Aquatic Foundation of Alaska (AFA)

Empowering Alaskans through Water Safety, Education, and Competitive Spirit
Website: www.swimyetiswim.com
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (779) AFA–YETI

Bullying Policy & Action Plan

Effective Date: October 22, 2025
Approved By: AFA Board of Directors
Last Reviewed: October 22, 2025

1. Purpose

The Aquatic Foundation of Alaska (AFA) is committed to providing a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for every participant.
Bullying — in any form — undermines trust, teamwork, and personal growth.

This policy ensures that all athletes, parents, coaches, and volunteers understand what bullying is, how to report it, and how AFA will respond when it occurs.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all AFA programs, including:

  • Yeti Swim School

  • Yeti Youth Competitive Team (Apprentice, Warrior, Gladiator, Gladiator Fit)

  • Yeti Legends

  • Coaches, parents/guardians, volunteers, and board members

It covers all AFA-related activities, including practices, meets, events, and online communication.

3. Definition of Bullying

Bullying is repeated, intentional behavior — verbal, physical, social, or digital — that causes harm, exclusion, or distress to another person.
It often involves an imbalance of power, real or perceived.

Examples include:

  • Name-calling, mocking, or spreading rumors

  • Purposeful exclusion or isolation

  • Physical aggression or intimidation

  • Manipulating friendships or teammates

  • Online harassment, threats, or humiliation

  • Abusing position, skill, or influence to control or harm others

4. AFA’s Position

AFA has zero tolerance for bullying.
Every member of our community — athlete, parent, or coach — has a responsibility to:

  • Speak and act respectfully

  • Report bullying immediately

  • Support those who are targeted

  • Model kindness and integrity on and off the deck

Coaches and staff are trained to identify, intervene, and report bullying in accordance with Safe Sport and AFA procedures.

5. Reporting a Concern

If you experience or witness bullying:

  • Tell a coach, Safe Sport Coordinator, or trusted adult.

  • Email [email protected] or report directly to the AFA Safe Sport Coordinator.

  • Contact USA Swimming Safe Sport at usaswimming.org/safesport if the situation involves misconduct or abuse.

Reports can be made at any time and will be handled confidentially.
There is no time limit for reporting, though prompt action allows faster resolution.

6. Immediate Action at the Pool

If bullying is observed during a team activity, the coach or supervising adult will:

  1. Intervene immediately to stop the behavior.

  2. Separate the involved individuals.

  3. Ensure everyone’s safety and de-escalate emotions.

  4. Reassure the person targeted that the behavior will be addressed.

  5. Notify the Head Coach and Safe Sport Coordinator to begin follow-up.

7. Investigation & Response

When bullying is reported:

  1. The Head Coach and Safe Sport Coordinator will review the concern.

  2. Each party involved will be interviewed individually and respectfully.

  3. The goal is understanding, accountability, and protection — not punishment first.

  4. If confirmed, corrective actions will be determined based on severity and context.

  5. Parents/guardians will be informed when minors are involved.

Actions may include:

  • Verbal or written warning

  • Behavior or conduct plan

  • Temporary suspension from practices or meets

  • Removal from AFA programs in severe or repeated cases

8. Supporting Everyone Involved

For the Person Bullied

AFA will:

  • Listen and take every report seriously.

  • Avoid isolating or labeling the swimmer.

  • Develop a plan for safety and confidence building.

  • Follow up regularly to ensure continued support.

For the Person Who Bullied

AFA will:

  • Address the behavior directly and calmly.

  • Help the swimmer understand the impact of their actions.

  • Focus on reflection and accountability, not humiliation.

  • Require participation in restorative conversations or service acts if appropriate.

For Teammates

AFA encourages teammates to:

  • Support those targeted without retaliation.

  • Speak up safely when witnessing bullying.

  • Choose kindness and inclusion in daily interactions.

9. Prevention & Education

Bullying prevention is part of AFA’s year-round education plan.

  • Coaches review team values and respectful conduct regularly.

  • Safe Sport and team meetings will include discussion of bullying prevention and reporting.

  • Parents receive education on recognizing and responding to early signs of bullying.

10. Accountability & Follow-Up

AFA leadership will document all reports, responses, and outcomes.
If misconduct violates Safe Sport standards, AFA will report to USA Swimming Safe Sport or law enforcement as required.

Follow-up will occur to ensure:

  • The behavior stops.

  • The swimmer targeted feels safe and supported.

  • The team environment remains positive and respectful.

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Safe Sport Coordinator, Head Coach, and Board of Directors to ensure continued compliance with USA Swimming and AFA Safe Sport standards.

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Aquatic Foundation of Alaska (AFA) — Promoting safety, excellence, and inclusion through the power of water.
www.swimyetiswim.com • [email protected] • (779) AFA–YETI