Code of Conduct for Players

Players are the most important people in the sport. Playing 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. This code focuses on players involved in top-class football, nevertheless, the key concepts in the code are valid for all players.

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 to others, particularly younger players and supporters.
   
4. Avoid all forms of gamesmanship and time wasting.
   
5. Always have regards for the best interest of the game, including where publicly expressing an opinion on any aspect of or other player in the game.
   
6. Not use any inappropriate language.
   

Obligations towards ones 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 that might bring into question his commitment to the winning team.
   

Respect for the Laws of the Game and competition rules: A player should

1. Know and abide by the rules and spirit of the game.
   
2. Accept success and failure, victory and defeat, equally.
   
3. Resist temptation to use banned substances or techniques.
   

Respect towards Opponents: A player should

1. Treat opponents with due respect, irrespective of the result.
   
2. Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence and rough play and help injured opponents.
   

Respect towards Match Officials; A player should

1. Accept the decision of Match Officials without protest.
   
2. Avoid words or actions that 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 or Team Official
   
2. Show due respect towards the Team Officials of the Opposition
   

Obligations towards the Supporters; A player should

1. Show due respect to the interest of all supporters
   
   

Code of Conduct for Parents / 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 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 / spectators expectations and attitudes have 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.