CODE OF CONDUCT
for Rowers and Coxwains
for Rowers and Coxwains
The primary role of Marlborough Boys’ College Rowing is to promote a healthy, competitive rowing environment while maintaining opportunities for all rowers to participate in the sport. We do this by encouraging an appreciation for teamwork, discipline, respect, fitness, and self-worth.
Whatever your role or ability, rowing is a team sport that requires everyone (rowers, coaches, parents, and volunteers) to focus on the preparation and competition that comes with the sport, and to ensure that your conduct does not inhibit the performance or enjoyment of rowing for yourself or others, or bring the Club into disrepute.
This Code of Conduct applies to all MBC Rowing Club rowers and coxswains and outlines their rights and responsibilities.
A separate document, ‘Code of Conduct – Non-Rowers’, sets out the expectations for MBC Rowing Club management, coaches, parents/guardians, and volunteers.
As a rower or coxswain for the MBC Rowing Club, I understand that my responsibilities include the following:
I will learn and know my training times.
I will inform my coach in advance if I am unable to attend a training session.
I will arrive at least 5 minutes early, fully prepared for training.
I will learn and know all regatta and travel departure times.
I understand that failure to consistently attend training affects not only my own performance, but also the performance of the entire crew and my selection into future crews.
I will respect and listen to my coach, manager/parent helpers, and the coxswain at training and regattas.
I understand that my appearance and attitude represent myself and my crew. I will represent myself, the MBC Rowing Club, and our sponsors in a respectful manner at all times.
The possession or consumption of alcohol while representing the Club or School is strictly prohibited for all rowers and coxswains.
The possession or use of illegal drugs, tobacco, vapes, and banned performance-enhancing substances is strictly prohibited.
I agree to abide by all team rules (see “Travelling as a Club” below), including restrictions on cellphone use, “lights out,” and expectations of personal conduct while away at regattas and training camps.
Any media in my possession (movies, printed material, music, etc.) will be appropriate and reflect positively on the Club and myself.
I will use good judgement on social media, and I understand that any public posts must reflect positively on the Club and myself.
I will behave responsibly at training and regattas, ensuring personal safety and the safety of others.
I understand that the Club has zero tolerance for bullying, including bullying through social media or digital communication, and I will comply fully with this expectation.
I understand that all school rules apply when representing the Club or School at any regatta or rowing event.
I understand that all MBC Rowing Club equipment, including boats, oars, cox boxes, ergs, and weights, is the property of the Club.
I agree to treat all Club property and equipment with respect to avoid damage, unnecessary wear, or misuse. This includes equipment belonging to other clubs or facilities that I use.
I agree to follow the health and safety rules of the MBC Rowing Club and any other facility that I use.
I will report any damage to Club or facility property to my coach or trainer as soon as possible.
I acknowledge that I may be required to contribute to, or fully replace, any equipment or item that I deliberately damage.
I understand that rowing is a team sport and that no individual is more important than the team.
I understand that training is both physical and mental preparation for racing. In order to perform at my best on race day, I must give my best effort at training and regattas.
I understand that crew selections are made by coaching staff in the best interests of the whole squad and may not always align with my personal preferences.
I understand that objective measures such as erg times and seat racing may be used in crew selection. However, the coach’s professional judgement of athleticism, attitude, effort, and commitment will also be key factors.
I will respect and accept coaching decisions regarding crew selection.
Rowers and coxswains travelling with the MBC Rowing Club represent themselves, the Club, our sponsors, the sport of rowing, and the wider community while attending regattas and events.
The MBC Rowing Club aims to project an image that reflects pride, professionalism, and respect. Therefore, all athletes representing the Club are expected to uphold the following standards from the point of departure until returning home.
I agree to abide by the Code of Conduct – Rowers & Coxswains.
I will follow the decisions and instructions of the Coaches, Regatta Manager, and Camp Parents, including set times for rest, sleep, and lights out.
I will wear MBC Rowing Club and/or school uniform with pride, and I will wear the uniform of the day as directed by coaches.
I will display excellent manners and responsible behaviour at all times. I will be courteous and respectful to drivers, coaches, the Regatta Manager, and Camp Parents. I will be polite to accommodation staff and other guests, and respectful towards regatta officials.
The possession or use of illegal drugs, tobacco, vapes, and banned performance-enhancing substances is strictly prohibited.
I will support, encourage, and look after every other MBC Rowing Club member.
I will demonstrate accommodation etiquette of the highest standard by keeping my area tidy and cleaning up after myself.
I will respect the needs of other rowers and coxswains for rest and study time.
I will use cellphones and devices appropriately and will switch them off or hand them in at “lights out.” I understand that any electronic device used inappropriately may be confiscated for the duration of the trip.
I will adhere to curfews determined by the Coaches and Regatta Manager.
I will not leave the accommodation without express permission from a Camp Parent, and I will return by the agreed time.
I will take responsibility to report any behaviour that does not adhere to the Code of Conduct to the Coaches or Regatta Manager.
I understand that in the case of misbehaviour, consequences will be determined by the Head Coach and Regatta Manager, in accordance with the Club Complaints Process.
I understand that all misconduct will be reported to the MBC Rowing Committee.