KPC Complaint Policy and Procedure

The Kingman Pickleball Club is committed to maintaining high standards of conduct and sportsmanship. This Complaints Policy and Procedure outlines the  process for handling complaints against any individuals associated with the club. 

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all complaints are handled fairly, transparently and efficiently, with a view to maintaining the integrity of the sport of pickleball and the welfare  of all participants.  

This policy applies to all individuals involved in activities under the jurisdiction of KPC, including, but not limited to members, coaches, officials, and volunteers on court or near court. 

INFORMAL RESOLUTION

Direct Communication:

KPC Board recognizes that  disagreements or miscommunication may occur between players on the courts. While it is never pleasant to feel targeted or disrespected, it is not the Board’s responsibility to mediate personal disputes, resolve miscommunications, address disagreements of a personal nature, or require apologies for such situations. We encourage direct communication between the individuals involved to work through any differences respectfully and with courtesy. Often, a person who feels disrespected may interpret a situation as intentional when that may not have been the other party’s intent. Stay calm, assess the situation, and consider your response. If these issues become recurring, consider having a private conversation to clarify concerns and expectations.

Seek Mediation:

When direct communication doesn’t resolve the issue, consider seeking the assistance of a neutral third party, such as a mutual friend or club board member, to mediate the situation. 

A formal complaint may be submitted for concerning behaviors at KPC sponsored events when the conduct includes [at least one of the following criteria]:

• Physical assault
• Physical intimidation
• Verbal threats of bodily harm
• Derogatory slurs
• A recurring offense
• Behavior so egregious that a player does not feel safe
• Conduct that endangers, or appears to endanger, a player’s health, safety, or well-being

Submit a Formal Written Complaint: 

Tap on the button to begin the process. 

Acknowledgement: 

The KPC Board shall acknowledge receipt of your complaint (within 5 business days) and initiate a review process. 

Investigation: 

The KPC Board will investigate the complaint, which may involve contacting the player(s) involved, gathering additional information, and reviewing evidence. 

KPC ensures that the complaint process is fair and impartial, and that all parties involved have an opportunity to be heard. 

Disciplinary Action: 

If the complaint is upheld, the authority may take appropriate disciplinary action, which could include warnings, suspensions, or expulsion from KPC. 

Any disciplinary action will be proportional to the severity of the breach. 

The respondent will be informed of the decision in writing. 

All proceedings related to the complaints and discipline process will be handled confidentially to protect the privacy of all parties involved.  

KPC will maintain records of all complaints and their outcomes for a period of at least five years.  

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with current best practices and legal requirements.  

Kingman Pickleball Club strives to maintain an atmosphere of good sportsmanship, collegiality, and respect for Club rules and procedures. Such an atmosphere is necessary for the smooth functioning of a busy pickleball club that attracts members and guests of varying ages, genders, and skill levels. Conduct by individual members that does not meet appropriate standards detracts from the playing or observing experience of others and may harm the reputation of the Club. As a result, there is an expectation that all KPC members embrace the values of good sportsmanship. It is essential that members model good behavior, lead by example, display respect, and show self-control.

As a member of KPC, I understand I am representing the Club. As such, I acknowledge and agree to abide by the following: 

• I will not engage in unsportsmanlike conduct and will not encourage others to do so. 
• I will not engage in any behavior that would endanger the health, safety, or wellbeing of others. 
• I will not engage in the use of obscene gestures.
• I will not flaunt my level or position in the Pickleball community. 
• I will not taunt or degrade others.
• I will treat others with respect and kindness.
• I will exhibit fairness and honesty in my dealings with others. 
• I will accept responsibility for my actions. 
• I will exemplify the highest standard in ethical behavior and fair play. 
• I will engage in conduct that is free from fear, discrimination, abuse, and harassment. 
• I will accept responsibility for guests and family members in attendance at events and/or open play opportunities.
• I will observe the Golden Rule of doing unto others as I would have them do unto me.