STMA Juniors Club Policies

At STMA Juniors, we are committed to creating a positive, respectful, and growth-oriented environment for all athletes and their families. Our Code of Conduct is designed to ensure that every player and parent understands and upholds the standards of behavior that support our mission and contribute to a successful volleyball experience.

This Code of Conduct outlines the principles and expectations that guide our program and help foster a culture of integrity, sportsmanship, accountability, and mutual respect. By following these standards, we can maintain a safe, supportive, and positive training environment where all youth athletes have the opportunity to learn, compete, develop, and thrive—both on and off the court.

We appreciate the commitment of our athletes and families to representing STMA Juniors with respect, responsibility, and pride.

All players and parents/guardians are required to review and abide by this Code of Conduct for the duration of the season.

Failure to comply with these policies may result in removal from the STMA Juniors program without a refund,

at the discretion of the STMA JO Board.

Player and Parent Code of Conduct

Respectful Training Environment

At STMA Juniors, creating a positive, respectful, and supportive environment is a top priority. Every player, coach, parent/guardian, official, and opponent deserves to be treated with dignity, kindness, and fairness at all times.

All participants are expected to:

• Treat others with respect, regardless of skill level, role, or position.
• Use appropriate and respectful language and behavior.
• Demonstrate good sportsmanship during practices, competitions, and team activities.
• Follow the direction and instructions of coaches, staff, and tournament officials.
• Refrain from bullying, harassment, intimidation, discrimination, or behavior that creates an unsafe or uncomfortable environment.
• Support teammates and encourage a positive team atmosphere.
• Address concerns respectfully and through the appropriate communication channels.

Respectful Behavior and Anti-Discrimination

•  Disrespectful behavior or communication—including bullying, harassment, racism, or any form of discrimination—will not be tolerated. These behaviors are hurtful, disrupt the training environment, and negatively impact team dynamics.
• Any incident involving bullying, harassment, racism, discrimination, or other inappropriate behavior must be reported promptly to the team coach. The coach will notify the Program Director, and STMA Juniors leadership may conduct further investigation as appropriate.
• Athletes found to have violated this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the program, at the discretion of STMA Juniors leadership.

 

 

Participation & Commitment

• STMA Juniors expects all athletes to demonstrate commitment to their team through consistent attendance, personal responsibility, a positive attitude, and a willingness to contribute to the success of the team.
• Athletes are expected to make every reasonable effort to attend all scheduled practices, tournaments, and team events. Athletes must also follow team rules, coach expectations, and the standards established by the STMA Juniors program. Excessive absences, repeated tardiness, or failure to meet these expectations may result in reduced playing time or limited participation in competitions, at the discretion of the coach and/or STMA Juniors leadership.
• Equally important, athletes are expected to arrive prepared to learn, compete, and give their best effort. Players should maintain a positive and respectful attitude, demonstrate good sportsmanship, and support their teammates at all times. Respect must be shown toward coaches, teammates, opponents, officials, spectators, and all others involved in the program.

Athlete Responsibilities & Communication Expectations

As a member of STMA Juniors, I understand that personal accountability, responsibility, and communication are essential to the success of my team and my development as an athlete. I agree to take responsibility for knowing and following these expectations:

• I will know the time and location of all practices, tournaments, and team events each week.
• I will be aware of and responsible for my own transportation arrangements to and from practices, tournaments, and team events.
• I will arrive on time and fully prepared for every practice, tournament, and team event, ready to participate at the scheduled start time.
• I will notify my coach no later than the Wednesday before any weekend event if I will be absent, late, or need to leave early.
• I understand that if my child is moved between the YDT (Youth Development Team) and JO (Junior Olympic) programs, I agree to follow and abide by the terms of the JO contract as a condition of continued participation with STMA Juniors.

Failure to meet these expectations may result in reduced playing time or limited participation in team events. Continued failure to meet these responsibilities may result in further disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the program, at the discretion of STMA Juniors leadership.

 

Attendance Policy Agreement

STMA Juniors is committed to developing dedicated athletes who understand the importance of consistent participation. Regular attendance at practices, tournaments, and team events is essential to individual development, team growth, and the overall success of the program.

By participating in STMA Juniors, I acknowledge and agree to abide by the following Attendance Policy:

• A second unexcused absence from a practice, tournament, or team event will result in probationary status.
• A third unexcused absence may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the team without reimbursement.

Excused Absences

The following may qualify as excused absences:

• Personal illness
• School-required functions or activities
• Family vacations, provided advance notice is given

All absences should be communicated to the team coach as soon as possible. If you are unsure whether an absence qualifies as excused, please contact the STMA Juniors Board in advance for clarification.

Note: This policy is intended to promote commitment, discipline, accountability, and respect for teammates—values that are important to the development of every STMA Juniors athlete.

Additional Attendance Guidelines

• At least 24 hours’ notice must be provided for an absence to be considered excused, except in the case of illness or other unforeseen circumstances.
• Habitual tardiness to practices, tournaments, or team events may result in probationary status or dismissal from the program, at the discretion of the STMA Juniors Board.
• All disciplinary decisions regarding attendance, probation, or dismissal are at the sole discretion of the STMA Juniors Board and will be handled on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the circumstances surrounding each situation.

Lines of Communication Policy

Clear, respectful, and timely communication is essential to the success and harmony of our program. STMA Juniors strongly believes that concerns are best addressed through a direct and appropriate communication process that allows everyone involved an opportunity to be heard and work toward a constructive resolution.

If a player is experiencing frustration, has a concern, or is having a problem with a team-related matter, the player is expected to speak directly with her coach first, as soon as possible, following the communication steps outlined below.

If, after speaking with the coach, the player feels that the issue remains unresolved, the parent or guardian may then contact the team coach by email or phone to discuss the concern further.

Depending on the nature of the concern, a meeting may be scheduled with the player, parent/guardian, team coach, and Coaching Coordinator to discuss the matter and determine an appropriate resolution.

If the concern remains unresolved after this meeting, the next step is to contact the Club Director.

STMA Juniors expects all communication throughout this process to remain respectful, professional, and focused on finding a constructive resolution. This communication process is intended to ensure that concerns are addressed at the appropriate level while supporting the athlete’s growth, accountability, and relationship with her coach.

Lines of Communication Policy

STMA Juniors is committed to maintaining respectful, professional, and productive communication between athletes, parents, and coaches. To ensure concerns are addressed appropriately and with sufficient time for thoughtful discussion, the following communication guidelines must be followed:

Important Guidelines

• Parents and athletes may not approach coaches before or after practices or matches to discuss concerns or issues unless a meeting has been scheduled in advance.
• Parents may not approach coaches during tournaments regarding playing time or other coaching decisions. If a parent approaches a coach during a tournament regarding playing time, the athlete may be immediately removed from the team without a refund, at the discretion of the STMA Juniors Board.
• For concerns related to a specific incident, match, or event, parents and athletes must wait at least 24 hours before contacting the coach to request a meeting. This cooling-off period allows everyone time to gain perspective and respond thoughtfully.
• Communication regarding concerns should remain respectful, constructive, and focused on the athlete's development and the overall well-being of the team.

Communication Steps

Step 1: The player must first request and schedule a meeting with the team coach outside of regular practice or match time.

Step 2: If the concern is not resolved, a meeting will be scheduled with the player, parent/guardian, team coach, and Coaching Coordinator.

Step 3: If further resolution is needed, a meeting will be convened including the player, parent/guardian, team coach, Coaching Coordinator, and Club Director.

STMA Juniors reserves the right to address violations of this communication policy, including inappropriate or disruptive communication with coaches, in accordance with the program's Code of Conduct and disciplinary policies.

Playing Time Policy

I acknowledge and agree that playing time is at the sole discretion of the team coach.

STMA Juniors is committed to the growth and development of every athlete on the team. Practices are designed to provide all athletes with opportunities to develop, practice, and refine their skills. Weekly skills sessions are structured to support individual fundamental skill development, while tournament play provides athletes with opportunities to demonstrate their abilities in competitive settings.

However, playing time will not be equally distributed among all players. Playing time decisions are made by the coaching staff based on the needs of the team and the individual athlete's performance, development, and commitment. Factors considered may include, but are not limited to:

• Position and positional needs of the team
• Ability to consistently execute skills effectively
• Attitude and effort during practices and matches
• Attendance and punctuality
• Responsiveness to coaching and ability to apply instruction
• Positive body language and sportsmanship
• Overall work ethic and commitment
• Performance and readiness during competitive play

The coaching staff will strive to balance individual athlete development with the overall needs and success of the team. Playing time decisions are at the coach's discretion and may vary from match to match based on the circumstances of each competition.

Parents and athletes are expected to respect coaching decisions regarding playing time and follow the program's established communication procedures for addressing questions or concerns.

Training Expectations

Physical Practice

There is no substitute for hard work. Athletes participating in the STMA Juniors program are expected to understand and embrace the value of hard work in achieving individual and team goals. Giving extra effort and consistently pushing beyond the minimum will help us gain a competitive edge over our opponents.

Mental Practice

Hard work, proper technique, and desire do not always lead to the ultimate success. A strong mental game is equally important. Confidence, focus, composure, and relaxed concentration are essential components of successful performance. We will intentionally develop mental skills and a mindset that allows our athletes to compete with confidence and resilience.

 

Bullying Policy

STMA Juniors is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all athletes, coaches, staff, and participants. We believe that maintaining a positive and respectful atmosphere is essential to athletic development, team unity, and healthy relationships within our program.

Bullying in any form—whether by an individual or a group—is strictly prohibited. This policy applies to behavior occurring:

• On STMA Juniors premises or at club facilities
• At any STMA Juniors practice, tournament, event, or activity
• During club-related transportation or travel
• Through social media, text messages, group chats, or other electronic communications when related to STMA Juniors participants or activities

For purposes of this policy, bullying includes intentional written, verbal, physical, social, or electronic behavior that harms, intimidates, humiliates, threatens, or repeatedly targets another individual. Bullying may include, but is not limited to, threats, harassment, intimidation, exclusion, spreading rumors, unwanted physical contact, or abusive electronic communication.

If you believe you—or someone you know—has been the target of bullying, you are encouraged to report the concern immediately to the Club Director or a trusted coach. Reports will be taken seriously and reviewed promptly. STMA Juniors will address reported concerns in a manner appropriate to the circumstances and consistent with applicable policies and law.

Retaliation or reprisal against anyone who reports bullying or participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited.

Violations of this policy will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including:

• Probation, suspension, or expulsion from the program for athletes
• Removal from coaching or volunteer responsibilities
• Termination of employment for staff or coaches

STMA Juniors reserves the right to determine appropriate disciplinary action based on the nature and circumstances of each incident.

Creating a culture of kindness, accountability, inclusion, and respect is a shared responsibility. All athletes, parents, coaches, staff, and participants are expected to uphold these standards and contribute to a positive environment at all times.

School Suspension Policy

Any school suspension or other disciplinary action imposed by STMA Schools that temporarily removes a student from attending classes or participating in school activities due to a violation of school rules or policies will also be enforced within the STMA Juniors program.

Depending on the nature and severity of the school disciplinary action, the STMA Juniors Board may determine appropriate additional consequences for participation in club practices, tournaments, or other STMA Juniors activities.

Social Media Policy

STMA Juniors expects all athletes to maintain a high standard of respect both in person and online. This includes respectful communication and behavior toward teammates, coaches, opponents, officials, and all members of the STMA Juniors community.

• Players are expected to demonstrate respect through their face-to-face communication, body language, online communication, and social media interactions.
• Communication between players and coaches must take place only through club-approved communication tools or direct text messages.
• Players and coaches may not create or coordinate unofficial group chats or social media groups for team-related communication.
• Players may not post, share, or distribute content that is offensive, degrading, threatening, harassing, or disparaging toward teammates, coaches, opponents, or other club members.
• Social media behavior that negatively affects the team environment or the reputation and integrity of STMA Juniors may be subject to disciplinary action, even when the conduct occurs outside of club activities.
• Consequences for violations may include a meeting with the Coaching Coordinator and parent(s)/guardian(s) and may escalate to suspension or dismissal from the program, depending on the nature and severity of the behavior.

STMA Juniors is committed to maintaining a positive, respectful, and supportive culture both on and off the court. All athletes are expected to uphold these standards and understand that their actions and communications can impact their teammates and the club community.

Volunteer Policy Agreement

I understand and agree that volunteers are essential to the success of the STMA Juniors program. The tournaments hosted throughout the season are important fundraisers that support the growth, development, and sustainability of the club.

Volunteer Expectations

• Families with one JO player are required to complete a minimum of 6 volunteer hours during tournament weekends.
• Families with multiple JO players are required to complete a minimum of 9 volunteer hours during tournament weekends.
• JO players and Extended Players are required to provide a $200 volunteer deposit check before the first practice- if a check is not turned in, the athlete will not be allowed to participate until this is collected.
• . The deposit check will be destroyed once the required volunteer hours have been completed.
• Players, students, and young children may not work at or accompany parents to volunteer workstations. This requirement is intended to ensure that volunteer areas remain safe, organized, and focused on tournament operations.
• Volunteer opportunities will be assigned and tracked through Dibs beginning in February.
• Board meetings, serving as a parent helper, and chaperoning do not count toward the required volunteer hours.

Volunteer Hours Clarification

• JO and YDT volunteer hours are separate and distinct.
• Each program has its own volunteer hour requirements, which must be fulfilled independently.
• Volunteer hours earned by working at YDT playdates do not count toward JO volunteer hour requirements, and JO volunteer hours do not count toward YDT requirements.

By agreeing to this policy, I acknowledge and accept my responsibility to support the STMA Juniors program through volunteer service. I understand that fulfilling the required volunteer commitment is a condition of my child's participation in the program.

Financial Commitment Agreement

By registering with STMA Juniors, I acknowledge and agree to fulfill my financial obligation in full in accordance with the payment schedule established by the club.

Payments are due by the deadlines outlined in the official payment schedule, unless an alternative payment arrangement has been approved in writing by the Club Director or Treasurer.

Failure to comply with the agreed-upon payment terms including missed or partial payments, may result in termination from the program. This includes failure to submit the required volunteer deposit check, which is considered part of the family's financial commitment to the program.

Additionally:

• A $35 late fee will be assessed for any payment not received by the agreed upon payment date.
• Continued failure to meet financial obligations may result in loss of eligibility to participate in practices, tournaments, and other team events.
• Any payment arrangement outside the established payment schedule must be approved in writing by the Club Director or Treasurer.

Refund Policy Agreement

By registering with STMA Juniors, I acknowledge and agree to the following Refund Policy:

• STMA Juniors does not offer refunds for club volleyball athletes once the season has started.
• For purposes of this policy, the season is considered to have started on the date the athlete's team is formed and the required deposit is made.
• Team rosters and financial commitments are established based on the number of athletes who commit to the program. The departure or withdrawal of an athlete after the season has started creates a significant impact on the team and program and cannot always be easily remedied.
• Withdrawal from the program after the season has started does not relieve the athlete or family of any remaining financial obligations.

Refunds will not be issued for missed practices, tournaments, team events, or other program activities resulting from an athlete's voluntary withdrawal or inability to participate.

Acknowledgment of Disciplinary Action Policy

By registering with STMA Juniors, I understand that any violation of the STMA Juniors Code of Conduct or program policies may result in disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, verbal or written warnings, suspension, probation, or dismissal from the program.

All disciplinary decisions are made at the sole discretion of the STMA Juniors Board and will be determined based on the nature, severity, and circumstances of the violation.

I understand that if I am dismissed from the STMA Juniors program due to a violation of the Code of Conduct or program policies, no refunds or financial reimbursement will be provided. This includes, but is not limited to, program fees, tournament fees, travel expenses, equipment costs, or any other expenses incurred by the athlete or family.

By participating in the STMA Juniors program, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to abide by these standards and accept the potential consequences of violating them as a condition of participation in the program.