GROVE CHALLENGERS
FOOTBALL CLUB
MANAGERS / COACHES
HANDBOOK
2007 / 08
The information contained within this Handbook is for reference only unless
other wise stated and is intended as an overview only for Managers /
Coaches
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TABLE OF CONTENTS:
PRESIDENT’S WELCOME ...................................................................................................................... 3
THE BEST INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD’S GREATEST GAME .................................................. 4
MEETING THE NEEDS OF CHILDREN ................................................................................................. 4
WHAT CAN CHILDREN EXPECT FROM ADULTS? ........................................................................... 5
REFEREES – POWERS AND DUTIES ..................................................................................................... 5
INTERFERENCE FROM THE TOUCH LINE ........................................................................................... 6
GROVE CHALLENGERS COMMITTEE MEETINGS ........................................................................... 7
FIXTURES .................................................................................................................................................. 7
RESULTS REPORTING ............................................................................................................................ 7
PLAYERS REGISTRATION ...................................................................................................................... 8
PLAYERS MEDICAL HISTORY............................................................................................................... 9
TEAM SELECTION .................................................................................................................................. 9
TEAM FUNDS ........................................................................................................................................ 10
PURCHASING NEW KIT AND/OR EQUIPMENT .............................................................................. 10
ENTERING TOURNAMENTS ................................................................................................................ 11
GROVE CHALLENGERS SIX-A-SIDE TOURNAMENT ..................................................................... 11
TOURS .................................................................................................................................................... 12
OXFORD MAIL BOYS LEAGUE ......................................................................................................... 12
APPENDIX A – GROVE CHALLENGERS CONSTITUTION ............................................................. 13
APPENDIX B – EQUALITY POLICY .................................................................................................... 17
APPENDIX C – CODE OF CONDUCT ............................................................................................. 19
APPENDIX D – COMMITTEE STRUCTURE ........................................................................................ 25
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PRESIDENT’S WELCOME
Dear Manager, Coach or Assistant,
Whatever your title it matters little in comparison to the fact
that you are a volunteer within Grove Challengers Football Club
and therefore allowing children of all ages to participate in this
wonderful sport of football.
Grove Challengers was established in 1971 and each year it goes
from strength to strength, thanks to the dedication of people like
you who are prepared to give us time.
I consider this investment well worth while in the development
of the youth within the local area.
The Management Committee for the Club will work hard to
support the teams and build a solid future for the teams to move
forward. Please support them in their endeavours for the future
and remember we are one club.
Please use this handbook as a guide and reference. I’m sure you
will find it very useful. Please consider it to be a working
document – if you feel there is an area that is not covered, please
notify your Management Committee, who would be only too
happy to consider any additions to this, which has been designed
as an introduction to Football and Grove Challengers for “New
Starters” as well as “Old Hands”
Welcome aboard;
Roger
Roger Goodchild
President
Grove Challengers Football Club
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THE BEST INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD’S GREATEST GAME
September 1999 saw the implementation within the UK of Mini Soccer
for all children under 10 years of age.
As a result of nearly 3 years consultation and co-operation between all
bodies involved with children’s football, boys and girls are now
introduced to the game on smaller pitches with scaled down goal
posts and fewer players, in attempting to provide quality experiences
for all young players at all levels.
The Football Association deems Mini Soccer the most appropriate and
fun introduction to football.
It allows greater involvement in the game, with more touches, dribbles
and passes.
Players that have started off in the Mini Soccer atmosphere can then
move forward into 11 a side games from the age of 11 onwards.
Grove Challengers Football Club encourages children from and early
age to get involved and presently teams run from “Stars of the Future –
non-competitive U6’s” through to U18 teams.
MEETING THE NEEDS OF CHILDREN
It is some times easy to forget that “children are more important than
the activities in which they are engaged. The game is not the thing, the
child is”.
At Grove Challengers Football Club we fully support this statement from
the Department of Education and Science – Aug 1991.
The main theme throughout Soccer is to meet the needs of the
children from 7 a side to 11 a side football.
If children are to enjoy and take part in soccer they need to:
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Feel success
Take an active part in the game
Learn to play as a team
Understand the Laws
Develop soccer skills
Be able to take part whatever their ability
Develop fitness
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Many adults do not know what can be expected of children and so
emphasise the result at the expense of the performance. Grove
Challengers Managers and Coaches are reminded that we will not set
unrealistic expectations and above all the sport shall be played as FUN!
All Managers and Coaching Staff shall be vetted and approved not
only by the Grove Challengers Management Committee but also via
the mandatory CBR check prior to taking on a position.
Where Parents wish to get actively involved with the teams in coaching
/ training then they also must have a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau)
check performed.
The protection of children shall always be of the foremost importance
to the club and any unacceptable behaviour by a Manager / Coach
or Parent, shall be investigated by the Committee and action taken as
necessary.
WHAT CAN CHILDREN EXPECT FROM ADULTS?
Remember that children are often easily led, anxious to please and
prone to over enthusiasm, and so plenty of praise and positive
reinforcement is needed – especially with beginners.
Children find it hard to understand negative instructions and easier to
understand positive reinforcement and this can frequently mean
playing down the result and playing up the performance.
This will reduce the child’s anxiety and decrease their worry about
failing. Remember that children do not mean to make mistakes: we
should accept mistakes as a necessary part of learning.
Make sure that players play by the Laws. The majority of children at
these ages will not knowingly infringe the Laws of the Game.
Finally works with other adults, not against them, and by doing so
reinforce positive attitudes among the children.
REFEREES – POWERS AND DUTIES:
The Referee has an important role to play in the game, carrying out
their duties without favour they should be looking to create a playing
environment which is fun for all taking part.
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The Referee should encourage fair play, fun, and respect for others,
development of skills and teamwork, and understanding for the Laws of
the Game.
INTERFERENCE FROM THE TOUCH LINE:
Whilst the fun and friendly atmosphere created by soccer should keep
such instances to a minimum, there may be situations which arise
where comments and abuse from adults, parents and Managers is
made from the touch line. This could be directed at the Referee, but
also at the players.
Under no circumstances are such incidents to happen involving a
Manager, Coach or Assistant from Grove Challengers. The
Management Committee will not tolerate such behaviour and expects
appointed Club officials to behave in an exemplary manner at all
times.
In all cases, Grove Challengers will not condone such behaviour and
the following course of action is recommended:
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Stay calm
Do not get into a disagreement
Allow the Referee deal with it (if they wish)
Report the incident to a relevant club official (if in attendance)
Set a positive example
In the event that the Referee is not aware of the incident and no
Club Official is present, please bring the incident to the attention of
the opponents Manager.
If the incident warrants it, please report any incident in writing to the
Vice- Chairman of Grove Challengers.
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GROVE CHALLENGERS COMMITTEE MEETINGS
The main committee of Grove Challenger’s meets monthly and details
of these meetings can be found on the web site at
www.grovechallengers.co.uk
The current structure of the Committee, including current Committee
members, can be found at Appendix D.
Any Sub committees are chaired by the appointed person from the
main committee.
Full details of the committee minutes can be found on our web site.
FIXTURES
All Oxford Mail Boys League Matches are organised via the Fixtures
Secretary, and a full list of the season’s matches are available from
him/her.
Details of the following week’s matches and results from the previous
week are also posted on the Grove Challengers Web Site.
Where the team does not have any OMBL Fixtures planned, the
Manager may arrange a friendly match with another team, but must
check with the Fixtures Secretary for pitch availability if wishing to play
at home, prior to accepting/arranging the match.
RESULTS REPORTING
It is vital that all Managers report results of fixtures to the Fixtures
Secretary as soon as possible after the game.
Notification of the result can be via email or phone call and must be
followed up by dropping the Results Card to the Fixtures Secretary
before Sunday evening at 17:00hrs at the very latest.
All results have to be phoned in by the Fixtures Secretary to the Oxford
Mail Boys League by 7pm on Sunday evening for publication in
Monday’s edition.
For each result not phoned in or Results Card incorrectly completed,
the Club will be fined. In the season 2005/06 we paid out over £160 in
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fines for late results and wrong cards. An example of a correctly
completed Results card can be found below.
Common areas that can be forgotten are:
1. Referee’s name
2. Referee’s score by both teams
3. Unsigned by either home or away manager
If you are unsure of the correct completion of the Results Cards please
speak to the Fixtures Secretary who will be pleased to advise you.
PLAYERS REGISTRATION
Each player must be registered with the Club before participating in a
competitive game of football. Unregistered players are not covered by
Grove Challengers FC own insurance, or registered as an eligible player
with the OMBL (if U9s or above).
The annual fee for registering with Grove Challengers FC is £25 for up to
and including U8s, £30 for U9s and above. The additional fee for U9s
and above covers the cost of the Club registering each player with the
OMBL.
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The football year usually runs from 1st September of each year. The
players need to be registered with the OMBL by the beginning of
August, therefore the annual fee is payable to the Club by the middle
of July (or the date that is on the application form for that year).
Players who have not paid the annual fee cannot be chosen by the
Manager to participate in a competitive game of football. If the fee is
overdue by more than 3 months, the player will no longer be
considered a member of Grove Challengers FC.
PLAYERS MEDICAL HISTORY
Each Manager is responsible for keeping a copy of the player’s medical
history forms. These forms are to be used in the event of a medical
emergency when parental/guardian care is missing.
The Manager is authorised by the Parent/Guardian to release the
information held on the Player’s medical history form to the Emergency
Services.
Players Medical Forms should be taken to all matches and training
sessions. Parents should be encouraged to update the forms as
appropriate.
TEAM SELECTION
It is the sole responsibility of the manager for each to select the
squad/teams to play each match.
However, all registered players have the right to be included in the
team selection and Managers should make every effort to ensure that
all players are given a fair opportunity to play as much football as
possible for the Club.
Managers are reminded that not all players will be to the same skill level
and being selected as a sub or not selected each week is demoralising
for the player.
Where players are not making the required grade, the manager and
coaching staff should, with consultation from the parents, be making
extra effort to train the player to a better standard on a 1-2-1 basis if
required.
Team selection is an emotive subject and often complaints are
received through the Parents Rep about children not getting to play.
Many times these issues come down to communication between
parents and Team staff. Managers should take time to explain to both
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parents and the player what is being done to encourage the player to
become better.
TEAM FUNDS
Grove Challengers Financial Year runs from 1st June – 31st May each
year. The Accounts are audited by an independent auditor every year.
Each individual team’s finances contribute to the Club’s Accounts,
and therefore Accounts for the same period (1st June – 31st May) from
each team must be submitted to the Treasurer by the 15th June, or any
other date that the Treasurer requests.
Each team should also ensure that any funds in excess of £100 are
‘banked’ with the Treasurer. These funds will remain the property of the
team, but will be held in the Club’s main current account for auditing
purposes.
PURCHASING NEW KIT AND/OR EQUIPMENT
Managers considering purchasing equipment should contact the
Managers Rep for advice and guidance as to the best place to
purchase.
All equipment purchased by teams shall remain the property of Grove
Challengers FC in the vent that the team disbands or moves away. This
is due to the fact that the funds raised for the purchase of equipment
have come from sponsorship of Grove Challengers FC and parental
support through the paying of match/training and other fees.
If managers require any advice on purchasing kit, the Managers Rep
should be contacted. It should be remembered when purchasing kit
that Grove Challengers FC colours are black and white, therefore new
kit should incorporate these colours and no others.
Any kit purchased should take the following guidelines into account:
Football shirts: All football shirts must be black and white striped. The
sponsor’s details can be included on the front of the shirt. Team
numbers will be in red. If the Club logo is required, this must be placed
on the left breast of the shirt.
Football shorts: These must be predominantly black. If stripes (for
instance, down the side of the shorts) is included, they must be white.
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Socks: These may be supplied by the Club, but if purchased by
individual teams, must be predominantly black. A white stripe around
the sock may be allowed.
Polo shirts: These may be supplied by the Club. They must be black in
colour, with ‘GROVE CHALLENGERS FC’ (in white) embroidered on the
left breast.
Jackets: These may be supplied by the Club. They must be black in
colour, with ‘GROVE CHALLENGERS FC’ (in white) on the back of the
jacket. The player’s initials or sponsor’s logo may appear on the left
breast of the jacket.
Any exceptions should be agreed by the Committee before procuring
by the Manager.
ENTERING TOURNAMENTS
Many Clubs within the OMBL will arrange tournaments during the
summer months. Details of these tournaments are posted on the OMBL
web site and details will often be sent to the Secretary, who will
endeavour to inform teams of all tournaments as he/she becomes
aware of them.
Managers are encouraged to review their own age group of the Forum
on the OMBL web site regularly as this is a good source of local
information.
The Club will pay for the entry fee to one tournament a year, as well as
allowing free entry to the Grove Challengers tournament.
Managers are responsible for all arrangements of tournaments.
GROVE CHALLENGERS SIX-A-SIDE TOURNAMENT
Free entry to the Grove Challengers tournament is granted to each team on
the proviso that there is at least one rep from the team on the GCFC six-a-side
committee.
The tournament, usually held the first weekend in July, is the main event of the
year, without which the Club could not survive financially; therefore all teams
(managers, coaching staff, and parents) are expected to help in some way,
either with the organising leading up to the event, or over the weekend.
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TOURS
Many teams now go on tour. The Grove Challengers Committee encourages
tours, however the tours hould be organised by official organisations wherever
possible.
Teams wishing to go on tour must seek the approval of the Committee first, as
the Committee must approach the OMBL and the Bucks & Berks FA for
permission to allow the team to go.
The cost of the tour must be paid by the individual team, however security
deposits may be paid by the Club as this is a reimbursable cost. If the deposit is
not returned for any reason, the team must then reimburse the Club for the full
amount.
OXFORD MAIL BOYS LEAGUE
Grove Challengers Football Club are affiliated to the Bucks and Berks
FA, but play in the Oxford Mail Boys League, with results printed each
week in the Saturday edition of the Oxford Mail, or are available on-line
on the Oxford Mail’s web-site.
Full details and useful information can be found at
www.oxfordmailboysleague.org
Once you are on the home page use the links on the left-hand side to
navigate around and keep up to date.
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APPENDIX A
GROVE CHALLENGERS CONSTITUTION
Constitution (Revised June 2006)
PRESIDENT: Roger Goodchild
Affiliated to the Berks & Bucks FA
Playing ground: The Recreation Ground, Cane Lane, Grove, Wantage,
Oxon Colours: Black and White stripes, Black shorts and Black socks
The name of the organisation shall be: GROVE CHALLENGERS
FOOTBALL CLUB hereafter called the Club.
The aims and objectives of the Club are:
To promote the game of Association Football. The Club will be affiliated
to the appropriate
football association.
To compete in a friendly manner for the fun and exercise.
To promote social activity.
The Club shall endeavour to preserve and improve its amenities.
The Club shall also endeavour to maintain links with relevant authorities
which affect the Club.
Membership
Membership is open to all persons interested in promoting Association
Football. Membership shall run from 1st August for twelve months.
Membership will not be effective until approved by the Management
Committee. There shall be four types of members of the Club:
PLAYER MEMBERS are boys/girls who are eligible to play in Affiliated
Competitions. In addition to any registration fee for the Competition a
PLAYER MEMBER shall pay a subscription to include insurance. The
amount of this subscription will be set on an annual basis by the
Management Committee.
JUNIOR MEMBERS are boys or girls who are not eligible to play in any of
the Affiliated Boys Competitions. JUNIOR MEMBERS shall pay a
subscription to include insurance. The amount of this subscription will be
set on an annual basis by the Management Committee.
ADULT MEMBERS are the parents/guardian of a player who signs for the
Club.
LIFE VICE-PRESIDENTS are persons over the age of 16 years on 1st
August and are appointed for their lifetime in recognition of their
outstanding contribution to the Club. A maximum of two appointments
may be made in anyone season by the Management Committee. LIFE
VICE-PRESIDENTS are eligible to become members of the Management
Committee. No subscriptions apply to this category of membership.
Finance
The Club shall be non-profit making and as far as possible self
supporting. Any excess or income over expenditure shall be devoted to
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fulfilling the objectives of the Club. No person shall incur expenditure in
the name of the Club without the sanction of the Management
Committee. In the event of the Club ceasing to function, all property
and monies shall be donated to the National Association of Boys Clubs.
The financial year of the Club shall be from 1st June to 31st May of each
year.
Management Committee
Conduct Of Business
The day to day business of the Club shall be conducted through a
Management Committee under the overall guidance of the Club
Chairman. The Management Committee shall comprise a maximum of
11 members which shall include the Chairman, Vice Chairman,
Treasurer, Secretary, Fixtures Secretary, Parents Representative/Child
Protection Officer, Managers Rep, Fundraising Chairman, Club Liaision
Officer, Facilities Development Officer and Press Officer.
All members of the Management Committee shall be elected by Adult
Members and Life Vice Presidents at the Annual General Meeting of
the Club and may serve a maximum of five years on the Management
Committee in any one position.
Functions And Responsibilities Of The Management Committee
The PRESIDENT’ role shall be an Honorary Role and be referred to as
“The Honorary President of Grove Challengers Football Club”. The role
of the Honorary President will be elected at every AGM and there shall
be no time limit with regard of years that the position can be held. The
offer of the position shall be one of mutual consent between the Grove
Challengers Football Club and the Honorary President. The Honorary
President may stand down whenever required at each AGM. The
Grove Challengers Committee shall offer the role to any Club Member
who has in their opinion been an asset to the Club over a substantial
period of time and can represent the organisation in the correct way.
The role of Honorary President does not carry any voting rights and will
not require attendance at committee meetings except the annual
AGM, unless he/she wishes. The Honorary President shall be kept up-todate with Committee business via the minutes of the Committee
meetings. The Honorary President shall assist the Chairman of Grove
Challengers at any official functions as requested by the Committee.
The CHAIRMAN's role shall largely be one of co-ordination and
representation, all managerial matters and to work in co-operation
with other members of the Management Committee.
The VICE-CHAIRMAN's shall stand for other members in their absence
and will represent the views of the football club at meetings with Grove
Management Committee and the Rugby Club.
The SECRETARY shall be responsible for keeping records of the
proceedings of the Club. The Secretary shall on all matters of Club
business act under the directions of the Management Committee. The
Secretary is also responsible for maintaining the Club membership book
in accordance with County FA Regulations.
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The TREASURER shall have charge of the funds of the Club and be
responsible for all financial matters and keeping of records. All monies
received on behalf of the Club has be paid to the Treasurer who will
settle all accounts under the authority of the Management Committee.
Payments shall be as far as possible made by cheque on the Club's
account and be signed by the Treasurer and one other Management
Committee member. The Treasurer shall render a full and complete
account at each audit or whenever required to do so by resolution of
the Club. The Treasurer shall ensure the Club accounts are presented in
good order when requested by the Auditors of the Berks and Bucks
County FA and shall also provide a full audited account to the Annual
General Meeting of the Club.
The FIXTURE SECRETARY shall be responsible for the organisation of
home matches and the collection of match cards. The Fixture
Secretary shall also decide on ground fitness alone or in conjunction
with Officials appointed by competitions and/or County Football
Associations.
The PARENT'S REPRESENTATIVE shall represent the views of Parents at
Management Committee meetings. The Parent's Representative will
also be responsible for the collection of the Child Data Protection forms
and implementation of the Child Protection procedures.
The MANAGERS’ REP shall be responsible for representing all the
Managers and their views at the Committee Meetings.
The FUNDRAISING CHAIRMAN shall be responsible for the co-ordination
of activities to promote Grove Challengers Football Club whilst raising
funds for the continued improvement of the Club.
The CLUB LIAISION OFFICER shall be responsible for development of links
with associations/friendships with other Clubs both within the local
area/national and overseas.
The FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT OFFICER shall be responsible for the
development of the facilities of Grove Challengers Football Club
locally.
The PRESS OFFICER shall be responsible for articles and press coverage
to promote Grove Challengers in the best possible way.
VOTING - Each member of the Management Committee shall have
one vote except the Chairman who shall have a casting vote only.
CO-OPTING - The Management Committee shall have the power to
request any Adult Member or Life Vice-President to attend any
Management Committee meeting. If a member of the Management
Committee resigns then the Management Committee has the power
to appoint an Adult Member or Life Vice-President to fill the vacant
office until the next Annual General Meeting of the Club.
Meetings
The Management Committee shall meet every calendar month. A
special meeting may be called by the Chairman at his own discretion
or at the request of any Management Committee member. Four
Management Committee members shall constitute a quorum.
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Absence without good cause from three consecutive meetings shall
cause an Management Committee member to forfeit their position.
Annual General Meetings
There shall be an Annual General Meeting of Adult Members and Life
Vice Presidents not later than the end of June each year. Nominations
to serve on the Management Committee for the ensuring year shall be
submitted in writing to the Secretary seven days prior to the Annual
General Meeting. Each written nomination shall contain:
A proposer
A seconder
A nominee
An EXTRA-ORDINARY GENERAL MEETING of Adult Members and Life
Vice-Presidents may be convened by the Club Secretary at the
instruction of the Management Committee.
The Constitution
THE CONSTITUTION of the club shall be open to amendment only at the
Annual General Meeting. Notice of proposed amendment must be
made in writing to the Chairman two weeks prior to the meeting with:
the name of the proposer
the name of the seconder for on-ward transmission to the Club
Secretary
The proposal shall receive a 75% majority of all Adult Members and Life
Vice-Presidents attending the Annual General Meeting before being
implemented.
Team Managers And Trainers
TEAM MANAGERS AND TRAINERS will be appointed by the
Management Committee for each age group of players. These
persons will be responsible to the Management Committee for training,
team selection and the introduction of new players. The Managers’
Rep will represent the views of Team Managers and Trainers at
Management Committee Meetings.
Amendents, Omissions And Interpretation Of The Constitution
The Management Committee shall have the power to interpret this
Constitution if any ambiguity or difference of interpretation of the
subject matter shall arise. The Management Committee shall have the
power to deal with any matter not provided for in this Constitution.
Disciplinary Matters
Any player sent off the field for foul or abusive language or violent
conduct will have this matter referred to the Management Committee
for disciplinary procedures under the Club's Code of Conduct.
Age Groups
From the season 2004/2005 onwards players will play in their correct
age group [starting with this seasons under 7's].
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APPENDIX B
GROVE CHALLENGERS FOOTBALL CLUB
EQUALITY POLICY
Our commitment is to confront and eliminate discrimination whether by
reason of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality,
ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability and to
encourage equal opportunities.
This policy is fully supported by the Club Officers who are responsible for
the implementation of this policy. The Club, in all its activities will not
discriminate, or in any way treat anyone less favorably, on grounds of
gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic
origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability. It means that the
Club will ensure that it treats people fairly and with respect and that it
will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community
to take part in, and enjoy, its activities.
We will not tolerate harassment, bullying, abuse or victimization of an
individual, which for the purposes of this policy and the actions and
sanction applicable is regarded as discrimination. This includes sexual
or racially based harassment or other discriminatory behavior, whether
physical or verbal.
We will work to ensure that such behavior is met with appropriate
action in whatever context it occurs.
We are committed to taking positive action where inequalities exist,
and to the development of a programme of ongoing training and
awareness - raising events and activities in order to promote the
eradication of discrimination and promote equality in football.
We are committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and
requires all members to abide and adhere to these policies and the
requirements of the relevant equalities legislation
Race Relations Act 1976,
Sex Discrimination Act 1975 and Disability
Discrimination Act 1995 as well as any amendments to these acts and
any new legislation.
The Club commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims,
when it is brought to its attention, of discrimination on the above
grounds and where such is found to be the case, a requirement that
the practice stop and sanctions imposed as appropriate.
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Club Complaints Procedure
In the event that any member feels that he or she has suffered
discrimination in any way or that the Club Policies, Rules or Code of
Conduct have been broken they should follow the procedures below.
1. They should report the matter to the Club Secretary or another
member of the
Committee.
The report should include:
i. Details of what, when, and where the occurrence took place
ii. Any witness statement and names
iii. Names of any others who have been
treated in a similar way
iv. Details of any former complaints made about the incident, date,
when and to
whom made
v. A preference for a solution to the incident
2. The Club’s Management Committee will sit for any hearings that are
requested.
3. The Club’s Management Committee will have the power to:
i. Warn as to future conduct
ii. Suspend from membership
iii. Remove from membership any person found to have broken the
Club’s Policies or Codes of Conduct.
If the complaint is with regard to the Club’s Management Committee
the member has the right to report the discrimination direct to the
relevant County Football Association.
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APPENDIX C
Grove Challengers Football Club
Code of Conduct
Code of Conduct for Football
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.
Community
Football, at all levels, is a vital part of a community. Grove Challengers will
take into account community feeling when making decisions.
Equality
Grove Challengers is opposed to discrimination of any form and will promote
measures to prevent it, in whatever form, from being expressed.
Participants
Grove Challengers 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. Grove Challengers is committed to appropriate consultation.
Young People
Grove Challengers acknowledges the extent of its influence over young
people and pledges to set a positive example.
Propriety
Grove Challengers acknowledges that public confidence demands the
highest standards of financial and administrative behavior within the game,
and will not tolerate corruption or improper practices.
Trust and Respect
Grove Challengers will uphold a relationship of trust and respect between all
involved in the game, whether they are individuals, clubs or other
organisations.
Violence
Grove Challengers rejects the use of violence of any nature by anyone
involved in the game.
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Fairness
Grove Challengers is committed to fairness in its dealings with all involved in
the game.
Integrity and Fair Play
Grove Challengers is committed to the principle of playing to win consistent
with Fair Play.
Code of Conduct for Coaches
Coaches are key to the establishment of ethics in football. Their concept of
ethics is their attitude directly effects the behaviour of players under their
supervision. Coaches are, therefore, expected to pay particular care to the
moral aspect of their conduct.
Coaches have to be aware that almost all of their everyday decisions and
choices of actions, as well as strategic targets, have ethical implications.
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.
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.
Set out below is The FA 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.
1. Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every
person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
2. Coaches must place the well-being and safety of each player above all
other considerations, including the development of performance.
3. Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing bodies.
4. Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with each
player based on mutual trust and respect.
5. Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or
reward.
6. Coaches must encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for
their own behaviour and performance.
7. Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are
appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of players.
8. Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the players (and, where
appropriate, parents) exactly what is expected of them and also what they,
as players, are entitled to expect from their coach.
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9. Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches,
officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the
player.
10. 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.
11. Coaches must consistently display high standards of behaviour and
appearance.
12. Coaches must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
Code of Conduct for Players
Players are the most important people in the sport. Playing for the team, and
or 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.
Obligations towards the game
A player should:
1. Make every effort to develop their own sporting abilities, in terms of skill,
technique, tactics and stamina.
2. 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.
3. Set a positive example for others, particularly young players and supporters.
4. Avoid all forms of gamesmanship, and time-wasting.
5. Always have regard to 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.
6. Not use inappropriate language.
Obligations towards one’s own team
A player should:
1. Make every effort consistent with Fair Play and the Laws of the Game to
help his own team win.
2. Resist any influence, which might, or might be seen to, bring into question
his commitment to the team winning.
Respect for the Laws of the Game and competition rules
A player should:
1. Know and abide by the Laws, rules and spirit of the game, and the
competition rules.
2. Accept success and failure, victory and defeat, equally.
3. Resist any temptation to take banned substances or use banned
techniques.
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Respect towards Opponents
A player should:
1. Treat opponents with due respect at all times, irrespective of the result of
the game.
2. Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence and rough
play, and help injured opponents.
Respect towards the Match Officials
A player should:
1. Accept the decision of the Match Official without protest.
2. Avoid words or actions, which may mislead a Match Official.
3. Show due respect towards Match Officials.
Respect towards Team Officials
A player should;
1. Abide by the instructions of their Coach and Team Officials, provided they
do not contradict the spirit of this Code.
2. Show due respect towards the Team Officials of the opposition.
Obligations towards the Supporters
A player should:
1. Show due respect to the interests of supporters.
Code of Conduct for Team Officials
Team officials are key to the establishment of ethics in football. Their concept
of ethics and their attitude directly affects the behaviour of players under
their supervision. Team officials are, therefore, expected to pay particular
care to the moral aspect of their conduct. Team officials have to be aware
that almost all of their everyday decisions and choices of actions, as well as
strategic targets, have ethical implications. It is natural that winning
constitutes a basic concern for team officials. This code is not intended to
conflict with that. However, the code calls for team officials to disassociate
themselves from a “win-at-all-costs” attitude. 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, team official or parent.
Obligations towards the Game
The team official should:
1. Set a positive example for others, particularly young players and supporters.
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2. Promote and develop his own team having regard to the interest of the
Players, Supporters and reputation of the national game.
3. 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.
4. Avoid all forms of gamesmanship.
5. Show due respect to Match Officials and others involved in the game.
6. Always have regard to 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.
7. Not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
Obligations towards the Team
The team official should:
1. Make every effort to develop the sporting, technical and tactical levels of
the club/team, and to obtain the best results by the team, using all permitted
means.
2. Give priority to the interests of the team over individual interests.
3. Resist all illegal or unsporting influences, including banned substances and
techniques.
4. Promote ethical principles.
5. Show due respect to the interests of players, coaches and other officials, at
their own club/team and others.
Obligations towards the Supporters
The team official should:
1. Show due respect to the interests of supporters.
Respect towards the Match Officials
A team official should:
1. Accept the decisions of the Match Official without protest.
2. Avoid words or actions, which may mislead a Match Official.
3. Show due respect towards Match Officials.
Code of Conduct for Parents/Carers/Spectators
Parents/Carers/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’s 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/carers/spectators that positive encouragement will
contribute to:


Children enjoying football
A sense of personal achievement
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

Self-esteem
Assist to improve the child’s skills and techniques.
A parent’s/carer’s/spectator’s expectations and attitudes have a significant
bearing on a child’s attitude towards:




Other players
Officials
Managers
Spectators.
This club will ensure that parents/carers/spectators are always positive and
encouraging towards all of the children - not just their own - and will
encourage parents/carers/spectators to:






Applaud the opposition as well as their own team
Avoid coaching the child during the game
Not to shout and scream
Respect the referee’s decision
Give attention to each of the children involved in football not just the
most talented
Give encouragement to everyone to participate in football.
The club will ensure that parents/carers/spectators agree and adhere to the
Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy.
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APPENDIX D
Grove Challengers Football Club
Committee Structure 2007/08
Honorary President
Mr. Roger Goodchild
Chair
Mr Terry McCullough
Vice Chair
Mrs Haley Webb
Club Secretary
Mrs Mandy Chapman
Treasurer
Mr Dave Heggie
Chapman
Parents Rep / CPO
Mr. Ian Woodbridge
Fundraising Chair
Mr.Terry McCullough
Fixtures Secretary
Mr Paul Hayden
Chapman
Managers Rep
Mr. Gary Stone
Facilities
Development Officer
Mr. Gary Stone
Club Press Officer
Mr. Trevor
Hetherington
GROVE CHALLENGERS TEAMS
Team
Manager
Assistant Manager / Trainer
Stars of the Future
TBC
U7’s
Mr Ian Woodbridge
U8’s
Mr Gary Stone
Mr Dave Horton
U9’s
Mr Dave Heggie
Mr Pete Ballard
U10’s A
Mr Neil Barson
Mr Richard Farmer
U10’s B
Mr Phil Moore
U11’s
Mr Lance Walton
Mr Phil Criddle
U12’s
Mr Dave Horton
Mr Mike Patrick
U13’s
Mr Colin Chapman
Mr Frank Dorrian
U14’s
Mr Terry McCullough
Mr Ian Howard
U15’s A
Mr Gary Stone
Mr Trevor Hetherington
U15’s B
Mr Jason Lindsey
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