Code of Conduct
Chicago Bocce Club (“CBC” or “Club”) has established this Code of Conduct (“Code”) to promote the health, safety, and wellness of its members. By becoming a CBC member, you agree to uphold the following principles to maintain a welcoming, respectful, and enjoyable environment for fellow members. CBC reserves the right to amend or modify this Code at any time, effective upon publishing an updated version in Club facilities or on the CBC website.
Respect for Others
Sportsmanship: Treat fellow members, staff, guests, and spectators with respect at all times, both on and off
the court.
Fair Play: Compete with integrity and honesty. Members are expected to always play by the rules and refrain from cheating or attempting to gain unfair advantages.
Communication: Use respectful language. Refrain from using derogatory comments, offensive jokes, or inappropriate behavior that could create a hostile or uncomfortable environment for others.
Zero Tolerance Policy: Any form of harassment towards fellow members, staff, guests, and spectators, whether verbal, physical, or otherwise, will not be tolerated and may result in termination of membership. This includes any discriminatory behavior based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic.
Conflict Resolution: Disagreements between members are to be handled calmly and respectfully. If needed, CBC staff can be made available to mediate or resolve conflicts in a fair and impartial manner.
2. Club Community
Participation: Members are encouraged to participate in Club activities, volunteer for Club events, and
positively contribute to the Club’s culture and community.
Inclusivity: All members should feel welcome, regardless of their bocce ball experience level, and are encouraged to help less-seasoned members learn the rules of the game. Every member is expected to encourage a supportive Club atmosphere for all.
3. Club Etiquette
Cleanliness: Members are responsible for leaving Club facilities in the condition it was in upon arrival and must respect all shared spaces. All areas of the Club must be kept clean and tidy. Under no circumstances are food and beverage permitted on the indoor courts. Shoes worn on the courts must be clean, dry, and free from debris. If a member’s shoes are wet or muddy, please be considerate and change them out before entering the courts.
Equipment Care: Treat all Club equipment, including furniture and fixtures, with care. Report any damage to Club staff immediately.
4. Safety and Well-Being
Physical Safety: Members should always be mindful of their own physical limitations and well-being. If a
member feels unwell or has suffered an injury, immediately stop gameplay and seek any necessary assistance.
Injury Prevention: All members, guests, and spectators that are on or near the courts must remain vigilant at all times. In more competitive bocce ball matches, it is common for bocce balls to fly off the court. Therefore, members are expected to be cautious when “shooting” (raffa, volo) during a bocce ball match.
Alcohol and Substance Use: Consume responsibly. While on Club property or at Club-sponsored events, excessive drinking and the use of illicit substances will not be tolerated. Failure to adhere to this provision may result in a member’s immediate removal from Club property. Furthermore, CBC reserves the right to refuse admission for any reason and especially to anyone who is deemed a risk to themselves, fellow members, guests, or staff.
5. Code Violations
Consequences: A violation of any of the above principles by a member or their guest may result in a verbal or written warning, membership suspension or termination, or a permanent ban from Club property. These consequences will be decided solely by CBC leadership in a fair and transparent manner.