Ripley-Huron Skating Club Skater Code of Conduct

General Rules and Expectations

• Respect others, including personal property. Money and valuables should not be left in change areas. The club is not responsible for loss or theft.
• All skaters have the right to a safe environment, both on and off the ice. Verbal and/or physical abuse of any kind will not be tolerated and could result in immediate suspension.
• Due to insurance requirements, only registered Skate Canada members are permitted on the ice or in the bench area, except in a medical emergency.
• Parents of skaters are responsible for the behavior of their child during all sessions.
• Skaters must not step on the ice until a coach or RHSC Executive member is present.
• Appropriate skating attire is required. Baggy clothes, jeans, jeggings, or sweaters that impede a skater's view are not permitted. Hair must be tied back.
• Skaters must look both ways before stepping onto the ice or leaving the boards. If a skater falls, they should get up quickly to avoid endangering others.
• No food, gum, or candy is permitted on the ice. Only plastic water bottles containing water are allowed at the boards.
• Respect the ice surface—no kicking, digging holes, or scraping the ice with blades. Pushing, tripping, horseplay, tag, or intentional interference is not permitted.
• Skaters shall pick up all belongings at the end of the session.
• Parents, non-skating members, or spectators are not allowed on the ice during lessons or in the player's bench area. You may watch from the stands or through the glass to avoid interfering with lessons.

Right of Way Guidelines

These guidelines protect all skaters. Skaters practicing routines must learn to maneuver around others while still completing jumps, spins, and footwork successfully.

The following order determines the right of way during Freeskate sessions:

• A skater whose music is being played and is in a lesson.
• A skater whose music is being played.
• Skaters who are receiving a lesson.
• Skaters who are setting up an element (jump, spin, field movement).

Safety and Etiquette

• Right of Way: The skater who doesn't see a potential collision has the right of way. Safety is the most important factor.
• Lessons: Skaters in a lesson often have divided attention; yield to them, especially if their music is playing.
• Spins: Never skate close to a spinning skater. Give them enough space to change positions.
• Competitions: During the week prior to a competition or test session, skaters competing or testing have priority.
• Lutz Corners: Avoid standing or teaching in these areas. The approach to a Lutz is long and blind.
• Skaters should keep moving while on the ice. If you must stand still, do so at the boards.
• All skaters are required to use the full ice surface and not congregate in one area.
• Skaters must get off the ice to talk to someone. You must also ask your own coach for permission to leave the ice.
• Skaters must leave the ice promptly at the end of the session to allow the Zamboni to maintain its schedule.
• Only members in good standing may take tests and participate in club competitions.
• All times are set by the arena clock. Skaters are allowed to skate only on the sessions they are qualified and registered for.
• Guest skating requires prior approval and payment from the RHSC Executive.
• Skaters represent RHSC and are expected to conduct themselves in a proper and polite manner, including no profanity.

Zero Tolerance Policy (3-Strike Rule)

If a skater, parent, or volunteer is in violation of the Code of Conduct, they will be subject to the following disciplinary actions:

1. 1st Offense: Verbal warning.
2. 2nd Offense: A written letter.
3. 3rd Offense: Suspension at the RHSC Executive's discretion.

Violations will not be tolerated. Members will be contacted if skaters act contrary to the code, and in severe or repeat cases, a suspension is possible. If a skater, parent, or volunteer's behavior is in serious breach of conduct (at the Executive's discretion), they may be immediately suspended.

**In cases of suspension, NO REFUND of any kind will be granted.**

Complaints and Concerns

All complaints or concerns must be addressed to the board in writing, either by giving it to a board member or by email. A decision, if required, will be made at the next scheduled board meeting. Board members may not be sought out individually at the arena, their home, or place of business to register complaints.