Code of Conduct

Version 1.0  ·  June 2026  ·  Suffolk Pickleball Co. & RallyPoint Pickleball  ·  Co. No. 16959911

This Code of Conduct applies to all players, partners, coaches, spectators, and guests at any Suffolk Pickleball Co. or RallyPoint session, league, event, or venue. By taking part, you agree to uphold these standards — on court, off court, and online. We are proud of the community we are building together and ask everyone to play their part in maintaining it.

1. Respect & Sportsmanship

1. All players must respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants, and must not unlawfully discriminate against anyone on the grounds of age, disability, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious belief, or sexual identity.
2. Treat all players, opponents, partners, coaches, and spectators with kindness, respect, and courtesy — regardless of skill level or background, at all times.
3. Demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times, win or lose. Tapping paddles with your opponents at the end of each match is part of the culture of our sport — please embrace it.
4. Avoid profanity, unsportsmanlike conduct, or any behaviour that could be considered disruptive, demeaning, or intimidating.
5. We have zero tolerance for bullying, verbal abuse, or shouting at other players.
6. Give your opponent time to get into position before you serve.
7. The server should clearly announce the score before serving.
8. If an opponent claims a significant distraction during a shot (e.g. a stray ball entering the court), offering to replay the point is the right thing to do.
9. Players are responsible for identifying their own foot faults — be honest and fair.
10. During play, coaching from off court is not permitted.

2. Honesty in Line Calls

1. Players are responsible for making honest and accurate line calls on their side of the court.
2. If you or your partner cannot agree or are uncertain — the ball is IN. The benefit of the doubt always goes to your opponents.
3. Only call a ball out if you are certain it landed outside the boundary lines.
4. In sessions without referees, disputes should be resolved calmly and amicably — replaying the point is always an option.
5. If you have a genuine concern about consistent questionable calls, speak to the session or event organiser calmly and privately.

3. Safety First

1. Play with control and be mindful of others on and around the court at all times.
2. Do not walk behind an active court whilst a rally is in progress — wait for the point to finish.
3. Avoid reckless swings or aggressive actions that could cause injury to others.
4. If a stray ball enters your court from another court, call “ball on court” to stop play immediately.

4. Respect for Rules & Our Team

1. Take responsibility for knowing the current rules of Pickleball and playing by them.
2. Respect the authority of any session organiser, event organiser, or referee. Disagreements should be raised calmly and through the right channels — never through hostility or confrontation.
3. In any organised event or league, follow all procedures including warm-up times, match timing, and court rotations.
4. If a dispute arises during a match, stop play and speak to the session or event organiser to resolve it. Their decision is final. Players who do not accept a decision may be asked to leave the event.

5. Positive Engagement

1. Celebrate good play by opponents and partners alike — avoid belittling anyone’s efforts or skill level.
2. Spectators are welcome and encouraged to cheer positively, but must not attempt to influence line calls, disrupt play, or intimidate players.
3. If conflict arises, aim to de-escalate — stay calm, listen actively, and avoid taking things personally.
4. Avoid retaliatory behaviour on or off court. If you feel a situation needs addressing, speak to a member of our team.

6. Inclusivity & Community

1. Our sessions are for everyone. Encourage players of all abilities to participate, grow, and enjoy the sport.
2. Be welcoming and supportive of newcomers — we all started somewhere.
3. Suffolk Pickleball Co. and RallyPoint are built on community spirit. The way you treat others on court shapes the experience for everyone — make it a good one.

7. On-Court Obligations

1. Appropriate court shoes are required at all sessions. Running shoes, casual footwear, and open-toed shoes are not permitted on court. This protects both players and playing surfaces.
2. Players are responsible for ensuring they are adequately hydrated before, during, and after play — especially during warmer months and outdoor sessions.

8. Online & Social Media Conduct

1. The same standards of respect that apply on court apply online. Do not post or share content that is abusive, defamatory, discriminatory, or offensive — whether directed at other players, our team, or the sport.
2. Do not use social media or any other channel to publicly criticise or target fellow players or members of our team. If you have a concern, raise it directly and privately.

9. Consequences

Failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct may result in:

1. A verbal or written warning.
2. Removal from a session or event without refund.
3. Temporary or permanent suspension from our sessions, leagues, events, or facilities.