For Parents
We’re all on the same team.
Thank you for being part of the Rising Tide family.
Complaints & Grievances
Clear communication. Respectful resolution. A positive club environment.
We encourage parents and athletes to communicate concerns. Understanding the difference between a complaint and a formal grievance helps ensure concerns are addressed through the appropriate process.
COMPLAINT
A complaint is an expression of dissatisfaction or disagreement regarding a decision, situation, or outcome. Complaints are generally based on differences of opinion or personal dissatisfaction rather than a violation of club policy.
Examples include:
- Playing time
- Position assignments
- Lineups or coaching decisions
- Practice structure
- Tournament schedules
Complaints can often be resolved through respectful communication.
We encourage families to address concerns through the club’s established communication process and allow coaches and club leadership the opportunity to discuss and resolve the situation appropriately.
FORMAL GRIEVANCE
A formal grievance is a written allegation that a club policy, rule, code of conduct, or established procedure has been violated. It involves a specific concern that requires formal review by club leadership to ensure the situation is addressed fairly, appropriately, and in accordance with Rising Tide Volleyball Club policies.
Examples include:
- Violations of the club handbook or code of conduct
- Athlete safety concerns
- Harassment, bullying, or discrimination
- Misconduct by a coach, player, parent, or staff member
- Failure to follow established club policies
Formal grievances must be submitted in writing and include specific facts, dates, details, and information regarding the alleged violation.
The club will review formal grievances through the appropriate channels and determine what action, if any, is necessary based on the circumstances.
What's the Difference?
COMPLAINT:
“I disagree with or am unhappy about a decision or situation.”
A complaint typically involves a difference of opinion or dissatisfaction with a decision.
FORMAL GRIEVANCE:
“I believe a policy, rule, or standard has been violated and request a formal review.”
A grievance alleges that an established club policy, rule, code of conduct, or procedure has been violated.
Please Note: Not all complaints constitute formal grievances. Disagreement with a coaching decision, including decisions involving playing time, positions, lineups, or team strategy, does not by itself qualify as a formal grievance.
POSITIVE CULTURE & PARENT CONDUCT POLICY
Rising Tide Volleyball Club is committed to maintaining a positive, supportive, and unified environment for all
athletes, coaches, and families. The way our families communicate and interact directly impacts the experience
of our athletes and the culture of our teams. Negativity, gossip, and behavior that undermines team culture will not be tolerated.
COMMUNICATE RESPECTFULLY
Parents are encouraged to communicate concerns respectfully through the club’s established communication process.
Concerns should NOT be addressed through:
- Sideline conversations
- Group texts with other families
- Social media
- Gossip or conversations with other parents
- Discussions that negatively impact the team or coaching staff
Our goal is to resolve concerns directly, professionally, and constructively.
SUPPORT THE ATHLETE
Parents are expected to support club and coaching decisions, even when they may personally disagree with them.
Parents should avoid discussing disagreements regarding playing time, positions, lineups, coaching decisions, or team strategy with their athletes.
These conversations can create confusion, place athletes in difficult situations, damage trust between players and coaches, and negatively affect the overall team environment.
We encourage parents to help their athletes focus on the things they can control: effort, attitude, preparation, communication, and being a great teammate.
PROTECT TEAM CULTURE
Every family plays an important role in creating the Rising Tide experience.
We expect parents and athletes to model:
- Respect
- Accountability
- Sportsmanship
- Teamwork
- Positive communication
- Support for teammates and coaches
Families whose actions create a divisive, disruptive, or consistently negative environment may be subject to review and corrective action by the club.
