive experience while keeping travel a fun and enjoyable experience.

We distinguish between travel to training, practice and local competition (“local travel”), and team travel involving a coordinated overnight stay (“team travel”).

LOCAL TRAVEL

• Local travel occurs when the team does not sponsor, coordinate, or arrange for travel. For local travel, athletes or their parents/guardians are responsible for making all travel arrangements. In these instances, it is the responsibility of the athlete or their parents/guardians to ensure the person transporting the athlete maintains all safety and legal requirements, including but not limited to, a valid driver’s license, proper insurance, well-maintained vehicle, and compliance with all state laws.
• To minimize one-on-one interactions, a coach or volunteer, who is not also acting as a parent, should not drive alone with an unrelated If travel with an unrelated athlete is necessary, the coach or volunteer must drive with at least two other athletes or another adult at all times. In any case, where a coach or volunteer is involved in the athlete’s local travel, a parental release is required in advance. Efforts must be made to ensure that a coach or volunteer is not alone with an athlete or participant, by e.g., picking up athletes in groups.
• A coach or volunteer who is also an athlete’s guardian may provide shared transportation for any athlete(s). We encourage guardians to pick up their athlete first and drop off their athlete last in any shared or carpool travel We also recommend completing a shared travel declaration form (located under the Policy tab of the SCSC website) signed by the parent/guardian of any minor athlete who is being transported as part of such a carpool arrangement.

TEAM TRAVEL

• Team travel is overnight travel that occurs when the team sponsors, coordinates, or arranges for travel so that the team can compete locally, regionally, nationally, or internationally. Coaches, volunteers, and chaperones must often travel with athletes because of the greater distances involved in team travel. Team travel requires adequate supervision through coaches, volunteers, and other adult chaperones.
• If necessary, athletes will share rooms, with 2-4 athletes assigned per room depending on accommodation. A team representative will notify hotel management regarding any special arrangements; for example, a team representative requires the hotel to block pay-per-view channels and will request an additional large room or suite so that athletes may socialize as a group. Team meetings do not occur in hotel rooms (of the coach or an athlete); a team representative will reserve a space for adults and athletes to socialize.
• To ensure the propriety of athletes and to protect coaches and volunteers, there will be no male athletes in the rooms of female athletes, and no female athletes in the rooms of male athletes (unless the athletes are siblings accompanied by a parent/guardian). A coach shall not share a hotel room or other sleeping arrangements with an athlete unless the coach is the parent, guardian, sibling, or spouse of that athlete.
• When visiting public places such as shopping malls, and movie theaters, athletes will stay in groups of no less than three persons. Athletes who are 12 years of age and under must be accompanied by an adult chaperone at all times.
• Athletes are expected to remain with the team at all times during the trip. Athletes are not to leave the competition venue, the hotel, a restaurant, or any other place at which the team has gathered, without the knowledge and permission of the coach, volunteer, or chaperone.
• We encourage family members who wish to stay in the team hotel to do so. If family members do not stay in the team hotel, we encourage all athletes to call parents and guardians regularly. A team representative will allow unscheduled calls to the athlete by a parent/guardian if requested by either the athlete or the parent/guardian.

ADDITIONAL POLICIES REGARDING SCSC TRAVEL

• We strongly encourage players to travel together as a team when possible. 
• An itinerary should be given to all the players by the coach or manager before departure to any out-of-town tournament.
• Players must follow the itinerary at all times. 
• If 5 or more players are flying to a tournament together, they should wear khaki pants or shorts and their SCSC training shirt or SCSC warm-up All players must dress the same.
• Teams should travel from the hotel to the fields and back together when possible. 
• Players must dress uniformly when departing for games. 
• Using the swimming pool, Jacuzzi, exercise equipment or the like must be done with permission from the coach.
• Every person associated with SCSC must follow the rules of the hotel in which they are staying.
• Players are not allowed to run around, play soccer in the hotel hallways, or walk around barefoot or shirtless.
• If the tournament allows both male and female teams, casual association during free time will be allowed in public areas, but NO player will enter the rooms of players of the opposite sex.

By accepting a position on behalf of your child, you as the legal parent(s)/guardian(s) will:

 

• Be their player's biggest fan, not their biggest critic.
• Participate in a game by watching, cheering, and supporting the efforts of all participants.
• Respect game officials/referees by not engaging with them by any means.
• Understand that the game is for the players, their participation and enjoyment is the most essential element.
• Refrain from coaching or otherwise instruct players during practices or games.
• Not speak negatively about any coach/referee/player at training or on the sideline during a game.
• Maintain a professional relationship with the team coach and/or covering coach and avoid a confrontation immediately following the game. Should a parent need to talk with a coach, a full 24 hours is required before contact can be made. Failure to follow will result in a parent's suspension from attending training sessions and or games.
• Encourage their player to speak with their coach regarding; missing training, match/game availability, playing time, etc. The parent/guardian understands that game time is not guaranteed and it is the coach's choice to allocate game time.
• Exhibit good sportsmanship and refrain from foul language and verbal abuse of players, coaches, referees, opponents, or spectators.
• Avoid "reply all" email chains with concerns regarding the team and shall interact directly with the coach to address those concerns.
• Avoid posting any negative comments in the 'Chat' forum of the club's chosen communication tool.
• Make every effort to have their child on time for training and games.
• Recognize that attendance at training and all games is mandatory for development. Failure to attend will impact playing time and continuation on the team, this is true for teams U9-U19.
• Notify the coach or team representative in each instance in which a player is unable to attend a scheduled team activity.

Informed Consent about Concussions or Head Injuries:  Effective July 1, 2012, Florida Statute 943.0438, requires the parent or guardian and the youth who is a participant in an athletic competition or who is a candidate for an athletic team to sign and return an informed consent that explains the nature and risk of concussion and head injury, including the risk of continuing to play after a concussion or head injury, each year before participating in athletic competition or engaging in any practice, tryout, workout, or other physical activity associated with the youth's candidacy for an athletic team. 

All parents will be required to sign the following consent upon registration in the Club's registration platforms: 

• Recognizing the possibility of physical injury associated with soccer and in consideration for the USSF/US Youth Soccer and its affiliates accepting the registrant for its soccer programs and activities (the 'Programs'), I hereby release, discharge, and/or otherwise indemnify the USSF/US Youth Soccer, its affiliated organizations and sponsors, their employees and associated personnel, including the owner of fields and facilities utilized for the Programs against any claim by or on behalf of the registrant as a result of the registrant's participation in the Programs and/or being transported to or from the same, which transportation I hereby authorize. 

• My son/daughter has received a physical examination by a physician and has been found physically capable of participating in the Programs.

• I hereby give my consent to have an athletic trainer and/or doctor of medicine or dentistry provide my son/daughter with medical assistance and/or treatment and agree to be responsible financially for the reasonable cost of each assistance and/or treatment.  

Playing for Swan City SC teams comes with certain obligations and commitments by both the player and the parents/guardian of the player(s). These commitments and obligations are set forth below and are expected to be adhered to at all times.

• At all times, players are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is in keeping with the values and integrity of SCSC and those which will not bring discredit upon the organization. Players shall maintain the highest standard of conduct and good sportsmanship.
• Players shall refrain from using profanity during training and games.
• Players will show respect toward referees, opposing teams, and fans. They will not harass, abuse, or berate a referee for any reason.
• Players shall not participate in physical violence or threats during training or games. Failure to do so may result in suspension from training/practices/games or expulsion from the club.
• Attendance at training and all games is mandatory for development. Failure to attend will impact playing time and continuation on the team, this is true for teams U9-U19.
• Players should bring cleats, running shoes, shin guards, water, and a properly inflated soccer ball to training.
• Players are expected to show respect for all coaches and adhere to all instructions.
• Players shall be on time and prepared for all practices and games as outlined by their coach. All team training, meetings, and activities are essential for player development; the coach or team representative must be notified in each instance in which a player is unable to attend a scheduled team activity.
• Players will play within the Spirit and Laws of the Game.
• Players are expected to wear the approved club attire during training and games.
• Playing time is not automatic; it is earned. Players will normally receive enough playing time for their continued development. However, the coach will determine an individual player's actual playing time. Playing time may not be equal in a game or weekend. Playing time should be measured over the course of the season.
• Players should strive constantly for high academic achievement and scholastic standing. Players must know that to participate in high school athletics, FHSA requirements state that each player maintains a 2.0 in each subject. Academic achievement will be the athlete's best ally or worst enemy when pursuing the college of his/her choice. Coaches may periodically ask players for a copy of his/her report card.
• Player use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action including dismissal from the team.
• SWSC travel program is a full-year commitment, running nine to ten months, depending upon the team. Players continued participation on the team originally placed on will depend on this commitment and effort. Players may be asked to move to a different team if their commitment and effort are deemed insufficient for the team they are placed. 
• Players will abide by any field closed signs.

The purpose of private training lessons is to enable the players to receive individual/ small group instruction in specific areas of the game which would be difficult to teach in a large team environment. SCSC is in support of player development and allows private lessons with our professional coaching staff.

If working with an existing SCSC coach, private training must be cleared with the corresponding DOC. 

All parents/guardians and coaches must be aware of the following:

• A parent/guardian must be present for players who are 17 and below
• Private training is strictly voluntary. No coach may use the fact that a player participates or does not participate in private training as a factor in any team decisions, including playing time.
• SCSC does not endorse or facilitate any private training; all such sessions are based solely on an agreement between the parent/guardian and coach.
• Because private training sessions are done by a coach on his/her own time, SCSC does not keep a list of coaches that offer private training or make recommendations on coaches for private training.
• SCSC does not have any role in setting fees for any private training offered by a coach, nor does SCSC receive any fees related to such private training.
• Coaches, parents, and players are reminded that they are held to SCSC’s Policies. Even though private training sessions are not SCSC events, coaches, parents/ guardians, and players should ensure that nothing related to the private training sessions would create a violation of SCSC Policies that would affect the coach's or players standing or participation in SCSC programs.

A competitive and/or interleague (recreational) player is obligated to his/her team for the seasonal year from the time he/she signs a contract or is rostered to a team until the end of the current seasonal year. Soccer is a team sport; a player makes a commitment to the team at initial registration as well as to the affiliate for the seasonal year.

FYSA RULE / 401.5 Player Poaching

There is to be NO improper contact between the prospective team and the player/parents of currently registered and/or rostered Any coach or member of a team having contact with a player after a player is registered and/or rostered, without first obtaining written permission from that player’s coach, will be construed as having had improper contact with a player, and such action can result in a charge of poaching.

1. Improper contact is defined as any communication with a player other than the most casual, cordial communication necessary such as congratulations at the end of a match or similar such conversations. This contact specifically includes, but is not limited to, players participating in practices, training sessions, scrimmages or other soccer-related functions.
2. Improper contact shall also include, but is not limited to, meetings with players/ parents, attendance at team social functions when the player is not registered to that team, etc.
3. Any such improper contact, no matter how generated, is prohibited without prior written notification and written consent of the player’s current head coach, the club director of coaching and/or players, or the Agent of Record of the club to which the player is currently registered and/or rostered. A coach/volunteer or member of a team having contact with a player is charged with the knowledge of that player’s registration and/or roster status and shall be held accountable for any unauthorized contact with any player currently not rostered to his team, regardless of how that contact is initiated or by whom.
   • No coach, assistant coach, trainer, team representative, registered player, parent, or advertisement may offer any kind of inducement to recruit a player and/or to transfer from his/her respective team, during the seasonal year as defined from September 1 through August 31. Inducing a player includes, but is not limited to, solicitation to leave the current affiliate, offering a currently rostered player a roster spot on an existing team, or a roster spot for the next seasonal year. Coaches are responsible for the actions of all of the above-listed participants of their team. 

• • • PLAYERS: Players shall be allowed to attend publicly announced tryouts held in accordance with Rule 401.6 for the next seasonal year of any FYSA-affiliated club. Players will not be required to obtain written permission from their current affiliate. All currently registered players shall become free agents at the completion of FYSA’s State Cup Final Four or elimination from National Championship Competitions (whichever is later) or at a date as may be set by the BOD. At this time, all restrictions as to guest playing and contact between parties shall be lifted until such time as the player (and parent) executes a contract or registration for the next seasonal year.
    • COACHES: All coaches are obligated to the registering affiliate for the complete seasonal year defined as September 1 through August 31. Agreement by contract between the parties may shorten or lengthen this period. A coach shall be bound by the following conditions: 
      • For an affiliate to recruit the services of a registered coach, the requesting affiliate must first notify in writing the agent of record of the coach’s current club. There shall be no contact with any currently registered coach prior to March 1st, unless permission is granted in writing by the affiliate’s agent of record or designee. 
      • A currently registered coach may not contact a prospective club prior to March 1st, without written permission of their currently registered affiliate’s agent of record, or designee. After March 1st contact may be affected with written notification to the current affiliate. Once tryouts have commenced, coaches are bound to the affiliate. 
      • A currently registered coach who decides during a seasonal year to change clubs shall not solicit, entice or induce in any manner players they are currently coaching to move to his/her new club until after the completion of State Cup Finals or further National Championship competitions.

Violation of any of the above standards is tantamount to poaching. 

US CLUB / 2.9 Club Loyalty Rule. 2.9.1

Rule 9 applies to all FCL Registered Players except for the enumerated exceptions provided in Rule 2.9.3. After being registered as a FCL Registered Player for a FCL Season,

1. FCL Registered Player may only participate in competitions for that FCL Club for the duration of the FCL Season. (For purposes of clarification, the FCL Registered Player may appear in any competition in which the FCL Club participates during the FCL Season.) If a FCL Registered Player plays in a competition for a different club besides the FCL Club to which the player is registered as a FCL Registered Player after the date the player became rostered as a FCL Registered Player (“Multiple Club Rostering”), the eligibility of the FCL Registered Player will be reviewed by the FCL League office. If it is determined by the FCL League Office, at their sole discretion, that the FCL Club to which the FCL Registered Player is registered was aware of the Multiple Club Rostering, US Club Soccer may take any or all of the following actions:

• • Declaring the FCL Registered Player ineligible for the remainder of that FCL Season;
  • Declaring all games in which the FCL Registered Player appeared on the FCL Roster as forfeits by the FCL team on which such player was rostered; and / or
  • Recommending immediate revocation of the FCL Club’s membership in the FCL.

SCSC POLICY

Following the binding date, recruitment of a player who has appropriately executed a Commitment to the Club and/or has been rostered is prohibited.

• Prohibited recruiting is defined as effort to induce a registered player of any team after the binding date, who has appropriately executed a commitment with an USYS and/or US Club member association, to join a team with another member association during the current seasonal year or the next seasonal year.
• Recruiting is any action or statement, made by any team representative as defined, either verbally or in writing that encourages or entices a player to register with a particular coach, team, association or other programs.
• Efforts to induce a player to transfer will include but shall not be limited to the following:

1. 1. A player participating in any type of unauthorized practice or tryout with a team other than the one the player is currently This restriction will not apply for a player who freely chooses to tryout out for another team during the “Open Try-Out” period.
   2. An offer or promise of college scholarships, free uniforms, discounted team fees, and/or negative statements which could affect the decision of the player regarding choice of teams.

• Team representatives include parents and players. 
• Guest players must have a direct request in writing, phone call, or email to the head coach of the team that the player is currently rostered, or from the director of coaching of the players association. Failure to contact the coach or Director of Coaching can be a violation of recruiting.
• Prospective players are not permitted to attend any SCSC training/event in order to be evaluated for a team if the player is currently rostered with another Club. Coaches must have the SCSC administrator verify through the USYS/US Club that the player is not currently rostered with another affiliate prior to the player attending any SCSC event.

GUEST PLAYING

• Guest play or training with other clubs is strictly prohibited. A player that participates in any event or activity as a guest player without the permission of their current coach or director of coaching shall be subject to disciplinary action.

RELEASE REQUEST

• In order for a release request to be reviewed and approved or declined, an online request form must be completed. This form is available on the Swan City SC website, available under the Policies - Forms tab. All necessary documents must be uploaded with the initial request. The following procedure will be followed:

1. June 10^th, all contacts are binding and must be paid in full prior to requesting a release. 
2. Release requests are not mandated to be processed for any reason. 
3. No Registration fee deposit or Club dues will be refunded or forgiven because of player absence(s), withdrawal, or release from the Club. Exceptions would only be:
   • In the event of medically documented proof of player injury that prevents him/her from playing for more than sixty (60) days. The online request must include pertinent medical documents.
   • Due to a parent’s job relocation out of the area, beyond 100 miles. Proof of the location shall be accompanied by the online release form. 
   • Proration will be applied with proper documentation accompanied by the online release form.

4. Financial Aid is awarded to players committed for the full seasonal year. If a release is requested during the seasonal year, SCSC reserves the right to withdraw financial aid.

This Logo and Trademark Usage Policy is binding on all Swan City SC member teams. Swan City SC is the exclusive user of all rights, titles, and interests to the trademarks. "Swan City Soccer Club”, “SCSC”, "Swan City SC" and the “Swan City SC logo” are shown on this page. At its sole discretion, Swan City SC grants the following rights to use and display the logo according to the guidelines contained within this Policy.

Swan City SC member teams may not, and shall not, register any name, logo, trademark, indicia, brand name, service mark, or any other mark that is: (i) identical or similar to the Marks; or (ii) which infers any relationship or affiliation with Swan City SC.

SOCIAL MEDIA / WEB

• Use of the Swan City SC logo and brand on social media or websites (other than the Club pages) must have approval prior to their use. Please review the Social Media Policy for more information on social media usage.

MERCHANDISE AND SALES

• No Swan City SC member or team may produce or sell any item featuring the logo without the advanced written approval of the Board of Directors of Swan City SC, which may be withheld for any reason. Swan City SC will consider granting limited rights to use the logo in fundraising merchandising efforts by a Swan City SC team upon submission of the proposed usage of the logo according to the process set forth in the Fundraising Policy Document located in the SCSC policies.
• Spirit wear shall be coordinated through the Swan City SC Board of Directors and its preferred vendors. 

MARKETING GUIDELINES

Consistency of use and marketing of the SCSC brand is of utmost importance to the growth and development of the Club. As such, the following guidelines are mandatory for all SCSC Members:

UNIFORMS

• Every two years, all teams will be required to purchase a new uniform kit, unless a new style has not yet been introduced, in which case a new kit will be required upon the introduction of a new style. Purchased uniforms will be worn for the following two years in all USSF, USYS, and US Club league and tournament play.
• Capelli Sport is the exclusive team apparel supplier of the Swan City SC. 
• The game jerseys of each player competing in SCSC must wear the official club mark and may not be altered in any way.
• No uniform embellishments may be added to any team uniforms without the permission of the SCSC Board of Directors.

SCSC OFFICIAL HOME JERSEY –  WHITE/ GRAY
SCSC OFFICIAL AWAY JERSEY - ORANGE

 **Coaches and/or managers will direct each team as to which uniform color to wear for each game. Players should always bring both full uniforms to each game in the event that a uniform switch is necessary. Shin guards must be worn with socks pulled up over the shin guards.

TRAINING GEAR

• The following are required attire for all SCSC training sessions: the SCSC training shirt, black training shorts, and black socks. Official Capelli warm up jacket or pants may also be worn at training.

Swan City Soccer Club is proud of our mission to develop players in our community. We have a strong legacy of producing elite level players through the travel program. Our mission includes providing the highest level of support to our members. With our Club, you can expect the following:

PROFESSIONALLY LICENSED COACH

For all travel teams, a professionally licensed coach is expected for all games and training. Should your coach need to miss a game, or should a coaching change be necessary at some point in the season for any reason, arrangements will be made to cover for /replace the coach with another professionally licensed coach? The club reserves the right to replace the coach should a coach break any policies or is not meeting expectations set forth by the club. No refund will be given if the club takes such action. 

TEAM PLACEMENT

Placement on a team will best fit the player’s ability based on coaches’ evaluation at tryouts and throughout the previous season.

Rosters are subject to change throughout the season based on individual player development and progress. It is possible that players move from an elite roster to a select roster based on a variety of factors including but not limited to: Player attendance, attitude, and application at any LTFC activities.

TRAINING SPACE

Swan City is proud to partner with the City of Lakeland Parks and Recreation and Polk County Parks and Recreation to provide adequate and safe training space for our players. Training space includes - Lake Parker Park, Tiger Town front and back, Cypress / Holloway Park, Lake Crago Park, and Loyce Harpe Park at Carter Road.

LEAGUE PLAY

Participation in an organized league that suits the skill level of the team as determined by Swan City Directors of Coaching and the respective league.

FORMAL PLAYER EVALUATION

Each player will receive one formal player evaluation by their respective coach per year, typically at the end of the season. Informal player evaluations and discussions with the coach(es) may happen throughout the season.

CURRICULUM

Players will receive comprehensive instruction throughout the season based on Swan City Curriculum which is a combined program inclusive of soccer best practices from across US Soccer.

GOALKEEPER PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS

The goalkeeper program at SCSC is designed to provide players who are interested in, part-time, and full-time, dedicated goalkeeper duties. The program is designed to develop the technical, tactical, physical, and psycho-social skill sets to be successful and grow in the position. In line with the club’s player-centered development philosophy, the mission of the program is to provide player-centered instruction and training within as close to match-realistic constraints as possible. Training and instruction are provided through field sessions, classroom sessions, and written evaluations.

This program is provided as part of the club fee and does not require additional costs.

• Expectations of Goalkeepers
  • All GKs attend at least one of the 2x weekly GK training sessions based on age-band and team level.
  • Wear proper GK training clothing (gloves, boots, shin guards, SCSC training kit, long sleeves preferred but not required)

Swan City SC takes our role with your children very seriously. Our number one priority is to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of our players and members. We have zero tolerance for abuse in all youth soccer teams, programs, or activities. It is the responsibility of every coach, employee, and volunteer to participate in the effort to create a safe environment for all soccer participants.

* Adapted from the United States Youth Soccer Association Code of Conduct

DEFINITIONS

SCSC ACTIVITY

“SCSC” Activity includes Swan City SC club and our registered members registered through the United States Youth Soccer Association, Florida Youth Soccer Association, or US Club Soccer. SCSC activities include but are not limited to - the National Championship Series, (State, Regional, and National), National President Cup Series (State, Regional, and National), Florida Club League, as well as regional competitions/leagues, National League, Olympic Development Programs and State Association soccer related activities that qualify any coach, assistant coach, team trainer, team manager, team treasurer, referee, or any other individual over the age of 18 affiliated with SCSC who has direct or indirect contact or influence on a youth player who seeks risk management certificate within the State Association shall qualify as an activity.

REPORTING ABUSE OR SUSPICIONS OF ABUSE

Given Swan City SC’s zero tolerance for abuse, SCSC encourages a culture of communication regarding matters that place athletes at risk.

SCSC supports and encourages a culture of communication related to the abuse or suspected abuse of athletes. If you see or suspect inappropriate interaction with or between athletes, it is your responsibility to report the inappropriate interaction to a coach, supervisor, team official, club administrator, or other designated SCSC representative.

Because sexual abusers ‘groom’ athletes for abuse, it is possible that a coach or volunteer may witness behavior intended to ‘groom’ a child for sexual abuse. “Grooming” behavior related to children includes, but is not limited to, befriending and establishing an emotional connection with a child, and sometimes the family, to lower the child’s inhibitions with the objective of sexual abuse. Players and parents are encouraged to report ‘grooming’ behavior, any policy violations, or any suspicious behaviors to a supervisor, team official, club administrator of SCSC, or other designated SCSC representative.

All reports of inappropriate behaviors or suspicions of abuse will be taken seriously and will be reported, in accordance with SCSC Policies and state law, to law enforcement, Child Protective Services, or other appropriate agency.

HOW TO REPORT CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT

Who is required to report child abuse?

All SCSC staff, coaches, and any other adults who are authorized to interact with minor athletes at a facility under the jurisdiction of SCSC MUST REPORT any suspected child abuse/neglect, including sexual abuse, WITHIN 24 HOURS of being made aware of the suspected abuse.

Failure to report suspected child abuse is subject to criminal penalties.

What is required?

All individuals who are required to report must report suspected child abuse to EACH AND EVERY entity pertaining to the specific case listed below:

• Florida Department of Children and Families: 800-962-2873 information needed: http://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/abuse-hotlinehowtoreport
• Swan City SC Technical Director: Eoghan Conlon 813-650-5148 / EMAIL or Club President 
• When involving a U.S. Soccer Representative:
  • U.S. Soccer Integrity Hotline Number: 312-528-7004
  • U.S. Soccer Integrity Hotline website: https://www.ussoccer.com/integrity- hotline

RESPONSE TO REPORT OF ABUSE

When a report of abuse or neglect occurs, team or Club representatives will take the necessary and appropriate action to ensure a safe environment for the person at risk. Moreover, SCSC will not retaliate against anyone that reports any issue of abuse or neglect.

PROHIBITED PHYSICAL CONTACT

Prohibited forms of physical contact include, without limitation:

• Asking or having a minor athlete sit in the lap of a coach or volunteer;
• Lingering or repeated embrace of a minor athlete that goes beyond the criteria set forth for acceptable physical contact;
• Slapping, hitting, punching, kicking, or any other physical contact meant to discipline, punish or achieve compliance from a minor athlete; (e.g., “butts up” game)
• “Cuddling” or maintaining prolonged physical contact with a minor athlete during any aspect of training, travel, or overnight stay;
• Playful, yet inappropriate contact that is not a part of regular training, (e.g., butt pats, tickling, or wrestling-type “horseplay”);
• Continued physical contact that makes a minor athlete obviously uncomfortable, whether expressed or not;
• Any contact that is contrary to a previously expressed personal desire by the minor athlete for decreased or non physical contact, where such decreased contact is feasible in a competitive training environment.

MISCONDUCT

BULLYING

Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at any SCSC Activity and will not be tolerated. Bullying is counterproductive to team spirit and can be devastating to the victim. SCSC is committed to providing a safe, caring, and friendly environment for all participants. If bullying does occur, incidents, incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. Any minor athlete who is aware of bullying behavior is expected to tell a coach, team official, SCSC Administrator, or other SCSC representative.

Objectives of SCSC’s Bullying Policy and Action Plan:

• To clearly communicate that SCSC will not tolerate bullying in any
• To define bullying and give minor athletes, coaches, volunteers, and parents a suitable understanding of those behaviors that constitute ‘bullying’. 
• To make it known to minor athletes, coaches, and volunteers that a policy and protocol exist should a bullying issue arise. 
• To clearly communicate how to report bullying. 
• To communicate to minor athletes, coaches, volunteers, and parents that SCSC takes bullying seriously, and will immediately investigate and address all reports of it. 

HARASSMENT

Harassment is the repeated pattern of physical and/or non-physical behaviors that

• Are intended to cause fear, humiliation, or annoyance;
• Offend or degrade;
• Create a hostile environment;
• Reflect discriminatory bias in an attempt to establish dominance, superiority, or power over an individual athlete or group based on gender, race, ethnicity, culture, religion, or mental or physical disability; or
• Any act or conduct described as harassment under federal or state

Examples of harassment prohibited in SCSC Activities include, without limitation:

HAZING 

Hazing is defined as coercing, requiring, forcing or willfully tolerating any humiliating, unwelcome or dangerous activity that serves as a condition for

• An athlete joining a group;
• An athlete being socially accepted by a group’s members; or
• Any act or conduct described as hazing under federal or state

Hazing does not include group or team activities that are meant to establish normative team behaviors or promote team cohesion.

Examples of hazing prohibited in SCSC include, without limitation:

• Requiring, forcing, or otherwise requiring an athlete to consume alcohol or illegal drugs;
• Tying, taping, or otherwise physically restraining an athlete;
• Sexual simulations or sexual acts of any nature;
• Sleep deprivation, otherwise unnecessary schedule disruption or the withholding of water and/or food;
• Social actions (e.g. grossly inappropriate or provocative clothing) or public displays (e.g. public nudity) that are illegal or meant to draw ridicule;
• Beating, paddling or other forms of physical assault; and
• Excessive training requirements directed at a particular athlete or group of athletes.

Activities that fit the definition of hazing are considered to be hazing regardless of an athlete’s willingness to cooperate or participate.

Physical offenses;

Behaviors that include

• Hitting, pushing, punching, beating, biting, striking, kicking, choking, or slapping a minor athlete or participant;
• Throwing at or hitting a minor athlete with objects including sporting

Non-physical offenses;

Behaviors that include

• Making negative or disparaging comments about an athlete’s disability, religion, skin color or ethnic traits;
• Displaying offensive materials, gestures, or symbols; and
• Withholding or reducing playing time to an athlete based on his or her disability, religion, skin color, or ethnic traits.

WILLFULLY TOLERATING MISCONDUCT

It is a violation of SCSC’s Policies, if a coach, volunteer, or participant knows of misconduct, but takes not action to intervene on behalf of the minor athlete(s). All forms of misconduct should be reported to a coach, team official, SCSC Administrator, or other designated SCSC representative.

PEER-TO-PEER SEXUAL ABUSE

Approximately 1/3 of all reported sexual abuse occurs at the hands of other children or minors. Parents and players are encouraged to report peer-to-peer sexual abuse.

Whether sexual interaction between athletes constitutes ‘sexual abuse’ depends on the existence of an aggressor and whether there is an imbalance of power between the parties (e.g. an age difference between the athletes, disparity in size o,r the existence of a physical or intellectual disability). If you have concerns that interaction between minor athletes may constitute sexual abuse, report the interaction to a coach, team official, SCSC's Administrator, or other SCSC representative.

PARENTAL CONTACT AND INVOLVEMENT

Parents of minor athletes will be contacted if their athlete becomes ill, injured, or has a severe disciplinary problem while participating in an SCSC Activity.

Equal Treatment

Any non-consensual physical contact, obscene or profane language or gesture, or other threatening language or conduct directed towards any player, official, parent, or SCSC personnel having any connection to SCSC is strictly prohibited.

Officials and players will be treated with respect during all SCSC events. While coaches are permitted to question an official regarding a call, coaches, parents, players and spectators are not permitted to disparage, ridicule, or otherwise engage in threatening or harassing conduct toward an official or player. Only coaches or their designees are permitted to give direction to players during games and/or practices.

Physical Restraint

Physical restraint will be used only when necessary to protect the child or other children from harm. When physical restraint is administered, the situation must be immediately documented in writing to the Technical Director.