Surprise Tennis Club Policies & Terms of Conduct

At the Surprise Tennis Club, we strive to create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all members. By becoming a member or participant, each individual agrees to adhere to the following terms of conduct:

1. Zero Tolerance Policy

The Surprise Tennis Club maintains a strict zero tolerance policy for the following behaviors:

  • Bullying: Any behavior that intimidates, harasses, or belittles another person will not be tolerated.
  • Sexual Harassment: This includes but is not limited to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and any verbal, emotional, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
  • Discrimination: Discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Any member found engaging in any of these behaviors will face immediate consequences, including potential removal from the Club and any affiliated programs.

2. Honest Self-Representation in USTA Programs

Members commit to signing up for USTA programs in a manner that honestly reflects their current skill level. Providing an accurate self-assessment is essential to ensure fair competition and the enjoyment of all participants. Misrepresentation of skill levels is prohibited and may result in removal from the program or league.

3. Consent to Share Contact Information

Members give consent for the sharing of their contact information with the Surprise Tennis Club and club captains for the sole purpose of official club communications, including meeting announcements, event notifications, and other relevant activities. Members understand that they may unsubscribe from official club-wide emails or text messages at any time. Additionally, members understand that no mobile contact information will be shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.

4. Consent to Capture and Use Media

Members grant the Surprise Tennis Club permission to capture and use photographs and videos of them during club activities for promotional, educational, and marketing purposes. These materials may be used on the Club’s social media platforms, websites, and other promotional materials. Members understand that their image may be used indefinitely and without compensation. However, they have the right to withdraw consent at any time through written notice. Please note that any media already published before the withdrawal may remain in circulation.

5. Payments & Refunds

Members agree to pay all associated fees for USTA leagues, which include:

  • A $44 USTA annual membership fee, due at the time of registration.
  • Team registration fees, ranging from $20 to $40, also due at registration to USTA.
  • Team court fees, determined on a seasonal basis.
  • A $10 per person Surprise Tennis Club membership fee on a seasonal basis.

Members understand that all fees, including team court and membership fees, must be paid to the Surprise Tennis Club by a specified date within each season. Failure to pay any required fees will result in removal from the team or suspension from club activities until fees are fully paid.

Payment for special events and flex leagues must be received by the specified due date. Failure to submit payment by the deadline may result in forfeiture of participation in the event or league.

Refunds for any fees, including membership, team registration, court fees, or event-related fees, will not be issued under normal circumstances. All fees paid to the Surprise Tennis Club are non-refundable, regardless of participation or non-participation in club activities, events, or matches. However, special circumstances may be considered on a case-by-case basis, and any potential exceptions will be reviewed at the discretion of the Club’s leadership.

6. Commitment to Sportsmanship

Members agree to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship at all times while participating in Surprise Tennis Club activities. This includes treating all players, officials, and organizers with respect and courtesy. Good sportsmanship contributes to the positive atmosphere of the Club and ensures that everyone enjoys their experience.

Failure to comply with these principles, or any other violations of the Club’s mission and values, may result in removal from the team or other Surprise Tennis Club activities. In extreme cases, violations may result in permanent termination of membership and the suspension of participation in leagues, flex leagues, and social events associated with the Club.

7. Detrimental Actions Towards the Club

The Surprise Tennis Club is committed to maintaining a positive and collaborative environment. Any actions that undermine or harm the integrity and operations of the Club will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Poaching Players: Members shall not engage in the practice of recruiting or soliciting players from the Club to join other teams, clubs, or programs, whether for personal or external gain. Poaching players undermines the stability and unity of the Club and disrupts team dynamics.
  • Disrupting Club Activities: Any behavior that disrupts scheduled events, practices, or matches, or otherwise causes harm to the Club’s reputation or operations, is considered detrimental. This includes spreading false information, engaging in disruptive actions during events, or any behavior that creates an unsafe or hostile environment for members.

Members who engage in detrimental actions, including poaching players or other disruptive behavior, may face immediate suspension or termination of their membership and will be prohibited from participating in future Club activities or events.

Surprise Tennis Club reserves the right to manage participation in Club-sponsored events, activities, and programs. Participation my be limited or denied to individuals for reasons including, but not limited to, violations of the Club’s posted Policies and Code of Conduct.

Limitation of Liability

By becoming a member or participant in the Surprise Tennis Club, each individual acknowledges and agrees that participation in club activities, events, and the use of club facilities is entirely voluntary and at their own risk. The Club, its officers, employees, volunteers, and affiliates shall not be held liable for any personal injury, property damage, loss, or other harm sustained by any participant arising from their involvement in any Club-related activities, including but not limited to practices, matches, tournaments, or social events, whether occurring on or off Club property.

Participants agree to hold the Surprise Tennis Club, its officers, employees, volunteers, and affiliates harmless from any claims, demands, actions, or lawsuits for injuries or damages resulting from their participation. This includes, without limitation, claims arising from negligence, accidents, equipment failure, or any other circumstance that may occur during their involvement with the Club.