KIDDERMINSTER LIONS. Affiliated Member of the Worcestershire Football Association CHARTER STANDARD DEVELOPMENT CLUB.

Transcription

1 KIDDERMINSTER LIONS FOOTBALL CLUB HANDBOOK Affiliated Member of the Worcestershire Football Association CHARTER STANDARD DEVELOPMENT CLUB (Founded 1996) Last Updated Dec 2012

2 INDEX 1 About Kidderminster Lions 1.1 Kidderminster Lions FC Promise 2 Kidderminster Lions FC Soccer School 3 Codes of Conduct & Discipline 3.1 A Code of Conduct for Football 3.2 Parent/Spectator Code of Conduct 3.3 Players Conduct Code of Coduct 3.4 Process for players receiving yellow or red cards 3.5 Managers/Coach Code of Conduct 3.6 Disciplinary Code 4 Statement of Confidentiality 5 Equal Opportunity Policy 6 Disability Policy 7 Child Protection Policy 8 Health and Safety 9 Club Complaint Procedure 1. ABOUT KIDDERMINSTER LIONS Kidderminster Lions Football Club was formed in We are fortunate to have the excellent facilities of Kidderminster Cricket Club as our home ground for the majority of the football season..the cricket club provides us with superb facilities including ample parking, floodlit area for winter training sessions, clubhouse, shower and changing facilities and of course the pitches are fantastic set on the outfield of the immaculate county standard cricket pitches. A thriving soccer school run by qualified coaches on Sunday mornings introduces boys and girls to the game from age 4 and upwards. We have boys teams ranging from under 7's 7 a-side mini soccer through to 9 aside and 11 a-side boys and a girls team. We have reached FA Charter Standard Development Club which means all of our coaches are level one qualified with some having reached level two. All coaches, committee members and helpers are volunteers and all monies raised go directly into paying for the excellent facilities and running costs. Kidderminster Lions also has a child protection officer, looking out for the welfare of all the players. Kidderminster Lions Football Club aims to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all of the children involved. 1.1 KIDDERMINSTER LIONS FOOTBALL CLUB PROMISE To run the Club effectively and to a professional standard. To ensure the children, who are members of the Club, will be coached and encouraged to improve their football skills. To ensure your child s health, safety and protection as governed by the Football Association (FA)

3 Standards. To provide adequate supervision at all times. To ensure all information is communicated in a timely manner. 2. KIDDERMINSTER LIONS FOOTBALL CLUB SOCCER SCHOOL We are proud of our thriving soccer school at the Lions. Lions Junior Soccer Coaching is open to new entrants (boys and girls) of all abilities from 4 years to 7 years of age. Once with the Juniors, children may continue training until the end of School Year 4 (9 years old). Unfortunately we do not have the resources to accommodate children beyond this age. OBJECTIVES The aims of the Lions Junior Soccer Coaching are:- To encourage a child to enjoy the game and develop their football skills. All training is conducted under the supervision of coaches with a minimum of FA Level 1 Coaching Award. To annually develop a squad of players to a level that they may competently represent the Lions in league football. Each September the Lions aim to enter two teams into the local league. By attending soccer school there is no guarantee that your child will be selected for these teams and, likewise, there is no pressure to join the teams if selected. Children who are not selected to join the teams are welcome to continue training at soccer school until the end of school year 4. For further information Contact for all Soccer School enquiries: Sue Oliver school@kidderminsterlionsfc.co.uk Tel: Mobile: CODES OF CONDUCT & DISCIPLINARY CODE 3.1 A 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. This code applies to all those involved in football under the auspices of The Football Association (FA). Community Football, at all levels, is a vital part of a community. Equality Football is opposed to discrimination of any form and will promote measures to prevent it, in whatever form, from being expressed. 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

4 administrators and supporters. Football is committed to appropriate consultation. Young People Football acknowledges the extent of its influence over young people and pledges to set a positive example. 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. 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. Violence Football rejects the use of violence of any nature by anyone involved in the game. Fairness Football is committed to fairness in its dealings with all involved in the game. Integrity and Fair Play Football is committed to the principle of playing to win consistent with Fair Play. 3.2 PARENTS/CARERS/ S P E C T A T O R S CONDUCT Parents/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 our club, it is important to reinforce the message to parents/spectators that positive encouragement will contribute to:- Parents/spectators need to ensure within our club that they are always positive and encouraging towards all of the children not just their own. This can be achieved by:- Applaud and positively encourage the opposition as well as your own team. Avoid coaching any child during the game. 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. No parent or carer is to enter the field of play unless instructed by referee to do so. Parents ultimately are responsible for reimbursement of administration fees issued to players when given yellow or red cards during matches. To ensure our child is punctual to training sessions and matches and inform coaches and managers when our child is not available for games or training. To ensure our child attend all training sessions and matches appropriately dressed with shin pads, football foots, trainers and warm all weather clothing. To support the Club Functions/Fund Raising Events whenever possible. To adhere to Club procedures with regard to payment of subs, fines and codes of conduct and respect officials such as the referee, managers of the opposition and children from the opposing team. To communicate all relevant information concerning their child to the Club and similar if they have a grievance, by following the grievance procedure. Parents/spectators need to ensure that they agree and adhere to our club s Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy. A parent rep will be appointed for every team to assist the Manager communicate with parents and to oversee any issues which may occur at matches or training which the committee need to be aware of.

5 3.3 PLAYERS CONDUCT All players are required to behave in an appropriate manner on and off the pitch or training ground and whilst wearing the club kit / badge. Not to use inappropriate or offensive language. No hitting, punching, slapping, kicking or spitting. No bullying will be tolerated within the team and against the opposition. To listen to and respect their manager / coach at all times. To respect the referee and linesman and accept their decision at all times. Treat opponents with respect at all times, irrespective of the result of the game. Show due respect to Team Officials, players of the opposing team and supporters. To accept success and failure, victory and defeat equally. Set high standards of behaviour for others to follow, to achieve punctuality, politeness and respect PROCEDURE FOR PLAYERS THAT RECEIVE YELLOW OR RED CARDS DURING MATCHES When a player is issued with a yellow or red card from the referee during the game then a report is sent to the Worcestershire FA by the referee to inform the club. The Worcestershire FA then forward notice to the Club Secretary of this and also a administration fee which is payable to the FA by the player or parent. The club is not responsible for this fee. Should the parent refuse to pay the fee then details will be forwarded onto the FA for recovery of the fee. Where a dispute arises regarding this the club reserves the right to suspend a players registration. Anyone wishing to seek further clarification of the process please contact Chris Dale -Discipline Officer at Worcestershire Football Association on MANAGER AND COACH CONDUCT Those who coach or are involved in coaching young players, are responsible for the health, safety, welfare and education of young people. This is the first priority before the coaches, and any achievements for the club. It is natural to have a winning constitution, however this must be avoided where the welfare of a young person is affected. The code of conduct for Managers and Coaches is intended to avoid a win at all costs attitude. The code of conduct also puts expectations on Managers and Coaches to respect each other in relation to their positions within the club. All Managers/Coaches are expected to read and sign the code of conduct. ( see Form KLFC-MCC agreement form ) 1. Coaches/Managers must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every player and treat each of them equally within the context of the sport. 2. New Managers/Coaches will be expected to attend a meeting with the committee to clarify their expectations and what they can expect from the club, including training and support. 3. Coaches/Managers must respect the rights, dignity and worth of other Managers and Coaches within the team and club. Any disputes that may arise between each other must be communicated to the committee with immediate effect. 4. Coaches/Managers must adhere to all guidelines laid down by the club constitution and governing bodies including the FA. Worcester Football Association, Stourport and District Youth Football League, Stourbridge Youth League and Mercian Football League.

6 5. Managers/Coaches must encourage and guide players and ensure all activities they direct are appropriate to age, experience and ability. 6. Managers/Coaches are responsible for making sure they have the appropriate qualifications, First Aid and Child Protection clearance, and making sure they are kept up to date. 7. Manager/Coaches must promote the code of conduct for players and parents and spectators, they must never condone violations of the laws of the game and must take action when behaviour of parents/spectators or players contravenes the spirit of the Laws of the Game. 8. Managers/Coaches must display high standards of behaviour and appearance and act as a role model for players, parents and spectators. Managers/Coaches must be mindful they are held in a high esteem by the players. This includes behaviour on and off the pitch. 9. All Managers/Coaches are expected to attend the Managers meeting held once a month at the club, failure to attend will result in the Manager/Coach explaining to the committee their reasons for absence. Should you be absent then the Secretary, Chairman and Committee must be advised of this and reason. There should be no reason why the Assistant cannot attend in the Managers place. A representative is no longer acceptable unless the committee have given permission that this is acceptable. 10. Only Managers and Coaches can register or de-register players through the Club Secretary. 11. It is the Managers responsibility to make sure all equipment is kept tidy when putting it away also to make sure it is not damaged. Any incidents of damage or untidiness needs to be reported to the Club Secretary. 12. The committee reserves the right to refuse a Manager or Coach from managing or coaching more than one team. 13.When the weather dictates whether a game is played unless the groundsman cancels the match it is then down to the referee to make the decision not the manager. Managers must attend the home ground and consult with the referee this can be done over the phone. All managers must attend their home ground. The groundsman can also cancel training sessions. 14. The committee reserves the right to ask any Manager or Coach to leave the club without notice should they consider their behaviour to bring the club into disrepute. This will be communicated to the manager/coach at the time that he/she is being suspended pending investigation. If as a result of this a team has to fold then the committee will have no other option than to fold the team unless a suitable applicant is found to take over coaching the team. Expulsion from the club can be as a result of non attendance to meetings. If Managers/Coaches want to play under the Kidderminster Lions Banner then these rules must be adhered to. Where Behaviour and conduct of Managers and Coaches is brought into question, details must be communicated verbally to the committee immediately followed by a written incident report from all concerned. 15. Club Property. All training equipment, balls, cones and bibs remain the property of Kidderminster Lions FC and should be returned should any team be disbanded. The football kit also remains the property of the club and should be returned to the club or passed to another team to use. Any item purchased through the club remains the property of the club.

7 3.6 DISCIPLINARY CODE Kidderminster Lions Football Club members are expected to adhere to the codes of conduct or FA rules or regulations at all times. If anyone is found to be in breach of any of the rules or codes of conduct then the committee will be informed and appropriate action will be taken. This could be on the training ground, playing league or friendly games or on club organised events. The members are expected to conduct themselves at all times in a manner that will reflect the high standards and ideals of their team, club and community. Any player, parent, carers, manager, coach or club official that violates the Code of Conduct shall be subject to disciplinary procedure, which may include permanent exclusion from Kidderminster Lions Football Club. 4. STATEMENT OF CONFIDENTIALITY Kidderminster Lions Football Club understands that confidentiality is extremely important. The Club understands that information given by parents/carers and their child(ren) is personal and will be treated with respect. Information provided to the Kidderminster Lions Football Club will only be shared with the Club members who need to know the information given and will deal with in an appropriate manner. Information about parents/carers or their child(ren) will not be provided to other organisation without the permission of the parent/carer. If the Board feel that it would be useful to pass some information on to another organisation, they will first discuss this with the parent/carer. The decision of the parent/carer will be respected in this matter. Permissions will be sought from the parent/carer should a request be put forward to publish a picture of their child with a local agency including the media. All children will have to have completed a parent photo permission form when they join the team. The only time when the above procedures will not be followed is if the Kidderminster Lions Football Club Child Welfare Officer has reason to believe that a child is at risk of harm. In this situation, in the interests of the child the appropriate body (as directed by the FA Child Protection Procedures & Practices Handbook) will be informed. 5. EQ UA L OPPORTUNITIES STATEMENT Equal Opportunities Policy for Clubs Kidderminster Lions 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. All members are expected to abide by the requirements of the Race Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1986 and Disability Discrimination Act Specifically discrimination is prohibited by: 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. Expecting an individual solely on the grounds stated above to comply with requirement for any reason whatsoever related to their membership, which are different from the requirements for others.

8 Imposing on 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.. Victimisation of an individual. Harassment of an individual, harassment being in any form, verbally or electronically or over the phone or by text. The club will not discriminate against any member during the recruitment selection promotion and training. Should Kidderminster Lions FC be informed of any such incidents of discrimination on any of the grounds stated then the club commits itself to conducting an immediate investigation with all parties involved. Any member of Kidderminster Lions FC found guilty of discrimination will be asked to leave the club immediately. 6. DISABILITY Kidderminster Lions Football Club commits itself to the disabled person and will make every attempt to make reasonable adjustments where necessary. Appropriate training will be made to such members who request it. 7. CHILD PROTECTION POLICY Kidderminster Lions 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 Association s child protection and best practice policy and procedures and endorse and adopt the policy statement contained in that document. The key principles of The FA child protection policy are that: The child s welfare is, and must always be, the paramount consideration 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. All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately Working in partnership with other organisations, children and young people and their parents or carers is essential. 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. Kidderminster Lions Football Club recognises that this is the responsibility of every adult involved in our club to safeguard the welfare of all children and young people by protecting them from harm and from neglect and from bullying. We endorse and adopt The FA s child protection and best practice guidelines for recruiting volunteers. All members of Kidderminster Lions Football Club will:-

9 Complete a full CRB Unit Enhanced Disclosure in line with FA Guidelines Have a meeting with the Child Welfare Officer and Committee about themselves and to make sure all appropriate checks have been completed. The club will develop a role profile Where necessary the club will obtain references before officially appointing new members All current members will be expected to maintain their child protection status with the Worcestershire FA. All current members 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 Kidderminster Lions Football Club guidance will be sought from The Football Association. 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. 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. Where it is deemed necessary Kidderminster Lions Football Club can obtain information from the Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme through West Mercia Police although this scheme is designed where the offender is most likely to be a family member or a friend of a family than a complete stranger. Around 75 per cent of child sex offenders are related to or known to their victim. The Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme has been developed to respond to this. The scheme allows members of the public - parents, carers, guardians or interested third parties - to ask the police to tell them about a person's record of child sex offences if they are concerned about that person's access to a child This information will be kept confidential by the Child Welfare Officer but should any member be found to have previous convictions or allegations made against them they will be asked to leave the club immediately. Kidderminster Lions Football Club has appointed a Child Welfare Officer Mrs. Jayne Pinder cwo@kidderminsterlions.co.uk Other contact numbers :- County Welfare Officer with the Worcestershire FA Anna-Maria Konstantinides Tel: Ext 214 (Office) Tel: (Mobile) anna.konstantinides@worcestershirefa.com The Football Association/NSPCC Child Protection 24-Hour Helpline The FA child protection team or info@thefa.com West Mercia Police

10 8. HEALTH AND SAFETY GOALPOST SAFETY GUIDELINES The Football Association along with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the Health and Safety Executive and the British Standards Institution, would like to draw your attention to the following guidelines for the safe use of goalposts. Too many serious injuries and fatalities have occurred in recent years as a result of unsafe or incorrect use of goalposts. Safety is always of paramount importance and everyone in football must play their part to prevent similar incidents occurring in the future. For safety reasons goalposts of any size (including those which are portable and not installed permanently at a pitch or practice field) must always be anchored securely to the ground. The use of chain anchors or appropriate anchor must secure portable goalposts weights to prevent them from toppling forward. It is essential that under no circumstances should children or adults be allowed to climb, swing on or play with the structures of the goalposts. Particular attention is drawn to the fact that if not properly assembled and secured, portable goalposts may topple over. Regular inspections of goalposts should be carried out to check that they are kept properly maintained. Portable goalposts should not be left in place after use. They should be dismantled and removed to a place of secure storage. It is strongly recommended that nets should only be secured by plastic hooks or tape and not by metal cup hooks. Any metal cup hooks should be removed and replaced. New goalposts should not be purchased if they include metal cup hooks, which cannot be replaced. REMEMBER TO USE ALL EQUIPMENT, NOT JUST GOALPOSTS, SAFELY AT ALL TIMES. 9. CLUB COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE In the event that any member feels that he/she has suffered discrimination or bullying in any way, or that the Club Policies, Rules of Code of Conduct have been broken, they should follow the procedure below:- They should give a written report of the matter to the Club Secretary or another member of the Committee. Your report should include:- Details of what, when and where the alleged incident took place; Any witness statement and names, addresses of that person(s); Details of any former complaints made about the same alleged incident, date, when and to whom made; A preference for a solution to the alleged incident. The complaint will be passed to the disciplinary committee and they will invite all parties to a meeting separately to discuss the complaint. The Club s Committee will have the power to do one of the following three points:- Warn as to future conduct in writing; Suspend from membership whilst impending investigations takes place, which could result in; Removal from membership. If for any reason that person is found to have broken the Club s Policies or Codes of Conduct. In the event of an external complaint, the Committee will hold a meeting to discuss the alleged incident and depending on the severity the disciplinary will deal as above. Should there be any evidence of harassment towards any member involved in a complaint then the committee will ask the member causing the duress to leave the club. The committee s decision will be final.

11 A copy of this Handbook, our club constitution, copies of conduct code agreements & other forms can be downloaded from our website. ( see club documents section )