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.

The key concepts in the Code are valid for players at all levels.

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/her team is in a position where the desired result has already been achieved.

3. Set a positive example for others at all times, particularly young players and supporters.

4. Avoid all forms of 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 or behaviour (swearing, spitting etc).

Obligations towards one’s own team and Club

A player should

1. Make every effort consistent with Fair Play and the Laws of the Game to help his/her own team win.

• Resist any influence which might, or might be seen to, bring into question his/her commitment to the team winning
• When you represent the Club people judge you by your appearance and behaviour. Whenever we are travelling wear smart clothes and when introduced to people shake hands, look them in the eye and say “Hello”.
• You are expected to take personal responsibility for your actions and behave in a mature manner. Some matters are the responsibility of your parents or guardians and we will phone or write to them on these matters.
• When you are told to do something do it at once without question. Later, if you wish to ask why we do things in certain ways, ask and it will be explained to you. We like you to discuss things with us and understand why we do things.
• At matches, always come with clean boots. Wear your shirt inside your shorts, wear shin pads and make sure that your socks cover your shin-pads.

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.

3. Resist any temptation to take banned substances or use banned techniques.

Respect towards Opponents

A player should

1. Treat opponents with due respect at all times, irrespective of the result of the game.

• Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence and rough play, and help injured opponents.
• After the game shake hands with the opposing team.

Respect towards the Match Officials (Referees and Linesmen)

A player should

1. Accept the decision of the Referee / Linesman without protest.

2. Avoid words or actions which may mislead a Referee / Linesman.

3. Show due respect towards Referees and Linesmen. After the game shake the hand of the Referee and Linesmen.

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 all supporters.