CODE OF CONDUCT

DREAM | BELIEVE | ACHIEVE

The Code of Conduct outlined herein establishes the fundamental standards expected of all individuals engaged in football activities. It is applicable during matches, training sessions, and any club-sanctioned events. By registering at Merrimac Football Club, all players commit to adhering to our Code of Conduct without exception.

CODES OF CONDUCT

COACH

Sportsmanship and ethical values highlighting respect, fairness, civility, honesty, integrity and accountability are a foundation for the development of young players and for the sport as a whole. Our ethical behaviour is demonstrated in our relationships with players, colleagues, officials and parents. We are ambassadors for our Club and are also role models and as such we have a big influence on the young players who comprise our teams.

The Standards Below are to be Followed at all Times:

1. Place the well-being, safety and enjoyment of each player above everything, including winning

2. Always show respect to all players, match officials, opposition teams and coaches

3. Never to engage in or tolerate any form of bullying

4. That all sessions are planned in advance and well-thought-out

5. Deliver detailed feedback and analysis of each players performance and to be honest and open

6. To be on time for every practise and game

7. Strive for the highest possible standards of behaviour and be a positive role model for each player

8. Encourage each player to adhere to the highest possible behaviour and performance on and off the pitch

I understand that if I do not follow the Code, any or all of the following actions may be taken:

Required to meet with the Club Committee
Suspended or asked to leave the Club

PLAYER

Players are at the heart of the sport, and their contribution to the team's success is paramount. While striving to win is fundamental to the game, it is imperative that winning does not come at any cost. Fair play and respect for all participants in the game are of utmost importance.

At Merrimac Football Club, it is expected that all players conduct themselves with integrity, reflecting the values of fair play and sportsmanship. They are to refrain from engaging in tactics, whether through words or actions, that may tarnish the reputation of the game or our Club.

The Standards Below are to be Followed at all Times:

To show respect to all players, match officials, opposition players, coaches, managers, parents and referees
Be a good teammate, trusting your team both on and off the field
Always supportive and encourage my teammates
Listen and respond to what my coach/team manager tells me and respect them at all times
Always play to the best of my ability and for the benefit of my team
Be enthusiastic and passionate, come to all games and training with the attitude to work hard and enjoy
Understand that a coach has to do what is best for the team and not one individual player
Shake hands with opponents and team officials of the opposition at the end of each game
Take responsibility for my own belongings and equipment, always be presentable in correct Merrimac FC attire

I understand if I do not follow the Code, any or all of the following actions may be taken:

I will be required to apologise to my team-mates, the other team, referee or team manager
Receive a formal warning from the coach or the Club Committee
Be substituted or suspended from training or game
I could be asked to leave the Club

PARENTS

Parents 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 is important to remember that however good a child becomes at football, it is important to reinforce the message to parents and spectators that positive encouragement will contribute to a player’s enjoyment, sense of personal achievement, self-esteem and development.

Adult behaviour must be of the highest standard to set the correct example to the players. It is expected that all parents and spectators will conduct themselves in a manner that is both honourable and in keeping with the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship.

Parents and Spectators of the Club Should Always:

Be positive and encouraging towards all of the children, not just their own
Not engage with their child once the child has been put in the charge of their Coach
Avoid from coaching their child or any other players during games or training sessions
Respect all players, staff and parents from the opposing team
Support positively and offer players encouragement not criticism
Focus on the child’s efforts and performance rather than winning or losing
Respect the decisions of match officials at all times. In many cases, newly qualified referees often young in years, are appointed to youth matches in order to gain experience and these officials should be given encouragement and support
Set a good example for your child to follow and understand that it is their sport you are watching not your own
Parents and supporters are to watch games on the outskirts of the fields. Only Players, Coaches and Club Officials are to access the fields at all times
No parent is to approach any coach or coaching staff regarding any issue at training or games, an email is to be sent instead to info@merrimacfc.com and will be dealt with accordingly.

I understand that if I do not follow the Code, any or all of the following actions may be taken:

Obliged to leave the match
Issued with a verbal warning from the Club Committee
Requested by the Club not to attend future games
Required to leave Merrimac FC along with any dependents