Rules and Policies

On this page you will find our club rules and policies. If you have any questions about any of these, please contact us at any time. Use the links below to jump to a specific section.

Court Rules
Code Of Practice (Juniors)
Code Of Practice (Parents)
Changing Room Code of Conduct

You can also download our safeguarding policy and safeguarding statement by clicking the buttons below.

Court Rules

• Sports clothing and tennis shoes must be worn.
• Spectators must be outside the fencing.
• Chewing gum must not be deposited on the court surface, nor the nets, net posts or fencing.
• Use correct and proper language at all times.
• Learn the rules and play within them.
• Senior members have priority after 6pm. Official Matches and Coaching also take priority.
• No singles play allowed if members are waiting.
• All junior members can use the courts unsupervised, but access to the facilities requires an adult member to be present.
• All adult members can play competitive and social tennis at any time, on any court, unless the court has been declared unfit for play or has been reserved for an organised activity (such as coaching or official matches).
• All gates must be locked and floodlight must be switched off upon leaving.

The synthetic courts are numbers from 1 through to 3, with 1 being nearest the club house.

Code Of Practice (Juniors)

South Shields Tennis Club is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all its members. The club believes that it is important that members, coaches, administrators and parents associated with the club should, at all times, show respect and understanding for the safety and welfare of others.

Therefore, members are encouraged to be open at all times and to share any concerns or complaints that they may have about any aspect of the club with :

South Shields Tennis Club Child Protection Officer: Geoff Moore - +44 7712 839921

Concerns can also always be raised with the coach or coaches on duty.

As a junior member of South Shields Tennis Club you are expected to abide by the following code of practice :

• All members must play within the rules and respect officials and their decisions
• All members must respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity
• All members should keep to agreed timings for training and competitions, or inform their coach or team manager if they are going to be late
• All members must wear suitable kit for training and match sessions, as agreed with the coach
• All members must pay any fees for training or events promptly
• Junior members are not allowed to smoke on club premises or whilst representing the club at competitions
• Junior members are not allowed to consume alcohol or drugs of any kind on club premises or whilst representing the club at competitions

Code Of Practice (Parents)

South Shields Tennis Club is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all its members. The club believes that it is important that members, coaches, administrators and parents associated with the club should, at all times, show respect and understanding for the safety and welfare of others.

Therefore, members are encouraged to be open at all times and to share any concerns or complaints that they may have about any aspect of the club with :

South Shields Tennis Club Child Protection Officer: Geoff Moore - +44 7712 839921

Concerns can also always be raised with the coach or coaches on duty.

A child is anyone under the age of 18 years for the purpose of these rules.

As a parent or guardian of a junior member of South Shields Tennis Club you are expected to abide by the following code of practice :

• Encourage your child to learn the rules of tennis and play within them
• Discourage unfair play and arguing with officials
• Help your child to recognise good performance, not just results
• Never force your child to take part in sport
• Set a good example by recognising fair play and applauding the good performance of all
• Never punish or belittle a child for losing or making mistakes
• Publicly accept judgements made by officials
• Support your child’s involvement and help them to enjoy the sport
• Use correct and proper language at all times
• Allow your child to play in the mini tennis colour stage that is appropriate to them. This will ensure they enjoy playing the game, develop their skills and gain confidence
• Purchase balls and rackets that match the stage your child is in
• Be patient. Steady progression is unusual in children; peaks and plateaus are common
• Your first question following any match should be, “Did you enjoy it?” and not “Did you win?”
• At no stage should you communicate with your child or interfere with the on-court helpers and referees during a match.

Changing Room Code of Conduct

For Members, Parents, Volunteers, and Visitors

Introduction:

At South Shields Tennis Club, we are committed to providing safe and welcoming changing room facilities for all members, volunteers, staff, and visitors. To ensure a respectful and secure environment, we have established this Changing Room Code of Conduct. Please adhere to these guidelines and promote a positive and inclusive atmosphere within our changing rooms.

Guidelines for All Users:

• Respect and Privacy:
  • Respect the privacy and personal space of others.
  • No loitering or unnecessary lingering in the changing rooms.
• Use of Mobile Phones:
  • Mobile phone use for calls and photography is strictly prohibited in the changing rooms to respect the privacy of all individuals.
• Bullying and Harassment:
  • Bullying, harassment, or any form of intimidation will not be tolerated.
  • If you witness any such behavior, please report it immediately to club management.
• Appropriate Attire:
  • Wear suitable clothing and footwear while in the changing rooms.
• Cleanliness:
  • Keep the changing rooms clean and tidy.
  • Dispose of trash in designated bins. For Parents and Guardians:
• Supervision:
  • Parents and guardians are responsible for the supervision of their children in the changing rooms.
  • Children should be encouraged to respect the privacy and space of other users.
• Child Protection:
  • Be vigilant in ensuring the safety and well-being of your child.
  • Report any concerns regarding the behavior of adults or other children to club management. Guidelines for Shared Facilities:
• Designated Timings:
  • If adults and children need to use the changing rooms simultaneously, designated timings will be established and communicated by club management.
  • During shared times, adults are encouraged to use the facilities with sensitivity to children present.
• Communication:
  • Clear signage and notices will indicate when shared usage is in effect.
  • Adults are expected to communicate with children and parents politely and respectfully.

Concern Reporting:

If you have any concerns about the changing room environment, inappropriate behavior, or safety issues, please bring them to the attention of the club management or a member of the staff immediately. Your safety and comfort are our top priority, and we will take prompt action to address any issues. By using the changing rooms at South Shields Tennis Club, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct, which is designed to ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable experience for all. Your cooperation in upholding these guidelines is greatly appreciated. Thank you for being a part of our tennis community.