UPSA Code of Conduct
April 2026

 

Our Commitment

UPSA is committed to providing safe, inclusive, and welcoming adaptive sport experiences for people of all abilities. This Code applies to coaches, instructors, participants, parents, guardians, volunteers, staff, and board members. By taking part in any UPSA program, every individual agrees to follow it.

This code of conduct aims to reflect UPSA's values, and follows guidelines set by the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS).

 

Our Values

• Respect – every person has dignity and worth.
• Inclusion – programs are welcoming, accessible, and adapted to each participant's needs.
• Safety – physical, emotional, and psychological safety are non-negotiable.
• Integrity – we act honestly, fairly, and accountably.
• Empowerment – sport and recreation builds confidence, independence, and joy.

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Everyone at UPSA

• Treat every person with respect, regardless of disability, race, ethnicity, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other personal characteristic.
• Use language that promotes dignity. Avoid inappropriate or unwelcome comments about a person's body, equipment, or abilities.
• Protect physical and emotional safety. If you see something, say something.
• Respect privacy. Do not share another participant's personal, medical, or disability-related information.
• Take photos or videos only with consent.
• No alcohol, recreational drugs, or impaired participation during programs.

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Coaches and Instructors

• Treat every participant as an individual. Design sessions around their goals, abilities, and equipment.
• Always ask before any physical contact – hands-on instruction, transfers, or adjusting equipment – and explain what you are doing.
• Ensure participant safety – equipment, behaviour, other people using the parks.
• Use the language each participant prefers (person-first, identity-first, or specific terminology).
• Follow the Rule of Two – a second screened adult must be present in any 1:1 scenarios.
• Maintain professional boundaries.
• Focus on individualized coaching, tailoring strategies and feedback to each individual.

 

Participants

• Treat coaches, participants, volunteers, and families with kindness.
• Respect differences – make others at UPSA feel welcome and included.
• Try your best, listen to your coaches, and implement feedback.
• Wear required safety gear and follow program rules.
• Tell a coach if you are hurt, feeling unwell, or notice broken equipment.
• No bullying, name-calling, or put-downs.

Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers
• Get your participant to programs on time, ready to take part, with any required equipment, medications, and mobility aids.
• Share medical, behavioural, or accessibility information so coaches can support your participant well.
• Be a positive presence on the sidelines. Encourage all participants and let coaches coach.
• Treat coaches, volunteers, and other families with respect at all times. No yelling, swearing, threats, or aggressive behaviour.
• Do not post photos or videos of other participants.
• Bring concerns to the head coach or UPSA staff directly – not through other parents or social media.

 

Volunteers, Staff, and Board Members

• Follow the Rule of Two when working with minors or vulnerable individuals.
• Take direction from the lead coach or UPSA staff at events.
• Maintain confidentiality, avoid conflicts of interest, and represent UPSA professionally – at events, online, and in the community.

 

What We Will Not Tolerate

In line with the UCCMS, the following are prohibited at any UPSA-related activity:
• Physical, psychological, or sexual maltreatment
• Neglect, discrimination, harassment, bullying, or hazing
• Grooming behaviours and misuse of power
• Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith
• Failure to report known or suspected maltreatment