As the user booking the Recreation Facility, it is expressly agreed that you are liable for any breach of these Terms and Conditions by any member of your party. We do not offer any refunds.
Immanuel Recreation Center Release and Waiver of Liability and Code of Conduct
The individual named below (“Participant”), which for purposes of this agreement includes any person attending, observing, or otherwise present at the Immanuel Recreation Center (whether actively participating in or merely spectating the Activities), desires to be on the premises and/or participate in activities or events held at or in conjunction with the Immanuel Recreation Center (“Recreation Center”), located at 12803 Sugar Ridge Boulevard, Stafford, Texas 77477, and operated by Immanuel Mar Thoma Church (“IMTC”). In consideration of being permitted to be on the premises and/or participate in the Activities, and in recognition of the Recreation Center’s reliance hereon, the Participant agrees to the following terms:
- Definitions
- “Activities” means, without limitation, any recreational, sports, athletic, fitness, dance-related, or aerobic activities, whether structured or informal, that occur at the Recreation Center. This includes, but is not limited to, open gym sessions, scrimmages, practices, tournaments, instructional clinics, group classes, competitions, or other events where Participants may play, train, observe, or otherwise engage in physical or recreational activities.
- “Claims” means any and all past, present, and future claims, demands, actions, suits, damages, and liabilities of any nature, whether in law or equity.
- “Diocese” means the North America Diocese of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church, an ecclesiastical territory under the spiritual and administrative jurisdiction of the Diocesan Bishop for North America, comprising multiple parishes and congregations located within the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Diocese operates in accordance with the canonical statutes and governance protocols established by the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church.
- “Releasees” means, collectively, the Recreation Center, IMTC, and the Diocese, including any parent or subsidiary organizations, affiliated churches, committees, boards, trustees, ministers, vicars, bishops, clergy, directors, officers, employees, volunteers, agents, representatives, successors, and assigns of each of the foregoing.
- Acknowledgment of Risks. The Participant acknowledges that attending, observing, or participating in the Activities involves multiple, inherent, and potential hazards, including but not limited to physical injuries, emotional or psychological harm, equipment and facility hazards, negligence or carelessness, interactions with others, environmental and external factors, and illness or communicable diseases. The Participant affirms they are voluntarily present and/or participating with full knowledge of these risks and agrees to accept and assume any and all risks, whether known or unknown, arising out of their presence and/or participation in the Activities.
- Scope of Release. BY SIGNING THIS DOCUMENT, YOU UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT YOU ARE WAIVING AND RELEASING ANY AND ALL CLAIMS against the Releasees, arising out of or attributable to your attendance at the Recreation Center and/or participation in the Activities. THIS RELEASE INCLUDES, BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO, CLAIMS RELATING TO THE ORDINARY NEGLIGENCE of the Releasees. It does not extend to Claims resulting from gross negligence, willful misconduct, or other liabilities not permitted by applicable law. YOU FURTHER AGREE NOT TO INITIATE OR ASSIST IN ANY LEGAL ACTION against the Releasees based on any such Claims.
- Indemnification. The Participant agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Releasees from and against any and all Claims, liabilities, losses, damages, judgments, settlements, costs, and expenses (including court costs and reasonable attorney fees) of any nature, arising from or relating to third-party actions or demands resulting from the Participant’s acts or omissions during the Activities or while on the premises, any property damage, personal injury, or wrongful death caused or allegedly caused by the Participant, and the Participant’s breach of this Release or violation of any law, ordinance, or regulation.
- Insurance and Financial Responsibility. The Participant acknowledges and agrees that they are solely responsible for obtaining and maintaining adequate insurance coverage for any injuries, damages, or losses that may arise from their presence or participation in the Activities. The Participant further agrees to bear all costs and expenses not covered by insurance, including medical expenses, property damage, and legal fees.
- Medical Treatment. The Participant consents to receive medical treatment deemed necessary while on the premises or during the Activities. They acknowledge they are responsible for all related costs and release the Recreation Center, IMTC, Diocese, and Releasees from any liability arising from such treatment.
- Dispute Resolution. Any disputes arising under this Release shall first be subject to mediation facilitated by a neutral third-party mediator agreed upon by the Participant and the Releasees. If mediation fails to resolve the dispute, the matter shall be submitted to binding arbitration in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA). The arbitration shall take place in Fort Bend County, Texas, and the decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding on all parties.
- Certification of Physical Fitness. The Participant certifies they are physically and mentally fit to attend and/or participate and have not been advised otherwise by a qualified medical professional. The Participant further acknowledges that they have no health-related conditions or problems that preclude their presence or participation in the Activities.
- Photography and Media Release. The Participant consents to the use of their image, likeness, or voice in any promotional or educational materials created by the Recreation Center, IMTC, or Diocese. This includes photographs, videos, and recordings taken during Activities.
- Updates to the Release. The Recreation Center and IMTC reserve the right to amend this Release and the accompanying Code of Conduct at any time. Participants will be notified of any changes through email, posted notices, or other communication channels deemed appropriate. Continued attendance or participation in Activities after such notice constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance of the revised terms.
- Severability and Governing Law. If any provision of this Release is held to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain enforceable. This Release shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to conflict-of-law principles that would result in the application of any law other than the laws of the State of Texas, and any disputes shall be resolved exclusively in the courts of Fort Bend County, Texas.
- Acknowledgment. BY SIGNING BELOW, YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE CAREFULLY READ THIS ENTIRE AGREEMENT, UNDERSTAND ITS CONTENTS, AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY ITS TERMS.
[Remainder of Pager Left Intentionally Blank; Signature Page Follows.]
By signing this document, the Participant (or Parent/Guardian, if under 18) agrees to comply with the Code of Conduct and acknowledges the terms of this Release.
Print Name: Signature: Date:
_______________________ _______________________ _____________
Parent/Guardian (if under 18):
Print Name: Signature: Signature: Date:
________________________ _______________________ _____________
Exhibit A
Code of Conduct
Participants at the Recreation Center agree to uphold the following standards of conduct:
- Respectful Behavior
- Abide by the instructions of Recreation Center staff, IMTC, and Diocese representatives, and authorized personnel.
- Treat all participants, spectators, staff, and property with respect.
- Refrain from using profanity, engaging in aggressive behavior, or causing disruptions.
- Prohibited Actions
- Fighting, vandalism, or property damage.
- Disorderly conduct, horseplay, or actions jeopardizing safety.
- Consumption of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs on the premises.
- Failure to comply with the instructions of Recreation Center staff, IMTC, and Diocese representatives, and authorized personnel.
- Facility Use
- Use the facilities only for their intended purposes.
- Wear appropriate non-marking athletic shoes; no muddy or dirty footwear allowed.
- Food and gum are prohibited; water and sports drinks are allowed only in designated areas.
- Supervision Requirements
- Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
- An approved supervisor must be present for organized group activities.
- Equipment and Cleanliness
- Participants must return all equipment to its proper location after use.
- Ensure the floor is swept before and after use.
- Financial Responsibility
- Participants are financially responsible for any damage, theft, or loss of equipment or property.
- Access and Safety Guidelines
- Access to the Recreation Center is limited to the main entry. All other doors are for emergency exit only.
- Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times, and attire must be gender-appropriate for the activity.
- Liability Disclaimer
- The Recreation Center, IMTC, and the Diocese are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
- Compliance with Rules
- The schedule in effect for the Recreation Center shall be followed, and all updates must be adhered to.
- Failure to comply with any rules or instructions may result in suspension or permanent expulsion.
- IMTC and Diocese Values
- Participants and spectators are expected to uphold and respect the faith, teachings, and customs of IMTC and the Diocese.
- Attire should avoid offensive images, profanity, or content that conflicts with the spiritual environment of IMTC and the Diocese.
- Behavior and language should reflect a spirit of fellowship, Christian courtesy, and reverence for the values of IMTC and the Diocese.
- Harassment and Discrimination
- The Recreation Center maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment or discrimination based on race, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, or other protected characteristics.
- Any incidents should be reported to staff or authorized personnel for immediate action.
- Confidential or Private Areas
- Access to areas used for other church functions, offices, classrooms, or private events is restricted unless express permission is granted.
- Participants should respect signage and maintain privacy where indicated.
- No Gambling or Unauthorized Solicitation
- Gambling, betting, or unauthorized fundraising is prohibited on church property.
- Participants may not solicit or sell goods without prior written permission from an authorized representative of IMTC leadership.
- Quiet or Prayer Times
- The Recreation Center may be located near worship services or other events; noise should be kept to a minimum if a worship service is in progress.
- Participants should be mindful of ongoing prayer gatherings or other church-related activities.
- No Smoking Policy
- The Recreation Center and all adjacent grounds are smoke-free. This includes cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and any similar product.
- Conflict Resolution
- Participants are encouraged to resolve disputes in a calm manner, consistent with Christian principles of reconciliation.
- If conflicts cannot be resolved amicably, seek assistance from Recreation Center staff or authorized personnel.
- DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE
- The IMTC-RC is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and orderly environment for all users. The following disciplinary procedures apply to all participants, regardless of membership status:
- Verbal Warning – Minor violation, such as a first-time infraction of facility rules, will result in a verbal warning issued by RMC staff. The incident will be recorded in the App notes for future reference. Verbal warnings are intended to educate and correct behavior before more serious action is necessary.
- Written Warning / One-Week Suspension – Repeated or moderate violations, such as failure to comply with staff instructions or disruptive behavior, will result in a written warning and a one-week suspension from facility use. The participant will receive written notification outlining the reason for the suspension and the steps required for reinstatement. Written warnings serve as a formal record of the infraction and provide an opportunity for the participant to reflect and improve.
- Thirty-Day Suspension – Serious breaches of conduct, such as harassment, discrimination, or endangering the safety of others, or a second written violation, will result in a thirty-day suspension. The participant will be notified in writing and may be required to meet with RMC staff before returning to the facility. During the suspension period, the participant is not permitted to enter the facility or participate in any activities.
- Permanent Revocation – Acts of violence, illegal activity, or continued disregard of facility rules will result in permanent revocation of access rights. The RMC will provide written notice of the decision, and the participant will be barred from all IMTC-RC activities and events. Permanent revocation is reserved for the most serious or repeated violations and is intended to protect the safety and integrity of the facility.
- The RMC may immediately remove any Participant for violations involving safety, harassment, discrimination, or prohibited items. Immediate removal is necessary to protect the well-being of all users and to uphold the standards of the facility. In such cases, law enforcement or other authorities may be contacted if warranted.
- Decisions of the RMC are final; appeal may be submitted in writing to the IMTC-EC within ten (10) days. The IMTC-EC will review the appeal and issue a final decision, which will be communicated to the participant in writing. The appeals process is designed to ensure fairness and provide an opportunity for reconsideration.
- Participants are encouraged to resolve disputes in a calm manner, consistent with Christian principles of reconciliation. If conflicts cannot be resolved amicably, seek assistance from Recreation Center staff or authorized personnel. The RMC may facilitate mediation or refer disputes to the IMTC-EC for further review. Mediation is intended to promote understanding and restore relationships among participants.
- All disciplinary actions will be documented in the participant’s record within the App. The RMC will maintain confidentiality and ensure that all procedures are conducted fairly and impartially. Participants who have been suspended or expelled may request reinstatement after a specified period, subject to review by the RMC and approval by the IMTC-EC. The RMC may require evidence of corrective action, such as completion of an educational program or written reflection, before reinstatement is granted. The goal of the disciplinary process is not only to enforce rules but also to promote personal growth, accountability, and reconciliation within the community.