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