PARTICIPATION WAIVER, RELEASE OF LIABILITY
& ASSUMPTION OF RISK
By checking the acceptance box and completing registration, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and voluntarily agree to the terms below on behalf of myself and the registered minor athlete.
1. Assumption of Risk & Athlete Physical Condition
I acknowledge that water polo is a physically demanding, competitive contact sport involving inherent risks that cannot be eliminated regardless of supervision, instruction, rules, or safety measures.
I certify that the registered athlete is in good physical condition and has no medical, physical, or mental condition that would prevent safe participation. I voluntarily and knowingly assume all risks, including but not limited to:
- Physical injuries, including concussions, head and neck injuries, fractures, sprains, facial injuries, and overuse injuries
- Water-related risks, including fatigue, slipping, impact with equipment or other athletes, and drowning or secondary drowning
- Exposure to communicable illnesses or diseases, including COVID-19 or similar pathogens
- Travel-related risks to and from practices, competitions, tournaments, or team events
I understand that these risks may result from the actions, inactions, or ordinary negligence of the Released Parties, other participants, or third parties.
Concussion Compliance
I acknowledge that I have been provided access to concussion awareness information and agree to comply with all “Return to Play” protocols required by the Illinois Youth Sports Concussion Safety Act, as well as all applicable NSWP and USA Water Polo concussion policies.
2. Release of Liability & Covenant Not to Sue
I hereby fully, finally, and forever release, waive, and discharge North Shore Water Polo Club (NSWP), its officers, directors, coaches, volunteers, employees, agents, and independent contractors, as well as Township High School District 113, its Board of Education, administrators, employees, and agents (collectively, the “Released Parties”), from any and all claims, demands, actions, causes of action, or liability arising out of or related to participation in NSWP activities.
This release applies even if such injury, loss, or damage is caused in whole or in part by the ordinary negligence of the Released Parties, to the fullest extent permitted by Illinois law.
I agree that neither I, my child, nor any family member will initiate or maintain any legal action against the Released Parties for claims covered by this waiver.
3. Indemnification & Hold Harmless
I agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the Released Parties from any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, or expenses (including attorney’s fees and court costs) arising from:
- The athlete’s participation
- My presence or conduct at any facility
- The presence or conduct of any family member, guest, or sibling brought to NSWP activities, including incidents occurring in locker rooms, spectator areas, hallways, parking lots, or other common areas
4. Supervision & Athlete Safety (Ages 6–12)
I understand that NSWP’s responsibility for supervision begins only when the athlete is under the direct supervision of a coach on the pool deck during scheduled practice or event times.
NSWP does not provide supervision in locker rooms, hallways, spectator areas, or parking lots.
Athletes under the age of 12 must be escorted to and from the pool deck by a parent or legal guardian. Athletes may not be dropped off unless a coach is present and actively supervising on the pool deck.
5. Emergency Medical Authorization & Insurance Responsibility
In the event of an injury or medical emergency, I authorize NSWP staff to obtain emergency medical care for the athlete, including ambulance transport and hospital treatment, if deemed necessary.
I understand that I am solely responsible for all medical expenses incurred. I certify that the athlete is covered by a primary health insurance policy and will maintain an active USA Water Polo membership for secondary sports accident insurance for the duration of participation.
6. Facility Rules, Conduct & Property Damage
I agree to comply with all rules, policies, and directives of Township High School District 113 and NSWP.
I acknowledge that NSWP reserves the right to suspend or terminate participation without refund for conduct that is unsafe, disruptive, unsportsmanlike, or in violation of the Athlete and Parent Code of Conduct.
I accept financial responsibility for any damage caused by the athlete or accompanying family members to facilities, equipment, or property.
7. Media & Likeness Release
I grant NSWP the irrevocable right to photograph, video record, and otherwise capture the athlete’s likeness during practices, games, or events and to use such media for promotional, educational, or marketing purposes (including websites and social media) without compensation or further consent.
8. Refund & Cancellation Policy
I acknowledge that NSWP operates on fixed, non-recoverable costs including, but not limited to, pool rental, coaching staff, equipment, insurance, and administrative systems.
Limited Refund Window
A request for a refund must be submitted in writing via email no later than 11:59 p.m. on the Saturday of the first week of the session (NSWP training weeks run Sunday through Saturday). Approved refunds are subject to a $50 non-refundable administrative processing fee.
No Refunds After Deadline
No refunds, credits, or prorated adjustments will be issued after the refund deadline for any reason, including but not limited to injury, illness, schedule conflicts, family emergencies, missed practices, voluntary withdrawal, or disciplinary removal for violation of NSWP policies or codes of conduct.
Private & Small-Group Lessons
Private and small-group lessons require at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellation. Late cancellations or no-shows will be charged the full lesson fee. Coaches are not authorized to waive this policy.
Club or Facility Cancellations
If NSWP cancels a session due to coach unavailability, administrative error, or low enrollment, a prorated refund or credit may be issued at NSWP’s sole discretion.
No refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations caused by factors outside NSWP’s control, including facility closures, mechanical or chemical issues, power outages, or schedule changes imposed by Township High School District 113 or other host facilities.
Force Majeure
No refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations, suspensions, or modifications caused by events beyond NSWP’s control, including severe weather, natural disasters, public health emergencies, government actions, or facility shutdowns.
Chargebacks & Payment Disputes
I agree not to dispute or reverse charges through my credit card provider for fees governed by this agreement. Any attempt to initiate a chargeback in violation of this policy constitutes a material breach and may result in immediate removal from NSWP and referral of the balance to collections.
9. Severability & Governing Law
If any portion of this agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.
This agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois
