Athlete Code of Conduct

Effective: 24.04.25 | Subject to ongoing updates – notice will be emailed to all families.

🧍‍♂️ As an Athlete, I will:

• Arrive on time and ready to start for all classes, rehearsals, training sessions, events, shows, workshops, conventions, and competitions. I understand that “ready to go” means warmed up, dressed, and prepared at the start time—not simply arriving at that time.

• Wear appropriate Obsidian Cheer and Dance attire for classes and competitions, as outlined in the Uniform Policy. I will ensure hair is neat and off the face and that no jewellery is worn during class.

• Be in full designated attire at competitions and events as outlined by the Head Coaches.

• Represent Obsidian in a respectful, positive, and professional manner, both inside and outside of class. I will be polite and supportive to my teammates, coaches, and all members of the Obsidian community.

• Work to the best of my ability every session—this includes applying feedback, focusing during technique and conditioning, practising choreography, and maintaining a positive mental attitude.

• Understand that missing more than three classes in a month without authorisation may result in removal from a show or competition routine.

• Let a Head Coach know in person or via parent email if I’m injured or unable to dance. If I’m injured, I will still attend training when possible to observe and learn. A doctor’s note may be required before returning to full participation after a serious injury.

• Keep all dance and performance spaces tidy and safe, cleaning up after myself and respecting all facilities, costumes, props, and equipment.

• Take full responsibility for my belongings and make sure I’ve informed a coach when leaving the premises after class or an event.

• Treat all teammates equally and inclusively, especially during team activities, trips, and bonding opportunities.

❗I Understand That:

• Any negative communication, including gossip or complaints about choreography, costumes, coaches, music, competition staff, or teammates—whether in person or online—may result in immediate dismissal from my team or from Obsidian entirely. A warning may or may not be given depending on the situation.

• Bullying or cyberbullying is not tolerated and will lead to immediate removal from a class, team, or the program.

• I must not re-perform, share, or distribute choreography, music, or formations created at Obsidian without permission from the Head Coach. These materials are the intellectual property of the club.

• I may not post competition routines or internal class footage on social media without express permission from the Head Coach.

• I will not use my phone during classes unless instructed by a coach. Phones must be kept away during sessions. Repeated misuse may result in disciplinary action.

• Chewing gum is not permitted during training, rehearsals, or classes.

• I must inform my coach if I am leaving the venue early after a class or event.

• I must not message coaches via private social media or post about them inappropriately. Failure to follow this rule will result in a warning or possible removal from the team.

• I will use social media responsibly and avoid posting or engaging in content that could harm the reputation of the club, its members, or its coaches.

📆 Attendance & Commitment

• Dancers and cheerleaders are expected to attend regularly, especially if part of a Competition Team. 90% attendance is required.

• If I miss class, I am responsible for catching up on choreography outside of class time.

• Being part of a performance or competition team does not guarantee participation in every routine or event. Final decisions are based on attendance, ability, effort, attitude, and readiness, as determined by the coaching team.

• If a class is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., illness, extreme weather), staff will notify athletes and parents via email or social media, and the session will be credited to the next term.

🔒 General Conduct Expectations

• I will respect everyone regardless of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or background.

• Foul or abusive language, violence, or illegal behaviour will not be tolerated in any Obsidian setting.

• No smoking, vaping, drugs, or alcohol are permitted at any Obsidian event, class, or property.

• I will maintain a professional appearance and always show sportsmanlike behaviour.

• I will strive to keep morale high, support my teammates, and act as a positive role model at all times.

🚫 Disciplinary Action

• If I display inappropriate behaviour or fail to meet expectations, a formal warning may be issued.

• If no change is seen, or in more serious cases, I may be removed from my team or from Obsidian entirely. In some cases, this may happen without warning, at the discretion of the Head Coaches and Obsidian’s leadership team.

📧 Communication & Support

If I need to speak to a coach or ask a question, I will do so through the proper channels:

• 📩 Email: admin@obsidiancad.co.uk

• Coaches’ private social media accounts are not for work-related contact and should not be used under any circumstances.

🌟 Our Promise

Obsidian Cheer and Dance is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all athletes. By joining the program, I agree to follow this Code of Conduct, maintain high standards, and represent Obsidian with pride in everything I do.