Rules

OCF Policy on Conduct and Removal from Competition Events

Purpose

The Ontario Climbing Federation (OCF) is committed to maintaining a positive, respectful, and safe environment for all participants, including athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, spectators, and staff. This policy outlines the standards of conduct expected at OCF competition events and the procedures for addressing and enforcing removal due to inappropriate behavior.

Scope

This policy applies to all individuals attending or participating in OCF-sanctioned competition events, including but not limited to athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, parents, and spectators.

Definitions

• Rude Behavior: Includes but is not limited to the use of offensive language, disrespectful gestures, aggressive or inappropriate communication, harassment, intimidation, or any actions that violate the spirit of sportsmanship and respect for others.

• Competition Area: The designated space in which the competition takes place, including warm-up areas, isolation zones, and all locations reserved for athletes, coaches, officials, and event staff.

Expected Standards of Conduct

All participants and attendees are expected to:

1. Respect Others: Engage with athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and spectators in a respectful and courteous manner.

2. Maintain Sportsmanship: Display good sportsmanship by promoting fairness, integrity, and respect for the rules and all individuals.

3. Follow Event Rules: Adhere to OCF competition rules, event guidelines, and instructions provided by event officials.

4. Avoid Disruptive Behavior: Refrain from any behavior that may be disruptive, offensive, or harmful to the competition environment or other individuals.

Rude Behavior Violations

The following examples of behavior may result in immediate removal from the competition event:

• Verbal abuse, including shouting, swearing, or insults directed at any participant, official, or spectator.

• Harassment, intimidation, or bullying, whether physical, verbal, or emotional.

• Disrespectful conduct toward officials, athletes, coaches, or event staff.

• Aggressive actions or threatening behavior toward any individual.

• Disrupting the competition environment, including tampering with equipment, interfering with athletes, or obstructing officials in their duties.

Enforcement Procedure

1. Warning:

   • At the discretion of event officials, individuals displaying inappropriate or rude behavior may receive a formal verbal warning.

   • The warning will outline the specific behavior in violation of the policy and the expectation for immediate correction.

2. Removal from the Event:

   • If the inappropriate behavior continues or is deemed severe, event officials have the authority to remove the individual from the competition area.

   • The Jury President (JP) or Head Judge will be responsible for issuing the removal order, and security or event staff may escort the individual from the venue.

   • In extreme cases, law enforcement may be contacted to assist in removal if necessary.

3. Appeal Process:

   • Individuals removed from an event may appeal the decision to the OCF Board of Directors. Appeals must be submitted in writing within 48 hours of the removal.

   • The appeal will be reviewed by the Board, which will consider the facts and make a final ruling within 7 days.

Consequences of Removal

• Individuals removed from a competition event for rude behavior may be subject to further disciplinary action, including suspension from future OCF events, loss of membership privileges, or a formal ban from participating in OCF competitions.

• Athletes may be disqualified from the competition and/or lose ranking points as a result of their removal.

• Repeat offenders may face increased penalties, including long-term suspension or expulsion from OCF membership.