RE: When you CAN'T use a pilot's station for takeoff...!
I think if you can fly the plane and land then plane then you have the skills to take off. I think it is just a mental block that you need to get past with practice. You have the skills pipe I know you can get past this minor bump.
As far as the rules go, the club could lose their insurance if the safety rules are not enforced. They aren't just picking on you on this to be mean.
73s om