Code of Conduct

Reviewed and Updated February 2021

Rationale

The Boronia Hawks Football Netball Club Inc (BHFNC) recognises that sports such as football and netball are played primarily for enjoyment. Maintaining the perspective on this is of utmost importance.  The BHFNC Code of Conduct has been developed to support and promote a positive reputation for the Club by setting clear guidelines relating to behaviour.  The BHFNC Code of Conduct applies to all of our players, officials, volunteers, members and supporters.

Coaches Code of Conduct

Coaches are required to sign the AFL Code of Conduct as part of the Level 1 Accreditation requirement.  All coaches must be accredited to coach in our league.

The key points in the Coaches Code of Conduct include:

  • Keep informed with regard to sound principals of coaching and skill development, and to factors relating to the welfare of your players.
  • At all times display and teach appropriate sporting behaviour, ensuring that players understand and practise fair play.
  • Display and foster respect for umpires, opponents, coaches, administrators, other officials, parents and spectators.

The EFL requires coaches to:

  • Be reasonable in your demands on players’ time, energy and enthusiasm.
  • Remember that players participate for fun and enjoyment.
  • Ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age and ability of the players.
  • Take into consideration the maturity level of the players, when scheduling and determining the length of practice times and competition.
  • Develop team respect for the ability of opponents as well as for the judgment of officials and opposing coaches.
  • Follow the advice of a physician when determining when an injured player is ready to recommence training or competition.
  • Create opportunities to teach appropriate sports behaviour as well basic skills.

Players Code of Conduct

The EFL requires players to:

  • Play by the rules – the rules of the Club and the Laws of the Game.
  • Never argue with an umpire or official – without these people you can’t play football.  If you disagree, discuss the matter with your Coach or Team Manager.
  • Control your temper. Verbal abuse of officials or sledging other players doesn’t help you enjoy or win any games.
  • Be a team player – It’s a team game, treat it that way.
  • Treat all players as you would like to be treated – fairly.  Do not interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of another player.
  • Co-operate with your Coach, the umpires and team mates.
  • Play for your own enjoyment and to improve your skills.
  • Don’t use ugly remarks based on race, religion, gender or ability – you’ll let down your coach, teammates and family.  Many such comments are now deemed illegal.
  • Be a good sport.

Code of Conduct for Parents, Supporters Volunteers and Officials

  • Remember that you are there for the participants to enjoy the game.
  • Encourage participation, but don’t force it.
  • Teach that enjoyment is more important than winning.
  • Focus on the players efforts – never ridicule mistakes or losses.  Supporters are there to support not downgrade.
  • Lead by example and respect all players, coaches, umpires and spectators – physical or verbal abuse will not be tolerated.
  • Recognise the value and importance of volunteer coaches and officials.  Respect the fact that they are giving up their valuable time.
  • Never publicly criticise umpires – raise personal concerns with Club officials in private.
  • Respect the rights and dignity of every player regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
  • Condemn the use of violence in any form, be it by spectators, coaches, officials or players.

Non-Compliance Strategy

BHFNC will take any necessary disciplinary action including the suspension or banning of a player, official or spectator for any single instance, or repeated or serious breaches of the Code of Conduct.

Policy Review

To ensure this policy remains current and relevant to Club operations and reflects community expectations, it will be reviewed annually.  Any alterations or amendments will be taken to the next Board meeting for approval.

Signed: Scott Nicholas
Position: CHAIRMAN
Date: 18/02/2021

Policy Owner: Tanya Parkins
Position: DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION
 
Next Policy review date will be February 2022