FAST TRACK RACING TEAM (FTRT)

Ethics and Code of Conduct Policy

Contents

Introduction

Welcome to the FTRT community! FTRT prides itself on having a fun, vibrant, supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels safe, comfortable and encouraged to achieve their best possible running self.

To ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, we’ve outlined our guiding principles below. This code of conduct officially communicates our expectations and etiquette as well as provides avenues for resolving violations. Any behavior that violates this code of conduct will be taken seriously and may result in temporary or permanent removal from the club.

General Conduct

Everyone’s Welcome, No Exceptions!

No matter who you are or where you come from, you belong here! Discrimination—whether based on ability, race, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion or anything else—is a no-go. We're all about inclusion and making this space welcome for everyone.

Respectful Behavior Is Expected:

Keep it friendly and respectful—no aggressive behavior, whether verbal or physical. Harassment of any kind won’t be tolerated.

Language and Behavior:

Refrain from using abusive or vulgar language, or making racial, ethnic, or gender-related slurs or derogatory comments. Never yell, taunt, or threaten physical violence upon club members, sponsors, athletes, officials, spectators, families, the media, the general public, volunteers, and other organizations.

Avoid Unwanted Physical Contact:

Never make unwanted verbal, sexual or physical contact with others.

Behave in a manner that is safe, and that does not put ourselves or others at risk of physical harm or legal liability.

Observe and obey all rules and regulations governing races, training programs, and competitions; comply with all local and federal laws.

Commitment to Clean Sport:

Be committed to the sport of running free of any prohibited drugs or related contraband.

When authoring and/or posting content onto the club’s web page, Facebook pages (public and private), Twitter page, Athlinks page, and any other past, present or future social media account, ensure that the content of the post is in good taste as well as in the best interests of the club, its sponsors, and all club members. Facebook and Instagram are for sharing upcoming events, running tips, celebrating achievements, and maybe posting the occasional picture of our post-run snacks. Keep comments respectful. Offending posts will be deleted and authors may be removed.

Apparel and Gear:

We encourage members to show their team spirit by wearing apparel featuring our logo. We also understand that purchasing team gear can be a financial commitment, so it's entirely optional. To ensure affordability, team apparel is always offered at cost.

Whether at team events or elsewhere, members wearing team gear are ambassadors for the organization and should conduct themselves accordingly, upholding the code of conduct.

We share a passion for running and believe in supporting the wider running community. Members are welcome, and even encouraged, to participate in other running organizations and events. We do not require exclusivity.

Respect the confidentiality of all information shared within the organization. Do not disclose any confidential information to unauthorized persons or entities. Ensure that all personal data is handled in accordance with applicable data protection laws and regulations. Take appropriate measures to protect the privacy and security of personal data.

Proper Use of Funds: Ensure that all funds and resources are used appropriately and for their intended purposes. Misuse or misappropriation of organizational funds will not be tolerated.

Transparency: Maintain transparency in all financial dealings and report any financial irregularities to FTRT leadership.

Respect the intellectual property rights of FTRT and others. Do not use logos, copyrighted materials, trademarks, or other intellectual property without proper authorization from FTRT leadership. Ensure that any content created for FTRT, including logos, promotional materials, and social media posts, complies with intellectual property laws.

Be supportive of all club members, sponsors, athletes, officials, spectators, families, the media, the general public, volunteers, and even other organizations. Keep energy high by uplifting everyone. A little kindness goes a long way. We want to be known as the team that makes everyone feel like a champion.

This Code of Conduct governs the behavior of all team members in the following situations:

• All team events and social gatherings, official or unofficial.
• All events and gatherings related to our sponsor.
• Whenever wearing team apparel or displaying the team logo.
• Whenever gathered with other team members, regardless of location or purpose.
• Whenever handling organization or team member information

Report violations of the Member Code of Conduct policy to FTRT leadership or any member who maintains a leadership position with the organization.

If found to be in violation with any of the above, a potential consequence may be the permanent revocation of membership and/or affiliation with FTRT.

Code of Conduct Violations

1. Initial Report: Any member or volunteer who witnesses or experiences a violation should report it to FTRT leadership immediately.
2. Include Details and Facts: Reports should include details of the incident, names of involved parties, and any supporting evidence.
3. Preliminary Assessment: FTRT leadership will conduct a preliminary assessment to determine if a formal investigation is warranted.
4. Investigation Team: An impartial investigation team will be appointed, consisting of members who do not have a conflict of interest in the matter.
5. Evidence Collection: The investigation team will gather all relevant evidence, including documents, witness statements, and any other pertinent information.
6. Interviews: The investigation team will conduct interviews with the complainant, the accused, and any witnesses. All interviews will be documented.
7. Confidentiality: The investigation will be conducted with the utmost confidentiality to protect the privacy of all parties involved.
8. Findings and Recommendations: The investigation team will compile their findings and make recommendations for any necessary actions.

Consequences

1. Warning: A verbal or written warning may be issued for minor violations.
2. Loss of Privileges: Temporary or permanent loss of certain privileges within the organization.
3. Suspension: Temporary suspension from participating in FTRT activities.
4. Termination: Permanent revocation of membership and/or affiliation with FTRT.
5. Legal Action: In cases of severe violations, legal action may be pursued.
6. Follow-Up: The reporting party (if not anonymous) will be informed of the actions taken and the outcome of the investigation within a reasonable timeframe.

Appeal Process

1. Filing an Appeal: The accused has the right to file an appeal within 14 days of receiving the investigation findings and consequences.
2. Appeal Review: An independent appeal committee will review the appeal. This committee will not include members of the original investigation team.
3. Hearing: The appeal committee may conduct a hearing where the accused can present their case.
4. Final Decision: The appeal committee will make a final decision, which will be communicated to the accused in writing. This decision is final and binding.