Code of Conduct | Blazing Paddles

Blazing Paddles Springfield

Code of Conduct

At Blazing Paddles Springfield table tennis club, we strive to create a positive and inclusive recreational environment for all our members and visitors. To do that, we have established the following Code of Conduct. By participating in any club activities or using the facilities, all members and guests are expected to adhere to the following guidelines:

Etiquette

>Treat fellow members, guests, and venue staff with courtesy, fairness, and respect. Uphold the principles of non-discrimination and avoid any form of discourtesy.

>Display good sportsmanship in both victory and defeat and adhere to the rules and etiquette of table tennis.

>All members are expected to play at least occasionally with other members of varying abilities, though of course they will play at their preferred level of skill most of the time.

>When new guests or infrequent visitors with special needs come to play, the Board will do their best to greet them and may ask others to welcome them to play, but if Board members are not available, all members are expected to treat newcomers and special visitors with kindness and generosity.

Safety and Maintenance

>Prioritize the safety and well-being of others. Follow all guidelines and instructions provided by experienced club members or its Board of Directors (especially regarding set-up and take-down of tables).

>Follow instructions of venue (Willamalane) staff.

>Make sure there is a 3-foot access corridor between cardboard barriers and the table cage or meet-up area to allow for safe evacuation outside.

>Promptly report any maintenance or safety concerns to a Board member or the front desk.

Facility and Equipment Usage and Fair Playing Time

>Use the facilities responsibly, ensuring they are kept clean and well-maintained.

>Respect the scheduling of court usage, and do not set up equipment earlier than 15 minutes before scheduled playtime.

>Keep food and non-water beverages out of the playing area (Court 11), and properly store tables and other equipment after use.

>Make sure lockers and the table cage are locked if you are the last to leave.

>New members please ask experienced members for help in setting up and taking down tables, and in setting up, disassembling, and operating the robot (as it is easy to break).

>If the robot is set up and several people are waiting to play, the robot may be disassembled. Practice on the robot is limited to 20 minutes when others are waiting to use it.

>Playing time for singles should be limited to 45 minutes, after which new players should be accepted. (This does not apply to coaching tables.)

>If people are playing singles and two or more persons are waiting, the singles players should finish their game and switch to playing doubles.

>If people waiting desire to play at a table of doubles players, the usual practice is for players to finish the best of three games and for the losers, those who have played the longest, or two or more volunteers to step out.

Coaching Policy

Paid coaching of club members by individuals who are not employed or authorized by Blazing Paddles is prohibited. Only certified coaches or instructors authorized by the club may provide paid coaching services to members.

Membership and Guest Policies

>Adhere to the club's membership rules, including timely payment and renewal procedures.

>Members and visitors are requested to provide their e-mail address, and applicable fees paid before using the facilities, although the first visit is free. Guests should be made aware of and expected to comply with this code of conduct.

Communication and Conflict Resolution

>Engage in respectful and constructive communication with others.

>Refrain from engaging in public confrontations or making public or written derogatory or provocative remarks about fellow members, guests, or staff.

>Report any serious issues or violations of the code of conduct to a club Board member.

Unsuitable Behavior Considered Breach of Code of Conduct

Unsportsmanlike behavior
Denigration, intimidation, insinuation, harassment or otherwise discourteous comments, gestures, or writing to or about another person
Creating an intentional or repeated disturbance or nuisance
Intentional or careless damage to any equipment or property

Dress Code
All players must wear non-marking shoes.

Compliance with Rules and Regulations

Abide by all club rules and regulations. Comply with applicable local laws and regulations governing the use of the facilities.

Failure to comply with this code of conduct will result in disciplinary action, which may include a warning, temporary suspension, or termination of membership.

Adopted October 2026 (Adapted from the Mountain View Sports & Racquet Club in San Diego—thanks!)