Code of Conduct

MT MARTHA JUNIOR FOOTBALL CLUB

PLAYER CODE OF CONDUCT
Adapted from the MPJFL

I agree to:
1. Abide by the rules of the game and the rules set down by the League, MMJFC and my team.
2. I will never argue with an official or umpire. If I disagree, I have my Captain/Leadership Team, Coach or Team Manager who can approach the official during the break or after the game has finished.
3. Control my temper. I understand that verbal or physical abuse of officials, umpires, spectators or other players, and deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent is not acceptable or permitted.
4. Work equally hard and training and in games for myself and my team.
5. Be a good sport. I will applaud all good plays whether they be by my team, opponent or the other team. I will be proud to walk off the ground after each game knowing that I have given my best effort and I will never involve myself in an argument with
opposing players, umpires or officials.
6. Treat all players as I would like to be treated. I will not intimidate, bully or take unfair advantage of another player. Cooperate with my coach and teammates and respect the ability of my opponent.
7. Play for the enjoyment of the game and not just to please parents and coaches, nor focus on votes for Club Best and Fairest or League Best and Fairest at the expense of the greater team.
8. Not use derogatory language based on gender or race, nor swear during the game or off the field.
9. Represent myself and the MMJFC to the best of my ability both on and off the field, by upholding the Club Values of respect, positivity, inclusivity, resilience and community.
10. I understand that breaching any part of this code of conduct will result in disciplinary action.

COACHES CODE OF CONDUCT

1. I will respect the rights, dignity and worth of all individuals within the context of my involvement in Australian Football, including refraining from any discriminatory practices on the basis of race, religion, ethnic background, or special ability/disability.
2. I will abide by and teach the AFL Laws of the Game and the Rules of my Club and League/Association.
3. I will be reasonable in the demands I make on the time commitments of the players in my care, having due consideration for their health and well-being.
4. I will refrain from any form of personal abuse or unnecessary physical contact with the players in my care and monitor safety always
5. I will have due consideration for varying maturity and ability levels of my players when designing practice schedules, practice activities and involvement in competition.
6. I will avoid overplaying the talented players aiming to maximise participation and enjoyment for all players regardless of ability.
7. In recognising the significance of injury and sickness, I will seek and follow the physician’s advice concerning the return of injured or ill players to training
8. I will endeavour to keep informed regarding sound principles of coaching and skill development, and of factors relating to the welfare of my players
9. I will at all times display and teach appropriate sporting behaviour, ensuring that players understand and practice fair play.
10. I will display and foster respect for umpires, opponents, coaches, administrators, other officials, parents and spectators.
11. I will ensure that players are involved in a positive environment where skill learning and development are priorities are not overshadowed by a desire to win.
12. I reject the use of performance enhancing substances in sport and will abide by the guidelines set forth in the AFL DRUG POLICY.

Note: This “Coaches Code of Conduct” is signed and conformed to as part of the accreditation requirements of the AFL. It is the stated policy of the MMJFC that all coaches must have a Level 1 coaching certificate thereby ensuring that all coaches have signed off on the required code of conduct.

PARENTS CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Encourage children to participate only if they are interested. If a child is not willing please do not force them
2.  Focus upon the child’s efforts and performance rather than the outcome of the game. This assists the child in setting realistic goals related to their own ability by reducing the emphasis on winning.
3. Teach your child that an honest effort is as important as victory so that the result of each game is accepted without undue disappointment.
4. Never ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or losing a game and encourage your child to play by the rules
5. Remember your child should be involved for their for involvement, not yours
6. Your child learns best by example. Applaud good play by both teams.
7. If you disagree with an umpire or an official, raise the issue through the appropriate channels rather than questioning the official’s judgment and honesty in public.
8. Do not swear at our abuse umpires. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from junior sporting activities. Without umpires there would be no game for your child to be involved in and parents must set the right example.
9. Recognise the value and importance of volunteer coaches. They give their time and resources to provide recreational activities for your child and deserve your support and appreciation.
10. Support your club officials in maintaining the highest standards of behaviour both on and off the field. Offer your assistance to the team your child is playing in so that every opportunity is being provided for the best supervision and support. Your child will enjoy your involvement
11. Avoid confrontation, if you are abused or feel threatened by other adults, and then report it immediately to your coach or team manager.
12. Be at your child’s match at least 40 minutes before play is due to begin to receive last minute information pertinent to the match and to allow your child warm up. Ensure that your child attends training regularly.
• Ensure that your child attends matches for which they are scheduled to participate in, (health permitting). If an absence is planned, communicate it.