Codes Of Conduct

The main aim of Sports Group Melbourne (SGM) trading as Futsal Melbourne is not only to help develop quality footballers but more importantly quality people with values and morals that will be used in their future lives and careers, whatever that may be.

In order to achieve this goal, we need to maintain the ideal environment so the young boys and girls learn valuable lessons for life.

Respect should always be present on and off the football field, respect for the referees, for the coaches, for the opposition, for the supporters, for their own teammates and for the facilities they use. Our common goal is to educate and further equip the young boys and girls with the skills and the right attitudes that will help them achieve their goals in the future, both on and off the field.

Fair play is a vital component to keeping an ideal learning environment for the players. Let’s not just focus on the results from the games, but rather on the performances and the improvement the players and the teams are making each time they play. Remember that there is something far more important at stake than the result of a game, that is providing the opportunity for young players to practice good habits, learn from their mistakes and to express themselves.

The below Codes of Conduct shall apply to all players, team officials and supporters at the tournament. By entering or attending this tournament, you agree to abide by the relevant Code of Conduct below.

Any breach of the relevant Code of Conduct shall be subject to disciplinary action by Tournament Management. This may include the offending individuals, teams and/or clubs being suspended and/or expelled from the premises and not be allowed into future events or programs.

Players Code of Conduct

“For the good of the game”

• Winning at all costs isn't everything; at this age learning is more important than winning.
• I will only participate if I’m eligible and of the right age for my relevant team in the competition
• I will only listen to my coaches’ instructions during training and games. No one else.
• I will not engage in the use of crude, foul or abusive language that may be deemed offensive or engage in any conduct detrimental to the image of the game when on or off the field.
• I will never argue with the referee and/or assistant referees regarding decisions they make.
• I will treat participants, officials and spectators with respect.
• I will play by the laws of the game.
• I will cooperate with my coach, teammates, and referees ad officials at all times.
• I will not use any banned substance or drugs of dependence throughout my involvement in the tournament.
• I will display good sportsmanship at all times.
• I will play for the fun of it and not just to please parents and coaches.

Parent and Supporters’ Code of Conduct

"For the good of the game"

• Under no circumstances must you enter the field or technical areas at any stage during the tournament
• Provide all correct documentation as requested to prove your child’s date of birth and identity
• Do not abuse referees under any circumstances
• Do not abuse the event staff under any circumstances
• Do not coach your child during training sessions and games.  That's what the coaches are there for; it sends mixed messages to the players creating confusion.
• Do not interfere with training sessions, stay clear of training and playing areas.
• Cheer on and encourage the players at all times, including the opposition. Applaud good football all-round.
• Winning isn't everything. Players need to develop and at this age learning is more important than winning.
• Remember that children play sport for their enjoyment, not yours.
• Encourage children to participate, do not force them.
• Focus on the child's efforts and performance rather than winning or losing.
• Encourage children to always participate according to the rules.
• Never ridicule or yell at a child for making a mistake or losing a game.
• Remember that children learn best by example, applaud good play by all teams.
• Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities.
• Respect officials' decisions and teach children to do likewise.
• Show appreciation of coaches, officials and administrators. Without them, your child could not participate.
• Respect the facilities that are being used.
• Keep clear from technical areas, benches and change rooms during games and tournament.  This is the ideal time for coaches to teach players without any interference
• Always follow the instructions of the referee and/or tournament staff

Team Officials’ Code of Conduct

"For the good of the game"

• Do not abuse the referees under any circumstances
• Do not abuse the event staff under any circumstances
• Wear your official tournament accreditation at all times
• Ensure all players are eligible and or the right age and ability level for the competition your team is competing in
• Remember that players participate for fun and winning is only part of the fun
• Never ridicule or yell at players for making mistakes or for not winning games
• Be reasonable in your demands on a player’s time, energy and enthusiasm
• Always operate within the rules and spirit of the game and teach your players to do the same
• Ensure that the time players spend with you is a positive experience. All players are deserving of equal attention and opportunities
• Avoid overplaying talented players. Less developed players need and deserve equal playing time
• Ensure that the equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age and ability of all players
• Display control, respect and professionalism to all involved with the sport. This includes opponents, coaches, officials, administrators, the media, parents and spectators. Encourage players to do the same
• Show concern and caution towards sick and injured players. Follow the advice of a doctor or tournament first aid staff when determining whether an injured player is ready to recommence training or competition games
• Coaches: Obtain appropriate coaching qualifications and keep up to date with the latest coaching practices and the principles of growth development and conditioning of junior players
• Any physical contact with a player should be appropriate to the situation and necessary for the player’s skill development.
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every player regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, playing ability, cultural background or religion
• Refrain from over coaching during games, let the players play and learn from their own mistakes
• Set the example. Players look up to coaches as role models. Display behaviours that you want your players to follow.
• Always follow the instructions of the referee and/or tournament staff