|  ABOUT
Mission
Vision
Training Philosophy TRAVEL AND PROGRAMS
Tryouts Policies
Practice Policies
Tournaments Policies
Travel Policies and Rules FIVE
Parent Rules & Policies
Parent code of conduct
Dispute/Grievance Procedure
Refund Policy
Social Media and Online Communication Policy
Financial Policies
Liability waiver, Assumption of risk, indemnification agreement
Club release policy form
MAAP ABOUT US Welcome to Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence - (FIVE)! Our club is dedicated to nurturing young athletes in a vibrant, safe, and supportive environment where they can thrive both on and off the court. At FIVE, we believe that volleyball is not just a sport; it's a pathway to personal growth, teamwork, and lifelong skills.
We pride ourselves on the strong partnership between coaches and parents, working hand in hand to help athletes develop their volleyball talents while fostering essential life skills. Here, success is measured not just by wins and losses, but by the growth and resilience of each player. Every match is a valuable learning experience that brings us closer together and fuels our passion for the game.
At FIVE, we embrace the joy of playing hard, working hard, and having fun! Our commitment to excellence in volleyball is matched only by our love for the sport and our belief in the potential of every athlete. Join us as we celebrate the journey, building not just athletes, but confident individuals ready to take on any challenge! MISSION
At Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence – (FIVE), our mission is to inspire a love for volleyball in kids of all skill levels. Our dedicated coaches and trainers create a supportive atmosphere where players can grow their skills and elevate their game. We emphasize the values of dedication, teamwork, commitment, and sportsmanship, all within a competitive yet family-friendly environment. Together, we foster a positive experience that encourages every athlete to thrive and enjoy the journey! VISION
At Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence, our vision is to cultivate an environment where athletes compete with passion and character. We are driven by a relentless spirit, dedicated to serving one another and our community, all while fostering a sense of family.
Our competitive energy fuels us, and we prioritize respect for ourselves, each other, and the game. We embrace positivity and view every experience as an opportunity for growth. We compete with integrity, remaining humble in both victory and defeat.
We play hard, taking full responsibility for our actions, and we recognize that success requires commitment and effort—there are no shortcuts.
Our focus is on teamwork; the needs of the team always come before individual desires. We strive to uplift one another, forging strong connections within our group and with our community, while valuing the importance of service and giving back.
We care deeply for each other as teammates and as individuals. We communicate openly, believe in one another, and are steadfastly committed to our shared goals. Together, we aim for excellence in all that we do. TRAINING PHILOSOPHY
At our youth volleyball club, we believe in fostering a holistic development environment that emphasizes:
· Fundamental Skills Mastery: We prioritize complete control of essential volleyball skills, ensuring every player builds a strong foundation.
· Sportsmanship and Discipline: We instill a sense of respect for teammates, opponents, and the game itself, promoting commitment and a disciplined approach to training and competition.
· Player Intelligence: We encourage the development of game awareness and strategic thinking, helping players to understand the game deeply and make smart decisions.
· Physical Conditioning: Our training incorporates targeted physical conditioning to enhance strength, agility, and overall athleticism, preparing players for success on the court.
· Passion for the Game: Above all, we cultivate a love for volleyball within a supportive, family-like atmosphere, where players can thrive both individually and as part of a team. TRYOUT POLICIES
Tryouts are open to athletes of all levels and will be organized by age group. All details regarding tryouts will be available on the Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence (FIVE) website. We strongly encourage athletes to pre-register online.
Athletes must register according to AAU and USAV age guidelines and should participate in their designated age division, unless they have received prior approval from FIVE. It is the responsibility of both the athlete and their parents to ensure that all registration and paperwork are completed properly. Incomplete registration may affect the athlete's chances of making a team.
If an athlete has a physical or medical condition that may limit their participation, they should discuss it with FIVE staff before tryouts begin.
Each athlete will be evaluated during tryouts and must attend to be considered for a team. Selection will be based on several criteria, including athletic ability related to volleyball, potential, work ethic, drive, willingness to learn, competitive attitude, and skill execution.
Previous team membership does not guarantee selection for the upcoming season. Additionally, there is no assurance of playing time or a specific position if selected.
During tryouts, athletes who are offered a spot on a team can accept or decline the offer within 30 minutes after tryouts conclude. To confirm their place, they must notify FIVE and pay a non-refundable deposit before leaving the facility. If an athlete does not confirm their acceptance or declines the offer, the spot may be given to another athlete.
Athletes not selected during tryouts may receive a phone call offering them a spot on a team after all tryouts have concluded.
Before the season begins, there will be a mandatory parent meeting to introduce the coach and team and collect any remaining paperwork. The Club Directors reserve the right to add additional players to a team as necessary. PRACTICE POLICIES
At our youth volleyball club, we believe that practice is essential for skill development and mastering new concepts. Our focus is on building a strong foundation through position training and small group activities, which help players develop effective offensive and defensive tactics.
Key Policies
· Training Focus: Players pay to train, not to play. Playing time is earned through hard work, a positive attitude, and skill execution during practice.
· Attendance and Punctuality: All players are expected to arrive on time, dressed and ready to start practice at their scheduled time.
· Uniform Requirements: Each player must wear a matching FIVE practice shirt, black spandex, kneepads, socks, and court shoes. It is the team's responsibility to wear on designated shirt color.
· Mandatory Attendance: All practices and team sessions are mandatory. Players must inform their coach at least one hour prior to practice if they will be absent. Parents should not notify on behalf of their child, except for players aged 12 and under.
· Consequences of Absences: Missing practice results in a loss of valuable training and may impact playing time. If a player is injured, they should still attend practice to support the team and continue learning.
· Team Responsibility: Players are expected to assist with cleanup after practices, ensuring the facility is left in better condition than it was found.
· Parent Involvement: Practices are open to parents, who are welcome to stay during sessions. However, parents should refrain from interacting with coaches or athletes during practice to maintain a positive learning environment. For any discussions regarding concerns, please schedule a meeting instead of addressing issues during games or practices. Refer to our Grievance Policy for more details.
· Transportation: Players and their parents are responsible for transportation to all practices and competitions.
By adhering to these policies, we create a supportive and focused environment that benefits all players. Thank you for your cooperation! TOURNAMENT POLICIES
At Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence (FIVE), all members are expected to demonstrate respect and sportsmanship towards teammates, opponents, parents, coaches, officials, and the public. We are committed to maintaining a positive image and upholding our performance standards.
Attendance and Notification
All players must attend every tournament. If unable to attend, players must inform the coach immediately for necessary adjustments. Teams will arrive at the playing site at least 45 minutes for refereeing and 1 hour for playing the first match. Teams will receive wave and play assignments as soon as they are available, often shortly before the tournament starts.
Team Support
When multiple Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellent teams are at the same tournament, players are encouraged to support each other. Teams should keep their belongings organized in a designated area and maintain a clean environment throughout the tournament.
Team Cohesion
Athletes are expected to stay together as a team, even when off the court. If a player needs to leave the team area, they should use the buddy system and go with at least one teammate. Players must not leave the tournament site without coach permission and should always leave their areas cleaner than they found them.
Uniform and Gear
Players are required to wear FIVE apparel when entering and leaving the gym and must match during warm-ups and competition. For matches, players should wear black spandex, white socks, and kneepads, while shoes are at personal discretion. At travel tournaments, players must dress modestly and respectfully when not in FIVE gear.
Athletic Trainers
Certified athletic trainers will be available at some tournaments. If an athlete needs assistance, they must notify their coach before visiting the trainer. This should not interfere with warm-ups or competition unless it's an emergency. Athletes needing tape should bring their own pre-wrap and tape or purchase it from the trainer.
Officiating Responsibilities
All athletes share the responsibility of officiating, including line judging, score keeping, score flipping, libero tracking, and officiating. Players must be certified in all officiating roles through the courses given at the start of the season and remain until their assignments are complete, unless released by the coach. No headphones or cell phones are allowed while officiating.
Playing Time
Playing time is determined by the coaching staff based on what's best for the team. Both players and parents should support the team, regardless of individual playing time. Discussions about playing time or coaching philosophy are not permitted during tournaments. Any concerns should follow our grievance policy, with a 24-hour waiting period after the tournament before contacting coaches. TRAVEL POLICIES AND RULES Overview
This policy outlines the responsibilities for local travel when Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence does not sponsor, coordinate, or arrange travel. Players and their parents/guardians are fully responsible for making all necessary travel arrangements.
Responsibilities
· Travel Arrangements: Parents/guardians must independently coordinate travel to all events. Coaches, managers, and administrators are not responsible for organizing or coordinating local travel.
· Transporting Minor Players: It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to ensure that anyone transporting minor players meets all legal and safety requirements.
· Driving Policy: Employees, coaches, or volunteers of Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence, who are not acting as parents, should not drive alone with unrelated minor players.
Expenses
All travel and hotel costs are separate from Club Fees. Transportation to tournaments is the responsibility of parents or players of driving age.
Stay and Play Tournaments
Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence may participate in tournaments that enforce a "Stay and Play" policy, requiring all team members to stay at designated hotels. In these cases:
· All athletes must book accommodations at the specified hotels.
· Exceptions to this policy may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
· FIVE will provide information on the designated hotel and a link for reservations.
· Parents are responsible for making reservations before any deadlines.
Conduct
While staying in hotels, athletes are expected to adhere to hotel policies and conduct themselves appropriately. PARENT RULE AND POLICIES
· Team Benches: Please remember that team benches are designated for athletes only. Parents should not sit on the bench.
· Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure your child has drinks available before matches. Athletes are expected to stay with the team on the bench and may only leave with the coach's permission. Coaches will communicate appropriate times for athletes to eat.
· Tournament Protocol: Athletes must remain at the tournament venue until it concludes. Parents can pick up food, but athletes should not leave the venue during the tournament.
· Modeling Good Behavior: Please set a positive example for your daughter by demonstrating good sportsmanship. Berating referees, players, or coaches is unacceptable. Remember that our athletes will also be officiating games, and we will not tolerate harassment from parents of other clubs. Represent your family and the club positively.
· Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Parents should avoid any behavior that could embarrass the club or result in penalties for the team. Disregarding FIVE, AAU, or USAV rules may lead to player suspension or expulsion.
· Respectful Communication: Inappropriate language and unsportsmanlike conduct are not tolerated. FIVE staff are not responsible for personal disputes unrelated to volleyball training. Such matters should be resolved privately and outside of FIVE activities, including practices, games, and team events.
· Team Cohesion: Do not allow your athlete to contribute to division within the team. This includes bullying (both in-person and online), exclusive group chats, and excluding players from activities.
· 24-Hour Cooling Off Period: If issues arise during tournaments or practices, please wait 24 hours before reaching out to the coach. Direct confrontations about playing time or coaching strategies during tournaments are not appropriate. Weekends are dedicated to volleyball; weekdays are for discussions.
· Chain of Command: If a concern arises, please follow this process:
· Athletes should first discuss issues with their coach.
· If further discussion is needed, a meeting can include the coach, parent, and athlete.
· If the issue remains unresolved, parents may request a meeting with the FIVE Director(s) for assistance.
· Decision-Making: Final decisions will be made by Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence Director(s), considering input from athletes, parents, coaches, and any witnesses involved.
· Compliance: Not following this procedure may result in immediate dismissal from practices or events. USAV FLORIDA REGION SPECTATOR / PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Entry to any privately sanctioned USA Volleyball events are granted as a courtesy. If you enter or attend any Florida Region sanctioned event, you agree to abide by the following code of conduct guidelines: I WILL:
1. I WILL abide by the official rules of USA Volleyball.
2. I WILL display good sportsmanship at all times.
3. I WILL encourage my child and his/her team, regardless of the outcome on the court.
4. I WILL educate myself on the unique rules of this facility.
5. I WILL honor the rules of the host and the host facility.
6. I WILL generate goodwill by being polite and respectful to those around me at this event.
7. I WILL direct my child to speak directly with his/her coach when coaching decisions are made that may be confusing or unclear.
8. I WILL redirect any negative comments from others to the respective Event Director or Program Administrator.
9. I WILL immediately notify the Event Director and/or Program Administrator in the event that I witness any illegal activity.
10. I WILL support the policies and guidelines of the team/club that I represent.
11. I WILL acknowledge effort and good performance, remembering that all of the players in this event are amateur athletes.
12. I WILL model exemplary spectator behavior while attending this event.
13. I WILL respect the history and tradition of the sport of volleyball by being a good ambassador. I WILL NOT: 1. I WILL NOT harass or intimidate the officials.
2. I WILL NOT coach my child from the bleachers and/or sidelines.
3. I WILL NOT criticize my child's coach or his/her teammates.
4. I WILL NOT participate in any game or game-like activities unless I have a current membership card with the Florida Region.
5. I WILL NOT bring and/or carry any firearms at any Florida Region event.
6. I WILL NOT bring, purchase, or consume alcohol at any Youth/Junior volleyball event. Note: Any violation of this Code of Conduct will result in you being asked to leave the site/facility, and may result in you possibly being banned from attending future Florida Region sanctioned events. The Event Director has the final say regarding their individual event. Local law enforcement will be contacted if necessary to resolve any disputes or altercations. Questions or concerns may be directed to the Florida Region office. DISPUTE / GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
At Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence. (FIVE), we value parent involvement and encourage open feedback—both positive and constructive. To facilitate effective communication regarding any concerns, we have established the following procedure for athletes and parents to address questions or issues that may arise during the season. 1. **24-Hour Rule**: If an athlete or parent has a concern following a tournament or practice, please wait at least 24 hours before discussing it with the head coach. This allows for reflection and ensures that communication is constructive and focused.
2. **Timing of Discussions**: Please do not approach the coach immediately before practice. The coach needs to concentrate on preparing the athletes and conducting training effectively.
3. **Initial Meeting Request**: Athletes should first request a meeting with the coach to address their concerns. This discussion should occur before or after practice, not during training sessions. For athletes aged 13 and younger, parents may request a meeting that includes the athlete and the coach.
4. **Further Escalation**: If the issue remains unresolved, parents may request a meeting involving themselves, the athlete, and the coach. This meeting should take place in a private setting agreed upon by all parties, away from tournaments or practice.
5. **Involvement of Club Directors**: If concerns persist, parents may request a meeting with the club directors, the head coach, and the athlete. This discussion should also occur in a private location at a mutually agreeable time, away from practices and tournaments. The decision made by the club director is final, and no further appeals will be entertained.
6. **Collaborative Support**: Parents and Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence (FIVE) work as a team to build character in our athletes. It is crucial for parents to support our club, players, and coaches. We, as club directors and coaches, are committed to providing information and guidance to empower both parents and athletes. By fostering an environment of open communication, we can collaboratively enhance the experience for everyone involved. Thank you for your cooperation and support in creating a positive atmosphere for our athletes!
REFUND POLICY Effective Date:
At Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence (FIVE), we are committed to providing a positive and enriching experience for all our players. We understand that circumstances can change, and we strive to be fair and transparent regarding our refund policy. Please read the following guidelines carefully.
1. Registration Fees: All registration fees are non-refundable after the registration period has closed.
2. Withdrawal Policy:
· Before the Season Starts: If a player withdraws before the first practice, a full refund minus the registration Fee and $25 will be issued.
· After the Season Starts: If a player withdraws after the season has begun the camp, clinic, lesson, and club play has started no refunds will be provided.
3. Medical Withdrawals: If a player must withdraw due to a medical reason, player must provide a written note from a physician to be eligible to receive a refund. a refund minus $50 processing fee will be issued upon receipt of a doctor's note. The club will issue refunds at our discretion to players.
4. Camp and Clinic Fees: Refunds for camps and clinics will be provided only if requested at least 2 days prior to the event. After that date, no refunds will be issued.
5. Special Circumstances: We understand that special circumstances may arise. Requests for refunds due to extenuating circumstances should be submitted in writing to [email protected], and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
6. Processing Time: Refunds will be processed within 4-6 weeks of approval. Refunds will be issued via the original payment method.
7. Contact Information: For questions or to submit a refund request, please contact us at: Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence - [email protected], - 813 4640196 / 813 4640195
Thank you for your understanding and support of Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence. (FIVE) SOCIAL MEDIA AND ONLINE COMMUNICATION POLICY
Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence (FIVE) recognizes that technological advancements have transformed social interactions, making social media a popular communication tool among players, parents, and coaches. However, we also understand that social media can sometimes be a platform for inappropriate behavior and misconduct. The following guidelines are designed to promote the responsible use of social media and online communication.
Texting, Email, and Similar Electronic Communications
When coaches or staff members need to communicate directly with players via text or email, they must adhere to these guidelines:
· Inclusion of Parents/Guardians: A parent or guardian must be copied on the communication.
· Identification: All messages should clearly identify the sender (including name and organization); using only a phone number or email address is insufficient.
· Content: Communications should remain professional, focusing solely on team-related information.
· Language: Messages must be free from offensive, sexual, or inappropriate language or images.
· Timing and Frequency: Consideration should be given to the time of day and the number of messages sent.
· Record Keeping: Coaches must maintain records of their current contact numbers and email addresses.
If a player needs to reach out to a coach or staff member via text or email, they should follow these guidelines:
· Inclusion of Parents/Guardians: A parent or guardian must be copied on the communication.
· Content Restrictions: Messages should pertain only to team or club activities.
Social Media Guidelines
· No Direct Contact: Coaches are not permitted to engage with players on any social media platform.
· Respect Privacy: Players must not post pictures of other club members or players without their permission, especially if the images could be hurtful or embarrassing.
· Privacy Areas: The recording or sharing of images in private areas (such as showers, restrooms, or changing rooms) is strictly prohibited.
· Official Communication: Players and parents are encouraged to "like" the official FIVE social media page, where coaches can share information about team activities. All communications on this platform should be open, transparent, and professional.
· Use of Club Materials: The use of FIVE logos, media, or images of players and coaches without explicit permission is not allowed.
· Positive Environment: Social media should not be used to criticize or demean FIVE or any members of the FIVE community. Negative posts about the club, players, or coaches can result in immediate dismissal from the program. FINANCIAL POLICIES
By accepting a position on a Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence (FIVE) team, the parent or guardian assumes responsibility for the full club tuition for their athlete. To secure a spot on a team, the first payment is due at tryouts. This deposit is non-refundable, regardless of whether the athlete participates for the entire season or is dismissed for violating club policies.
Refunds are available only for medical reasons. If a refund is needed, a written request must be submitted with supporting documentation, including the date of the incident or injury, doctor's notes detailing the type and duration of the disability, and the timeline of club participation. All disputes with complete documentation will be considered.
Tuition can be paid in full at tryouts or through a payment plan that begins with the initial deposit at that time. Failure to adhere to the payment schedule may result in restrictions on practice and tournament participation until the account is settled, or arrangements are made with FIVE Administration. Non-payment could lead to removal from the team.
Outstanding payments may be sent to a collection agency, and the parent/guardian will be responsible for any associated fees. If an athlete quits, the parent/guardian remains liable for the full club tuition and will continue to receive billing statements. Refunds in cases where a player does not complete the season will be at the sole discretion of the club.
Membership costs vary based on the age and level of the team. Club payments cover tournament entry fees, uniforms and gear, administrative costs, coach salaries and travel, facility fees, practice time, and training equipment.
If any athlete causes damage to equipment owned by FIVE or any facilities used during practices, tournaments, or other events, it is the responsibility of the athlete to reimburse the appropriate entity for the damages before continuing participation with the club.
ASSUMPTION OF RISK / WAIVER OF LIABILITY / INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT
In consideration of being permitted to participate in the Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence program and related events and activities, I, the undersigned, acknowledge, appreciate, and agree to the following:
· Risk Acknowledgment: I understand that participation may involve potential exposure to infectious diseases, including but not limited to MRSA, influenza, and COVID-19. While specific rules and personal discipline may help mitigate these risks, serious illness and death remain possible.
· Assumption of Risk: I knowingly and voluntarily assume all risks, both known and unknown, even if arising from the negligence of others, and accept full responsibility for my participation.
· Compliance Agreement: I agree to adhere to all stated and customary terms and conditions related to participation, especially regarding health and safety measures against infectious diseases. If I notice any unusual or significant hazards during my participation, I will immediately remove myself and report the issue to the nearest official.
· Release of Liability: I, on behalf of myself and my heirs, assigns, personal representatives, and next of kin, hereby release and hold harmless Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence, its officers, officials, agents, employees, fellow participants, sponsoring agencies, advertisers, and, if applicable, the owners and lessors of the premises used for the event (collectively referred to as "Releasees"), from any and all illness, disability, death, or loss or damage to person or property, whether arising from the negligence of the Releasees or otherwise, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
I have read this Release of Liability and Assumption of Risk Agreement, fully understand its terms, and acknowledge that I am relinquishing substantial rights by signing it. I sign freely and voluntarily without any inducement. For Participants Under Age 18:
As the parent/guardian with legal responsibility for the participant, I certify that I have read and explained this waiver/release to my child/ward, including the associated risks and their responsibilities regarding the rules and regulations for protection against communicable diseases. My child/ward understands and accepts these risks. I, along with my spouse and child/ward, consent to this release for all Releasees and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Releasees for any liabilities arising from my minor child's/ward's participation, even if resulting from their negligence, to the fullest extent allowed by law. Name of Athlete: ______________________Name of Parent/Guardian: _________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: __________________ Date Signed: _______________ CLUB RELEASE POLICY
If an athlete/family decides to depart Franco Indoor Volleyball Excellence (FIVE) during the respective season, the following steps must take place: Release Policy:
STEP 1 - The athlete/family in question must submit a written request for release to the Club Director: Hatember Franco, at [email protected] and to the Florida Region at [email protected] stating the reason for the request. Club may deny request for release of the athlete.
STEP 2 – If club approves release of the athlete.
1. All financial obligations agreed upon contractually must be paid in full before the athlete is approved to be released.
2. Payment Option – Cashier's check or money order
3. Once payment is received by cashier's check or money order the club will send an email to the Florida Region at [email protected] approving release of the named athlete.
The club may agree to waive the requirements above on a case-by-case basis. Transfer Policy: A player can represent only one club during the Season. A change in the geographical location of the family due to a change in job, military, scholastic or inner-collegiate status may receive special consideration. No player may participate in different Qualifying events with different clubs/teams. Proof of residency must be provided by the family at the time of the release/transfer request. Once an athlete has participated in a National Qualifier Event (Regional or NQ) they may not be released for the rest of the season to another club. Please refer to the USA Volleyball (USAV) Championship Manual on releases for athletes that participate in regional or national qualifying/bid events.
Parent Name (Print) ____________________________
Parent Signature _______________________________ Date:_______________________  MINOR ATHLETE ABUSE PREVENTION POLICIES (“MAAPP”) Publication Date: December 20, 2024 Effective Date: January 1, 2025 USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 1Table of Contents INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 5 AUTHORITY ............................................................................................................................. 5 SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................ 7 The MAAPP Applies to “In-Program Contact” Within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement ..................................................................................................................................................... 7 PART I ORGANIZATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR EDUCATION & TRAINING ................ 9 A. Organizational Requirements for Education & Training ....................................................... 9 B. Required Prevention Policies and Implementation ................................................................ 9 C. Policy Approval and Submission Process ..................................................................... 10 PART II EDUCATION & TRAINING POLICY .......................................................................... 12 A. Mandatory Child Abuse Prevention Training for Adult Participants ................................... 12 1. Adult Participants Required to Complete Training ........................................................... 12 2. Timing of Training ............................................................................................................ 12 3. Refresher Training ............................................................................................................. 12 B. Minor Athlete Training Must Be Offered ............................................................................. 12 C. Parent Training Must Be Offered ................................................................................. 13 D. Optional Training ........................................................................................................... 13 E. Exemptions and Accommodations ....................................................................................... 13 PART III REQUIRED POLICIES FOR ONE-ON-ONE INTERACTIONS ................................ 15 EXCEPTIONS .......................................................................................................................... 15 A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 15 1. A Close-in-Age Exception ................................................................................................ 15 3. Exceptions for Dual Relationships .................................................................................... 16 4. Emergency Exception ....................................................................................................... 16 MEETINGS POLICY ............................................................................................................... 17 A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 17 1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 17 USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 22. Meetings with licensed mental health care professionals and health care providers (other than athletic trainers) ............................................................................................................. 17 B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 17 1. Parent Training .................................................................................................................. 17 A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 18 1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 18 2. Consent .............................................................................................................................. 18 B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 18 1. Monitoring ........................................................................................................................ 18 2. Parent Training .................................................................................................................. 18 MANUAL THERAPY AND THERAPEUTIC AND RECOVERY MODALITIES POLICY 19 A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 19 1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 19 2. Manual Therapy and Therapeutic and Recovery Modalities Requirements ..................... 19 3. Consent .............................................................................................................................. 19 B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 20 1. Parent Training .................................................................................................................. 20 LOCKER ROOMS AND CHANGING AREAS POLICY .......................................................... 21 A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 21 1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 21 2. Conduct in Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces .................................... 21 3. Media and Championship Celebrations in Locker Rooms ............................................... 21 4. Personal Care Assistants ................................................................................................... 22 5. Availability and Monitoring of Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces ..... 22 ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS POLICY ......................................................................... 23 A. Mandatory Components .................................................................................................... 23 1. Open and Transparent ....................................................................................................... 23 2. Team Communication ....................................................................................................... 23 3. Content .............................................................................................................................. 23 USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 34. Requests to Discontinue .................................................................................................... 23 B. Recommended Components ............................................................................................. 24 1. Hours ................................................................................................................................. 24 2. Social Media Connections ................................................................................................ 24 TRANSPORTATION POLICY .................................................................................................... 25 A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 25 1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 25 2. Additional Requirements for Transportation Authorized or Funded by USA Volleyball and its LAOs ................................................................................................................................ 25 B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 25 1. Shared or Carpool Travel Arrangement ............................................................................ 25 2. Parent Training .................................................................................................................. 25 LODGING AND RESIDENTAL ENVIRONMENTS POLICY .................................................. 26 A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 26 1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 26 2. Hotel Rooms and Other Sleeping Arrangements .............................................................. 26 3. Monitoring or Room Checks During In-Program Travel .................................................. 26 B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 27 Parent Training ...................................................................................................................... 27 PART IV RECOMMENDED POLICIES FOR KEEPING YOUNG ATHLETES SAFE ............ 28 A. Out-of-Program Contact ....................................................................................................... 28 B. Gifting .................................................................................................................................. 28 C. Photography/Video ......................................................................................................... 28 TERMINOLOGY ......................................................................................................................... 29 APPENDIX I ............................................................................................................................. 32 USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 4INTRODUCTION The U.S. Center for SafeSport (the Center) is committed to building a sport community where Participants can work and learn together in an atmosphere free of emotional, physical, and sexual misconduct. The most commonly used terms throughout this document are defined in the Terminology section in the back of this document. AUTHORITY The Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act of 2017 authorizes the Center to develop training and policies to prevent abuse—including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse—within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. 36 U.S.C. § 220542(a)(1). Federal law requires that, at a minimum, national governing bodies and paralympic sports organizations must offer and give consistent training related to the prevention of child abuse: (1) to all adult members who are in regular contact with amateur athletes who are minors and (2) subject to parental consent, to members who are minors. 36 U.S.C. § 220542(a)(3). Federal law requires that these policies contain reasonable procedures to limit unobservable and uninterruptible one-on-one interactions between an amateur athlete, who is a minor, and an adult, who is not the minor’s legal guardian, at facilities under the jurisdiction of organizations within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. 36 U.S.C. § 220542(a)(2). To that end, the Center has developed the Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies (“MAAPP”). What is MAAPP? The MAAPP is a collection of proactive prevention and training policies for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. It has four primary components: 1. 2. Organizational Requirements for Education & Training and Prevention Policies; An Education & Training Policy that requires training for certain Adult Participants within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement; 3. Required Prevention Policies, focused on limiting one-on-one interactions between Adult Participants and Minor Athletes that Organizations within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement must implement to prevent abuse; 4. Recommended Prevention Policies. The Center developed the MAAPP to assist National Governing Bodies (NGBs), Local Affiliated Organizations (LAOs), the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 5other individuals to whom these policies apply in meeting their obligations under federal law (Note: implementing these policies does not guarantee that an organization or individual fully complies with federal law or all applicable legal obligations). These Organizations should share these policies with all Participants and with parents/guardians of minor athletes. Those implementing these policies should consider the physical and cognitive needs of all athletes. The MAAPP focuses on just two important aspects of a much larger comprehensive abuse prevention strategy. These policies address training requirements and limiting one-on-one interactions between adults and minor athletes. These policies are intended to be enforceable and reasonable, acknowledging, for example, that when a 17-year-old athlete turns 18, they become an adult athlete, and a complete prohibition of one-on-one interactions may not be necessary or practical. Additionally, there may be other instances when one-on-one interactions could occur, and in those cases, these policies provide strategies so parents/guardians can provide informed consent if they choose to allow a permitted interaction. The Center recommends that parents first complete training on abuse prevention to be informed about potential boundary violations and concerns before consenting to the interaction. While the MAAPP will help organizations implement these policies to greatly improve minor athlete safety, in no way can they guarantee athlete safety in all circumstances, especially when the policies are not fully implemented, followed, or monitored. These policies are not comprehensive of all prevention strategies, nor are they intended to be. These policies should be implemented alongside the SafeSport Code. Additionally, other resources are available that may assist organizations in improving athlete safety. 0F 1 How Does the Center Ensure Compliance with the MAAPP? Federal law requires the Center to conduct regular and random audits of the NGBs to ensure compliance with these policies. 36 U.S.C. § 220542(a)(2)(E). More specific organizational compliance requirements can be found in Part I. Additionally, it is the responsibility of the USOPC and each NGB, LAO, and Adult Participant to comply with the MAAPP. The aforementioned 1 Saul, J., & Audage, N. C. (2007). Preventing Child Sexual Abuse Within Youth-serving Organizations: Getting Started on Policies and Procedures. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Canadian Centre for Child Protection. (2014). Child Sexual Abuse: It Is Your Business. Winnipeg, Manitoba: Canadian Centre for Child Protection. The Australian Royal Commission Into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. (2017). Final Report. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 6Organizations can address violations of the MAAPP by Adult Participants in their respective programs. Adult Participants also have an independent responsibility to comply with these MAAPP provisions. Violations of these provisions can result in sanctions under the SafeSport Code. Is the MAAPP Different from the SafeSport Code? Yes. The SafeSport Code works alongside the MAAPP to prevent abuse. The MAAPP includes proactive prevention policies for organizations and individuals, while the SafeSport Code contains misconduct policies for individuals. However, violations of the MAAPP can violate the SafeSport Code, and violators who are also Participants can be sanctioned. SCOPE The MAAPP Applies to “In-Program Contact” Within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement The MAAPP, or a policy containing the minimum required components of the MAAPP, is required for the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), National Governing Bodies (NGB), and Local Affiliated Organizations (LAO) within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement (each an “Organization”). Some policies impose requirements on Organizations at sanctioned events and facilities partially or fully under the Organization’s jurisdiction. For example, Organizations must monitor locker rooms at their facilities and sanctioned events. Other policies impose certain requirements on Adult Participants under the Organization’s jurisdiction when the Adult Participant is having “In-Program Contact.” For example, Adult Participants cannot have one-on-one meetings with a Minor Athlete unless it is observable and interruptible. Who is a Minor Athlete? A Minor Athlete is an amateur athlete under 18 years of age who participates in, or participated within the previous 12 months in, an event, program, activity, or competition that is part of, or partially or fully under the jurisdiction of USA Volleyball and its LAOs. 1F 2 2 This term shall also include any minor who participates in, or participated within the previous 12 months in, a non- athlete role partially or fully under the jurisdiction of an NGB, USOPC, or LAO. Examples include, but are not limited to: officials, coaches, or volunteers. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 7Partial or Full Jurisdiction: Includes any sanctioned event (including all travel and lodging in connection with the event) by USA Volleyball and its LAOs, or any facility that USA Volleyball or its LAOs owns, leases, or rents for practice, training, or competition. Who is an Adult Participant? An Adult Participant is any adult (18 years of age or older) who is: 1. 2. 3. 4. A member or license holder of USA Volleyball; An employee or board member of USA Volleyball or its LAOs; Within the governance or disciplinary jurisdiction of USA Volleyball or its LAOs; Authorized, approved, or appointed by USA Volleyball or its LAOs to have regular contact with or authority over minor athletes. 2F 3 What is In-Program Contact? In-Program Contact includes sanctioned events and facilities, but it also applies more broadly to sport-related interactions. The MAAPP defines “In-Program Contact” as: Any contact (including communications, interactions, or activities) between an Adult Participant and any Minor Athlete(s) related to participation in sport. Examples of activities related to participation in sport that could be identified as In Program Contact include, but are not limited to: competition, practices, camps/clinics, training/instructional sessions, pre/post-game meals or outings, team travel, review of game film, team- or sport-related relationship building activities, celebrations, award ceremonies, banquets, team- or sport-related fundraising or community service, sport education, or competition site visits. Am I required to take SafeSport Training? Certain Adult Participants within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement who have (i) regular contact with amateur athletes who are minors, (ii) authority over amateur athletes who are minors, or (iii) are employees or board members of USA Volleyball and its LAOs are required to take training. The specific training requirements can be found in Part II. 3 This may include volunteers, medical staff, trainers, chaperones, monitors, contract personnel, bus/van drivers, officials, adult athletes, staff, board members, and any other individual who meets the Adult Participant definition. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 8PART I ORGANIZATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR EDUCATION & TRAINING AND PREVENTION POLICIES All NGBs, LAOs, and the USOPC, in this case “USA Volleyball”, must implement proactive policies designed to prevent abuse. These organizational requirements are described below. A. Organizational Requirements for Education & Training 1. 2. USA Volleyball must track whether Adult Participants under its jurisdiction complete the required training listed in Part II. USA Volleyball must, every 12 months, offer and, subject to parental consent, give training to minor athletes on the prevention and reporting of child abuse. a. For training to minor athletes, USA Volleyball must track a description of the training and how the training was offered and provided to minor athletes. b. USA Volleyball is not required to track individual course completions of minor athletes. 3. USA Volleyball must, every 12 months, offer training to parents on the prevention and reporting of child abuse. a. For training to parents, USA Volleyball must track a description of the training and how the training was offered and provided to parents. b. USA Volleyball is not required to track individual course completions of parents. B. Required Prevention Policies and Implementation 1. USA Volleyball must develop minor athlete abuse prevention policies to limit one-on-one interactions between a Minor Athlete and an Adult Participant. These policies must contain the mandatory components of the Center’s model policies in Part III. These model policies cover: a. Meetings b. Individual training sessions c. Therapeutic and Recovery Modalities and Manual Therapy d. Locker rooms and changing areas e. Electronic communications f. Transportation USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 92. 3. 4. 5. g. Lodging and Residential Environments The policies must be approved by the Center as described in subsection (C) below. The policies may include the recommended components in Part III and the recommended policies in Part IV. Given the uniqueness of each sport, however, some recommended components or policies may not be feasible or appropriate. Such concerns should be addressed with the Center during the Policy Approval and Submission Process discussed below. USA Volleyball may choose to implement stricter standards than the model policies. USA Volleyball must also require that its LAOs implement these policies within each LAO. USA Volleyball and its LAOs must implement these policies for all In-Program Contact. a. At sanctioned events and facilities partially or fully under its jurisdiction, the Organization must take steps to ensure the policies are implemented and followed. b. For In-Program Contact that occurs outside USA Volleyball’s and LAOs’ sanctioned event or facilities, implementing these policies means: i. Communicating the policies to individuals under its jurisdiction; ii. Establishing a reporting mechanism for violations of the policies; iii. Investigating and enforcing violations of the policies. USA Volleyball and its LAOs must have a reporting mechanism to accept reports that an Adult Participant is violating USA Volleyball’s Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies. The Organization must appropriately investigate and resolve any reports received, unless the violation is reported to the Center and it exercises jurisdiction over the report. This requirement is in addition to requirements to report abuse under the SafeSport Code. C. Policy Approval and Submission Process 1. USA Volleyball may adopt the mandatory minimum requirements of the MAAPP as-is or adapt it to fit their needs. Regardless, USA Volleyball must submit their policies to the Center at [email protected] for review and approval by April 1, 2024. The Center will approve, approve with modifications, or deny the policies. If the Center denies the proposed policy, the mandatory components of Part III of the Center’s Model MAAPP become the default policy until the Center approves the policy. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 102. 3. USA Volleyball must require their LAOs to incorporate the mandatory components of Part III. USA Volleyball may require that their LAOs implement USA Volleyball policies, which may be more stringent than the policies in Part III. The mandatory components of Part III will serve as the default policy for any Organization that fails to develop its own policy as required by this section. Any changes made to USA Volleyball’s MAAPP after the policy is approved must be submitted to the Center for approval. The previously approved MAAPP will remain in effect until written approval is provided to USA Volleyball from the Center. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 11PART II EDUCATION & TRAINING POLICY A. Mandatory Child Abuse Prevention Training for Adult Participants 1. Adult Participants Required to Complete Training a. The following Adult Participants must complete the SafeSport® Trained Core Course through the Center’s online training: i. Adult Participants who have regular contact with any amateur athlete(s) who is a minor; ii. Adult Participants who have authority over any amateur athlete(s) who is a minor; iii. Adult Participants who are an employee or board member of USA Volleyball or its affiliate LAOs. 2. Timing of Training Adult Participants must complete this training before regular contact with an amateur athlete who is a minor begins or within the first 45 days of either initial membership or upon beginning a new role subjecting the adult to this policy, whichever comes first. 3. Refresher Training The above-listed Adult Participants must complete a refresher course every 12 months, beginning the calendar year after completing the SafeSport® Trained Core Course. Every four years, Adult Participants will complete the SafeSport® Trained Core Course training. Medical providers can take the Health Professionals Course in lieu of the SafeSport® Trained Core Course and are required to take the refresher courses on an annual basis if they meet the criteria for A(1). B. Minor Athlete Training Must Be Offered 1. USA Volleyball, every 12 months, must offer and, subject to parental consent, give training to minor athletes on the prevention and reporting of child abuse. USA Volleyball offers this training in its welcome letter to members. 2. The Center offers youth courses, located at safesporttrained.org, that meet this requirement. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 12C. Parent Training Must Be Offered 1. USA Volleyball, every 12 months, must offer training to parents on the prevention and reporting of child abuse. USA Volleyball offers this training in its welcome letter to members. 2. The Center offers a parent course, located at safesporttrained.org, that meets this requirement. D. Optional Training 1. Adult Participants serving in a volunteer capacity, who will not have regular contact with or authority over any amateur athlete(s) who is a minor, should take the Center’s brief Volunteer Course (or SafeSport® Trained Core Course) before engaging or interacting with any minor athlete(s). 2. USA Volleyball may provide training in addition to the SafeSport® Trained Core Course, although they cannot refer to this training as “SafeSport” training. Training other than the SafeSport Trained Core Course or Refresher does not satisfy this policy. 3. Parents of minor athletes are provided free online access to the Center’s parent course and are encouraged to take the training. E. Exemptions and Accommodations The Center’s online training courses contain information about various forms of abuse. The courses do not include graphic descriptions of abuse or show violent images or video. The content may be uncomfortable or trigger trauma for some participants. 1. Exemptions to the online training requirement may be requested by survivors of abuse and misconduct. Survivors of abuse can request an exemption by contacting USA Volleyball or can choose to contact the Center directly to request an exemption at [email protected]. All exemptions granted by the Center or by USA Volleyball in this category are considered indefinite. The Center will track all requests for exemptions upon notification from USA Volleyball. 2. Exemptions to the online training requirement for reasons other than survivor of abuse and misconduct are limited to cognitive or physical disability or language barrier. Requests for these exemptions must be made by the individual to USA Volleyball. USA Volleyball will determine whether to grant the exemption. If USA Volleyball grants the exemption, it must track the exemption to ensure it is appropriately applied to the individual’s membership USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 13status. USA Volleyball must preserve documentation that the exemption was granted and for what duration. 3. The Center has several options available to assist individuals in completing the online training courses, including screen reader-compatible versions and course availability in several languages, including English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Russian, German, and Japanese. If none of the available options will fit the individual’s needs, USA Volleyball may determine whether to grant an exemption. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 14PART III REQUIRED POLICIES FOR ONE-ON-ONE INTERACTIONS The U.S. Center for SafeSport recognizes that youth-adult relationships can be healthy and valuable for development. Policies on one-on-one interactions protect children while allowing for these beneficial relationships. As child sexual abuse is often perpetrated in isolated, one-on-one situations, it is critical that organizations limit such interactions between youth and adults and implement programs that reduce the risk of sexual abuse. All one-on-one In-Program Contact between an Adult Participant and a Minor Athlete must be observable and interruptible, except in emergency circumstances or with a documented exception. EXCEPTIONS There are certain relationships and situations in which one-on-one interactions may be allowed or necessary. This section identifies policy exceptions for close-in-age relationships, Personal Care Assistants, dual relationships, and emergencies. The following exceptions are applicable within all Required Prevention Policies unless otherwise noted. A. Mandatory Components 1. A Close-in-Age Exception The purpose of this exception is to allow for continued relationships among athletes on the same team. This exception allows for one-on-one In-Program Contact between an Adult Participant and a Minor Athlete if: a. The Adult Participant has no authority over the Minor Athlete; and b. The Adult Participant is not more than 4 years older (determined by birth date) than the Minor Athlete. Note: This exception is different than the close-in-age exception in the SafeSport Code pertaining to misconduct. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 15b. c. 2. Exceptions for Adult Participant Personal Care Assistants Working with a Minor Athlete This exception exists for Adult Participants who also assist an athlete with activities of daily living and preparation for athletic participation. This exception allows for one-on-one In-Program Contact between an Adult Participant and a Minor Athlete if the following requirements are met: a. the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided written consent to USA Volleyball and/or its Region for the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant to work with the Minor Athlete; and the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with the Education & Training Policy; and, the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with USA Volleyball background screening policy. 3. Exceptions for Dual Relationships This exception allows for one-on-one In-Program Contact when the Adult Participant has a relationship with a Minor Athlete that is outside of the sport program. The exception requires written consent of the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian at least annually. The consent must identify for which Required Prevention Policies the parent/guardian is allowing the one-on-one In-Program Contact. 4. Emergency Exception This exception applies to all Required Prevention Policies for situations where an Adult Participant must violate requirement(s) of the MAAPP due to an emergency. Adult Participants must carefully consider whether specific circumstances meet the threshold of “emergency.” Adult Participants should document emergency situations in accordance with USA Volleyball’s protocols. The Center recommends parents take training on child abuse prevention before providing consent to the above exceptions. The Center offers a free Parent Course at safesporttrained.org. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 16MEETINGS POLICY Sexual abuse often happens when children are alone with their abusers. This section provides policies for meetings to limit one-on-one interactions between children and adults, including mental health care professionals and licensed health care providers. A. Mandatory Components 1. Observable and Interruptible a. Adult Participants must ensure that all In-Program meetings with Minor Athletes be observable and interruptible, unless an exception exists. 2. Meetings with licensed mental health care professionals and health care providers (other than athletic trainers 3F 4) If a licensed mental health care professional, licensed health care provider, or a student under the supervision of a licensed mental health care professional or licensed health care provider, meets one-on-one with a Minor Athlete at a sanctioned event or a facility, which is partially or fully under USA Volleyball or its Region’s jurisdiction, the meeting must be observable and interruptible except: a. If the door remains unlocked; and b. Another adult is present at the facility and notified that a meeting is occurring, although the Minor Athlete’s identity needs not be disclosed; and c. USA Volleyball or its Regions is notified that the professional or provider will be meeting with a Minor Athlete; and, d. The professional or provider obtains consent consistent with applicable laws and ethical standards, which can be withdrawn at any time. B. Recommended Components 1. Parent Training Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s education and training on child abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to have a meeting or training session with an Adult Participant subject to these policies. 4 Athletic trainers who are covered under these policies must follow the “Manual Therapy and Therapeutic and Recovery Modalities” policy. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 17TRAINING SESSIONS POLICY Some abusers will single out athletes for special one-on-one instruction. This kind of isolation provides opportunities for abuse to occur. This section establishes rules for individual and group training sessions to protect youth athletes from uncomfortable or unsafe situations. A. Mandatory Components 1. Observable and Interruptible Adult Participants must ensure all In-Program individual and group training sessions with a Minor Athlete be observable and interruptible unless an exception exists. 2. Consent The Adult Participant providing individual training sessions must receive advance, written consent from the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian at least annually, which can be withdrawn at any time; and 3. Parent Observation Parents/guardians must be allowed to observe individual and group training sessions. B. Recommended Components 1. Monitoring If a permitted meeting or training session takes place between an Adult Participant(s) and a Minor Athlete(s) at a facility partially or fully under USA Volleyball and its Region’s jurisdiction, another Adult Participant will monitor each meeting or training session. Monitoring includes reviewing the parent/guardian consent form, knowing that the meeting or training session is occurring, knowing the approximate planned duration of the meeting or training session, and dropping in on the meeting or training session. 2. Parent Training Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s education and training on child abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to have a meeting or training session with an Adult Participant subject to these policies. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 18MANUAL THERAPY AND THERAPEUTIC AND RECOVERY MODALITIES POLICY 4F 5 Many athletes require therapies to prevent or treat injuries. However, these treatment sessions can place children in vulnerable positions, especially if they involve physical contact with adults. This section establishes standards for therapeutic and recovery modalities and manual therapy to reduce the risk of inappropriate contact between youth and adults. A. Mandatory Components Note: Only the emergency exception applies within this policy. 1. Observable and Interruptible Adult Participants must ensure that all In-Program Contact during manual therapy and therapeutic modalities and recovery modalities with Minor Athletes must be observable and interruptible. 2. Manual Therapy and Therapeutic and Recovery Modalities Requirements Adult Participants must ensure all In-Program manual therapy and therapeutic and recovery modalities meet the following requirements: a. Have another Adult Participant physically present for the modality or manual therapy; and b. c. Have documented consent as explained in subsection (4) below; and Be performed with the Minor Athlete fully or partially clothed, ensuring that the breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals are always covered; and d. Allow parents/guardians in the room as an observer, except for competition or training venues that limit credentialing; and e. The provider must narrate the steps in the modality before taking them, seeking assent of the Minor Athlete throughout the process. 3. Consent a. Providers of manual therapy, therapeutic modalities, or recovery modalities or USA Volleyball and its Regions, when applicable, must obtain consent at least annually from Minor Athletes’ parents/guardians before providing any manual therapy, therapeutic modalities, or recovery modalities. 5 Manual therapy and therapeutic and recovery modalities can be different for each sport. They can include, but are not limited to: first aid, massage, taping, cupping, stretching, cryotherapy, neuromuscular stimulations, electrical stimulation, or other modalities within the scope of a Healthcare Provider’s credentials. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 19b. Minor Athletes or their parents/guardians can withdraw consent at any time. B. Recommended Components 1. Parent Training Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport education and training on child abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to receive a manual therapy, therapeutic modality, or recovery modality. 2. When possible, techniques should be used to reduce physical touch of Minor Athletes. 3. Only licensed providers should administer manual therapy, therapeutic modalities, or recovery modalities. 4. Coaches, regardless of whether they are licensed massage therapists, should not massage Minor Athletes. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 20LOCKER ROOMS AND CHANGING AREAS POLICY Young athletes may be especially vulnerable to abuse in changing areas where they are undressing and possibly showering. Appropriate monitoring is necessary in these areas to prevent abuse and other inappropriate conduct. This section outlines policies for locker rooms and changing areas to ensure privacy and safety. A. Mandatory Components 1. Observable and Interruptible Adult Participants must ensure that all In-Program Contact with Minor Athlete(s) in a locker room, changing area, or similar space where Minor Athlete(s) are present is observable and interruptible, unless an exception exists. 2. Conduct in Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces a. No Adult Participant or Minor Athlete can use the photographic or recording capabilities of any device in locker rooms, changing areas, or any other area designated as a place for changing clothes or undressing. b. Adult Participants must not remove their clothes or behave in a manner that intentionally or recklessly exposes their breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals to a Minor Athlete in a locker room or changing area. Adult Participants must not shower with Minor Athletes unless: i. The Adult Participant meets the Close-in-Age Exception; or ii. The shower is part of a pre- or post-activity rinse while wearing swimwear. Parents/guardians may request in writing that their Minor Athlete(s) not change or shower with Adult Participant(s) during In-Program Contact. USA Volleyball and its LAOs and the Adult Participant(s) must abide by this request. c. d. 3. Media and Championship Celebrations in Locker Rooms USA Volleyball and its Regions may permit recording or photography in locker rooms for the purpose of highlighting a sport or athletic accomplishment if: a. Parent/legal guardian consent has been obtained; and b. USA Volleyball and its Regions approves the specific instance of recording or photography; and USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 21c. Two or more Adult Participants are present; and d. Everyone is fully clothed. 4. Personal Care Assistants Adult Participant Personal Care Assistants are permitted to be with and assist Minor Athlete(s) in locker rooms, changing areas, and similar spaces where other Minor Athletes are present, if they meet the requirements detailed on page 14. 5. Availability and Monitoring of Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces a. USA Volleyball and its LAOs must provide a private or semi-private place for Minor Athletes that need to change clothes or undress at sanctioned events or facilities partially or fully under USA Volleyball’s jurisdiction. USA Volleyball does not utilize changing rooms at its events. If USA Volleyball did utilize changing rooms, it would follow the above procedures. b. IF locker rooms, changing areas, or similar spaces are used at USA Volleyball events, USA Volleyball and its LAOs must monitor their use to ensure compliance with these policies at sanctioned events or facilities partially or fully under USA Volleyball and its Region’s jurisdiction. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 22ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS POLICY 5F 6 Technology has made it easier for teams to communicate and share information. Unfortunately, it also makes it easier for abusers to contact children without supervision or share inappropriate images and video. This section sets standards for appropriate electronic communications between youth and adults. A. Mandatory Components 1. Open and Transparent a. All one-on-one electronic communications between an Adult Participant and a Minor Athlete must be Open and Transparent, unless an exception exists. b. “Open and Transparent” means that the Adult Participant copies or includes the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian, another adult family member of the Minor Athlete, or another Adult Participant on every communication. • If a Minor Athlete communicates with the Adult Participant first, the Adult Participant must follow this policy if the Adult Participant responds. Only platforms that allow for Open and Transparent communication may be used to communicate with Minor Athletes. c. 2. Team Communication When an Adult Participant communicates electronically to the entire team or any number of Minor Athletes on the team, the Adult Participant must copy or include the Minor Athletes’ parents/guardians, another adult family member of the Minor Athletes, or another Adult Participant. 3. Content All electronic communication originating from an Adult Participant(s) to a Minor Athlete(s) must be professional in nature unless an exception exists. 4. Requests to Discontinue Parents/guardians may request in writing that USA Volleyball and its LAOs or an Adult Participant not contact their Minor Athlete through any form of electronic communication. USA Volleyball, its LAOs and the Adult Participant must abide by any request to discontinue, absent emergency circumstances. 6 Electronic communications include, but are not limited to: email, phone calls, videoconferencing, video coaching, texting, social media, or through any other electronic medium. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 23B. Recommended Components 1. Hours Electronic communications should generally be sent only between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. local time for the location of the Minor Athlete. 2. Social Media Connections Adult Participants, except those with a Dual Relationship or who meet the Close-in-Age Exception, are not permitted to have private social media connections with Minor Athletes and should discontinue existing social media connections with Minor Athletes. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 24TRANSPORTATION POLICY Athletes are often carpooling or traveling without the supervision of their parent/guardian to practices and competitions. This can place them in vulnerable positions where they are susceptible to abuse. This section establishes policies for adults transporting children to or from sport activities. A. Mandatory Components 1. Observable and Interruptible Adult participants must ensure that all In-Program Contact during Transportation is Observable and Interruptible unless an exception exists or: a. The Adult Participant has advanced, written consent to transport the Minor Athlete one- on-one, obtained at least annually from the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian. Minor Athlete(s) or their parent/guardian can withdraw consent at any time. b. The Adult Participant is accompanied by another Adult Participant or at least two minors who are at least 8 years of age. 2. Additional Requirements for Transportation Authorized or Funded by USA Volleyball and its Regions a. Written consent from a Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian is required for all transportation authorized or funded by USA Volleyball and its Regions at least annually. b. Minor Athlete(s) or their parent/guardian can withdraw consent at any time. B. Recommended Components 1. Shared or Carpool Travel Arrangement The Organization encourages parents/guardians to pick up their Minor Athlete first and drop off their Minor Athlete last in any shared or carpool travel arrangement. 2. Parent Training Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport education and training on child abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to travel one-on-one with an Adult Participant. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 25LODGING AND RESIDENTAL ENVIRONMENTS POLICY Youth athletes traveling overnight face greater risk of sexual abuse if they are traveling without their parent/guardian. Abusers can take advantage of the situation by trying to have unsupervised time alone with children. This section sets rules for sleeping arrangements and room monitoring to protect athletes during overnight travel. A. Mandatory Components 1. Observable and Interruptible All In-Program Contact during lodging must be observable and interruptible unless an exception exists. a. Lodging arrangements covered under this policy include, but are not limited to, hotel stays, rentals (i.e., Airbnb, VRBO, HomeToGo, etc.), and long-term residential environments, including lodging at training sites and billeting. 2. Hotel Rooms and Other Sleeping Arrangements a. An Adult Participant cannot share a hotel room or otherwise sleep in the same room with a Minor Athlete(s), unless an exception exists and the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided USA Volleyball and its Regions or Adult Participant with advance, written consent for each specific lodging arrangement. Written consent from a Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian must be obtained for all In- Program lodging at least annually. Minor Athlete(s) or their parent/guardian can withdraw consent at any time. Adult Participants without an exception and written parent/guardian consent as stated above are not permitted to stay overnight with Minor Athlete(s) in a communal lodging space such as an Airbnb, VRBO, HomeToGo, etc. 3. Monitoring or Room Checks During In-Program Travel If USA Volleyball and its Regions or a team performs room checks during In-Program lodging, the one-on-one interaction policy must be followed and at least two adults must be present for the room checks. 4. Additional Requirements for Lodging Authorized or Funded by the Organization Adult Participants that travel overnight with Minor Athlete(s) are assumed to have Authority over b. c. d. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 26Minor Athlete(s) and thus must comply with the Education and Training policy outlined in Part II, unless the Adult Participant meets the Close-in-Age exception. B. Recommended Components Parent Training Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s education and training on child abuse prevention before providing consent for lodging arrangements under this policy. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 27PART IV RECOMMENDED POLICIES FOR KEEPING YOUNG ATHLETES SAFE A. Out-of-Program Contact Adult Participants, who do not meet the Close-in-Age Exception nor have a Dual Relationship with a Minor Athlete, should not have out-of-program contact with Minor Athlete(s) without legal/parent guardian consent, even if the out-of-program contact is not one-on-one. B. Gifting 1. Adult Participants, who do not meet the Close-in-Age Exception nor have a Dual Relationship with a Minor Athlete, should not give personal gifts to Minor Athlete(s). 2. Gifts that are equally distributed to all athletes and serve a motivational or educational purpose are permitted. C. Photography/Video 1. Photographs or videos of athletes may only be taken in public view and must observe generally accepted standards of decency. 2. Adult Participants should not publicly share or post photos or videos of Minor Athlete(s) if the Adult Participant has not obtained the parent/guardian and Minor Athlete’s consent. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 28TERMINOLOGY Adult Participant: Any adult (18 years of age or older) who is: a. b. c. d. A member or license holder of USA Volleyball; An employee or board member of USA Volleyball or its LAOs; Within the governance or disciplinary jurisdiction of USA Volleyball or its LAOs; Authorized, approved, or appointed by USA Volleyball or its LAOs to have regular contact with or authority over minor athletes. 6F 7 Amateur Athlete: An athlete who meets the eligibility standards established by the National Governing Body for the sport in which the athlete competes. Authority: When one person’s position over another person is such that, based on the totality of the circumstances, they have the power or right to direct, control, give orders to, or make decisions for that person. Also see the Power Imbalance definition in the SafeSport Code. Note: NGBs and the USOPC must submit/include categories of members/individuals that fall under the definition, including specific volunteer designations. Close-in-Age Exception: An exception applicable to certain policies when an Adult Participant does not have authority over a Minor Athlete and is not more than 4 years older than the Minor Athlete (e.g., a 19-year-old and a 16-year-old). Note: This exception only applies within the prevention policies and not regarding conduct defined in the SafeSport Code. Dual Relationships: An exception applicable to certain policies when an Adult Participant has a relationship with a Minor Athlete outside of the sport program and the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided written consent at least annually authorizing the exception. In-Program Contact: Any contact (including communications, interactions, or activities) between an Adult Participant and any Minor Athlete(s) related to participation in sport. Examples of In-Program Contact include, but are not limited to: competition, practices, camps/clinics, training/instructional sessions, pre/post game meals or outings, team travel, review of game film, team- or sport-related relationship building activities, celebrations, 7 This may include volunteers, medical staff, trainers, chaperones, monitors, contract personnel, bus/van drivers, officials, adult athletes, staff, board members, and any other individual who meets the Adult Participant definition. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 29award ceremonies, banquets, team- or sport-related fundraising or community service, sport education, or competition site visits. Local Affiliated Organization (LAO): A regional, state, or local club or organization that is directly affiliated with an NGB or that is affiliated with an NGB by its direct affiliation with a regional or state affiliate of said NGB. LAO does not include a regional, state, or local club or organization that is only a member of a National Member Organization of an NGB. USA Volleyball considers its LAOs to include Regions and clubs affiliated with Regions. Minor Athlete: An Amateur Athlete under 18 years of age who participates in, or participated within the previous 12 months in, an event, program, activity, or competition that is part of, or partially or fully under the jurisdiction of USA Volleyball and its LAOs. 7F 8 Partial or Full Jurisdiction: Includes any sanctioned event (including all travel and lodging in connection with the event) by USA Volleyball and its LAOs, or any facility that USA Volleyball and/or its LAOs owns, leases, or rents for practice, training, or competition. National Governing Body (NGB): A U.S. Olympic National Governing Body or Pan American Sport Organization recognized by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee pursuant to the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act, 36 U.S.C. §§ 220501, et seq. This definition shall also apply to the USOPC, or other sports entity approved by the USOPC, when they have assumed responsibility for the management or governance of a sport included on the program of the Olympic, Paralympic, or Pan-American Games. Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant: An Adult Participant who assists a parasport athlete who requires help with activities of daily living (ADL) and preparation for athletic participation. This support can be provided by a Guide for Blind or visually impaired athletes or can include assistance with transfer, dressing, showering, medication administration, and toileting. Personal Care Assistants are different for every athlete and should be individualized to fit their specific needs. When assisting a Minor Athlete, Adult Participant PCAs must be authorized by the athlete’s parent/guardian. 8 This term shall also include any minor who participates in, or participated within the previous 12 months in, a nonathlete role partially or fully under the jurisdiction of an NGB, USOPC, or LAO. Examples include, but are not limited to: officials, coaches, or volunteers. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 30Regular Contact: Ongoing interactions during a 12-month period wherein an Adult Participant is in a role of direct and active engagement with any amateur athlete(s) who is a minor. Note: NGBs and the USOPC must submit/include categories of members/individuals that fall under the definition, including specific volunteer designations. Residential Environment: A place in which participants live or stay temporarily. Residential environments include, but are not limited to, onsite housing at training facilities, billeting, hotel stays, or rentals (i.e., Airbnb, VRBO, HomeToGo, etc.). Billeting: A residential environment facilitated by an Adult Participant, USA Volleyball and its LAOs, or sanctioned event staff in which a Minor Athlete is temporarily housed in a private home with an adult or family who is not related to or known by the Minor Athlete. This lodging arrangement is in conjunction with an activity related to sport. U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC): A federally chartered nonprofit corporation that serves as the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee for the United States. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 31APPENDIX I CHART OF POSSIBLE ADULT PARTICIPANTS IN USAV: Adult Participant Regular Contact Authority Over USAV Staff/Interns X X USAV Board Members X Region/Club Staff X X Region/Club Board Members X Coaches X X Officials X X USAV Members 18 years or over on teams with Minors X Chaperones X X Club Administrators X X Arbitrators X X Medical Professionals X X Athletic Trainers X X Independent Contractors* X USAV Members 18 and over who are only participating in Opens (i.e., not also a club coach, chaperone, or board member) with no minor players are not required to take training. *Independent Contractor positions not meeting the Regular Contact definition are not required to take training. Event vendors are not required to take training but are subject to the Required Prevention Policies. USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies 32 |
