FC North Idaho Club Grievance Policy

FC North Idaho/BVB IA CDA Soccer Club believes that many concerns and grievances within a youth soccer organization can be resolved through direct communication among the parties involved, including coaches, players, and parents. However, in cases where issues cannot be satisfactorily resolved informally, the following formal grievance procedure should be followed:

*If this is a SafeSport violation please call the Board President immediately. US Center for SafeSport

A. Grievance Procedure:

Step 1 - Informal Procedure: Parents are encouraged to approach coaches with concerns. This discussion should occur at least 24 hours after the game or practice in question, in accordance with the parent and player code of conduct. Meetings should be scheduled when the coach is available and without other players or parents present. If the grievance remains unresolved after this initial discussion, a formal grievance procedure may be initiated.

Step 2 - Formal Grievance Procedure: If a grievance cannot be resolved informally and requires formal resolution:

The grievance should be submitted in writing to the Director of Coaching, Board President, and the team's Board representative. The Board representative will acknowledge receipt of the grievance.
The written grievance must include:
- The name of the person or organization against whom the grievance is filed.
- The name of the person submitting the grievance.
- Detailed specifics of the grievance to enable the opposing party to respond effectively.
- Steps taken so far to address the grievance.
- Any rules or procedures believed to have been violated.
- Supporting documentation such as dates, times, names of team members, coaches, players, referees, and other relevant staff.
- A statement outlining the desired resolution.
Grievances will only be considered valid once all required information is properly included and reviewed by the designated individuals.
Grievances not resolved at this step will be reviewed by the entire Board of Directors. The Board will establish a timeline for resolution and communicate directly with the parties involved to achieve the best possible outcome.

Step 3-Board of Directors Review: The Board of Directors is responsible for making the final decision on grievances. Confidentiality must be maintained throughout the process.

The Board may:

Create a subcommittee (comprising at least three members) to hear the grievance.
Hear the grievance during a Board meeting, adhering to quorum requirements.
Conduct an open or closed hearing based on the circumstances.
Appoint individuals to investigate and report on the grievance.
Consider the adoption of new rules or policies if the grievance pertains to a rule not covered by existing policies.

-Time of Decision: Unless extended by the Board, a final decision on the grievance shall be made within 45 days of its initial receipt.

-Notification of Decision: The Board will provide written or email notification of its decision to the party submitting the grievance.

-No Appeal: The decision of the Board is final. There is no further appeal process available.

This policy aims to clarify the steps and responsibilities involved in addressing grievances within FC North Idaho/BVB IA CDA Soccer Club, ensuring transparency and fairness in conflict resolution processes.