Discipline 

& Dispute Guide

Junior Avalanche Discipline & Dispute Guide 

Our Commitment 

Junior Avalanche is dedicated to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where athletes can grow, compete, and enjoy the game. We expect all athletes, coaches, parents/guardians, and volunteers to uphold the values of Respect, Integrity, Accountability, and Sportsmanship. This applies at all club activities—on and off the court, including travel and online spaces. 

Expectations of Behavior 

All members are expected to: Treat others with respect (teammates, coaches, officials, opponents); Follow team and club rules; Communicate appropriately (including online); Compete with honesty and sportsmanship. 

If Behavior Falls Short – Minor Issues 

Examples include disrespectful behavior, poor sportsmanship, or breaking team rules. Possible actions: Reminder or warning, conversation with coach (and parent if needed), reduced playing time or role, or short-term probation. 

If Behavior Falls Short – Serious Issues 

Examples include bullying, harassment, discrimination, abuse (verbal or physical), repeated misconduct, substance use, theft, or major rule violations. Possible actions: Review by Club Director, suspension or probation, removal from team or club, or possible referral to outside authorities. 

Coaching Decisions 

Coaches make decisions about playing time, positions, and lineups based on development and team needs. These decisions are not open to dispute unless linked to misconduct or policy concerns. 

How to Raise a Concern 

Step 1: Athlete speaks to coach (when appropriate). Step 2: Parent may contact coach if needed, with a 24-hour cooling-off period, no discussions during or after games, meetings scheduled in advance, and respectful communication. 

If It’s Not Resolved 

Step 1: Informal conversation; Step 2: Club-supported meeting (mediation); Step 3: Review by Club Director (decision is final). 

Safety Comes First 

Concerns about abuse, harassment, discrimination, or athlete safety can be reported immediately to the Club or appropriate authorities and do not need to follow the steps above. 

Confidentiality 

All concerns are handled respectfully and privately, while ensuring safety and appropriate follow-up. 

Working Together 

By being part of Junior Avalanche, you agree to support this approach and help create a positive, athlete-centered environment aligned with Safe Sport principles. 

Playing Time

Junior Avalanche Playing Time Explained

  • Managing playing time is challenging—more time for one athlete means less for another, and even thoughtful decisions can disappoint. We strive to make fair, informed choices.

  • Successful teams rely not only on performance on the court but also on energy and readiness from the bench. Players who stay engaged are often more effective when given their chance, and supportive teammates help raise team confidence.

  • Lineups are based on team chemistry, opponent matchups, performance, work ethic, and sometimes coaching instinct, while also considering long-term development. Although equal playing time isn’t always possible, we aim to provide all eligible athletes meaningful opportunities. We encourage families to value overall growth, confidence, and love for the game—not just minutes played.

  • Per Volleyball Alberta U15 Developmental Substitution rules:

    • All players must start in either the first or second set.

    • No substitutions are allowed until one team reaches 15 points in the first two sets (unless due to injury).

    • Coaches may use any lineup in a third set.