Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club
Policy and Operating Manual
Constitution and Rules
1. NAME
The club shall be called Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club (the Club)
2. OBJECTS
The objects of the Club shall be to arrange association football matches and social activities for its members.
3. STATUS OF RULES
These rules (the Club Rules) form a binding agreement between each member of the Club.
4. RULES AND REGULATIONS
(a)The Club shall have the status of an Affiliated Member Club of The Football Association by virtue of its affiliation to/membership of The Football Association. The Rules and Regulations of The Football Association Limited and parent County Association and any League or Competition to which the Club is affiliated for the time being shall be deemed to be incorporated into the Club Rules.
(b) No alteration to the Club Rules shall be effective without prior written approval by the parent Association.
(c) The Club will also abide by The Football Association’s Child Protection Policies and Procedures, Codes of Conduct and the Equal Opportunities and Anti-Discrimination Policy.
5. CLUB MEMBERSHIP
(a) The members of the Club from time to time shall be those persons listed in the register of members (the Membership Register) which shall be maintained by the Club Secretary. All registered playing members of the Club shall be deemed members.
(b) Immediate family and guardians of playing members shall be deemed associate members
(c) Election to membership shall be at the sole discretion of the Club Committee. Membership shall become effective upon an applicant’s name being entered in the Membership Register.
(d) In the event of a member’s resignation or expulsion, his or her name shall be removed from the Membership Register.
(e) The Football Association and parent County Association shall be given access to the Membership Register on demand.
6. ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE
(a) An annual fee payable by each member shall be determined from time to time by the Club Committee. Any fee shall be payable on a successful application for membership and annually by each member. Fees shall not be repayable.
(b) The Club Committee shall have the authority to levy further subscriptions from the members as are reasonably necessary to fulfil the objects of the Club.
7. RESIGNATION AND EXPULSION
(a) A member shall cease to be a member of the Club if, and from the date on which, he/she gives notice to the Club Committee of their resignation. A member whose annual membership fee or further subscription is more than 2 months in arrears shall be deemed to have resigned.
(b) The Club Committee shall have the power to expel a member/associate member when, in their opinion, it would not be in the interests of the Club for them to remain a member. There shall be no appeal procedures.
(c) A member who resigns or is expelled shall not be entitled to claim any, or a share of any, of the Club Property.
8. CLUB COMMITTEE
(a) The Club Committee shall consist of the following Club Officers: Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary, Welfare Officer plus other members, elected at an Annual General Meeting.
(b) Each Club Officer and Club Committee Member shall hold office from the date of appointment until the next Annual General Meeting unless otherwise resolved at a Special General Meeting. One person may hold no more than two positions of Club Officer at any time. The Club Committee shall be responsible for the management of all the affairs of the Club. Decisions of the Club Committee shall be made by a simple majority of those attending the Club Committee meeting. The Chairperson of the Club Committee meeting shall have a casting vote in the event of a tie. Meetings of the Club Committee shall be chaired by the Chairperson or in their absence the Vice Chairman. The quorum for the transaction of business of the Club Committee shall be three.
(c) Decisions of the Club Committee of meetings shall be entered into the Minute Book of the Club to be maintained by the Club Secretary.
(d) Any member of the Club Committee may call a meeting of the Club Committee by giving not less than 7 days’ notice to all members of the Club Committee. The Club Committee shall hold not less than four meetings a year.
(e) An outgoing member of the Club Committee may be re-elected. Any vacancy on the Club Committee that arises between Annual General Meetings shall be filled by a member proposed by one and seconded by another of the remaining Club Committee members and approved by a simple majority of the remaining Club Committee members.
(f) Save as provided for in the Rules and Regulations of The Football Association and the County Association to which the Club is affiliated, the Club Committee shall have the power to decide all questions and disputes arising in respect of any issue concerning the Club Rules.
(g) Sub committees may be formed to carry out specific business of the Club Committee, Sub committees must report to the general committee.
9. ANNUAL AND SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
(a) An Annual General Meeting (AGM) shall be held in each year to:
(i) Receive a report of the activities of the Club over the previous year
(ii) Receive a report of the Club’s finances over the previous year
(iii) Elect the members of the Club Committee
(iv) Consider any other business.
(b) Nominations for election of members as Club Officers or as members of the Club Committee shall be made in writing by the proposer and seconder, both of whom must be existing members of the Club, to the Club Secretary not less than 14 days before the AGM. Notice of any resolution to be proposed at the AGM shall be given in writing to the Club Secretary not less than 14 days before the Meeting.
(c) A Special General Meeting (SGM) may be called at any time by the Committee and shall be called within 14 days of the receipt by the Club Secretary of a requisition in writing signed by not less than five members stating the purposes for which the Meeting is required and the resolutions proposed. Business at an SGM may be any business that may be transacted at an AGM.
(d) The Secretary shall send to each member at their last known source of contact written notice of the date of a General Meeting together with the resolutions to be proposed at least 14 days before the Meeting.
(e) The quorum for a General Meeting shall be four Club members
(f) The Chairman/Vice Chairman, or in their absence a member selected by the Club Committee, shall take the chair. Each member present shall have one vote and resolutions shall be passed by a simple majority. In the event of an equality of votes the Chairman of the Meeting shall have a casting vote.
(g)The Club Secretary/Minute Secretary, or in their absence a member of the Club Committee, shall enter Minutes of General Meetings into the Minute Book of the Club.
10. CLUB TEAMS
(a) The Club Committee shall appoint a Club member to be responsible for each of the Club’s football teams. The appointed member (Team Manager) shall be responsible for managing the affairs of the team and must complete a “1st 4Sport Level 1 Coaching Course within their first year. A CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check must be carried out on all Team Managers /Coaches/ Assistant s Club officials and regular parent helpers.
(b) The team colours will be; black and green. Goal keeper jerseys, as desired. Training Jackets and Shirts, Shorts and Socks will be universal throughout the club for registered players and coaching staff.
11. CLUB FINANCES
(a) A bank account shall be opened and maintained in the name of the Club (the Club Account). Designated account signatories shall be the Club Chairman, the Club Secretary and the Treasurer plus one other. No sum shall be drawn from the Club Account except by cheque signed by two of the three designated signatories. Debit cards may be used by the named signatories provided that two of the signatories plus the Treasurer are aware of the transaction. All monies payable to the Club shall be received by the Treasurer and deposited in the Club Account.
(b) The income and assets of the Club (the Club Property) shall be applied only in furtherance of the objects of the Club.
(c) The Club Committee shall have power to authorise the payment of remuneration and expenses to any member of the Club and to any other person or persons for services rendered to the Club.
(d) The Club shall prepare an annual Financial Statement in such form as shall be published by The Football Association from time to time.
(e)The Club Property, other than the Club Account, shall be vested in not less than two and no more than four custodians, one of whom shall be the Treasurer (the Custodians), who shall deal with the Club Property as directed by decisions of the Club Committee and entry in the Minute Book shall be conclusive evidence of such a decision.
(f)The Custodians shall be appointed by the Club in a General Meeting and shall hold office until death or resignation unless removed by a resolution passed at a General Meeting.
(g)On their removal or resignation a Custodian shall execute a Conveyance in such form as is published by The Football Association from time to time to a newly elected Custodian or the existing Custodians as directed by the Club Committee. On the death of a Custodian, any Club Property vested in them shall vest automatically in the surviving Custodians. If there is only one surviving Custodian, a Special General Meeting shall be convened as soon as possible to appoint another Custodian.
(h)The Custodians shall be entitled to an indemnity out of the Club Property for all expenses and other liabilities reasonably incurred by them in carrying out their duties.
(i) Any officers or committee members shall be entitled to claim expenses for duties carried out on behalf of the club, with the permission of at least two club officers.
12. DISSOLUTION
(a) A resolution to dissolve the Club shall only be proposed at a General Meeting and shall be carried by a majority of at least three-quarters of the members present.
(b)The dissolution shall take effect from the date of the resolution and the members of the Club Committee shall be responsible for the winding up of the assets and liabilities of the Club.
(c) Any surplus assets remaining after the discharge of the debts and liabilities of the Club shall be transferred to the parent Association who shall determine how the assets shall be utilised for the benefit of the game. Alternatively, such assets may be disposed of in such other manner as the members of the Club with the consent of the parent Association shall determine.
The club shall be called Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club (the Club)
2. OBJECTS
The objects of the Club shall be to arrange association football matches and social activities for its members.
3. STATUS OF RULES
These rules (the Club Rules) form a binding agreement between each member of the Club.
4. RULES AND REGULATIONS
(a)The Club shall have the status of an Affiliated Member Club of The Football Association by virtue of its affiliation to/membership of The Football Association. The Rules and Regulations of The Football Association Limited and parent County Association and any League or Competition to which the Club is affiliated for the time being shall be deemed to be incorporated into the Club Rules.
(b) No alteration to the Club Rules shall be effective without prior written approval by the parent Association.
(c) The Club will also abide by The Football Association’s Child Protection Policies and Procedures, Codes of Conduct and the Equal Opportunities and Anti-Discrimination Policy.
5. CLUB MEMBERSHIP
(a) The members of the Club from time to time shall be those persons listed in the register of members (the Membership Register) which shall be maintained by the Club Secretary. All registered playing members of the Club shall be deemed members.
(b) Immediate family and guardians of playing members shall be deemed associate members
(c) Election to membership shall be at the sole discretion of the Club Committee. Membership shall become effective upon an applicant’s name being entered in the Membership Register.
(d) In the event of a member’s resignation or expulsion, his or her name shall be removed from the Membership Register.
(e) The Football Association and parent County Association shall be given access to the Membership Register on demand.
6. ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE
(a) An annual fee payable by each member shall be determined from time to time by the Club Committee. Any fee shall be payable on a successful application for membership and annually by each member. Fees shall not be repayable.
(b) The Club Committee shall have the authority to levy further subscriptions from the members as are reasonably necessary to fulfil the objects of the Club.
7. RESIGNATION AND EXPULSION
(a) A member shall cease to be a member of the Club if, and from the date on which, he/she gives notice to the Club Committee of their resignation. A member whose annual membership fee or further subscription is more than 2 months in arrears shall be deemed to have resigned.
(b) The Club Committee shall have the power to expel a member/associate member when, in their opinion, it would not be in the interests of the Club for them to remain a member. There shall be no appeal procedures.
(c) A member who resigns or is expelled shall not be entitled to claim any, or a share of any, of the Club Property.
8. CLUB COMMITTEE
(a) The Club Committee shall consist of the following Club Officers: Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary, Welfare Officer plus other members, elected at an Annual General Meeting.
(b) Each Club Officer and Club Committee Member shall hold office from the date of appointment until the next Annual General Meeting unless otherwise resolved at a Special General Meeting. One person may hold no more than two positions of Club Officer at any time. The Club Committee shall be responsible for the management of all the affairs of the Club. Decisions of the Club Committee shall be made by a simple majority of those attending the Club Committee meeting. The Chairperson of the Club Committee meeting shall have a casting vote in the event of a tie. Meetings of the Club Committee shall be chaired by the Chairperson or in their absence the Vice Chairman. The quorum for the transaction of business of the Club Committee shall be three.
(c) Decisions of the Club Committee of meetings shall be entered into the Minute Book of the Club to be maintained by the Club Secretary.
(d) Any member of the Club Committee may call a meeting of the Club Committee by giving not less than 7 days’ notice to all members of the Club Committee. The Club Committee shall hold not less than four meetings a year.
(e) An outgoing member of the Club Committee may be re-elected. Any vacancy on the Club Committee that arises between Annual General Meetings shall be filled by a member proposed by one and seconded by another of the remaining Club Committee members and approved by a simple majority of the remaining Club Committee members.
(f) Save as provided for in the Rules and Regulations of The Football Association and the County Association to which the Club is affiliated, the Club Committee shall have the power to decide all questions and disputes arising in respect of any issue concerning the Club Rules.
(g) Sub committees may be formed to carry out specific business of the Club Committee, Sub committees must report to the general committee.
9. ANNUAL AND SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
(a) An Annual General Meeting (AGM) shall be held in each year to:
(i) Receive a report of the activities of the Club over the previous year
(ii) Receive a report of the Club’s finances over the previous year
(iii) Elect the members of the Club Committee
(iv) Consider any other business.
(b) Nominations for election of members as Club Officers or as members of the Club Committee shall be made in writing by the proposer and seconder, both of whom must be existing members of the Club, to the Club Secretary not less than 14 days before the AGM. Notice of any resolution to be proposed at the AGM shall be given in writing to the Club Secretary not less than 14 days before the Meeting.
(c) A Special General Meeting (SGM) may be called at any time by the Committee and shall be called within 14 days of the receipt by the Club Secretary of a requisition in writing signed by not less than five members stating the purposes for which the Meeting is required and the resolutions proposed. Business at an SGM may be any business that may be transacted at an AGM.
(d) The Secretary shall send to each member at their last known source of contact written notice of the date of a General Meeting together with the resolutions to be proposed at least 14 days before the Meeting.
(e) The quorum for a General Meeting shall be four Club members
(f) The Chairman/Vice Chairman, or in their absence a member selected by the Club Committee, shall take the chair. Each member present shall have one vote and resolutions shall be passed by a simple majority. In the event of an equality of votes the Chairman of the Meeting shall have a casting vote.
(g)The Club Secretary/Minute Secretary, or in their absence a member of the Club Committee, shall enter Minutes of General Meetings into the Minute Book of the Club.
10. CLUB TEAMS
(a) The Club Committee shall appoint a Club member to be responsible for each of the Club’s football teams. The appointed member (Team Manager) shall be responsible for managing the affairs of the team and must complete a “1st 4Sport Level 1 Coaching Course within their first year. A CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check must be carried out on all Team Managers /Coaches/ Assistant s Club officials and regular parent helpers.
(b) The team colours will be; black and green. Goal keeper jerseys, as desired. Training Jackets and Shirts, Shorts and Socks will be universal throughout the club for registered players and coaching staff.
11. CLUB FINANCES
(a) A bank account shall be opened and maintained in the name of the Club (the Club Account). Designated account signatories shall be the Club Chairman, the Club Secretary and the Treasurer plus one other. No sum shall be drawn from the Club Account except by cheque signed by two of the three designated signatories. Debit cards may be used by the named signatories provided that two of the signatories plus the Treasurer are aware of the transaction. All monies payable to the Club shall be received by the Treasurer and deposited in the Club Account.
(b) The income and assets of the Club (the Club Property) shall be applied only in furtherance of the objects of the Club.
(c) The Club Committee shall have power to authorise the payment of remuneration and expenses to any member of the Club and to any other person or persons for services rendered to the Club.
(d) The Club shall prepare an annual Financial Statement in such form as shall be published by The Football Association from time to time.
(e)The Club Property, other than the Club Account, shall be vested in not less than two and no more than four custodians, one of whom shall be the Treasurer (the Custodians), who shall deal with the Club Property as directed by decisions of the Club Committee and entry in the Minute Book shall be conclusive evidence of such a decision.
(f)The Custodians shall be appointed by the Club in a General Meeting and shall hold office until death or resignation unless removed by a resolution passed at a General Meeting.
(g)On their removal or resignation a Custodian shall execute a Conveyance in such form as is published by The Football Association from time to time to a newly elected Custodian or the existing Custodians as directed by the Club Committee. On the death of a Custodian, any Club Property vested in them shall vest automatically in the surviving Custodians. If there is only one surviving Custodian, a Special General Meeting shall be convened as soon as possible to appoint another Custodian.
(h)The Custodians shall be entitled to an indemnity out of the Club Property for all expenses and other liabilities reasonably incurred by them in carrying out their duties.
(i) Any officers or committee members shall be entitled to claim expenses for duties carried out on behalf of the club, with the permission of at least two club officers.
12. DISSOLUTION
(a) A resolution to dissolve the Club shall only be proposed at a General Meeting and shall be carried by a majority of at least three-quarters of the members present.
(b)The dissolution shall take effect from the date of the resolution and the members of the Club Committee shall be responsible for the winding up of the assets and liabilities of the Club.
(c) Any surplus assets remaining after the discharge of the debts and liabilities of the Club shall be transferred to the parent Association who shall determine how the assets shall be utilised for the benefit of the game. Alternatively, such assets may be disposed of in such other manner as the members of the Club with the consent of the parent Association shall determine.
Version 1.00 May 2010
Equal Opportunities and Anti Discrimination Policy
Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club will not tolerate sexual or racially based harassment or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal, and will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it occurs. We are committed to the development of the programme of ongoing training and awareness raising events and activities, in order to promote the eradication of discrimination within its own organisation, and within football as a whole.
Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members of whatever level or authority, to abide and adhere to this general principle and the requirements of the Codes of Practice issued by the Equal Opportunities Commission and Commission for Racial Equality.
All members are expected to abide by the requirements of the Race Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1986 and Disability Discrimination Act 1995. Specifically discrimination is prohibited by:
(a) Treating any individual on grounds of gender, colour, marital status, race, nationality or ethnic or national origin, religion, sexual orientation or disability less favourably than others.
(b) Expecting an individual solely on the grounds stated above to comply with requirement(s) for any reason whatsoever related to their membership, which is different from the requirements for others.
(c) Imposing on an individual requirements that are in effect more onerous on that individual than they are on others. For example, this would include applying a condition that makes it more difficult for members of a particular race or sex to comply than others not of that race or sex.
(d) Victimisation of an individual.
(e) Harassment of an individual, by virtue of discrimination.
Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members of whatever level or authority, to abide and adhere to this general principle and the requirements of the Codes of Practice issued by the Equal Opportunities Commission and Commission for Racial Equality.
All members are expected to abide by the requirements of the Race Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1986 and Disability Discrimination Act 1995. Specifically discrimination is prohibited by:
(a) Treating any individual on grounds of gender, colour, marital status, race, nationality or ethnic or national origin, religion, sexual orientation or disability less favourably than others.
(b) Expecting an individual solely on the grounds stated above to comply with requirement(s) for any reason whatsoever related to their membership, which is different from the requirements for others.
(c) Imposing on an individual requirements that are in effect more onerous on that individual than they are on others. For example, this would include applying a condition that makes it more difficult for members of a particular race or sex to comply than others not of that race or sex.
(d) Victimisation of an individual.
(e) Harassment of an individual, by virtue of discrimination.
Any other act or omission of an act, which has as its effect the disadvantaging of a member against another, or others, purely on the above grounds. Thus, in all the Club’s recruitment, selection, promotion and training processes, as well as disciplinary matters, it is essential that merit, experience, skills and temperament are considered as Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims of discrimination on the above grounds and where such is found to be the case, a requirement that the practice cease forthwith, restitution of damage or loss (if necessary) and to the investigation of any member accused of discrimination.
Any member found guilty of discrimination will be instructed to desist forthwith. Since discrimination in its many forms is against the Club’s policy, any members offending will be dealt with under the disciplinary procedure.
The Club commits itself to the disabled person whenever possible and will treat such members, in aspects of their recruitment and membership, in exactly the same manner as other members. The difficulties of their disablement permitting assistance will be given, wherever possible to ensure that disabled members are helped in gaining access. Appropriate training will be made to such members who request it.
Version 1.00 May 2010
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.
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.
Version 1.00 May 2010
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. Sturminster Marshall 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.
1. Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
2. Coaches must place the well-being and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance.
3. Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing bodies.
4. Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with each player based on mutual trust and respect.
5. Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
6. Coaches must encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.
7. Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of players.
8. Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the players (and, where appropriate, parent) exactly what is expected of them and also what they are entitled to expect from their coach. Coaches have a responsibility to ALL players and ALL parents, regular communication between Coaches and parents is essential.
9. Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the player.
10. Coaches must always promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play) and never condone violations of the Laws of the Game, behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game or relevant rules and regulations or the use of prohibited substances or techniques.
11. Coaches must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance, and refrain from smoking in the company of the players.
12.Coaches must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
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.
1. Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
2. Coaches must place the well-being and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance.
3. Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing bodies.
4. Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with each player based on mutual trust and respect.
5. Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
6. Coaches must encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.
7. Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of players.
8. Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the players (and, where appropriate, parent) exactly what is expected of them and also what they are entitled to expect from their coach. Coaches have a responsibility to ALL players and ALL parents, regular communication between Coaches and parents is essential.
9. Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the player.
10. Coaches must always promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play) and never condone violations of the Laws of the Game, behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game or relevant rules and regulations or the use of prohibited substances or techniques.
11. Coaches must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance, and refrain from smoking in the company of the players.
12.Coaches must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
Version 1.00 May 2010
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.
Obligations towards the game
A player should:
1. Make every effort to develop their own sporting abilities, in terms of skill, technique, tactics and stamina.
2. Give maximum effort and strive for the best possible performance during a game, even if his team is in a position where the desired result has already been achieved.
3. Set a positive example for others
4. Avoid all forms of unsporting gamesmanship and time-wasting.
5. Always have regard for the best interests of the game, including where publicly expressing an opinion on the game and any particular aspect of it, including others involved in the game.
6. Not use inappropriate language.
7. Refrain from ungentlemanly conduct such as spitting and swearing.
Obligations towards one’s own team
A player should:
1. Make every effort consistent with Fair Play and the Laws of the Game to help his own team win.
2. Resist any influence, which might, or might be seen to, bring into question his commitment to the team winning.
Respect for the Laws of the Game and competition rules
A player should:
1. Know and abide by the Laws, rules and spirit of the game, and the competition rules.
2. Accept success and failure, victory and defeat, equally.
Respect towards Opponents
A player should:
1. Treat opponents with due respect at all times, irrespective of the result of the game.
2. Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence and rough play, and help injured opponents.
Respect towards the Match Officials
A player should:
1. Accept the decision of the Match Official without protest.
2. Avoid words or actions, which may mislead a Match Official.
3. Show due respect towards Match Officials.
Respect towards Team Officials
A player should:
1. Abide by the instructions of their Coach and Team Officials, provided they do not contradict the spirit of this Code.
2. Show due respect towards the Team Officials of the opposition.
Obligations towards the Supporters
A player should:
1. Show due respect to the interests of supporters.
Obligations towards the game
A player should:
1. Make every effort to develop their own sporting abilities, in terms of skill, technique, tactics and stamina.
2. Give maximum effort and strive for the best possible performance during a game, even if his team is in a position where the desired result has already been achieved.
3. Set a positive example for others
4. Avoid all forms of unsporting gamesmanship and time-wasting.
5. Always have regard for the best interests of the game, including where publicly expressing an opinion on the game and any particular aspect of it, including others involved in the game.
6. Not use inappropriate language.
7. Refrain from ungentlemanly conduct such as spitting and swearing.
Obligations towards one’s own team
A player should:
1. Make every effort consistent with Fair Play and the Laws of the Game to help his own team win.
2. Resist any influence, which might, or might be seen to, bring into question his commitment to the team winning.
Respect for the Laws of the Game and competition rules
A player should:
1. Know and abide by the Laws, rules and spirit of the game, and the competition rules.
2. Accept success and failure, victory and defeat, equally.
Respect towards Opponents
A player should:
1. Treat opponents with due respect at all times, irrespective of the result of the game.
2. Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence and rough play, and help injured opponents.
Respect towards the Match Officials
A player should:
1. Accept the decision of the Match Official without protest.
2. Avoid words or actions, which may mislead a Match Official.
3. Show due respect towards Match Officials.
Respect towards Team Officials
A player should:
1. Abide by the instructions of their Coach and Team Officials, provided they do not contradict the spirit of this Code.
2. Show due respect towards the Team Officials of the opposition.
Obligations towards the Supporters
A player should:
1. Show due respect to the interests of supporters.
Version 1.00 May 2010
Code of Conduct for Team Officials
This Code applies to team and club officials (although some items may not be relevant to all officials).
Obligations towards the Game
A team official should
1. Set a positive example for others, particularly young players and supporters.
2. Promote and develop his own team having regard to the interest of the Players, Supporters and reputation of the national game.
3. Share knowledge and experience when invited to do so, taking into account the interest of the body that has requested this rather than personal interests.
4. Avoid all forms of unsporting gamesmanship.
5. Show due respect to Match Officials and others involved in the game.
6. Always have regard for the best interests of the game, including when publicly expressing an opinion of the game and any particular aspect of it, including others involved in the game.
7. Not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
Obligations towards the Team
A team official should
1. Make every effort to develop the sporting, technical and tactical levels of the club/team, and to obtain the best results for the team, using all permitted means.
2. Give priority to the interests of the team over individual interests.
3. Resist all illegal or unsporting influences, including banned substances and techniques.
4. Promote ethical principles.
5. Show due respect for the interests of the players, coaches and officials, their own club/team and others.
Obligations towards the Supporters
A team official should
1. Show due respect for the interests of supporters.
Respect towards the Match Officials
A team official should
1. Accept the decisions of the Match Official without protest.
2. Avoid words or actions that may mislead a Match Official.
3. Show due respect towards Match Officials.
Obligations towards the Game
A team official should
1. Set a positive example for others, particularly young players and supporters.
2. Promote and develop his own team having regard to the interest of the Players, Supporters and reputation of the national game.
3. Share knowledge and experience when invited to do so, taking into account the interest of the body that has requested this rather than personal interests.
4. Avoid all forms of unsporting gamesmanship.
5. Show due respect to Match Officials and others involved in the game.
6. Always have regard for the best interests of the game, including when publicly expressing an opinion of the game and any particular aspect of it, including others involved in the game.
7. Not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
Obligations towards the Team
A team official should
1. Make every effort to develop the sporting, technical and tactical levels of the club/team, and to obtain the best results for the team, using all permitted means.
2. Give priority to the interests of the team over individual interests.
3. Resist all illegal or unsporting influences, including banned substances and techniques.
4. Promote ethical principles.
5. Show due respect for the interests of the players, coaches and officials, their own club/team and others.
Obligations towards the Supporters
A team official should
1. Show due respect for the interests of supporters.
Respect towards the Match Officials
A team official should
1. Accept the decisions of the Match Official without protest.
2. Avoid words or actions that may mislead a Match Official.
3. Show due respect towards Match Officials.
Version 1.00 May 2010
Code of Conduct for Parents/Guardians & Spectators
Parents-Guardians and 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 whatever standard of football a child develops to within our club 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-guardians or spectator’s expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude towards:
Parents-guardians and spectators within the club are expected to remain positive and encouraging towards all of the children not just their own.
Parents-Guardians / spectators should:
All parents-guardians and supporter have an obligation to the club and its players, and are expected to abide by the clubs constitution, rules and codes of conduct, both directly and indirectly.
Parents-Guardians accept that responsibility for their child always remains with them and that if they feel their child is of an age that dictates supervision the parent will remain nearby whilst training or the game is in progress.
Parents-Guardians also have a responsibility to keep the Club informed of any special medical needs or history relating to their child. Whilst the Club Officials will endeavour to assist where possible, they can only be relied upon to administer emergency first aid.
*Children enjoying football.
*A sense of personal achievement.
*Self-esteem.
*Improving the child’s skills and techniques.
A parent’s-guardians or spectator’s expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude towards:
- *Other players.
- *Officials.
- *Managers.
- *Spectators.
Parents-guardians and spectators within the club are expected to remain positive and encouraging towards all of the children not just their own.
Parents-Guardians / spectators should:
- *Applaud the opposition as well as our own team.
- *Avoid coaching the team during the game.
- *Not shout and scream or use any inappropriate language.
- *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.
- *Act at all times so as not to bring the clubs reputation into disrepute.
- *Not act on behalf of the club without the express permission of the club committee.
All parents-guardians and supporter have an obligation to the club and its players, and are expected to abide by the clubs constitution, rules and codes of conduct, both directly and indirectly.
Parents-Guardians accept that responsibility for their child always remains with them and that if they feel their child is of an age that dictates supervision the parent will remain nearby whilst training or the game is in progress.
Parents-Guardians also have a responsibility to keep the Club informed of any special medical needs or history relating to their child. Whilst the Club Officials will endeavour to assist where possible, they can only be relied upon to administer emergency first aid.
Version 1.00 May 2010
The Football Association Personal Disclosure Form & Incident/accident report form
In order to download the forms please click here to go to the download page.
To download the form you will require a password.Please contact any club officer for the password.
To download the form you will require a password.Please contact any club officer for the password.
Safeguarding Children Policy
Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club Safeguarding Children Policy
1.Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club acknowledges its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of every child and young person who has been entrusted to its care and is committed to working to provide a safe environment for all members. A child or young person is anyone under the age of 18 engaged in any club football activity. We subscribe to The Football Association’s (The FA) Safeguarding Children – Policy and Procedures and endorse and adopt the Policy Statement contained in that document.
2. The key principles of The FA Safeguarding Children Policy are that:
• the child’s welfare is, and must always be, the paramount consideration
• all children and young people have a right to be protected from abuse regardless of their age, gender, disability, race, sexual orientation, faith or belief
• all suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately
• working in partnership with other organisations, children and young people and their parents/carers is essential.
We acknowledge that every child or young person who plays or participates in football should be able to take part in an enjoyable and safe environment and be protected from poor practice and abuse. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club recognises that this is the responsibility of every adult involved in our club.
3. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club has a role to play in safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people by protecting them from physical, sexual or emotional harm and from neglect or bullying. It is noted and accepted that The Football Association’s Safeguarding Children Regulations
(see The FA Handbook) applies to everyone in football whether in a paid or voluntary capacity. This means whether you are a volunteer, match official, helper on club tours, football coach, club official or medical staff.
4. We endorse and adopt The FA’s Responsible Recruitment guidelines for recruiting volunteers and we will:
• Specify what the role is and what tasks it involves • Request identification documents • As a minimum meet and chat with the applicant(s)
and where possible interview people before
appointing them • Ask for and follow up with 2 references before
appointing someone • Require an FA CRB Unit Enhanced Disclosure where
appropriate in line with FA guidelines.
All current Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club members who are regularly caring for, supervising, training or being in sole charge of children and young people will be required to complete a CRB Enhanced Disclosure via The FA CRB Unit1.
If there are concerns regarding the appropriateness of an individual who is already involved or who has approached us to become part of Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club guidance will be sought from The Football Association. It is noted and accepted that The FA will consider the relevance and significance
of the information obtained via The FA CRB Unit Enhanced Disclosure and that all decisions will be made in the best interests of children and young people.
It is accepted that The FA aims to prevent people with a history of relevant and significant offending from having contact with children or young people and the opportunity to influence policies or practice with children or young people. This is to prevent direct sexual or physical harm to children and to minimise the risk of ‘grooming’ within football.
5. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club supports The FA’s Whistle blowing Policy. Any adult or young person with concerns about a colleague can ‘whistle blow’ by contacting The FA Safeguarding Team on 0207 745 4787, by writing to The FA Case Manager at The Football Association, 25 Soho Square, W1D 4FA or alternatively by going direct to the Police, Children’s Services or the NSPCC. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club encourages everyone to know about it and utilise it if necessary.
6. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club has appointed a Club Welfare Officer in line with The FA’s role profile and required completion of the Safeguarding Children and Welfare Officers Workshop. The post holder will be involved with Welfare Officer training provided by The FA and/or County FA. The Club Welfare Officer is the first point of contact for all club members regarding concerns about the welfare of any child or young person.
The Club Welfare Officer will liaise directly with the County FA (CFA) Welfare Officer and will be familiar with the procedures for referring any concerns. They will also play a proactive role in increasing awareness of Respect, poor practice and abuse amongst
club members.
7. We acknowledge and endorse The FA’s identification of bullying as a category of abuse. Bullying of any kind is not acceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all players or parents/carers should be able
to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly. Incidents need to be reported to the Club Welfare Officer in cases of serious bullying the CFA Welfare Officer may be contacted.
8. Respect codes of conduct for Players, Parents/ Spectators, Officials and Coaches have been implemented by Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club. In order to validate these Respect codes of conduct the club has clear actions it will take regarding repeated or serious misconduct at club level and acknowledges the possibility of potential sanctions which may be implemented by the County FA in more serious circumstances.
1 The policy on CRB Enhanced Disclosures will be subject to change, in light of the implementation of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act, 2006 due to come into effect in July 2010. Further information will be provided on this via TheFA.com and via the County FA Welfare Officers.
9. Reporting your concerns about the welfare of a child or young person. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility if you are worried about a child it is important that you report your concerns – no action is not an option.
i. If you are worried about a child then you need to report your concerns to the Club Welfare Officer.
ii. If the issue is one of poor practice the Club Welfare Officer will either: • deal with the matter themselves or • seek advice from the CFA Welfare Officer
iii. If the concern is more serious – possible child abuse, where possible, contact the CFA Welfare Officer first, then immediately contact the Police or Children’s Services
iv. If the child needs immediate medical treatment take them to a hospital or call an ambulance and tell them this is a child protection concern. Let your Club Welfare Officer know what action you have taken, they in turn will inform the CFA Welfare Officer.
v. If at any time you are not able to contact your Club Welfare Officer or the matter is clearly serious then you can either: • contact your CFA Welfare Officer directly
• contact the Police or Children’s Services • call The FA/NSPCC 24 hour Helpline for advice
on 0808 800 5000 or Deaf users text phone 0800 056 0566
NB – The FA’s Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures are available via www.TheFA.com/Footballsafe – click on the ‘downloads’ under Policy and Procedures. The policy outlines in detail what to do if you are concerned about the welfare of a child and includes flow diagrams which describe this process. How to make a referral is also covered in the Safeguarding Children workshop. Participants are given the opportunity to discuss how this feels and how best they can prepare themselves to deal with such a situation.
For more information on this workshop contact your County Welfare Officer.
10.Further advice on Safeguarding Children matters can be obtained from:
•Merrick Smith T: 07795 100829 E: merrick@smyfc.co.uk
• Louise Butcher County Football Association’s Welfare Officer
T: 07903 574700
E: louise.butcher@dorsetfa.com
• www.TheFA.com/Footballsafe
• Emailing – Footballsafe@TheFA.com
• The FA Safeguarding Children general enquiry line 0845 210 8080
1.Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club acknowledges its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of every child and young person who has been entrusted to its care and is committed to working to provide a safe environment for all members. A child or young person is anyone under the age of 18 engaged in any club football activity. We subscribe to The Football Association’s (The FA) Safeguarding Children – Policy and Procedures and endorse and adopt the Policy Statement contained in that document.
2. The key principles of The FA Safeguarding Children Policy are that:
• the child’s welfare is, and must always be, the paramount consideration
• all children and young people have a right to be protected from abuse regardless of their age, gender, disability, race, sexual orientation, faith or belief
• all suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately
• working in partnership with other organisations, children and young people and their parents/carers is essential.
We acknowledge that every child or young person who plays or participates in football should be able to take part in an enjoyable and safe environment and be protected from poor practice and abuse. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club recognises that this is the responsibility of every adult involved in our club.
3. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club has a role to play in safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people by protecting them from physical, sexual or emotional harm and from neglect or bullying. It is noted and accepted that The Football Association’s Safeguarding Children Regulations
(see The FA Handbook) applies to everyone in football whether in a paid or voluntary capacity. This means whether you are a volunteer, match official, helper on club tours, football coach, club official or medical staff.
4. We endorse and adopt The FA’s Responsible Recruitment guidelines for recruiting volunteers and we will:
• Specify what the role is and what tasks it involves • Request identification documents • As a minimum meet and chat with the applicant(s)
and where possible interview people before
appointing them • Ask for and follow up with 2 references before
appointing someone • Require an FA CRB Unit Enhanced Disclosure where
appropriate in line with FA guidelines.
All current Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club members who are regularly caring for, supervising, training or being in sole charge of children and young people will be required to complete a CRB Enhanced Disclosure via The FA CRB Unit1.
If there are concerns regarding the appropriateness of an individual who is already involved or who has approached us to become part of Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club guidance will be sought from The Football Association. It is noted and accepted that The FA will consider the relevance and significance
of the information obtained via The FA CRB Unit Enhanced Disclosure and that all decisions will be made in the best interests of children and young people.
It is accepted that The FA aims to prevent people with a history of relevant and significant offending from having contact with children or young people and the opportunity to influence policies or practice with children or young people. This is to prevent direct sexual or physical harm to children and to minimise the risk of ‘grooming’ within football.
5. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club supports The FA’s Whistle blowing Policy. Any adult or young person with concerns about a colleague can ‘whistle blow’ by contacting The FA Safeguarding Team on 0207 745 4787, by writing to The FA Case Manager at The Football Association, 25 Soho Square, W1D 4FA or alternatively by going direct to the Police, Children’s Services or the NSPCC. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club encourages everyone to know about it and utilise it if necessary.
6. Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club has appointed a Club Welfare Officer in line with The FA’s role profile and required completion of the Safeguarding Children and Welfare Officers Workshop. The post holder will be involved with Welfare Officer training provided by The FA and/or County FA. The Club Welfare Officer is the first point of contact for all club members regarding concerns about the welfare of any child or young person.
The Club Welfare Officer will liaise directly with the County FA (CFA) Welfare Officer and will be familiar with the procedures for referring any concerns. They will also play a proactive role in increasing awareness of Respect, poor practice and abuse amongst
club members.
7. We acknowledge and endorse The FA’s identification of bullying as a category of abuse. Bullying of any kind is not acceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all players or parents/carers should be able
to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly. Incidents need to be reported to the Club Welfare Officer in cases of serious bullying the CFA Welfare Officer may be contacted.
8. Respect codes of conduct for Players, Parents/ Spectators, Officials and Coaches have been implemented by Sturminster Marshall Youth Football Club. In order to validate these Respect codes of conduct the club has clear actions it will take regarding repeated or serious misconduct at club level and acknowledges the possibility of potential sanctions which may be implemented by the County FA in more serious circumstances.
1 The policy on CRB Enhanced Disclosures will be subject to change, in light of the implementation of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act, 2006 due to come into effect in July 2010. Further information will be provided on this via TheFA.com and via the County FA Welfare Officers.
9. Reporting your concerns about the welfare of a child or young person. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility if you are worried about a child it is important that you report your concerns – no action is not an option.
i. If you are worried about a child then you need to report your concerns to the Club Welfare Officer.
ii. If the issue is one of poor practice the Club Welfare Officer will either: • deal with the matter themselves or • seek advice from the CFA Welfare Officer
iii. If the concern is more serious – possible child abuse, where possible, contact the CFA Welfare Officer first, then immediately contact the Police or Children’s Services
iv. If the child needs immediate medical treatment take them to a hospital or call an ambulance and tell them this is a child protection concern. Let your Club Welfare Officer know what action you have taken, they in turn will inform the CFA Welfare Officer.
v. If at any time you are not able to contact your Club Welfare Officer or the matter is clearly serious then you can either: • contact your CFA Welfare Officer directly
• contact the Police or Children’s Services • call The FA/NSPCC 24 hour Helpline for advice
on 0808 800 5000 or Deaf users text phone 0800 056 0566
NB – The FA’s Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures are available via www.TheFA.com/Footballsafe – click on the ‘downloads’ under Policy and Procedures. The policy outlines in detail what to do if you are concerned about the welfare of a child and includes flow diagrams which describe this process. How to make a referral is also covered in the Safeguarding Children workshop. Participants are given the opportunity to discuss how this feels and how best they can prepare themselves to deal with such a situation.
For more information on this workshop contact your County Welfare Officer.
10.Further advice on Safeguarding Children matters can be obtained from:
•Merrick Smith T: 07795 100829 E: merrick@smyfc.co.uk
• Louise Butcher County Football Association’s Welfare Officer
T: 07903 574700
E: louise.butcher@dorsetfa.com
• www.TheFA.com/Footballsafe
• Emailing – Footballsafe@TheFA.com
• The FA Safeguarding Children general enquiry line 0845 210 8080