TITANS GYMNASTICS

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

References: 

1. Gymnastics Nova Scotia Policy Manual section 15 – Harassment
2. Gymnastics Nova Scotia Policy Manual section 16 – Fair Play 

Overview

Titans is committed to providing a friendly, safe and positive environment for all of our members so they can enjoy our programs in a relaxed and secure atmosphere.  We strive to create a setting where athletes encourage each other in a teamwork-based approach.  Harassment or bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our club.  If incidents do occur, they will be dealt with promptly and effectively.   In keeping with Gymnastics Nova Scotia’s policies Titans has developed this guideline for ensuring the complete enjoyment of our members. 

What Is Bullying?

Bullying is any intentional act that results in the emotional or physical injury of another person. 

Bullying can be

• Emotional         being unfriendly, excluding, tormenting (e.g. hiding conversations, threatening words or gestures, belittling)
•  Physical           pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence
•  Racist              racial taunts, graffiti, gestures
•  Sexual             unwanted physical contact or sexually abusive comments
•  Homophobic     because of, or focussing on the issue of sexuality
• Verbal              name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours, teasing 

Signs and Symptoms

A child may indicate by signs or behaviour that he or she is being bullied.  Adults should be aware of these possible signs and they should investigate if a child:

• develops a disinterest in attending training
•  becomes withdrawn anxious, or lacking in confidence
•  becomes aggressive, disruptive or unreasonable
•  is bullying other children or siblings
•  changes eating habits
•  is afraid to say what's wrong
•  gives improbable excuses for any of the above 

Club Policy

• All gymnasts, parents and coaches shall have an understanding of what bullying is.  Acknowledgement of club policies is required at registration.
• Titans will take clear and appropriate measures if bullying occurs.
•  Parents and athletes are assured that they will be supported when bullying is reported.
•  Bullying will not be tolerated. 

Procedures

• Any bullying incidents should be reported to your child’s coach.  Coaches will attempt to resolve the problem through time-outs, or temporary removal from gym floor.  Parents will be informed.  (both aggressor and victim)
•  For more serious incidents, or when coaches actions does not stop the inappropriate behaviour, the incident will be referred to the Head coach who may take more extreme measures such as temporary suspension of club privileges.
•  In cases where harassment or bullying continues despite warnings, the issue will be referred to the parent liaison officer and potentially the Board.  The Board will agree on appropriate action, which may include permanent suspension from the club.  All Board decisions are final.
•  After the incident / incidents have been investigated and dealt with, each case will be monitored to ensure repeated bullying does not take place.
•  If necessary and appropriate, police will be consulted.