Learn to Row 2026 | Starts Sunday 26 July | More information on our Learn to Row page

CODE OF CONDUCT​​​​​​​

Rowers – Code of Conduct Principles
As a Mercer Rowing Club rower, I will:

Respect & Team Culture

  • I will listen to my coach, respect and follow their decisions at trainings, regattas and camps
  • I will help teammates on and off the water, around the boat park / boat shed
  • I will support my club and teammates, be positive and encouraging at all times
  • Display good sportsmanship both on and off the water, online and in real life
  • I will respect the club by looking after the building and grounds, picking up after myself and keeping our space a place we can be proud of. If I see something out of place or not working, I will fix it or tell someone about it

Commitment & Responsibility

  • I will be dressed, sunscreened and ready to go at the time training starts
  • Arrive on time and prepared with everything I need (including water, appropriate clothing and spanner) for trainings, regattas and club events
  • Follow coach and coxswain instructions respectfully and safely
  • Take responsibility for personal equipment and uniforms (including naming my things), and club property
  • I will actively pass the culture and knowledge of Mercer Rowing Club to newcomers to our club, being welcoming and helpful

Safety

  • Follow all water safety rules and procedures
  • Report injuries, unsafe situations, or damaged equipment immediately
  • Never engage in reckless or dangerous behaviour on or off the water

Behaviour Expectations

  • No bullying, harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate conduct.
  • Use positive language and encourage teammates.
  • Respect decisions made by coaches, officials, and club management.
  • Only make positive comments about other rowers, clubs and schools online 

 
Coxswains – Code of Conduct Principles
As a Mercer Rowing Club coxswain, I will:

Respect & Team Culture

  • I will listen to my coach, respect and follow their decisions at trainings, regattas and camps
  • I will help teammates on and off the water, around the boat park / boat shed
  • I will support my club and teammates, be positive and encouraging at all times
  • Display good sportsmanship both on and off the water, online and in real life
  • I will respect the club by looking after the building and grounds, picking up after myself and keeping our space a place we can be proud of. If I see something out of place or not working, I will fix it or tell someone about it. 

Leadership & Communication

  • Provide clear, calm, and respectful instructions to crews
  • Lead crews confidently while maintaining a positive environment
  • Communicate clearly with coaches and rowers
  • Remain calm, composed and kind under pressure

Safety Responsibilities

  • Prioritise crew safety at all times
  • Understand and follow all water traffic and safety procedures
  • Make sound decisions during training and racing conditions
  • Report hazards, incidents, or equipment concerns immediately
  • Report injuries, unsafe situations, or damaged equipment immediately

Behaviour Expectations

  • Encourage teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship
  • Only make positive comments about other rowers, clubs and schools online 
  • Respect decisions made by coaches, officials, and club management
  • I will support my club and teammates, be positive and encouraging at all times

Commitment

  • I will be dressed, sunscreened and ready to go at the time training starts
  • Arrive on time and prepared with everything I need (including water, appropriate clothing and spanner) for trainings, regattas and club events
  • Continue developing rowing knowledge, steering skills, and leadership ability
  • Represent the club positively both on and off the water.
  • Take responsibility for personal equipment and uniforms (including naming my things), and club property
  • I will actively pass the culture and knowledge of Mercer Rowing Club to newcomers to our club, being welcoming and helpful

 
Parents & Supporters – Code of Conduct Principles
As a Mercer Rowing parent and supporter, I will:

Positive Support

  • Encourage and support all athletes positively regardless of results
  • Promote enjoyment, effort, teamwork, and personal development
  • Respect the role of coaches, officials, volunteers, and committee members

Behaviour Expectations

  • Display respectful behaviour at trainings, regattas, and club events
  • Avoid negative comments & respect coaches decisions
  • Support a safe and inclusive environment for all participants

Communication

  • I will use the complaints process if I have any concerns
  • Encourage open and constructive communication
  • Understand that coaches and officials make decisions in the best interests of athletes and the club
  • If a rower is unable to make a regatta for any reason, they must let their coach and Club Captain know at least one month in advance in writing (unless for injury, illness or bereavement). A rower must commit to the full regatta (every day of the regatta) to be eligible to row in that regatta

Club Culture

  • Help foster a welcoming and supportive rowing community
  • Support club events, fundraising, and volunteer activities
  • Represent the club positively within the club and the wider community​​​​​​​