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BULLYING  

Skiing is more ‘individual’ than many sports.  However, we run a TEAM Programme that encompasses many athletes.  Without a Team/Squad Programme individuals will not progress.  

I am quite sure that all parents, staff and athletes are agreed that bullying should never happen.  Athletes should show tolerance and sensitivity to the feelings of others, and should promote an atmosphere of positive co-operation with others in the Team/Squad.

Remember, bullying is contrary to the Code of Conduct to which you have all agreed:

• Be aware that any behaviour that may adversely affect another member of the team will not be condoned.  Bullying, in particular, will not be tolerated.      

The main features are: 

Ÿ         Deliberate hostility and aggression towards the victim

Ÿ         A victim who appears to be weaker than the bully or bullies

Ÿ         An outcome which is always painful and distressing for the victim  

Unacceptable bullying behaviour may include:

Ÿ         Physical violence

Ÿ         Damage to equipment

Ÿ         Sarcasm, spreading rumours, persistent teasing or theft

Ÿ         Tormenting, ridiculing, humiliation

Ÿ         Racial taunts, graffiti, gestures

Ÿ         Unwanted physical contact or abusive/offensive comments of a sexual nature

For the athletes  

It is important that you report any worries about bullying to the staff.  They will be very alert to these problems, but much of it will be carefully concealed from them.  You may have been bullied, but think you can cope – and you may be nervous about telling for fear of reprisal.  However, remember that if bullies are allowed to get away with it once, they will do it again – and others may not have your strength.  You may be worried that telling staff about the problem will make things worse – remember that everything you say will be treated in the strictest confidence, and that the problem will be dealt with sympathetically and with sensitivity.  

Staff  will:

Ÿ         Take the problem seriously and investigate any incidents

Ÿ         Take appropriate action:

Ÿ         obtain an apology from the bully to the victim

Ÿ         inform parents of the bully

Ÿ         apply an appropriate sanction, up to and including sending home from a camp or ultimately suspension from the programme

Let’s encourage Team Spirit and fairness for all, and make sure that all the camps are happy for all athletes.  Be sensitive to other team members, respect them, and treat them as you would like them to treat you.  Remember - bullying will not be tolerated, and anyone found to be a bully will be sanctioned.