For tournaments, specific guidelines apply:

First Matches in the Wave:
- If your team is playing the first match in a wave, you should be on the designated court, dressed and geared up, and ready to warm up at least 45 minutes prior to the beginning of the game.
- If your team is working the first match in a wave (officiating), you should also be dressed and geared up, ready to play next, on the court at least 30 minutes before the start of the match.
  
For All Remaining Matches in the Same Wave:
- Players must be on the court at the beginning of the second set of the match immediately prior to theirs.
  
Please note that these are general rules, and, in certain cases, additional anticipation may be required based on specific circumstances.

Timely attendance is essential for the efficient and effective functioning of our team during tournaments. It ensures that we have ample time for preparation, warm-up, and coordination.

By adhering to our "Being on Time" policy, we ensure that all participants can fully benefit from each practice session, and we maintain a culture of discipline and respect within our club. We appreciate your cooperation in upholding this policy.

Adults (especially parents) have a role at tournaments that is instrumental in shaping the environment for our young athletes. Demonstrating good etiquette not only enhances the overall experience for everyone involved but also sets a positive example for our children. Here are some guidelines to follow when attending tournaments:

1. Positive Support only: Encourage your child and the entire team with positive and constructive words. Avoid making negative or critical comments, especially during games.

2. Respect the Officials: Referees and officials work hard to ensure fair play. Respect their decisions, even if you disagree. Demonstrating respect sets a valuable example for our young athletes.

3. Maintain Self-Control: Emotions can run high during games, but it's crucial to maintain self-control. Avoid confrontations or arguments with coaches, other parents, or officials.

4. Stay In Designated Areas: Follow the designated areas and rules for spectators. Stay behind the designated lines and respect boundaries set by the tournament organizers.

5. Cheer for Everyone: Encourage and applaud good plays from both teams. Show sportsmanship and respect for the opponents.

6. No Coaching from the Sidelines (ever): Leave coaching to the coaches. Shouting instructions from the sidelines can confuse players and disrupt the game.

7. Clean-Up After Ourselves: Be responsible for your area. Clean up after the game and dispose of trash appropriately.

8. Be Timely: Arrive on time for your child's games. Being punctual ensures your child can focus on the game without worrying about your arrival.

9. Respect Privacy: Be considerate of privacy when taking photos or videos. Ask for permission before sharing images of other people's children.

10. Celebrate Success Gracefully: Celebrate victories with grace and humility. Keep celebrations respectful and considerate of the feelings of the opposing team.

11. No Discussing Playing Time: Avoid discussing playing time with coaches or other parents. Our club protocol encourages athletes to address these matters, as it promotes their personal growth and development.

12. Be Supportive, Win or Lose: Show unwavering support for your child, win or lose. Encourage them to learn from their experiences and improve.

By practicing good etiquette at tournaments, we create an environment where our young athletes can thrive, learn valuable life lessons, and develop into well-rounded individuals.

At Loudoun Elite, we foster a sense of unity and support among all our teams, and we believe in cheering for each other during tournaments. To uphold this spirit, we have established a "Supportive Team Cheering Policy" for tournaments where multiple teams from our club are participating.

If your team has a break or time off during a tournament and another team from our club is competing, the expectation is that your entire team, in full gear (jersey, spandex or sports pants, and shoes), must show up to the court to cheer for your fellow club team. This is a mandatory rule and an essential part of our club's culture.

When cheering for another team:

1. Display Enthusiasm: Bring positive energy and enthusiasm to the court to motivate and support your fellow athletes.

2. Respect the Game: Show respect for the game, referees, and the opponents. Encourage good sportsmanship and fair play.

3. Be Unified: Stand together as a team and create a unified presence in the crowd. Your support means a lot to the team on the court.

4. Cheer Responsibly: Be loud, proud, and respectful in your cheers. Avoid negative comments or behavior that could be seen as unsportsmanlike.

5. Celebrate Successes: Celebrate your fellow athletes' successes and efforts, whether it's a well-executed play, a win, or any achievement on the court.

6. Stay Until the End: Continue cheering until the match is over (if the schedule allows it). Your support can make a significant difference, especially in close and intense games.

This policy is in place to promote camaraderie, team spirit, and a culture of mutual support among all our club teams. By adhering to this rule, we ensure that every athlete feels the strength and unity of our club, and that we create a positive and motivating atmosphere at tournaments. This culture of support not only fosters strong team bonds but also sets an example for young athletes on how to be gracious competitors, respectful sportspeople, and contributing members of our broader club community.

The journey home from practices and tournaments is a significant part of your child's overall sports experience. Demonstrating good etiquette during this time not only enhances their well-being but also reinforces the valuable life lessons that sports can provide. Here are some guidelines to ensure a thoughtful and positive experience for your child:

1. Positive Reflection: After a practice or tournament, engage your child in positive conversations. Ask about their experiences, what they enjoyed, and what they learned. Encourage them to focus on the positives.

2. Avoid Criticism: Refrain from offering unsolicited criticism or critique about their performance, the team, or the coach. Allow them to process the experience at their own pace.

3. Respect Their Silence: Sometimes, your child might need quiet reflection or downtime after a game or practice. Respect their need for space and allow them to open up when they are ready.

4. Healthy Snacking: Have healthy snacks and water ready for the journey home. Proper nutrition is essential for recovery, and it can set a positive example for your child.

5. Reinforce Teamwork and Sportsmanship: Emphasize the importance of teamwork and good sportsmanship. Discuss how they can continue to improve in these areas and support their teammates.

6. Avoid Overanalysis: While it's important to discuss the game, avoid overanalyzing every play or decision. Instead, focus on broader aspects of the game or their overall progress.

7. Set Realistic Expectations: Remind your child that sports involve both victories and losses. Encourage them to focus on effort and improvement rather than just the outcome.

8. Respect Their Choices: If your child prefers to discuss their experiences or feelings, listen attentively. If they wish to focus on other topics, respect their choices.

9. Plan for Rest: Ensure your child gets enough rest and sleep after a tournament, especially if it was physically demanding. Rest is crucial for recovery.

10. Celebrate the Journey: Emphasize that the journey in sports is just as important as the destination. Encourage them to savor the experiences and friendships they make along the way.

You can provide your child with a thoughtful and positive experience on the way home from practices and tournaments. This contributes to their overall enjoyment of sports and the valuable life skills they gain through their participation.