RULES
1.
Definitions
The Club is called Hillside Rovers and is affiliated
to the Norfolk County Football
Association .
2.
The
objects and philosophy of the Club are: -
2.1 The
provision of training sessions and at the discretion of the Club both League
and Friendly matches.
2.2
The provision and
maintenance of the Club portacabin at
2.3
To get as many
children involved in football, regardless of their ability, sex or
nationality.
2.4
As to the
admission of new club members these are drawn mainly from
2.5
Training sessions
are held at
2.6
Volunteers assist
with coaching in all age groups and additional volunteers are always invited,
in particular regular help with erecting/dismantling of equipment is most
appreciated.
2.7
The club has
personal, accident and public liability insurance cover.
2.8
It has a medical
kit on hand at all matches and coaching sessions along with adults who have
been on the basic Football Emergency Aid Training Course.
2.9
All players must
come to training/ matches equipped with shin pads and football boots and
trainers if appropriate. Suitable cold weather clothing should be worn.
Children are advised to bring a drink/small snack.
3.
Management
3.1.1
The management of
the Club is entrusted to a Committee consisting of the Chairman (honorary),
Secretary , Minutes Secretary, Registration
Secretary, Treasurer, Club Welfare
Officer, and each of the year group managers, all of which members of
the Club elect at the Annual General Meeting.
3.1.2
The Committee
shall have the discretion to co-opt any further members onto the Committee
subject to election by no less than six existing members.
3.2.
All Members of
the Club are eligible for re-election.
3.3 The
Committee meets on a regular basis, usually monthly during the playing season
except in June, July and August when the meetings are at such other times as it
determines.
3.4
At all meetings
of the Committee six form the quorum.
4 Membership Fees
4.1 On being admitted to the Club the parent/ guardian of every
player shall pay a fee for the season, i.e. September to May, which sums shall
be determined by the Committee prior to the commencement of the season. The
committee shall have the discretion to decide how fees are collected. The said
fee covers training, the purchasing of equipment, grounds hire/maintenance, insurance
and affiliation fees. Match fees maybe
charged in addition.
4.2 The
said fees must be paid prior to the end of September failing which the said
players will not be permitted to continue to train or will they be eligible for
matches whether conducted by the League or otherwise.
5 A
Code of Conduct for Football
5.1 Football is the national game. All those involved with the
game at every level and whether as a player, match official, coach, owner or
administrator, have a responsibility, above and beyond compliance with
the law, to act according to the highest standards of
integrity, and to ensure that the reputation of the game is, and remains, high.
This code applies to all those involved in football at Hillside Rovers under the auspices of The
Football Association.
5.2 Community
Football, at all levels, is a vital part of a
community. Football will take into account community feeling when making
decisions.
5.3 Equality
Football is opposed to discrimination of any form and
will promote measures to prevent it, in whatever form, from being expressed.
5.4 Participants
Football recognises the sense of ownership felt by those
who participate at all levels of the game. This includes those who play, those
who coach or help in any way, and those who officiate, as well as
administrators and supporters. Football is committed to appropriate
consultation.
5.5 Young People
Football acknowledges the extent of its influence over
young people and pledges to set a positive example.
5.6 Propriety
Football acknowledges that public confidence demands the
highest standards of financial and administrative behaviour within the game,
and will not tolerate corruption or improper practices.
5.7 Trust and Respect
Football will uphold a relationship of trust and respect
between all involved in the game, whether they are individuals, clubs or other
organisations.
5.8 Violence
Football rejects the use of violence of any nature by
anyone involved in the game.
5.9 Fairness
Football is committed to fairness in its dealings with
all involved in the game.
5.10 Integrity and Fair Play
Football is committed to the principle of playing to win
consistent with Fair Play.
6 Code of Conduct for Coaches
6.1 Coaches
are key to the establishment of ethics in football. Their concept of ethics are
their attitude directly affects the behaviour of players under their
supervision. Coaches are, therefore, expected to pay particular care to the
moral aspect of their conduct.
6.2 Coaches
have to be aware that almost all of their everyday decisions and choices of
actions, as well as strategic targets, have ethical implications.
6.3 It is
natural that winning constitutes a basic concern for coaches. This code is not
intended to conflict with that. However, the code calls for coaches to
disassociate themselves from a win-at-all-costs attitude.
6.4 Increased
responsibility is requested from coaches involved in coaching young people. The
health, safety, welfare and moral education of young people are a first
priority, before the achievement or the reputation of the club, school, coach
or parent.
6.5 Set out
below is The F.A. Coaches Association Code of Conduct (which reflects the
standards expressed by the National Coaching Foundation and the National
Association of Sports Coaches) which forms the benchmark for all involved in
coaching:
a. Coaches
must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat
each equally within the context of the sport.
b. Coaches
must place the well-being and safety of each player above all other
considerations, including the development of performance.
c. Coaches
must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing bodies.
d. Coaches
must develop an appropriate working relationship with each
player
based on mutual trust and respect.
e. Coaches
must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
f. Coaches
must encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own
behaviour and performance.
g. Coaches
must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the
age, maturity, experience and ability of players.
h. Coaches
should, at the outset, clarify with the players (and, where appropriate,
parent) exactly what is expected of them and also what they are entitled to
expect from their coach.
i. Coaches
must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials,
sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the
player.
j. 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.
k. Coaches
must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance.
j. Coaches
must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
7 Code of Conduct for Players
7.1 Players
are the most important people in the sport. Playing for the team, and 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.
7.2 This
Code focuses on players involved in top-class football. Nevertheless, the key
concepts in the Code are valid for players at all levels.
7.3
Obligations towards the game
A
player should
a. Make
every effort to develop their own sporting abilities, in terms of skill,
technique, tactics and stamina.
b. 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 .
c. Set a
positive example for others, particularly young players and supporters.
d. Avoid
all forms of gamesmanship and time-wasting.
e. Always
have regard for the best interests of the game, including where publicly
expressing an opinion on the game and any particular aspect of it, including
others involved in the game.
f. Not
use inappropriate language.
7.4 Obligations
towards ones own team
A
player should
a. Make every effort consistent with Fair Play and
the Laws of the Game to help his own team win.
b. Resist any influence which might, or might be
seen to, bring into question his commitment to the team winning.
7.5 Respect
for the Laws of the Game and competition rules
A
player should
a. Know
and abide by the Laws, rules and spirit of the game, and the competition rules.
b. Accept
success and failure, victory and defeat, equally.
c.
Resist any temptation to take banned substances or use banned
techniques.
7.6 Respect
towards Opponents
A
player should
a. Treat
opponents with due respect at all times, irrespective of the result of the
game.
b.
Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence and rough
play, and help injured opponents.
7.7 Respect
towards the Match Officials
A
player should
a. Accept the decision of the Match Official
without protest.
b. Avoid
words or actions which may mislead a Match Official.
c. Show
due respect towards Match Officials.
7.8 Respect
towards Team Officials
A
player should
a. Abide
by the instructions of their Coach and Team Officials, provided they do not
contradict the spirit of this Code.
b. Show due respect towards the Team Officials of
the opposition.
7.9 Obligations
towards the Supporters
A
player should:
Show due respect to the interests of
supporters.
8 Code of
Conduct for Team Officials
8.1 This
Code applies to all team / club officials (although some items may not apply to
all officials).
8.2 Obligations
towards the Game
The
team official should
a. Set a
positive example for others, particularly young players and supporters.
b. Promote
and develop his own team having regard to the interest of the Players,
Supporters and reputation of the national game.
c. Share
knowledge and experience when invited to do so, taking into account the
interest of the body that has requested this rather than personal interests.
d. Avoid
all forms of gamesmanship.
e. Show
due respect to Match Officials and others involved in the game.
f. Always
have regard for the best interests of the game, including where publicly expressing
an opinion of the game and any particular aspect of it, including others
involved in the game.
g. Not
use or tolerate inappropriate language.
8.3 Obligations
towards the Team
The
team official should
a. Make
every effort to develop the sporting, technical and tactical levels of the
club/team, and to obtain the best results for the team, using all permitted
means.
b. Give
priority to the interests of the team over individual interests.
c. Resist
all illegal or unsporting influences, including banned substances and
techniques.
d. Promote
ethical principles.
e. Show due respect for the interests of the
players, coaches and officials, their own club/team and others.
8.4 Obligations
towards the Supporters
The
team official should
a. Show due
respect for the interests of supporters.
8.5 Respect
towards the Match Officials
A
team official should
a. Accept
the decisions of the Match Official without protest.
b. Avoid
words or actions which may mislead a Match Official.
c. Show
due respect towards Match Officials.
9 Code of Conduct for Parents / Spectators
9.1 Parents
/ Spectators have a great influence on childrens enjoyment and success in
football. All children play football because they first and foremost love the
game its fun. 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:
a. Children
enjoying football.
b. A
sense of personal achievement.
c. Self-esteem.
d. Improving
the childs skills and techniques.
9.2 A
parents / spectators expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on
a childs attitude towards:
a. Other
players.
b. Officials.
c. Managers.
d. Spectators.
9.3 Ensure
that parents / spectators within your club are always positive and encouraging
towards all of the children not just their own.
9.4. Encourage
parents / spectators to:
a. Applaud
the opposition as well as your own team.
b. Avoid
coaching the child during the game.
c. Not to
shout and scream.
d. Respect
the referees decision.
e. Give
attention to each of the children involved in football not just the most
talented.
f. Give
encouragement to everyone to participate in football.
g. Ensure
that parents / spectators within your club agree and adhere to your clubs Code
of Conduct and Child Protection Policy.
10 Anti Discrimination Policy for Clubs
10.1 Hillside
Football Club is responsible for setting standards and values to apply
throughout the club at every level. Football belongs to and should be enjoyed
by everyone, equally. Our commitment is to confront and
eliminate
discrimination whether by reason of sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality,
ethnic origin, colour, religion or disability.
10.2 Equality
of opportunity at Hillside Football Club means that in all our activities we
will not discriminate or in any way treat anyone less favourably, on grounds of
sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or
disability.
This includes:
a.. The advertisement for volunteers.
b. The selection of candidates for volunteers.
Courses.
c. External coaching and education activities
and awards.
d. Football development activities.
e. Selection for teams.
f. Appointments to honorary positions.
10.3 Hillside
Football Club will not tolerate sexual or racially based harassment or other
discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal, and will work to ensure
that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it
occurs.
10.4 Hillside
Football Club is committed to the development of the programme of ongoing
training and awareness raising events and activities, in order to promote the
eradication of discrimination within its own organisation, and within football
as a whole.
11 Equal Opportunities Policy for Clubs
11.1 General
Hillside
Football Club is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and
requires all members of whatever level or authority, to abide and adhere to
this general principle and the requirements of the Codes of Practice issued by
the Equal Opportunities Commission and Commission for Racial Equality.
11.2 All
members are expected to abide by the requirements of the Race Relations Act
1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1986 and Disability Discrimination Act 1995.
Specifically discrimination is prohibited by:
11.3 Treating
any individual on grounds of gender, colour, marital status, race, nationality
or ethnic or national origin, religion, sexual orientation or disability less
favourably than others.
11.4 Expecting
an individual solely on the grounds stated above to comply with requirement(s)
for any reason whatsoever related to their membership, which are different from
the requirements for others.
11.5 Imposing
on an individual requirements which are in effect more onerous on that
individual than they are on others. For example, this would include applying a
condition which makes it more difficult for members of a particular race or sex
to comply than others not of that race or sex.
11.6 Victimisation
of an individual.
11.7 Harassment
of an individual, by virtue of discrimination.
11.8 Any
other act or omission of an act, which has as its effect the disadvantaging of
a member against another, or others, purely on the above grounds. Thus, in all
the Clubs recruitment, selection, promotion and training processes, as well as
disciplinary matters, it is essential that merit, experience, skills and
temperament are considered as objectively as possible.
11.9 Hillside
Football Club commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims of
discrimination on the above grounds and where such is found to be the case, a
requirement that the practice cease forthwith, restitution of damage or loss
(if necessary) and to the investigation of any member accused of
discrimination.
11.10 Any
member found guilty of discrimination will be instructed to desist forthwith.
Since discrimination in its many forms is against the Football Clubs policy,
any members offending will be dealt with under the disciplinary procedure.
11.11 The
Football Club commits itself to the disabled person whenever possible and will
treat such members, in aspects of their recruitment and membership, in exactly
the same manner as other members. The difficulties of their disablement permitting
assistance will be given, wherever possible to ensure that disabled members are
helped in gaining access. Appropriate training will be made to such members who
request it.
12
General
12.1 The Club
has a low cost Boot Bank consisting of football boots that players have grown
out of. Donations of all sizes are welcome. It is recommended new boots be
purchased if needed at the start of the season and that second hand boots
purchased at a much reduced cost from the Club, can only be used as a short term
measure or towards the end of the season.
12.2
Social days take
place at Christmas and at the end of the season.
12.3
The occasional
fund raising events take place to help funds for Club equipment/Social days.
13
Financial
13.1 No money
or property of the Club or any gain arising from carrying on from the Club may
be applied otherwise than for the benefit of the Club as a whole or for some
charitable, benevolent or other purpose chosen by resolution of a General
Meeting.
13.2 Full accounts of the
financial affairs of the Club will be made available to every Member on
application and when notice convening the Annual General Meeting is convened.
The accounts will be the subject of independent audit by an accountant of
auditor.
13.3 All fees and the monies from
fundraising are to be paid into a general account named Hillside Rovers FC.
Cheques required two signatures from the Chairman, Treasurer or Secretary.
13.4 Dissolution Any
surplus assets remaining after the discharge of the debts and liabilities of
the club shall be surrended to the Norfolk County FA in accordance with the
association membership rule 23
14
Meetings
14.1
An Annual General
Meeting of the Club will be held in each year.
14.2
At each General
Meeting: -
14.2.1 The
accounts for the previous financial year will be presented and, if accepted,
passed.
14.2.2 The Officers of the Committee will be elected.
14.2.3 All
appointed committee members will take up there positions within 4 weeks of the
last day of training (The Fun Day).
14.2.4 Any other
business that has been communicated to the Secretary and included in the
Notices of the Meeting sent to him by him to the Members may be conducted.
14.3 An
extra-ordinary meeting may be convened at any time and must be convened within
twenty-one days of the request of the Members of the Club.
14.4 A
requisition must state the purpose for which the meeting is required and must be sent to the Secretary.
14.5 The
Chair of the Club presides at all meetings of the Club, but if he/she is not present at the meeting, the
Members present are entitled to vote and choose
one of their Members to be Chair of the meeting.
14.6 The
Committee may expel any Member who offends against the Rules of the Club or whose conduct, in the opinion of
the Committee renders him or her unfit
for Membership of the Club.
14.7 Before
any Member is expelled the Secretary must give him/her SEVEN days written Notice to attend a Meeting of
the Committee and must inform him/her of
the complaints made against them.
14.8 No
Member may be expelled unless that person is first given an opportunity of appearing before the
Committee and answering the complaints
made against them and at least two-thirds of the Committee then present vote in favour of that Members
expulsion.
15 Child
Protection Policy
15.1 Hillside Rovers Football Club acknowledges its responsibility to
safeguard the welfare of every child and young person who has been entrusted to
its care and is committed to working to
provide a safe environment for all members. A child or young person is
anyone under the age of 18 engaged in any club football activity. We subscribe
to The Football Associations child
protection and best practice policy and procedures and endorse and adopt
the policy statement contained in that document.
15.2 The key principles of The FA child protection policy are that:
a. The childs welfare is, and must always be, the paramount
consideration.
b. All children and young people have a right to be protected
from abuse regardless of their age, gender, disability, culture, language,
racial origin, religious beliefs or sexual orientation.
c. All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken
seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
d. Working in partnership with other organisations, children
and young people and their parents or carers is essential.
e. We acknowledge that every child or young person who plays or
participates in football should be able to take part in an enjoyable and safe
environment and be protected from poor practice and abuse. Hillside Rovers Football
Club recognises that this is the responsibility of every adult
involved in our club.
15.3 Hillside Rovers Football Club has a role to play in safeguarding
the welfare of all children and young people by protecting them from physical,
sexual or emotional harm and from neglect or bullying. It is noted and accepted
that The Football Associations child protection regulation (see The FA
Handbook) applies to everyone in football whether in a paid or voluntary
capacity. This includes those who are a volunteer, match official, helper on
club tours, football coach, club official or medical staff.
15.4 We endorse and adopt The FAs child protection and best practice
guidelines for recruiting volunteers
and will:
a. Develop a role profile.
b. Request identification documents. As a minimum meet and chat
with the applicant(s) and where possible conduct interviews before appointing.
c. Request and follow up with two references before appointing.
d. Require an FA CRB Unit Enhanced Disclosure where appropriate
in line with FA guidelines.
15.5 All current Hillside
Rovers Football Club members with direct access to children and young people
will be required to complete a CRB
Enhanced Disclosure via The FA CRB Unit. If there are concerns regarding the
appropriateness of an individual who is already involved or who has approached
us to become part of Hillside Rovers
Football Club guidance will be sought from The Football Association. It is
noted and accepted that The FA will consider the relevance and significance of
the information obtained via The FA CRB Unit Enhanced CRB Disclosure and that
all decisions will be made in the best interests of children and young people.
15.6 It is accepted that The FA aims to prevent people with a history
of relevant and significant offending from having contact with children or
young people and the opportunity to influence policies or practice with
children or young people. This is to prevent direct sexual or physical harm to
children and to minimise the risk of grooming within football.
15.7 Hillside Rovers Football Club supports The FAs whistle blowing
policy. Any adult or young person with concerns about a colleague can whistle
blow by contacting The FA child
protection manager on 0207 745 4771, by writing to :
The FA case manager at The Football Association,
15.8 Hillside Rovers Football Club has appointed a Club Welfare
Officer (CWO) in line with the FAs role profile and required completion of the
child protection and best practice workshop. The post holder will be involved
with designated persons training provided by The FA. The CWO is the first
point of contact for all club members and parents or guardians regarding
concerns for the welfare of any child or young person. They will liase directly
with the CFA CPO and will be familiar with the
procedures for referring any concerns. They will also play a proactive role in increasing an awareness of poor
practice and abuse amongst club members.
15.9 We acknowledge and endorse The FAs identification of bullying as
a category of abuse. Bullying of any kind is not acceptable at our club. If
bullying does occur, all players, parents or guardians should be able to tell
and know that incidents will be dealt
with promptly. Incidents need to be reported to the CWO, a member of the
committee or, in cases of serious bullying contact the CFA CPO.
15.10 Codes of conduct for players, parents or spectators, officials and
coaches have been implemented by
Hillside Rovers Football Club. In order to validate these codes of
conduct the club has clear sanctions to deal with any misconduct at club level
and acknowledges the possibility of potential sanctions which may be
implemented by leagues or the CFA in more serious circumstances. All
prospective members will be informed of these codes.
15.11 Further advice on child protection matters can be obtained from:
a. The County Football Associations Child Protection Officer,
whose details can be found in the
b. The Football Association/NSPCC Child Protection 24-Hour
Helpline 0808 800 5000.
d. The FA child protection team 0207 745 4649.
16 Disciplinary
Policy and Procedure
16.1 This policy applies to parents, players and team officials and
exists to ensure that the conduct of parents, players and team officials is of
an acceptable standard in accordance with the Rules and Codes of Conduct of
Hillside Rovers Football Club. This process is internal but Norfolk FA may
carry out their own investigation under their rules.
16.2 Disciplinary policy Parents and Team Officials
16.3 Disciplinary action, including the possibility of expulsion from
Hillside Rovers FC, may be taken against any parent or team official if they
give cause for dissatisfaction with their conduct or behaviour. Some examples
of the type of behaviour that will normally result in disciplinary action are
given below:
a Using
threatening behaviour and language to any player, match official, team official
or parent whilst at training, at a match or other event directly connected to
the Club.
b
Failure to adhere to the codes of conduct.
c. Failure to ensure health, safety and
welfare of young people.
d.. Failure to display high standards of
behaviour.
e. Discrimination by reason of sex, sexual
orientation, race, nationality, ethnic
origin. colour, religion or
disability. Advice should be sought from
These examples are not exhaustive and are used to
illustrate the type of subjects that
maybe covered.
16.4 Disciplinary Procedure The purpose of this procedure is to
ensure that all disciplinary
matters are dealt with in a fair and effective manner.
16.5 Before any disciplinary action is taken, a thorough
investigation should take place to
discover the facts of the case. This
may include interviewing witnesses
and taking statements. It will also involving
talking to the individual concerned to
hear the response to the matter. The Chairman will appoint two members of the committee to carry out the
investigation. Once the facts have
been established, a Disciplinary Hearing will take place. It is in the interest of the individual and the club that
a Hearing takes place to hear the evidence.
If the incident is deemed to be serious by the investigators then Norfolk FA shall be consulted by one of the
investigators and then the individual
will be suspended from all activity associated with Hillside Rovers FC until the matter is resolved. If the club
needs to make an official complaint regarding
a match day incident to Norfolk FA this has to be completed within 90 days of the match and there should be an
official referee report with a covering
letter signed by the Secretary and chairperson.
16.6. A date for a Disciplinary Hearing will be arranged as soon as possible
after the conclusion of the investigation
by the Secretary. The individual under investigation
will be notified in writing at least seven working days in advance of the Hearing and copies of any written
reports or evidence will be forwarded
to the individual. If the date is inconvenient the
individual must inform the Secretary
immediately and a mutually agreed alternative date will be offered within a period of 2 weeks. However, it should
be noted that if the individual does
not attend, the hearing will go ahead and evidence heard in his/her absence.
16.7 A
Disciplinary Hearing will be chaired by the Secretary as long as he/she has not been involved in the incident or subsequent investigation. In this event, the Treasurer will chair the Hearing.
The person who investigated the matter will
be asked to present their findings and the individual subject to the investigation will be given an opportunity to
state their side of the matter. A committee
member shall be appointed to take notes of the meeting. A copy of these notes will be made available to the
individual on request. Witnesses maybe
invited to attend to give evidence if required by
either party. After a recess to
consider all the evidence presented at the Hearing the individual will be
asked back to hear the decision. On occasions it may not be possible to give an immediate decision
as further evidence may need to be obtained or the Hearing maybe linked to the same disciplinary matter involving
another individual in which case the
Hearing may be adjourned to a later date. Once the
decision has been made at a Hearing, it will be confirmed in writing to the individual shortly afterwards
including information on how to make an appeal.
16.8 Disciplinary Action Formal Oral Warning
In the case of a minor infringement or as a first step in
dealing with poor conduct an
oral warning maybe given. The individual should be made aware of precisely how they are failing to fulfil their duties or
what needs to be done to improve
their conduct. A note of the oral warning will be kept by the Secretary for 6 months after which it will
lapse.
16.9 Written Warning
Is there is insufficient improvement following an oral
warning or where there is a more serious
breach, the individual may be given a Written Warning which will specify the required change in behaviour and the
consequences of further
breaches of discipline. A copy of the warning will be sent to the individual. A written warning shall lapse after
a period of 12 months from the date
of the letter confirming the warning, after which it will be disregarded.
16.10 Final Written Warning
If there is insufficient improvement following a written
warning or if another offence or a
more serious matter occurs whilst the warning is current, a Final Written Warning may be given. The individual will be advised that any further breach of the codes of
conduct during the period of this warning may
lead to expulsion from the club. The matter may also be reported to
16.11 Gross Misconduct
This action is reserved for extreme cases where the
individual has clearly demonstrated
they do not intend to abide by the code of conduct or for serious breaches of conduct or behaviour. Prior warnings
are not required in this instance
and ejection will be immediate and without notice. The following examples outline the type of
situations which maybe defined a gross misconduct.
a. Any act of violence such as physical assault, threatening
behaviour or speech.
b. Consuming alcohol or drugs or inability to carry out duties
due to being under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
c. Fraud or theft from Hillside Rovers Football club or any
person connected to the club.
d. Wilful of malicious damage to Club equipment.
e. Any offences of a sexual or racial nature, including
instances of harassment, bullying
and all forms of discrimination
Note that the above list is
neither exclusive nor exhaustive but merely examples of what might constitute
gross misconduct.
16.12 Appeals
An individual may appeal against any disciplinary action
taken against them. The appeal
should be in writing and sent to the
Secretary within 10 working days of
the date of the Hearing. An appeal hearing will be heard by the Chairman unless disqualified by
involvement in the incident. In this case
the Treasurer will hear the appeal as long as he/she was not involved in the incident or Hearing. The result of
the Appeal will be made known at the Appeal
and conformed in writing within 7 working days. This is the end of the internal process.
16.13 Disciplinary Policy for Players
The Rules of Hillside Rovers Football Club contains the
Code of Conduct for Players. Whenever a
player is competing in a league or cup match, friendly match or training they are a representative of Hillside Rovers
Football Club and any actions
they take will reflect on the Club. This includes travelling to and from matches, wearing match kit, or
training at
16..14 Although
it is not within our control, we expect players to maintain high s standards of behaviour away from the
club. If we are made aware of any unsociable
behaviour (bullying, vandalism, violence etc.), incidents will be discussed and the player's position
at the club could be at risk. It may
seem harsh punishing minor disruptive
behaviour at training, this can be enough
to disrupt the rest of the squad
and ruin an entire training session.
16.15 Disciplinary Procedure Yellow and Red
Cards
A system
of Yellow and Red Cards will be used. Any infringement of the Players Code of Conduct or other
behaviour deemed unacceptable by the coach
will result in the player being given
a Yellow Card or a Red Card depending
on the severity of the incident. If the incident is serious then the matter
may be dealt with under the main Discipline Procedure. The player will
be issued a card and the Parent/Guardians
will be asked to sign a receipt. The
reason why the card was issued will be given. This system is complimentary to any cards which are
issued by a Referee during a match.
16.16 Yellow
Card. The following list is not exhaustive but illustrates the type of situation when a yellow card may be
issued:
a. Persistent
disruption, for example excessive talking or inattention.
b. When a
player continually fails to respond to the Coachs instructions.
c. Deliberate
kicking or pushing another player.
d. Poor
attitude towards other players or coaches.
e. When a
yellow card is issued, this should be taken as a warning for future behaviour but no further sanction will
arise.
16.17 Red Card.
The following list is not exhaustive but illustrates the type of situation when a red card may be issued:
a. A
second yellow card has been required.
b.. Violent
behaviour such as fighting.
c.. Swearing
or other abusive language.
If two yellow cards or one red card are issued to the
same player in a season, then a meeting will be arranged between the parents
and the Coach to resolve the matter. Continued disruption and infringements may
result in the player being asked to leave the club
17 Modification
of the Rules.
17.1 No
alteration of these Rules may be made except by resolution carried by a
majority of at least two-thirds of the Members present at a General Meeting.
Notice of which contain particulars of the proposed alterations or amendments.
17.2 As soon
as possible and in any case within twenty-eight days after making of any
alteration or addition to these Rules the Secretary must give written Notice of
the alteration or addition to the said Club Membership.
18 Anti-Bullying
Policy
18.1 We are
committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of our
members so they can participate in football in a relaxed and secure atmosphere.
Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all
club members or parents should be able to tell and know that incidents will be
dealt with promptly and effectively. We
are a TELLING club. This means that
anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell the club
welfare officer or any committee member.
18.2 Bullying
is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. Bullying
results in pain and distress to the victim. Bullying can be:
a. Emotional;
being unfriendly, sending hurtful text messages, tormenting (e.g. hiding
football boots/shin guards, threatening gestures).
b. Physical; pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use
of violence
c. Racist; racial taunts, graffiti, gestures.
d.. Sexual; unwanted physical contact or sexually
abusive comments.
e. Homophobic; because of, or focusing on the
issue of sexuality.
f.
Verbal;
name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours, teasing.
18.3 Bullying hurts. No one deserves to be a victim of bullying. Everybody has the right to be treated with respect. Individuals who are bullying need to
learn different ways of
behaving. This club has a responsibility to respond promptly
and effectively
to issues of bullying.
18.4 Objectives of this Policy
a. All
club members, coaches, officials and parents/carers should have an understanding of what
bullying is.
b. All
club members, officials and coaching staff should know what the club policy is
on bullying, and follow it when bullying is reported.
c. All players and parents/carers should
know what the club policy is on bullying, and what they should do if bullying
arises.
18.5 As
a club we take bullying seriously. Players and parents/carers should be assured that they
would be supported when bullying is reported. Bullying
will not be tolerated All club members, coaches, officials and parents/carers should have an
appreciation of the signs and indicators of bullying.
18.6 Signs and Indicators of Bullying
A child may indicate by signs or behaviour that he or she is being
bullied. Adults should be aware of these possible signs and they should
investigate if a child:
a. Says he or she is being bullied.
b. Is unwilling to
go to club sessions.
c. Becomes
withdrawn, anxious, or lacking in confidence.
d. Feels ill before
training sessions.
e. Comes home with
clothes torn or training equipment damaged
has possessions
go missing .
f. Asks for money
or starts stealing money (to pay the bully).
g. Has unexplained
cuts or bruises.
h. Is frightened to
say what's wrong.
i Gives
improbable excuses for any of the above.
k. If a child
starts stammering.
l. Cries
themselves to sleep at night or has nightmares.
m. Becomes
aggressive, disruptive or unreasonable.
n Is bullying
other children or siblings.
o Stops eating.
p Attempts or
threatens suicide or runs away.
These signs and
behaviours may indicate other problems, but bullying should be considered
a possibility and should be investigated.
18.7
Procedures
a. Report bullying incidents to the club
welfare officer or a member of the club committee or contact the Norfolk County
Football Association Child Protection Officer (NCFA CPO).
b. In cases of serious bullying, the
incidents will be referred to the NCFA CPO for advice and possibly to the FA
Case Management System.
c.. Parents/carers should be informed and
will be asked to come in for a meeting to discuss the problem.
d. If necessary and appropriate, Police
will be consulted.
e. The bullying
behaviour or threats of bullying must be investigated and the bullying
stopped quickly.
f.. An attempt will be made to help the
bully (bullies) change their behaviour.
g. If mediation fails and the bullying is
seen to continue the club will initiate disciplinary
action under the club constitution.
18.8 Recommended Action
If Hillside Rovers decides
it is appropriate for us to deal with the situation we will follow the
procedure outlined below.
a. Reconciliation by getting the parties
together. It may be that a genuine apology solves the problem.
b. If this fails or is not appropriate a
small panel (made up from chairman, club welfare
officer, secretary, committee members) should meet with the parents/carers and
child alleging bullying to get details of the allegation.
c. Minutes should be taken for clarity,
which should be agreed by all as a true account.
d. The same three persons should meet with
the alleged bully and parents/carers and put the incident raised to them to
answer and give their view of the allegation. Minutes should again be taken and
agreed.
e. If bullying has in their view taken
place, the individual should be warned and put
on notice of further action i.e. temporary or permanent suspension if the
bullying continues. Consideration should be given as to whether a
reconciliation meeting between parties is appropriate at this time.
f. In some cases the parent/carers of the
bully or bullied player can be asked to attend training sessions, if they are
able to do so, and if appropriate. The club
committee should monitor the
situation for a given period to ensure the bullying is not being repeated.
g. All coaches involved with both individuals should be made
aware of the concerns and outcome of the process i.e. the warning.
h. In the Case of Adults reported to be Bullying Anyone within
the Club under 18 the NCFA CPO should always be informed and will advise on
action to be taken where appropriate.
i.
It
is anticipated that in most cases where the allegation is made regarding a team
manager, official or coach, The FAs Child Protection and Best Practice
awareness training may be recommended.
j. More serious cases may be referred to the Police and/or
Social Services.
18.9 Prevention
The club has a written constitution, which includes what is
acceptable and proper behaviour for all members of which
the anti-bullying policy is one part. All club members and parents will sign to
accept the constitution upon joining the club.
The
club welfare officer will raise awareness about bullying and why it matters,
and if issues of bullying arise in the club, will consider meeting with members
to discuss the issue openly and constructively.
This
policy is based on guidance provided to schools by KIDSCAPE. KIDSCAPE is a
voluntary organisation
committed to help prevent child bullying. KIDSCAPE can be contacted on 0207 730
3300 or you can access their website via
www.kidscape.org.uk. You can also access www.bullying.co.uk,
another website designed to give advice and guidance to parents and children
who are faced with dealing with bullying.
19
Appointment of Trustees
19.1 The
committee shall appoint three trustees from the committee at the AGM. The
Treasurer will notify the Charity Commissioner of the three trustees appointed.
Date 23 04 07
Signed
Chairman Eddie Jack Secretary Duncan Crouch