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SPORTSMANSHIP POLICY

Building a Respectful & Inclusive Pickleball Community

Our club exists to promote the growth of pickleball in a positive, inclusive, and community-driven environment. Every member, guest, player, volunteer, and spectator is expected to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship.

1. Core Principles

All participants agree to:

  • Treat opponents, partners, volunteers, and spectators with respect

  • Play by the rules and honor the integrity of the game

  • Demonstrate honesty in line calls and scoring

  • Win with humility and lose with grace

  • Promote an encouraging and welcoming atmosphere

Pickleball is competitive — but our culture is built on community first.

2. Expected Conduct

Members and participants will:

  • Always use appropriate language

  • Refrain from aggressive behavior (verbal or physical)

  • Avoid unsportsmanlike conduct such as paddle throwing, intimidation, public criticism, boasting and arrogance

  • Respect tournament directors, league coordinators, and volunteer decisions

  • Address disputes calmly and through proper channels

3. Inclusivity & Community Commitment

As a nonprofit organization, we are committed to:

  • Creating a safe and inclusive environment for players of all ages and skill levels

  • Supporting new players and fostering mentorship

  • Preventing bullying, harassment, or exclusionary behavior

  • Encouraging positive sidelines and spectator conduct


4. Conflict Resolution

If issues arise:

  1. Players should attempt to resolve minor concerns respectfully on court.

  2. If needed, contact the league coordinator or board representative.

  3. The Board reserves the right to review incidents and take appropriate action.


5. Disciplinary Action

Failure to uphold this policy may result in:

  • Verbal warning

  • Written warning

  • Suspension from events

  • Loss of membership privileges

  • Removal from the club (in severe or repeated cases)

Our goal is correction, not punishment — but protecting the community is our priority.


Commitment Statement

By participating in club activities, including leagues, clinics, tournaments and drills, members agree to uphold this Sportsmanship Policy and contribute to a culture of respect, fairness, and community spirit.


FINAL NOTE

RESPECT FOR THE GAME

The Panhandle Pickleball Club is committed to fostering an environment built on respect, integrity, and good sportsmanship. While everyone wants to compete and play their best, it is equally important to remember that how we conduct ourselves on the court is just as important as the outcome of the match.

If you believe an opponent's serve is illegal or disagree with a line call, the middle of a match is not the appropriate time for prolonged debates or confrontations. Most recreational players are not certified officials or rules experts, and attempting to resolve these disagreements during play often creates unnecessary tension and detracts from the enjoyment of the game.

If you have a concern, respectfully mention it to your opponents after the match. Then, follow up with your League Coordinator so the situation can be reviewed thoroughly. This allows the issue to be addressed objectively, provides an opportunity for education if needed, and helps ensure consistency in future matches.

Our goal is not to determine who is right or wrong in the heat of competition, but to create a positive playing environment where concerns are handled respectfully, fairly, and through the appropriate process.

Remember, every player deserves to be treated with courtesy and respect. By focusing on good sportsmanship and resolving concerns through communication and education, we strengthen both our leagues and our pickleball community.

Great clubs aren't built by one person—they're built by great members. ❤️
If you'd like to give back and help grow our pickleball community, we'd love to hear from you. Volunteer here.

Email: info@panhandlepickleballclub.org
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

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