APPENDIX D - ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION POLICY
Regardless of the adult ’ s role in relationship to the athlete , it is the responsibility for the adult to maintain these guiding principles when communicating electronically . 1 . Does the conversation pertain to the team and team activities ? 2 . Is the content of the electronic conversation something that any parent , boss or other adult would agree is professional in nature ? 3 . Is the electronic communication accessible to anyone at anytime ? 4 . Can the information conveyed to the athlete be used as a permanent part of the athlete ’ s record ?
SUMMARY
An adult must ask him / herself whether the electronic communication with the athlete is available for all to read , understand and determine as professional in nature .
LATITUDE CLAUSE
It is understood that there may be times when a minor athlete is in distress or seeking counsel from an adult . In the case where : 1 . A minor athlete reaches out to an adult 2 . The adult responds to a minor athlete 3 . The adult takes proactive measures to reach the minor
The adult must be vigilant in evaluating their communication and interaction . The safety of the athlete and addressing the situation that initiated the contact must be the focus of the communication . Adults who are not trained or equipped to mitigate the situation at hand are advised to seek professional assistance and involve the minor ’ s guardian in resolution .
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