Code of Conduct (2026)

Introduction

Pickleball was founded as a fun, competitive, and highly social sport rooted in respect, fair play, and good sportsmanship. These values remain central to the East Lothian Pickleball Club (ELPC).

Our aim is to provide an environment where every player can enjoy the game, perform to the best of their ability, and, most importantly, have fun.

ELPC is committed to maintaining a safe, positive, and welcoming environment across all club activities and events. This Code of Conduct establishes clear expectations for behaviour and outlines potential consequences for breaches.

This Code applies to all members and guests participating in ELPC activities, whether as players, officials, volunteers, or spectators. Failure to adhere to this Code may result in disciplinary action by the Club Committee.

1. Respect

  • Treat all members, guests, visitors, and staff with courtesy and respect at all times.
  • Respect and care for all ELPC property and facilities. Report any accidental damage to a Committee member promptly.
  • Harassment, bullying, or intimidation of any kind—verbal, physical, or emotional—is strictly prohibited.
  • Use appropriate language; inappropriate or offensive remarks are not acceptable.
  • Refrain from making derogatory or negative comments about the Club or its members, including on social media.
  • Remember that everyone was a beginner once. Players of all abilities should have opportunities to play together. Sharing knowledge and experience enhances skill development and strengthens our club community.

2. Safety

  • Warm up properly before play and stretch afterwards to prevent injury.
  • Be mindful of your physical condition; play within your limits and avoid overexertion.
  • Wear suitable attire and footwear. Clothing should be appropriate and free from offensive imagery or language.
  • If your ball rolls onto another court, clearly shout 'Ball!' so all play can safely stop until it is retrieved.
  • Avoid any behaviour or style of play that could endanger others.
  • Be aware of other activities in shared sports halls and alert others when necessary to maintain safety.

3. Court Etiquette

  • Assist in setting up and taking down courts.
  • Introduce yourself to unfamiliar players.
  • When playing with less experienced players, adjust your style appropriately—focus on placement, control, and sportsmanship.
  • Do not target or intimidate weaker players, partners, or opponents.
  • In club sessions, play in the spirit of fun and fair competition.
  • Offer advice only if requested; when doing so, be constructive and concise.
  • Acknowledge good shots by partners and opponents. Accept mistakes graciously and apologise for any inappropriate remarks.
  • Always call the score clearly before serving.
  • Make sure your opponents are ready to play before serving.
  • Exhibit good sportsmanship in all interactions and never encourage unsporting behaviour.

Ball on Court

  • Call 'Ball!' immediately when a stray ball enters another court.
  • Stop play immediately when you hear 'Ball!' called.
  • Do not chase stray balls onto another court while play is ongoing.
  • When retrieving a ball, wait until play has stopped, make eye contact with the player it belongs to, and return it safely along the outside of the courts.
  • Always return the ball directly to one player and ensure they are ready to receive it.

Line Calls

  • Make honest and accurate line calls. When in doubt, call the ball 'in.'
  • Respect your opponents’ right to make calls on their side of the court.
  • Call your own shots 'out' when necessary.
  • Question an opponent’s call only in a respectful manner and accept their decision.
  • Correct any incorrect calls made by your partner promptly.
  • Resolve any uncertainty in favour of your opponents.

At the end of each game, meet your opponents and partners at the net to acknowledge them positively. In officiated matches, thank the referee for their service.

4. Upholding Club Values

Be a positive, supportive member of East Lothian Pickleball Club. Your attitude and conduct help shape the club’s reputation and community spirit.

The first point of contact for anyone wishing to raise concerns about a member’s behaviour is the Club Welfare Officer. In many cases, the Welfare Officer can help to address and resolve concerns informally, without the need for disciplinary action.