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Code of Conduct

United States Padel Association (USPA) Code of Conduct

Introduction:

The United States Padel Association (the “USPA”) is dedicated to fostering a culture of integrity, respect, and sportsmanship within the sport of padel. As part of our commitment to promoting fair play and creating a positive playing environment for all participants, the USPA has established a comprehensive Code of Conduct (the “Code”). This Code outlines the expected standards of behavior for members, players, coaches, officials, and staff involved in padel activities, both on and off the court. By adhering to the Code, we aim to uphold the integrity of the game and ensure that padel remains a sport characterized by good sportsmanship, camaraderie, mutual respect, and healthy competition.

Members:

Members are the heart of the USPA and its efforts to grow the sport of padel, and as such, they play a crucial role in maintaining fair play and good sportsmanship. The USPA expects all members to conduct themselves with integrity, respect, and courtesy at all times. This includes treating opponents, partners, officials, and spectators with dignity, respect, and fairness, both on and off the court. Members are responsible for adhering to the rules and regulations of the game, the Code, and any rules specific to the venues and clubs at which padel is played, refraining from any form of cheating, gamesmanship, or unsportsmanlike conduct.
Furthermore, members must prioritize the safety of themselves and others, following all safety guidelines and regulations set forth by the USPA and member padel facilities. This includes maintaining a safe playing environment, respecting equipment, refraining from excessive celebration, and ensuring that their behavior does not pose a risk to others. By upholding these standards, members contribute to the positive reputation of padel and set an example for future generations of athletes.

Coaches:

Coaches play a significant role in shaping the development of padel players, both athletically and personally. As mentors and leaders, coaches are expected to serve as positive role models for their players, demonstrating ethical behavior, respect, and integrity in all aspects of their coaching practice. Coaches should prioritize the holistic development of their players, focusing not only on skill improvement but also on character building and sportsmanship.
In addition, coaches must respect the authority of officials and refrain from engaging in any behavior that undermines their decisions. It is essential for coaches to instill the values of fair play and sportsmanship in their players, emphasizing the importance of integrity and respect for opponents. Furthermore, coaches are responsible for ensuring the safety of their players during training and competition, providing appropriate guidance and supervision to minimize the risk of injury.
Coaches are strongly encouraged to achieve certifications by accredited sports-related organizations for coaching and teaching proficiency as well as SafeSport practices.

Officials:

Officials play a critical role in ensuring fair play and enforcing the rules of the game. As impartial arbiters, officials are expected to perform their duties with integrity, objectivity, and professionalism. This includes making decisions based on the rules of the game and without bias, treating all individuals with respect and courtesy, and striving for consistency in their rulings.
Moreover, officials must uphold the integrity of the game, intervening to prevent any behavior that violates the rules or spirit of padel. This may include addressing instances of cheating, unsportsmanlike conduct, or other forms of misconduct on the court. Additionally, officials have a responsibility to prioritize the safety of players and spectators, enforcing safety regulations and protocols as necessary to ensure a safe playing environment.
Officials are strongly encouraged to achieve certifications for officiating by a recognized padel association such as the USPA or the FIP.

USPA Staff and Volunteers:

USPA Staff and Volunteers play a vital role in the organization and administration of padel events and activities. Whether serving as event organizers, administrators, or support personnel, staff and volunteers are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism, integrity, and respect for all participants. This includes representing the USPA with integrity and respect, fulfilling their duties responsibly and effectively, and treating all individuals with courtesy and consideration.
Furthermore, staff and volunteers must adhere to all USPA policies and guidelines, ensuring compliance with relevant rules and regulations. This includes prioritizing the safety and well-being of all individuals involved in USPA activities, taking appropriate measures to prevent accidents or injuries, and responding promptly and effectively to any concerns or issues that may arise. Staff will take extra care to communicate effectively, transparently, and frequently with the USPA Board, Board Committee members, or other members of the USPA as appropriate.

Consequences for Violations:

The USPA takes violations of the Code of Conduct seriously and is committed to enforcing disciplinary actions when necessary to maintain the integrity of the sport and the association. Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, consequences may include:

  • Official warnings issued by tournament staff and officials.
  • Fines imposed by the USPA.
  • Suspension from current and/or future USPA events for a specified period.
  • Satisfactory completion of sportsmanship or ethics education programs.
  • Permanent or temporary expulsion from USPA membership and or participation in USPA events.
Sample Table of Violations and Offenses
Violation
First Offense
Second Offense
Third Offense and Subsequent Offenses
Physical AbuseImmediate expulsion from the tournament or event, and possible suspension from future USPA events, potential fines.Permanent expulsion from USPA membership and participation in all USPA events.
Verbal AbuseOfficial warning issued by tournament staff or officials, potential fine, and potential suspension from the current tournament.Suspension from current and or future USPA events for a specified period.Permanent expulsion from USPA membership and or participation in l USPA events.
Cheating/Fraudulent BehaviorDisqualification from the tournament or event, suspension from future USPA events for a specified period, potential fine.Extended suspension from USPA events.Permanent expulsion from USPA membership and or participation in USPA events.
Unsportsmanlike ConductOfficial warning issued by tournament officialsPotential suspension from future USPA events for a specified period.Permanent expulsion from USPA membership and or participation in USPA events.
Violation of Safety GuidelinesOfficial warning issued by tournament staff or officials.Potential suspension from future USPA events for a specified period.Permanent expulsion from USPA membership and participation in USPA events.
Factors Affecting Severity of Sanctions:

When determining the severity of sanctions for violations of the Code of Conduct, the USPA considers various factors, including:
The nature and severity of the violation.
The intent of the offender (e.g., deliberate misconduct vs. inadvertent mistake).
The impact of the violation on the integrity of the game and the well-being of others.
Whether the offender has a history of similar violations or disciplinary actions.
Any mitigating or aggravating circumstances surrounding the violation.

Examples of Unsporting Conduct in Padel:

Unsporting conduct encompasses a wide range of behaviors that undermine the spirit of fair play and respect for opponents. In the context of padel, examples of unsporting conduct may include:

  1. Intentional hindrance, such as deliberately obstructing or distracting opponents during play.
  2. Verbal abuse, including the use of offensive or derogatory language towards opponents, officials, or spectators.
  3. Equipment abuse, such as throwing or slamming equipment in frustration or anger, endangering the safety of others or causing damage to equipment.
  4. Delaying tactics, such as stalling or disputing calls excessively to disrupt the pace of the game.
  5. Unsportsmanlike celebrations, including excessive or provocative celebrations after winning points.
  6. Gamesmanship, such as feigning injury or illness, intentionally distracting opponents, or exploiting loopholes in the rules.
  7. Refusal to adhere to rules, including persistent refusal to follow the rules of the game or the instructions of officials.
  8. Disrespectful behavior, such as ignoring handshakes or other gestures of sportsmanship, refusing to acknowledge opponents’ good shots, or showing disdain for opponents’ abilities.
  9. Unsportsmanlike conduct between points, such as excessively delaying the game or engaging in confrontational behavior during breaks.
World Anti-Doping Code International Standards and Prohibited List

As part of our commitment to fair play and the integrity of sport, the United States Padel Association (USPA) strictly adheres to the anti-doping standards set forth by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). All athletes representing the USA in international padel competitions are required to comply with WADA’s regulations, including its Prohibited List of banned substances. These standards are in place to ensure a level playing field and to protect the health and well-being of athletes. Athletes are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the prohibited substances and methods and must be diligent in avoiding any violations, whether intentional or inadvertent. The USPA is dedicated to promoting clean sport, and any athlete found in violation of these anti-doping rules may face sanctions, including disqualification from competition. Please review the prohibited substance list carefully to ensure full compliance. Click here to view the list.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the United States Padel Association (USPA) Code of Conduct serves as a guiding framework for promoting integrity, respect, and sportsmanship within the sport of padel. By adhering to these principles and holding ourselves and others accountable for our actions, we can ensure that padel remains a sport characterized by fair play, camaraderie, and mutual respect. Together, let us uphold the values of the USPA Code of Conduct and continue to foster a positive and inclusive playing environment for all participants.