The FFA Code of Ethics

• This code is designed:
• To emphasise the elements of enjoyment and satisfaction to junior players and coaches involved in soccer.
• To make adults including parents and coaches aware that young player’s play soccer to satisfy themselves and not necessarily to satisfy adults or member’s of their own peer group.
• To improve the overall health and fitness of Australia’s youth by encouraging participation in soccer and making it attractive, safe and enjoyable for all to play.
• To remind administrator’s, coach’s, referee’s and parents that soccer must be administered, taught and provided, for the good of those young people who wish to play soccer, as ultimately “It is their game”.

Coaches’ Code of Conduct

• I will respect the rights, dignity and worth of all players and ensure that everyone is treated equally.
• I will ensure that the players are involved in a positive environment, and that the game and training is a positive and enjoyable experience.
• I will respect all players individuality and help them reach their own full potential.
• I will be fair, considerate and honest with all players.
• I will be professional and accept responsibility for my actions and encourage players to demonstrate the same qualities.
• I will make a commitment to my team, and myself that I will continue to improve my own knowledge of the game through coach education and various training programs.
• I will coach my player’s to play within the rules and in the spirit of the game of soccer.
• I will avoid any physical contact with the players and should it be required it would be appropriate to the situation and necessary for the player’s skill development.
• I will refrain from any form of personal abuse towards my players. Also be aware to any forms of abuse directed towards my players from other sources whilst they are in my care.
• I will refrain from any form of harassment towards my players.
• I will provide a safe environment for training and competition, by ensuring the equipment and facilities meet safety standards.
• I will show concern and caution towards sick and injured players and allow for further participation in training and competition only when appropriate.
• I will not engage in the use of crude, foul or abusive language that may be determined offensive or engage in any conduct detrimental to the image of the game when on or off the field.
• I will refrain from arguing with the referee and / or assistant referees regarding decisions they make.
• I will treat participants, officials and spectators with courtesy and respect.
• I will always encourage my team to play within the laws of the game.
• I will not consent to the use of any banned substance or drugs of dependence by my players.
• I will act in a responsible manner and accept responsibility for my actions.

Players’ Code of Conduct

• Play by the rules and within the spirit of the game.
• Do not argue with match officials. If you disagree, have your captain or coach approach the match official during a break in play or after the match is concluded.
• Control your temper. Verbal abuse of officials or other players, deliberatelydistracting or provoking another person is not acceptable or permitted in any sport.
• Maintain your focus and work hard for yourself and your team.
• Be a good sport and be prepared to acknowledge good play whether it is from your team or the opposition.
• Treat all players as you would like to be treated. Do not interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of another player.
• Cooperate with your coach, teammates and opponents. Without them there would be no competition.
• Play for your own enjoyment, and not just to please parents and coaches.
• Remove all jewellery prior to training and match play, as it is a hazard to you and those around you.
• Do not accept or use any banned or unauthorised drug(s) including the consumption of alcohol at any time.

Parents’ Code of Conduct

• Remember that children play the sport for their enjoyment, and not yours.
• Encourage children to play according to the rules and spirit of the game.
• Encourage all children to participate, do not force them.
• Focus on the child’s efforts and performance rather than the result of the activity (that is winning or losing).
• Never ridicule or yell at a child for making a mistake or losing a game.
• Remember that children learn best by example, so applaud good play by both teams.
• Support all efforts to remove racial and religious vilification, verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities.
• Respect the match official’s decisions and teach your child to do likewise.
• Show respect and appreciation to Club officials, including coaches, officials and administrators. Ensure any issues are raised through he correct channels.
• “Smart supporting” – not loud and intense but calm, relaxed and at all times positive.
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person regardless of gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
• Do not smoke or consume alcohol near the team bench (technical area) or sideline, or within those grounds that restrict this.

Administrators’ Code of Conduct

• Help coaches and officials highlight appropriate behaviour and skill development, and assist in raising the standards of coaching and officiating.
• Ensure everyone involved in football emphasises fair play, and not winning at all costs.
• Be tolerant and calm under pressure and approach problem solving in a supportive manner as members and players will expect you to set an example for others.
• Make every effort to educate persons who breach these guidelines from time to time.

Spectators’ Code of Conduct

• Applaud good play and performances from both teams, and be forward in congratulating all participants on their performance regardless of the final outcome.
• Respect the match officials decisions on the day.
• Condemn the use of violence in any form, be it by spectators, coaches, officials or players.
• Show respect for both teams when watching matches, because without them there would be no game.
• Encourage all player s to follow the rules and accept the decision of the match official.
• Do not intimidate, harass or use foul language towards players, match officials, Club officials or spectators.

Further Resources

Victorian Code of Conduct for Community Sport

Play by the Rules