Pontefract Sports & Social Code of Conduct

The 3 way code of conduct 

It is vitally important that as a club we maintain the high standards that we have both attained and been not only recognised for, but received awards for. We therefore believe that all parties involved in the club should commit themselves to upholding these necessary standards. As a result we the club, the players and the parents and supporters are required to formally agree to the following code of conduct:-

·        Play to Win

In accordance with Football Association rules winning is the object of playing this or any other game. Never set out to lose. If you do not play to win, you are cheating your opponents, deceiving those who are watching, and also fooling yourself. Never give up against stronger opponents but never relent against weaker ones. It is an insult to any opponent to play at less than full strength. Play to win, until the final whistle.

·        Play Fair

Winning is without value if victory has been achieved unfairly or dishonestly. Cheating is easy, but brings no pleasure. Playing fair requires courage and character. It is also more satisfying. Fair Play always has its reward, even when the game is lost. Playing fair earns you respect, while cheats are detested. Remember: It's only a game. And games are pointless unless played fairly.

·        Observe the Laws of the Game

All games need rules to guide them. Without rules, there would be chaos. The rules of football are simple and easy to learn. Make an effort to learn them, so you understand the game better. This makes you a better player. It is just as important to understand the spirit of the rules. They are designed to make the game fun to play and fun to watch. By sticking to the rules, you will enjoy the game more.

·        Respect Opponents, Team-mates, Referees, Officials and Spectators

Fair Play means respect. Without opponents there can be no game. They have the same rights as you have, including the right to be respected. Your team-mates are your colleagues. You form a team in which all members are equal. Referees are there to maintain discipline and Fair Play. Always accept their decisions without arguing, and help them to help you enjoy the game more. Officials are also part of the game and must be respected accordingly. Spectators give the game atmosphere. They want to see the game played fairly, but must also behave fairly themselves.

·        Accept Defeat with Dignity

Nobody wins all the time. You win some, you lose some. Learn to lose graciously. Don't seek excuses for defeat. Genuine reasons will always be self-evident. Congratulate the winners with good grace. Don't blame the referee or anyone else. Have determination to do better next time. Good losers earn more respect than bad winners.     

We as representatives of the club promise to: -

·         abide by the rules and policies of the club.

·         not act in any way to bring the club into disrepute.

·         not use or tolerate inappropriate language

·        Provide a safe environment for players to play and train, free from abuse, intimidation or fear.

·        Remain open, honest and approachable at all times.

·        Facilitate players’ participation in both competitive and friendly matches.

·        Communicate regularly with players parents /guardians as to player progress and relevant team matters.

·        Treat each individual player equally in terms of developmental issues - selecting players without favouritism - using a    strict criteria based on Ability, form, attitude, behaviour and commitment.

Players Code of Conduct

I agree: -

·        Attempt to play to the best of my ability, at all times and within the spirit of the game

·        Respect the manager, coaches, officials and supporters of my own and all opposition teams.

·        To Respect all my team mates and opposition players and treat them, as I would want to be treated myself.

·        To Show commitment by attending training, on time, with the correct equipment and with the right attitude with a will to learn.

·        I will not swear, criticise or taunt my team-mates or opposition players, or behave in a manner that would discredit or embarrass my club.

·        I will accept the decisions made my manager and coaches, team captain and match referees without confrontation.

·        I will ask any questions I have in a calm and reasonable manner.

·        I will never bully or attempt to bully anyone.

·        To always put the team before my own personal wants in terms of football.

Any player found to be in breach of the code of conduct may face disciplinary PROCEEDINGS by the club committee.

Parents, guardians and supporters code of conduct

As a parent/guardian/supporter I agree to: -

·        Endeavour to ensure my child is both punctual for both training and matches and in possession of the correct equipment at all times.

·        Endeavour to pay both training and Match subs on time

·        Be a positive role model in terms of attitude and behaviour when present at either training or matches.

·        Show respect towards club officials, supporters and players of all teams.

·        Show respect towards the referee at all time and leave the coaches to consult with referee’s

·        Support the team as a whole, not only my own child

·        Encourage the team using only positive language rather than the negative.

·        Not coach either my own child or the team in match situations, I agree this could contradict a game plan or specific instructions and is not conducive to good coaching, as well as confusing to the players.

·        Not enter the playing area on match days unless invited to do so by a coach.

·        Not openly criticise any player, coach or official at any time in open forum.

·       I will address any questions I have of coaching staff decisions in a civil calm manner in private on a one to one basis.