Youth Sailing Code of Conduct

While it is in our mission statement for our sailors to have fun, it is important that there be some restrictions on behavior. The primary reason for adherence to these policies is safety. All sailors and their parents/guardians must be aware of the standards expected regarding behavior both on and off the water. We are a team, which means we are accountable to ourselves and each other. Team Paradise Sailing wishes to promote mutual respect amongst its sailors, coaches, parents/guardians, volunteers and guests through the use of appropriate language, attitude and behavior. All participants, including parents/guardians and youth of Team Paradise Sailing, agree that:

by my signature below, i agree to the following:

  • I will demonstrate mutual respect for all sailors, coaches, parents, and volunteers regardless of age, race, gender, religion, national origin or abilities, and I will represent Team Paradise Sailing with my best efforts, never bringing embarrassment or an unfavorable view to the program.

  • I will respect all equipment and property. I and my parent/guardian will take personal and financial responsibility for any damage caused by my actions.

  • I will respect Biscayne Bay, its shores and the marine life that make it their home.

  • I will not verbally and/or physically threaten or abuse any other person.

  • I will not use any social media website or tool to mock, belittle or abuse any sailor, coach or anyone else associated with Team Paradise Sailing.

  • I will continually strive to demonstrate good sportsmanship on and off the water and will follow the fundamental rules of fair sailing.

  • I will arrive on time each day and my parent/guardian will use the WhatsApp chat group to contact Team Paradise if I am running late.

  • I will come to Team Paradise Sailing prepared and dressed appropriately, and will bring with me a refillable water bottle, lunch and/or a snack, a towel and a change of clothing, a plastic bag for my wet items, a hat and sunglasses, sunscreen, and a gear bag to hold my gear.

  • I will bring appropriate sailing/water shoes. Crocs, flip flops, or open-toed sandals are not acceptable. (You will be provided with a full list of items to bring/wear for sailing once you have been fully registered.)

  • I will bring a properly fitting Coast Guard approved life jacket. (Life jackets are provided by Team Paradise for sailors on scholarship.)

  • I will leave all electronics, toys, jewelry, and expensive clothing at home, and will stow my cell phone during programming and will only use it with my coach’s permission. (Please reach out to us via the WhatsApp chat if you need to relay a message to your sailor during programming.)

  • I will come to Team Paradise Sailing ready and willing to listen and learn, and will refrain from rough play and keep my hands to myself.

  • I will not go out to the waterfront and the docks without wearing my life jacket. (Life jacket must be zipped & clipped!)

Verbal or physical abuse, or behavior that jeopardizes your child’s safety or that of anyone else in the program will not be tolerated. Failure to observe the rules and procedures may include loss of boating privileges and/or program suspension or expulsion. Sailor and parent/guardian will be accountable to the following three-step system:

Step 1 – This step is a first warning. Coach(s) will address the issue directly with the sailor and behavior will be documented.

Step 2 – If behavior is not corrected with Step 1, a discussion will be held with the parent/guardian. The student may receive a brief suspension from the program. The student and parent/guardian will also be reminded that a third step could result in a suspension from the rest of the session. All discussions on behavior being addressed will be documented.

Step 3 – If behavior is still not corrected, a meeting will be called with the program director. The student will receive an extended suspension from the program and/or removal from current and future program sessions. (A refund of your class fee will not be issued in the case of behavioral problems. If sailor is on scholarship, the scholarship will be revoked effective immediately.)

If you have any questions concerning our Code of Conduct, please contact the program administrator at admin@teamparadise.org. We’re here to make your child’s sailing experience as safe and enjoyable as possible. Thank you!