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Disciplinary Measures
What are “disciplinary measures”?
“Disciplinary measures” are consequences imposed when someone is found to have broken the rules or standards of behaviour.
They can apply to:
- athletes
- coaches and support staff
- officials
- volunteers, administrators, board/committee members
- clubs or other member organizations
These measures normally come from policies such as the NSO’s Code of Conduct, Discipline and Complaints Policy, Safe Sport Policy, or Membership Policy.
When can a disciplinary decision go to the SDRCC?
Prior to the SDRCC’s consideration of a disciplinary dispute, it is essential that you first exhaust the internal complaint, discipline and appeal procedures of your National Sport Organization (NSO).
In accordance with the Canadian Sport Dispute Resolution Code (“Code”), the SDRCC can only manage a “Sports‑Related Dispute” within its jurisdiction. A sports‑related dispute consists of, among other things, a disciplinary decision or sanction imposed by a sport organization’s board, committee, independent tribunal or other authorized decision maker that affects the rights, status or participation of a member of that organization.
What kinds of disciplinary decisions might be appealed to the SDRCC?
Whether a situation can be appealed depends on the facts, the wording of the policies, and the SDRCC’s jurisdictional analysis.
The following are examples of governance-related* decisions only;
- suspension or conditions on participation under a Code of Conduct
- removal of a coach, official, manager, volunteer or director for conduct reasons
- suspension or expulsion of a club or member for behaviour‑related breaches
- discipline for off‑field behaviour at competitions (e.g., abuse of officials, serious unsporting conduct) where the sanction affects future participation.
To file an appeal related to a disciplinary measure, click here.
*A governance-related decision in a National Sport Organization is a formal decision made by the board or delegated committees that sets the organization’s direction, rules, accountability, and oversight
