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Yate Town Development F.C. Rules and Agreements Season 2011-12
1) TRAINING
a) It is important for every player to take part in training for his own benefit and the teams. Each player should aim to arrive at training 10 minutes before the session begins. This allows him time to put his boots and shinpads on and prepare for the session. All players should be prepared to start the session on time. Allowances will be made for players travelling from further distances.
Every player must attend training regularly.
b) It is each player’s responsibility to make them selves aware of the training schedule. This will be made available on the club website at: -
http://www.yatetownfc.com/development.aspx.
c) i) If a player cannot attend training he must let the Secretary know in advance, not via another player. There should be good notice given to the Secretary, preferably on the previous Saturday. This should be communicated by text or
e-mail only as it is the most reliable way for the message to be documented.
ii) If a player misses training without contacting the Secretary in advance, he shall
not be selected to play in a match on the Saturday.
d) A player who has not turned up to training can not be selected ahead of a player who has attended training. If a player is injured, he should still attend training. The player can still learn from the coach without taking an active part in the session. That player can then still be selected for the match. If a player is out with a long term injury, he should still attend training. He will not be penalised for not doing so. However, the information he will take on board by attending training sessions will allow him to catch up quicker when he returns to training.
e) If a player is on a trial at a Professional Club, the coach can use his/her discretion to select the player on the basis that he has trained.
f) i) Each player should make every effort to develop as a footballer by
listening to the coaches during training. They should try their best at all times and practice their skills at home.
ii) If a player’s behaviour is deemed by the Team Coach as unacceptable at either
training or at a match, the Team Coach can use his/her discretion to not select the player at the next match. The reason will be communicated to the player.
h) Jewellery must not be worn during training. Any bracelets, rings or necklaces
must be removed. Ear rings must be removed or covered up. This is to prevent
injuries through catching jewellery in training. Shinpads must be worn.
i) Players must not chew gum at any time during sessions. This is to prevent
choking, should a player become unconscious.
2) MATCHES
a) i) Players should be at the venue for each match at least 10 minutes before the
meeting time. Players who are late of the meeting time (without phoning) will start the match as a substitute and not be allowed to play until at least half time. The meeting time (unless otherwise notified) shall be between one and one and a quarter hours prior to kick off at the venue.
ii) If you are caught up in traffic, you should phone the Team Coach. However try
to give yourself enough time to compensate for a traffic build up. If you are unable to contact the Team Coach, you should then contact an Assistant Coach.
It is your responsibility to take the Team Coach/Assistant Coaches’ contact numbers to games with you.
b) If a player cannot attend a match he must let the Secretary know in advance, not via another player. There should be good notice given to the Secretary, preferably on or before the previous Saturday.
c) i) It is assumed every player is available for every match unless he contacts the
Secretary in advance. The match day squad (of maximum 16 players for competitive games) shall be selected after the training session prior to the match. Everyone will be selected in the match day squad for their age group for friendly matches, unless a player is being penalised for breaking the rules. The squad will be announced on the ‘Squad Section’ page on the website late on the evening of the training session prior to the match.
ii) If a player misses a match without contacting the Team Coach in advance, he
shall not be selected to play in the following match.
iii) If a player cannot play because of injury, suspension or non selection he should
try to be present at matches for his own benefit to learn from the coaches and support the team.
d) Some reserve keepers will be signed on at the start of the season. They will not
necessarily train but will be available if our regular keepers are unavailable. We have this contingency as the keeper’s position is specialist so we need plenty of cover.
e) Players should avoid all forms of gamesmanship and behave in a respectful manner to the opposition during matches. They should also set a positive example to spectators at a game, e.g. by not using foul or insulting language.
f) Players should know and abide by the laws of the game.
g) Players should accept success and failure, victory and defeat equally.
Players should resist any temptation to take banned substances or use banned techniques.
h) Players should treat opponents, match officials, opposition team officials and spectators with due respect at all times, irrespective of the score/result of the game.
i) Players should accept the decision of the match official(s) without protest.
j) Players should abide by the decisions of the coaches and team officials.
k) The coach shall use his discretion to discipline a player during the match for not following rules 2) e-j.
l) Substitutes should use the time on the sideline to listen carefully to the coach. The coach will give feedback on the game to help them learn from positive and negative aspects of play in the match.
m) If a player’s effort or application towards a match is deemed as insufficient,
the Team Coach can use his/her discretion to substitute and/or not select the player at the next match. The reason will be communicated to the player. This player behaviour often happens when a team is losing so some individuals accept defeat by not trying their hardest. Although this is a common response, it is not a desirable attribute to an aspiring footballer and so will be discouraged. It is the coach’s responsibility to identify this behaviour and act accordingly.
n) Jewellery must not be worn during matches. Any bracelets, rings or necklaces
must be removed. Ear rings must be removed or covered up. This is to prevent
injuries through catching jewellery in training. Shinpads must be worn.
o) Players must not chew gum at any time during sessions. This is to prevent
choking, should a player become unconscious.
p) Some food and drink will be provided after each match. Players are expected to stay when possible to have some food and drink. This is because the 30 minute period after exercise is the most important time in which to replenish lost energy. Also it is important to socialise with your team mates to build friendships and bonds.
q) We aim to take some video footage of some of the games this season. Our aim is to screen the footage at the training session in the week. This is an excellent opportunity for players to learn from seeing their mistakes on screen, so they know exactly what to do next time.
3) DRESSING ROOMS
a) Each team is allocated a dressing room for matches. Players should not enter without the Team Coach’s permission. It is recommended that all valuables are left at home, as the Committee will not be responsible for lost items.
b) It is the Team Captain’s responsibility to make sure the changing room is swept and left in its original condition for both home and away games. He shall take on the position himself or delegate at each game to ensure the changing rooms are left in their original condition.
4) WARMING UP AND COOLING DOWN
A full warm up and cool down are expected by every squad player. The Team Coach is responsible for running them. Each player shall participate. This is of added importance if a player wishes to play the next day, to help his body recover. An exception will be made if the Team Coach assesses that the player’s injury may worsen.
5) COACHING PERIODS IN MATCHES
a) At half time (or quarter times in friendlies) players should jog in straight after the referee’s whistle, collect their drink and jog to the coach before resting and taking a drink. This is so not to waste valuable coaching time. Players should face in the direction of the team coach and listen carefully to him/her.
b) If a player wishes to make a comment or ask a question, the player should raise his hand and wait for acknowledgement before speaking.
6) EQUIPMENT
a) Players are responsible for maintaining the club’s equipment. At the end of each session or match, all equipment should be taken in and put away. The work should be spread through the team. No individual should leave the work to others.
b) The taking off of boots, tape etc. should be done after all the work is complete. Players must not leave rubbish at a venue whether in a changing room or on the side of the pitch, especially plastic bottles and discarded tape.
7) TRANSPORT
a) It is the player’s responsibility to arrange his own transportation to home and away matches. It is suggested that players who live near each other communicate regularly so they can share lifts to cut down on transportation costs. Players’ contact details will be released shortly.
b) All parents should be prepared to help with transportation for away matches during the season. Unless they are unable to they should not solely rely on others. If a player is relying on another parent for transportation on a regular basis, then the player should regularly make a realistic contribution towards the fuel costs.
8) DRESS
a) Each player is responsible for his own match kit. Kit should be washed prior to each match. Shirts should be washed inside out to protect the printing.
b) A polo shirt and full tracksuit should be worn to all matches. The training kit should be worn to all training sessions. Footwear should be appropriate to the conditions and shinpads are compulsory.
c) Both the home and Away kit should be brought to all matches, in case we have to change colours. Please bring sufficient kit to each match, including spare shinpads and boots.
d) Kit is ordered at the start of the season for each player and takes about 6 weeks to be made to order for each player. The kit package is made from up to date breathable materials and costs £99. This includes: -
- Full home kit (shirt, shorts and socks) with personalised number and surname on back JPLS Logo on the sleeve
- Full away kit (shirt, shorts and socks) with personalised number and surname on back JPLS Logo on the sleeve (also used as training kit)
- Full tracksuit (tracksuit top and bottoms)
- Polo Shirt
- Waterproof Jacket (with initials on front)
- Large kitbag (personalised)
9) ALCOHOL
Players are not allowed to drink alcohol or smoke whilst representing Yate Town Development F.C. Neither is recommended for aspiring footballers.
10) MEDICAL
Each player should be in a suitable health for playing competitive football. If you are carrying an injury, you should tell your Team Coach straight away. A judgment will be made and advice given for your benefit. Do not hide an injury. You will regret the long term damage you will do to yourself. Our rotational policy allows injured players to recover fully so that they don’t feel the pressure to have to win their place back.
11) DAMAGE
Yate Town Development F.C. shall not be held liable for any damage caused, willful or accidental, by an individual. Any costs associated with damage caused shall be the responsibility of the individual concerned or if a player, their Parent/Carer.
12) CAUTIONS AND SENDINGS OFF
Individuals will be responsible for paying fines for yellow or red cards. They will not be eligible to play until the fines are paid in full.
13) ACTIVITIES
The club aims to arrange a few social activities through the season. Players should aim to attend as many activities as possible to encourage team spirit.
14) BEHAVIOURAL AGREEMENTS
a) -Shake hands with the Opposition players regardless of the result.
-Be friendly to the opposition during the game as well as after it.
-Positive attitude at all times towards each other and your opponents.
-Be respectful to the referee, his/her assistants and all spectators.
-Never discriminate against anyone.
-Always listen to what the coaches have to say.
-Always have a sporting attitude at training.
-Never use Bad Language at any time.
-Everyone gets changed together and goes to the pitch together.
- If anyone has a football related problem then they should have a quiet
word with the Team Coach, who will take the appropriate action.
b) If a Team Coach sees a grossly inappropriate act on the field (e.g. striking an
opponent, foul or abusive language, a malicious challenge or excessive arguing with an official) he/she shall immediately substitute that player and use his/her discretion on whether he/she shall allow the player to continue playing later in the game. Provocation is no defence for inappropriate behaviour. A player shall act sportingly through the whole game.
15) PLAYING TIMES
a) Players may be moved to an older or younger age group at the Team Coach’s
discretion for the benefit of the individual. The reason will be given to the individual.
b) Everyone in the squad has been selected for their ability to play football to a high standard. We value giving every player in the squad an opportunity to play football. Therefore we aim to rotate the squad to give everyone an opportunity to learn and improve.
c) In competitive matches, only a maximum of 16 players can be selected in the
squad each week. Therefore some players will not be selected. We will try to rotate these players around to give everyone an opportunity of playing. The only exception is if a player is dropped for behavioural or discipline reasons. We may select less than 16 players for some matches to give each player more playing time (especially on away matches). This may also be due to the balance of the squad or another reason.
d) A player is unlikely to be substituted because he is playing poorly. By taking a
player out of the game who is playing poorly, that player will fear playing poorly in the future and always play safe in fear of being substituted. Instead we allow the player to have the opportunity to improve during the match and will give him advice (off the ball) to allow him to do so. We may also take the player off for a couple of minutes to instruct him on how to improve his play. The squad shall be rotated through a match to allow players to rest and for all the squad to gain experience. We aim to win, not through negative tactics but through learning from our mistakes and improving on them in training and matches.
e) If you are put in a position on the field you are not comfortable with then you should accept the Team Coach’s decision and do your best in that position. Take this in a positive manner and do not complain. If you are unsure of how to play in that position, then ask the coach’s advice. Players are put in different positions to either maintain the balance of the team or to give an individual a challenge to learn a different position. If you are unhappy with a position, discuss this with the Team Coach after the game in a calm and relaxed manner. If you are still unhappy, then contact the Head Coach.
f) All team selection decisions are made by the Team Coach who is not related to
the players and so has no bias to individuals. All decisions are made for the benefit of the team and for each player in the squad.
16) COMMUNICATION
a) This shall mainly be undertaken through the website. Please make sure you check the website daily for updates on training schedules, matches and cancellations. Please reply straight away to e-mails and texts if asked to. Both are a cheap and efficient way of communication which cuts down on costs and volunteers’ time. All important information will be placed on the website immediately. If you are ever unsure, check the website.
b) If a match or training is cancelled, you are likely to be contacted by text. Please make sure we have the appropriate mobile number and that you have that mobile switched on, especially if the weather is poor. Please make sure you respond straight away to texts so the Team Coach/Secretary doesn’t have to phone you in person.
c) Should you wish to communicate an opinion (especially if it is a critical one), this
must not be made by e-mail or by text. This causes undue anxiety for the
recipient due to the inability to respond or clarify the situation. It can also lead to a misunderstanding of the meaning, due to the impersonal nature of the written word and so lead to unnecessary distress. Instead, all feedback and opinion should be made in person or by telephone to the appropriate officer.
17) FEES
a) Players are required to pay £40 per month to cover training and match fees. This includes coaching fees, hire of pitches, training facilities, referee costs and some food and drink after each home game. This runs from August 2011 – April 2012. Players are required to pay this amount irrespective of their playing time. This is to cut down on as much work for volunteers as possible.
b) The coaches shall be paid a set amount on a monthly basis, irrespective of the amount of players in the squad. Any remaining money will go back into club funds.
c) To be more efficient, we are asking parents to pay by standing order where possible. This means, payment can be spread evenly to assist parents and so volunteers do not have to chase payment. This is not compulsory but highly recommended.
d) Monthly fees must be paid in advance before the start of the month. The Team Coach will not be able to select a player who has not paid his fees until they are paid. He/she will select the squad during the training session prior to the match. If fees are not paid before this date, the Team Coach will not be allowed to select the player for his/her match day squad. We highly recommend players set up a Standing Order to prevent the coach being unable to select the player for the squad. In addition, if payment is not made by the 3rd week in the month, the player will not be allowed to train until payment is made. These guidelines are necessarily strict to ensure the system is fair for all players.
e) If you have any problems in paying then please contact a member of the Committee for support. They will keep what you say in the strictest of confidence.
18) TRY OUT’S
Each season, once invited into the squad, the player shall keep his place in the squad for the whole season, unless in exceptional circumstances, where he is removed for disciplinary reasons. Our policy of rotation allows us to focus on all the players in the squad and so not focus solely on results. However, all players will be evaluated for inclusion in the following season’s squad. We will then give new players an opportunity to try out. This ensures that existing players are aspiring to the highest standards, to allow the quality of the squad to improve whilst not putting players under unnecessary pressure for their place throughout the season.
19) NEW PLAYERS
a) New players may try out during the season. If you know of anyone who would benefit from playing at this level please ask them to contact the Head Coach, Team Coach or Assistant Coach for further details.
b) We aim to keep the squads between 18-20 players for the season. We are not looking to overload the squad but suitable players who would benefit from the club may be invited into the squad during the season.
20) PARENTS/CARERS’ RESPONSIBILITIES
a) Parents/Carers are responsible for helping the players follow the Rules and Agreements. E.g. helping them arrive to training and matches on time.
b) Parents/Carers and all spectators should allow the players to have a positive environment to play in. They must not coach or instruct players in any form during matches. Players need to be able to make their own decisions and mistakes. Guidance whilst they are playing stunts their decision making and puts them under unnecessary and unhelpful pressure.
c) We all want to win but this should be achieved through education over a period of time, not through instant fixes. Parents/Carers are encouraged to give praise through the game, to both teams. Players need to make mistakes to learn. Sometimes it will take them a long time, so be patient.
d) Parents/Carers and all spectators are encouraged to praise and applaud good play from both teams. By playing us, our opponents have allowed the players to experience a high standard of football. Let us show them our appreciation as well.
e) Parents/Carers and all spectators must not argue with the referee, opposition parents or players, whatever the provocation. It is very important we set a good example to others. If you have been offended please walk away and tell your Team Coach or Parents’ Liaison Officer.
f) Parents/Carers and all spectators are instructed to watch the game only from behind the roped off area to the side of the pitch. Both the ends of the pitch and the coaches’ side must be left clear.
g) Parents/Carers must not enter the changing rooms at any time. Should they wish to communicate with a player or pass an item to them, they should approach the Team Coach to ask to pass the item over or to ask the player to leave the changing rooms to speak to the Parent/Carer.
h) Parents/Carers must show due respect to all club officials and must not criticise nor castigate the coaches for their decisions. The coaches provide a vital service to the club and should be supported at all times.
i) Parents must not take photographs of matches or training sessions without the express permission of the Head Coach. Photographs will be made available for all to view on the website after the game. A Team Photographer (C.R.B. advanced checked) will be appointed to each game to take photographs. He/she will be fully identified. If you would like to volunteer for this role, please contact the Club Secretary.
j) To ensure that a positive environment is created for the boys to play football in, it is everyone’s responsibility to police the playing environment. If you are aware of anyone else in the club breaking the rules then either tell them discretely or tell the Parents’ Liaison Officer so the problem can be addressed. Do not turn the other cheek, otherwise the behaviour will continue. If the opposition parents/spectators/coaches or players are behaving in an unacceptable manner then please report this to your Parents’ Liaison Officer.
21) COACHES RESPONSIBILITIES
a) Coaches should limit their instruction mainly to pre match, post match and half time. They may give brief instruction during breaks of play or if the ball is down the other end of the field. However instruction should be occasional so players can learn for themselves. Coaches are encouraged to give praise through the game, to both teams.
b) Coaches should regularly speak to the substitutes during the match. They should discuss good and bad play in the game and recommend ways that players can improve their performance when they enter the field.
c) All players should be treated in a positive manner. Players will respond positively if they are treated with respect and encouraged. Coaches must also respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each one with equal value.
d) Coaches should only enter or remain in the changing rooms with a minimum of two adults present.
e) Coaches should ensure that the changing rooms are guarded until the last player has left.
f) Coaches should set realistic and achievable expectations to their players.
h) Coaches must place the well being and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance.
i) Coaches should dress in club tracksuits during training and matches.
j) Coaches are not permitted to smoke or drink alcohol in front of the
players, unless away from them in the club house, after the game.
k) Coaches are responsible for the behaviour of their team at all times and to build a positive relationship with the parents. They should encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.
l) Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of players.
m) Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interest of the players.
n) 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.
o) The Coach must not discriminate nor let any form of discrimination go unchallenged.
p) Coaches must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance. Coaches must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
q) Coaches should treat opponents, match officials, opposition team officials and spectators with due respect at all times, irrespective of the score/result of the game. They should accept the decision of the match officials without protest.
22) CHILD WELFARE
a) If you have any concerns for your child or for other children, please initially contact your Team/Assistant Coach. If this is not appropriate then, please contact the Child Welfare Officer. His/her details can be found on the website.
b) Volunteers who come into contact with children are required to have an advanced C.R.B. (Criminal Records Bureau) check. This shall be paid through club funds. Specific information is kept confidential. The club is only told whether or not an individual is deemed suitable to come into contact with children.
c) To provide as safe an environment as we can for our children, simple guidelines should be followed: -
1) For journeys, at least 2 children shall be in a car with an adult at one time (unless the adult is Parent/Carer of the child)
2) If a coach wishes to enter the changing rooms, he/she should be accompanied by another adult
3) The coaches shall ensure everyone has vacated the dressing room before leaving the door unguarded.
4) No child shall be left on their own at any time.
5) No parent shall enter the changing rooms (unless they are an Assistant Coach who has completed an up to date C.R.B. advanced check). If a parent wishes to pass on an item to the player he/she should pass it through the Team/Assistant Coach. If he/she wishes to speak to the player, he/she should ask for the player to come outside of the changing room.
d) The clubs full Child Welfare policy and guidelines can be found on the website at http://www.yatetownfc.com/development.aspx.
Then go to ‘Club Info’ and then ‘Child Welfare’.
23) CONSEQUENCES OF BREACH OF THE RULES
a) i) If a player breaks the rules, he shall be verbally warned not to break the rules.
ii) If a player continuously breaks the rules he shall be given a final written and
verbal warning to keep to the rules.
iii) If this continues, the player shall be expelled from the club.
iv) If he wishes to return he should review his actions before making an application
to the Committee. The same rules apply to the Coaches.
b) If a parent breaks the rules, the same process shall be in place except that initially the parent may be expelled from watching games. Eventually the player may also be expelled.
c) If the Player, Parent or Coach is found guilty of gross misconduct, they can be expelled from the club without a warning.
d) Only in extreme circumstances shall we have to expel players or parents from the club. We respect all the players and parents for the time and efforts they give. These guidelines need to be in place just in case.
Please complete and return the form below to Mike Mawson, 2 Queens Walk, Thornbury, Bristol. BS35 1SR.
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I ____________________ have fully read the Rules and Agreements and agree to follow them
(player’s name)
all over the season. I also understand the consequences of breaking the Rules and Agreements.
Signed____________________ (player) signed ____________________ (parent/Carer)
Date_____________________
Player Details
Players Name__________________________________ Date of Birth ________________
Club Team ________________________ School _______________________________
Address_________________________________________________________________
Postcode______________ Tel No. __________________ Personal Mobile______________
E-mail (state very clearly)____________________________________________________
Do you have any medical conditions or allergies we should be aware of? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Carer’s Details
Parent/Carer’s name(1)_____________________________Mobile__________________
Parent/Carer’s name(2)_____________________________Mobile__________________
E-mail (state very clearly)____________________________________________________
Photographs
I give permission for the above person to have their image taken on a still or moving picture whilst at Yate Town Development F.C.
Date___________________ Signed ____________________________ (Parent/Carer)
Medical Consent
I, on the behalf of my child _____________________ hereby authorise the administering of first aid procedures as may be deemed necessary in the event of my child is injured whilst involved with the activity. In an emergency I further authorise the medical person treating my child to act on my behalf, providing that they first make such diligent effort as the nature of the emergency permits to notify me.
Date__________________ Signed ___________________________ (Parent/Carer)
(Rules and Agreements 2011-12)
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