League Code of Conduct

The following statement sets the context for the Club Code of Conduct and is taken from the “Code of Good Practice” issued by the Football Association as part of the FA Football Development Programme.

APPENDIX 1 - A Code of Conduct for Football

Football is the national game. All those involved with the game at every level and whether as a player, match official, coach, owner or administrator, have a responsibility, above and beyond compliance with the law, to act according to the highest standards of integrity, and to ensure that the reputation of the game is, and remains, high. This code applies to all those involved in football under the auspices of The Football Association.

Community

Football, at all levels, is a vital part of a community. Football will take into account community feeling when making decisions.

Equality

Football is opposed to discrimination of any form and will promote measures to prevent it, in whatever form, from being expressed.

Participants

Football recognises the sense of ownership felt by those who participate at all levels of the game. This includes those who play, those who coach or help in any way, and those who officiate, as well as administrators and supporters. Football is committed to appropriate consultation.

Young People

Football acknowledges the extent of its influence over young people and pledges to set a positive example.

Propriety

Football acknowledges that public confidence demands the highest standards of financial and administrative behaviour within the game, and will not tolerate corruption or improper practices.

Trust and Respect

Football will uphold a relationship of trust and respect between all involved in the game, whether they are individuals, clubs or other organisations.

Violence

Football rejects the use of violence of any nature by anyone involved in the game.

Fairness

Football is committed to fairness in its dealings with all involved in the game.

Integrity and Fair Play

Football is committed to the principle of playing to win consistent with Fair Play.

 

APPENDIX 2 - Code of Conduct for Coaches

Coaches are key to the establishment of ethics in football. Their concept of ethics and their attitude directly affects the behaviour of players under their supervision. Coaches are, therefore, expected to pay particular care to the moral aspect of their conduct.

Coaches have to be aware that almost all of their everyday decisions and choices of actions, as well as strategic targets, have ethical implications.

It is natural that winning constitutes a basic concern for coaches. This code is not intended to conflict with that. However, the code calls for coaches to disassociate themselves from a “win-at-all-costs” attitude.

Increased responsibility is requested from coaches involved in coaching young people. The health, safety, welfare and moral education of young people are a first priority, before the achievement or the reputation of the club, school, coach or parent.

Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.

Coaches must place the well being and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance.

Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing bodies.

 

APPENDIX 3 - Code of Conduct for Players

Players are the most important people in the sport. Playing for the team, and for the team to win, is the most fundamental part of the game. But not winning at any cost – Fair Play and respect for all others in the game is fundamentally important.

• Players will have a good attitude at training and matches
• Players will turn up for training and matches on time
• Players will show good sportsmanship and respect at all times
• Players will shake hands with opponents after the game
• No jewellery is to be worn by players during training or a game
• Players will always wear the correct kit
• Club kit only to be worn for matches
• Football boots must be clean and in good condition
• Players must wear shin pads during training and matches
• No eating or chewing during training or matches
• No swearing or fighting on or off the field during matches or training
• No abuse or racial remarks shall be made towards any other player, official or supporter
• Respect the wishes of your manager and coach.
• Inform your manager or coach when you have an injury.
• Accept the decision of the match official without protest
• Avoid word or actions which may mislead a match official
• Show due respect towards match officials
• Show support for other Team Members

 

APPENDIX 4 - Code of Conduct for Parents and Spectators

Parents / Spectators have a great influence on children’s enjoyment and success in football. All children play football because they first and foremost love the game – it’s fun. It is important to remember that however good a child becomes at football within your club it is important to reinforce the message to parents / spectators that positive encouragement will contribute to:

• Children enjoying football
• A sense of personal achievement
• Self-esteem
• Improving the child’s skills and techniques.

A parent’s / spectator’s expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude towards:

• Other players
• Officials
• Managers
• Spectators

Ensure that parents / spectators within your club are always positive and encouraging towards all of the children not just their own. Encourage parents / spectators to:

• Applaud the opposition as well as your own team.
• Avoid coaching the child during the game
• Not to shout and scream.
• Respect the referee’s decision.
• Give attention to each of the children involved in football not just the most talented.
• Give encouragement to everyone to participate in football.

The Club will ensure that parents / spectators within our club agree and adhere to our club’s Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy.