Essex Junior Squash coaches have been asked to remind players about the code of conduct expected of everyone who plays squash, particularly those respresenting the county.
On-court behaviour by a number of players at last week’s British Junior Championship fell way below what is acceptable and highlighted an increasing trend of poor sportsmanship, racket abuse and bad language that is creeping into our great game.
The message is going out to every county in the country, but the Essex Junior Squash committee want to force home the guidelines that we already have in place. We have been alerted and concerned about the behaviour of several of our own players, and feel we are not doing them a service by turning a blind eye.
Our code of conduct is re-printed below, as a gentle reminder to everyone. The key elements are pretty basic…play fair, act decently, be respectful. We would also like to highlight the potential penalty for players who let themselves down. After one warning, a player will be subject to a minimum one-month county ban. Coaches will also be encouraged to withdraw players during a county event if their behaviour falls below the Code of Conduct. If that is mid-way through a crucial match, then so be it. We will forfeit a match rather than accept poor behaviour.
County players meet this weekend for group coaching and will be reminded of the rules. The same message will go out before this month’s Inter-County fixtures so we’re hoping for a marked improvement from the few who have let their standards slip slightly.
Thanks for your support.
Essex Junior Squash Code of Conduct for Players
Overview
A player will recognise that their behaviour reflects on themselves, Essex Squash and the
sport. Winning is a key element of any sport BUT not winning at any cost. Fair play and
respect for all others in the game is fundamentally important.
Attitude
All Essex Junior Squash Members will:
o Operate within the rules and spirit of squash and racketball
o Make every effort to develop their own sporting abilities
o Give maximum effort and strive for continued player development
o Accept success and failure, victory and defeat equally.
o Show respect to match officials
o Show respect to all Essex Junior Squash coaches and staff
o Be positive role models to aspiring players
Behaviour
All Essex Junior Squash Members will:
o Conduct themselves at all times, when training and competing, in a correct and
proper manner that does not bring Essex Junior Squash, any commercial partner or
themselves into disrepute
o Treat opponents and fellow Junior members with due respect at all times,
irrespective of the result of the game
o Always shake hands with your coaches, opponents and peers at the end of a
training session or match
o Do not use inappropriate language
o Accept the decisions of a match official without protest
o Abide by the instructions of all Essex Junior Squash coaches
Appearance
All Essex Junior Squash Members will:
o Dress smartly at all times whether competing or training
Disciplinary
Any Essex Junior Squash player reported for failing to follow the code of conduct will
receive one warning. On a second reported incident, said player will face a one match
County ban. Coaches will be encouraged to withdraw any player who fails to follow the
Code of Conduct.