HHPA Code of Conduct

Members are expected to demonstrate respect, fairness, and responsibility both on and off the 
court. The following Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for behaviour and sportsmanship 
within HHPA for all members (and their guests). By participating in HHPA programs, members agree to 
uphold this Code of Conduct.

1. General Conduct
●  Treat all members and volunteers with courtesy and respect.
●  Abide by all HHPA procedures, event formats, court schedules, and skill level guidelines.
● Avoid inappropriate, offensive, or discriminatory language, gestures, or clothing.
●  Use respectful communication at all times — online, in person, and during play.

2. On-Court Behaviour
●  Practice good sportsmanship regardless of the score.
● Avoid excessive celebrations, taunting, or negative comments toward opponents or partners.
● Do not intentionally target or hit opposing players with the ball.
● Announce the score clearly before each serve.
●  Rotate on and off courts fairly to ensure equal playing time for all.
● Not every game will be perfectly matched. Use those moments to work on placement, consistency, or 
teamwork—and help make it a good experience for everyone on court.

3. Respect for Facilities and Equipment
● Wear proper court shoes.
● Help keep courts and surrounding areas tidy. Dispose of garbage properly.
● Treat nets and HHPA equipment with care.
● Assist with setting up and taking down portable nets and barriers.
● If your group is finishing and no other players will be playing,
please take down your portable net.
●  The last players on the court are responsible for ensuring all equipment is stored properly in 
the designated equipment box and that it is locked.

4. Safety and Game Etiquette
● Ensure all players are ready before serving.
●  Call “ball” clearly if it rolls into or behind another court; wait for safe return before 
resuming play.
●  If a ball comes your way, pause play and return it politely and accurately to the players it 
belongs to. A safe, controlled return helps keep play flowing and prevents accidents.Do not chase 
your ball onto another court.
● Refrain from profanity, arguing, or unsportsmanlike behaviour.

5. Line Calls and Rules
●  Know and follow official pickleball rules. Click here for Pickleball Canada’s Official Rule Book
● Make honest line calls on your side of the court.
● If unsure, the call goes to your opponent.
● Spectators must not be consulted.
● An opponent's opinion may be requested if needed, and their input must be respected.

6. Punctuality & Scheduling
● Arrive on time for games, leagues, clinics, and events.

7. Communications & Email Conduct
Clear, respectful, and professional communication is essential to maintaining a positive and 
inclusive HHPA community. This applies to all forms of communication, including email, messaging 
platforms, and in-person interactions.
 

Email Etiquette:
●  Use courteous and respectful language in all email correspondence.
● Clearly state your purpose and provide relevant context when contacting the Board or other 
members.
● Avoid using all caps, excessive punctuation, or emotionally charged language.
●  Allow reasonable time for responses; Board members are volunteers and may not reply immediately.
●  Confidential or sensitive matters should be addressed privately and respectfully.
Contacting the Board:
● Feedback, concerns, or suggestions should be directed to the Board via the official HHPA email 
address.
● Communications should be constructive and solution-oriented.
●  Refrain from sending repeated or aggressive messages if a response is delayed.

Group Messaging & Online Platforms:
● Maintain a respectful tone and avoid spamming or off-topic posts.
● Do not share personal information of other members without consent.
● Use HHPA-approved channels for official updates and announcements.

8. Feedback & Communication
● Constructive feedback is encouraged — share respectfully with Board members.
● Stay informed by reviewing HHPA emails, calendars, and notices.
●  If an issue arises during play or an event that causes frustration or concern, members are 
encouraged to wait 24 hours before contacting a Board member or sending a complaint. This helps 
ensure that communication remains respectful, thoughtful, and solution focused.
● Immediate safety or harassment concerns should still be reported right away to a Board member.
●  Members are asked not to approach or engage Board Directors regarding club business while they 
are participating in play. Directors are players and club members as well, Inquiries, concerns, or club-related matters 
should be brought forward through the appropriate communication channels outside of play time. 
Thank you for respecting their involvement both as volunteers and fellow participants.

9. Zero Tolerance Policy
●  Aggressive behaviour, verbal or physical abuse, or intentional rule violations will not be 
tolerated.
● Breaches of community standards as outlined in this Code of Conduct, may result in a warning, 
temporary suspension, or permanent ban from HHPA.
●  The HHPA board of directors reserves the right to suspend, ban, or otherwise discipline any 
member whose behaviour negatively impacts the HHPA community.

10. Enforcement
● All members are expected to uphold this Code at all HHPA programs.
● Any violation may be addressed on the spot by a Board member.
●  Repeated violations may lead to disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of 
membership.
●  Disciplinary actions will follow the procedures outlined in the HHPA By-laws. Members have the 
right to be informed of any alleged violation and to respond as defined under those by-law 
provisions

Thank you to all members for their review and commitment to the game of Pickleball in Halton Hills, 
and in contributing to safe, enjoyable and respectful play for all participants.
 

Updated November 2025