Index. Team Manager Coach 2017 Season and Meeting Dates 2017 DOB Requirements BJFL Umpire Group Info Info for 2017 Season

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1 Index Team Manager Coach 2017 Season and Meeting Dates 2017 DOB Requirements BJFL Umpire Group Info Info for 2017 Season - Kits - Pre match duties - During match duties - Post match duties Examples of Match Day Documents - Match day envelope - Timekeeper, score and B&F cards - Most Disciplined Club Award card - Team sheet BJFL 2016/17 By-Laws BJFL Under 15 Girls Rules Area Agreements and the Permit System Codes of Behaviour Cyber Safety Policy BJFL Duty of Care

2 TEAM MANAGER As your Club appointed TEAM MANAGER, you should make yourself aware of the By-Laws of the Bendigo Junior Football League. There is a FULL COPY of the BJFL By-Laws in this handbook. Your club also has copies of the By-Laws and the WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country Handbook On Match Day YOU are the MAIN CONTACT for your TEAM. You will be the one approached by a League Official. Neat, legible paperwork is your responsibility. All Bendigo Junior Football League Games and Functions are Smoke Free. NO SMOKING is allowed by any Team Official. All Change Rooms used by the Bendigo Junior Football League are NO SMOKING areas. It is YOUR responsibility to enforce this ruling and to ensure ALL PARENTS and others are informed of the policy. All Change Rooms (including showers and toilets) used by Bendigo Junior Football League Clubs must be swept and all tape and other litter must be removed. Teams are responsible for all their own equipment, clothing and players private possessions. The BJFL will not be held responsible for any loss by Clubs or Players.

3 COACH COACHES ACCREDITATION YOU MUST BE ACCREDITED To Coach in the Bendigo Junior Football League you must be accredited to a minimum of Level 1. (Refer to By-Law 17.1 of the BJFL By-Laws) It is the responsibility of you and your Club to ensure you re accredited. If it is four or more years since your accreditation, then you are required to update your accreditation. Please contact Shane Koop on for details of local courses and/or alternative venues. BJFL BY LAWS, COACHES 17.1 To be eligible to hold a Coaching position within the BJFL, all Coaches must meet the requirements of the Worksafe AFL Victoria Country Handbook listed under Coaching Accreditation 2015/16 WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country Handbook, 16.0 COACHING ACCREDITATION (a) All coaches of AFL Victoria Country clubs are required to obtain Level 1 Accreditation specific to the age of the players they are coaching, prior to the commencement of the season. The penalty to be imposed by leagues if coaches continue to coach having not obtained the necessary accreditation must be i) a $200 fine (Senior) or $100 fine (Junior) and ii) the loss of match points for the matches won by the team whilst the unaccredited coach continues to coach. In the event of no match points being received the league must apply the above fines. Fines are applied once only ($200 or $100) and are not applicable to every match. In the instance where coaches are not accredited and commit to completing the next available (or otherwise agreed upon) AFL Victoria Coach Accreditation Course, the following bonds for clubs are to apply $200 (Senior) and $100 (Junior). Where a coach fails to complete the agreed upon AFL Victoria Coach Accreditation Course the bond paid by the club is forfeited. ENTRY INTO ALL OR ANY BJFL VENUE IS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT THAT YOU AGREE TO ABIDE BY THE WORKSAFE AFL VICTORIA COUNTRY & BJFL CODES OF BEHAVIOUR

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6 BJFL UMPIRE GROUP Uniform : Orange Shirt, White cap Duties : Implement Basic umpiring standards as per BUA guidelines AFL Vic Country Regulations 8.2 Seniority over Club Umpire 2017 The BJFL Umpire Group will continue the addition of a Blue Card alongside the existing Red and Yellow Order off rule; AFL Vic Country Regulations BLUE CARD: Cool Off A player issued with a Blue card will be sent off the ground for 5 minutes, timekeepers to be alerted by the controlling umpire. The player may be replaced by another player; once the 5 minutes elapses the player may return to the playing arena. A player can only receive one blue card per game; the second offence will be an automatic Yellow or Red card penalty.

7 TEAM MANAGER Information for Season 2017 KITS Your team will receive kits which contain: 10 x combination of Timekeepers Cards, Goal Umpires Cards, Best & Fairest cards. 10 x Best & Fairest envelopes 10 x Match Day Result envelopes 10 x BJFL Most Disciplined Club Award cards 10 x BJFL Most Disciplined Club Award envelopes Each pack contains enough paperwork for 10 Home games. The first team (home team) in the draw provides all paperwork if you are the first listed team but the game is not at your usual home ground, you are still the home team. The BJFL supply all paperwork and lodge all results for the finals series only. NOTE: U9, U10 and U12 girls are not required to submit paperwork for 2017 DUTIES OF TEAM MANAGER BEFORE & AFTER MATCH PRE MATCH 1. Match Day Check List is an app (available on Apple and Android). This must be completed before the start of each match by a Home Club Representative. Please see the following link for instructions on how to download the app: 2. Team sheets must be correctly completed and readable. 3. Team sheets must include indication of Permit Players. (P) 4. The home team manager will tear off the Time Keeper s card and distribute to person(s) allocated to the duty. 5. Timekeeper s card includes three sections. ONE. Details of the match, Start and Finish times of quarters are to be recorded. TWO. A section to record any ORDER OFF. (Reason for sendoff MUST BE RECORDED) and THREE. Time keepers are also required to keep score of the game and at the completion sign the bottom of the card. 6. Please ensure that Timekeepers/Interchange Stewards escort the Umpires to and from the field. 7. The Scorecards are to be given to Goal Umpires. (One for each team) 8. The Best & Fairest Card, small envelope (DULY COMPLETED), Most Disciplined card and envelope, match ball and two Team sheets must be given to the Central Umpire before the game commences. (Please complete front of Best and Fairest card envelope prior to handing to umpire. EG date, round number, age division, match teams participating). 9. Team Sheets for age groups 12, 14, 16, 15 Girls and 18 Girls must clearly list goal kickers against the players name where applicable. 10. Team Sheets must list best payers for age groups Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, Under 15 Girls & Under 18 Girls. 1 - first best through to 6 - sixth best 11. If the BUA supply insufficient umpires, the home club is to supply the first umpire required. If a second umpire is required, the away team to supply. E.G. 1 BUA Umpire + 1 home club umpire. 0 BUA Umpires = 1 home club + 1 away club umpire.

8 As Team Manager, you will be the person approached by a League Official. Your Coach will not be approached, so you must ensure that the above and the following occur on Match Day DURING MATCH 1. That you have the following positions filled by responsible people Official Runner Green Water Carrier x 2 Red Trainer/Medical Red with white cross Timekeeper/Umpire Escort Orange Boundary Umpires White Goal Umpire White and that all are wearing the appropriate coloured BJFL vest which must be visible at all times. The vests are designed to go over clothing. Jackets or other clothing must not cover them at any time. 2. Boundary Umpire(s) are of suitable age and size to do the job, preferably an adult. (No children under the age of 14 may be used). They must be able to throw the ball in, in a suitable manner and must be equipped with a whistle while Boundary Umpiring. 3. Water Carriers are of suitable age and size to do the job, preferably an adult. (No children under the age of 14 may be used). Water carriers can only enter the field of play at a reasonable break in the game, (example after a goal is scored). POST MATCH 1. At the completion of the match the home team manager is required to collect all completed match day documents: 2 x completed team sheets one for each club. signed by Team Manager for each side 1 x completed Timekeepers card. 2 x completed Goal Umpire cards 1 x completed Best & Fairest card (umpires) that will be sealed in an envelope (by umpire) 1 x completed BJFL Most Disciplined Club Award card per team also sealed in an envelope (by umpire) Umpires Report, if a report has been made during the game. 2. Scores and Goal Umpire Cards must be checked to ensure they match and add to total of goals kicked by individuals. Illegible result sheets may not be published. (Refer to By Laws) 3. Umpires Report. If there has been a report made, make sure all relevant paperwork is placed inside the large Match Day Envelope. It must be indicated that there is a report enclosed, by marking with a circle around the Umpire s report enclosed section of the envelope. If a report has been made, at the time of entering results a courtesy to trevor.arnel@aflcentralvic.com.au outlining the details is required. 4. The HOME TEAM is responsible for the entering of results into Sportingpulse, no later than 8pm each Sunday night after the current Round. During 4 grading rounds, AFL Central Vic requests results to be entered ASAP post game. 5. The HOME TEAM is responsible for submitting Match Day Envelopes to: AFL Central Victoria Level 1, 45 Mundy Street, Bendigo AFTER HOURS. A letter box is situated at the front of the building. (to the right, behind screen) DURING BUSINESS HOURS are to be delivered in person, Level 1, 45 Mundy Street, Bendigo Results are to be submitted NO later than noon the Monday following the Round. If the home club is from out of town (Castlemaine, Kyneton, Maryborough, Woorinen) the Match Day Envelope must be received no later than Tuesday morning s mail. If possible the away club to submit (this is preferred). 6. As a backup, the away Team Manager must bring a full set of paperwork and Football to the match in case the Home Team Manager does not have all relevant paper work or Football. Please see following pages for examples of correctly completed Match Day Documents.

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13 BJFL Bendigo Junior Football League Inc Inc No A N By Laws 2017

14 Bendigo Junior Football League Inc. Inc. No. A N By-laws By-Law As amended December 13 th 2016 Heading CONTENTS 1 PART A - DEFINITIONS & INTERPETATION PART B - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS 2 Controlling Body 3 Age Divisions 4 Team Nominations 5 General Meetings Matters Determined Pre-season 6 Footballs 7 Interleague Organisation PART C - THE HOME & AWAY SEASON 8 Registration of Players 9 Clearances and Permits 10 Eligibility to Play 11 Divisional Splits Match Provisions 12 Fixtures, Ladders, Cancellations, Forfeits etc. 13 Team Numbers and Team Sheets 14 Times of Play 15 Acceptable Equipment 16 Field Umpires and Stewards 17 Coaches 18 Match Officials 19 Club Responsibilities BJFL Game Rules 20 Order Off Rule 21 Fifty Metre and Twenty-Five Metre Penalties 22 Centre Square Rule 23 Interchange After Match Provisions 24 Result Sheets 25 and 26 Protests and Investigations 27 Reports and Optional Penalties 28 Penalties, Fines and Appeals PART D - FINALS 29 Finals Eligibility 30 Finals Series PART E - OTHER PROVISIONS 31 Best and Fairest Awards 32 Life Members 33 Changing these By-Laws 1

15 Season 2017 Clarification and Amendment summary For Season 2017 the BJFL Executive have appointed the Governance to AFLCV Football Commission. Therefore, any terminology relating to the BJFL Executive is to be replaced with AFLCV No player can play with a permit in the BJFL Final Series Match day Balls: Yellow or Red: Boys: U16 Size 5 MMM leather; U14 &U12 Size 4 Synthetic; U9 & U10 s Size 3 synthetic. Girls: U18 Girls Size 4 Leather; U15 Girls Size 4 Synthetic; U12 Girls Size 3 synthetic. Club Points & Sustainability: The intention of the club sustainability rule is a player needs to play for 3 seasons at a junior club to be considered a local junior and a 1 point player, therefore only one game per round will be considered. Player Eligibility: Players may play no more than 5 games in a higher age group throughout the season. (May not be exceeded under any circumstances - players may not play in a lower age group other than where they are registered Under 12 players cannot move down in divisions or age groups from where they are initially nominated. Player Numbers: If a team arrives with enough players which would enable a game to proceed by lending extra players to the opposition (not having minimum numbers), but does not or will not lend players, then no points will be granted to either team, (even though the other team would have been required to forfeit) For female teams, if both coaches agree, teams can start with up to 18 per team, umpires must be notified Monies: Although all BJFL fees are due and payable by the 30 th June each year, should any fees remain outstanding, then such club teams will be ineligible to compete in any finals matches until full payment is made. Grading Games: 4 points per game will be awarded to the winning team, these points will accrue and be applied to the start of the Home and Away season, percentage will not be carried forward. An appeal process is available for any MAJOR discrepancy that creates unfair advantage and ineligibility for finals. This process must be lodged to AFLCV 4 weeks prior to finals commencement. Note: For creating the draw easier and quicker, at the end of grading there will be no referral to who played who and where previously. We will start the season proper from round 5 with the aim to have the new draw completed after round 6 Female Rules Summary: Under 12 girls as per 2016, Under 15 girls inherit 2016 Youth Girls rules and U18 girls inherit under 16 male rules (except penalties are only 25 meters). Maximum registered numbers for U18 girls is 24, the minimum playing numbers are 11, maximum playing numbers on field are 15 and 6 Interchange (If agreed by both teams, a maximum of 18 players can take the field with a maximum of 3 interchange players) Finals Eligibility: BJFL Players can only play in one finals division / age group per year (Written Exemptions for SPECIAL Circumstances will be considered by AFLCV if received 4 days prior to the final) 2

16 PART A - DEFINITIONS & INTERPRETATION 1.1 These are the By-Laws of the Bendigo Junior Football League Inc. These By-Laws apply to and bind all Clubs affiliated with the BJFL. 1.2 In these By-Laws the following terms have the following meanings. Please note for season 2017 the reference to the BJFL Executive will be interpreted as AFLCV, as they are controlling the Governance for season AFLCV - AFL Central Vic., Controlled by Regional Commission AFLVC - AFL Victorian Country, controlling body of the Regional Commission AFLVC Rule - any current AFLVC Rule, Regulation, Procedure or Policy AGM - the BJFL Annual General Meeting BJFL - the Bendigo Junior Football League Inc. BJFL Rules - the Statement of Purposes and Rules of the BJFL BJFL Vests - Either the appropriately coloured Bib or Vest as generally designated by the Executive OR any article of clothing specifically approved by the Executive for the purposes of these By-Laws for any Season. BFNL - the Bendigo Football Netball League Inc BUA / BJFLUG - Bendigo Umpires Association or its successor Club - a Club affiliated with the BJFL Club Official - any person occupying any official position with a Club, and any person being a Match Official for any Team of that Club Delegate - a Club representative at a General Meeting Executive - the BJFL Executive Officers and Committee Members Fees - any amount payable by a Club to the BJFL for any purpose Fixture - the BJFL Draw for each season FOM - Football Operations Manager GM - a BJFL General Meeting including Special General Meetings HDFNL - Heathcote & District Football Netball League Inc. Home Team - Team first named in the Fixture HUB - BJFL s administration centre Managed by AFLCV Commission Investigator - the Independent Investigator appointed by the BJFL JOM - Junior Operations Manager Laws of the Game - Laws of Australian Football as promulgated by the AFL LVFNL - Loddon Valley Football Netball League Inc. Match Fees - Fees payable by each Team each Match as set by the BJFL Match Slips - Team Sheets, Result Sheets, Umpires Best & Fairest Envelopes, Reports, Goal Umpires Cards and other Match paperwork as prescribed by the Executive Minimum Age - Must be 7 years old as at April 30 in each year. Minimum Age - Must turn 8 in calendar year for Under 10 modified rules Minimum Age - 9 Years old for Under 12, 11 years old for Under 14, 13 years old for Under 16. Player - a player registered in accordance with AFLVC requirements Prescribed - as determined by the Executive President - the BJFL President / AFLCV Junior Operation Manager Registrar - the BJFL Registrar Reports and Reportable Offences the meanings used in the Laws of the Game Round - Round of Season Games Season - the current BJFL season including Finals unless otherwise stated Season Game - a Home & Away Game in the BJFL season (not a Finals Game) Secretary - the BJFL Secretary Tribunal Umpire YG - the Independent Tribunal of the BJFL - any Central Umpire officiating in any BJFL Game, and any Boundary or Goal Umpire appointed by the BUA to officiate BJFL Games (not a Club appointed Boundary or Goal Umpire) - Youth Girls (Competitive female football) 3

17 1.3 In these By-Laws, unless the context otherwise requires Words importing any gender shall include all genders Words importing the singular shall include the plural and vice versa Terms used or defined in the Laws of the Game have the same meaning herein. 1.4 The Laws of the Game and AFLVC Rules apply to the BJFL. 1.5 Any notice to be given to the Secretary or Registrar under these By-Laws must be in writing and delivered by mail, , Fax or hand delivery to him at his residence or postal address within the designated time limit. If the notice is on behalf of a Club it must be on, or accompanied by, the official letterhead of the Club and signed by the Club President and Secretary or by Club Officials acting on their behalf. Any notice failing to comply with this By-Law shall be invalid. PART B - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS CONTROLLING BODY 2.1 The BJFL is the Controlling Body for all matters herein. The Executive may, subject to the BJFL Rules and these By-Laws, exercise all the powers and functions of the BJFL for the purposes of these By-Laws except where such are required to be exercised by a GM. For Season 2017 the BJFL Executive have appointed the Governance to AFLCV Football Commission. Therefore, any terminology relating to the BJFL Executive is to be substituted to AFLCV 2.2 Clubs are required to supply AFLCV a copy of their Annual Report at seasons end. 2.3 The Executive shall annually appoint a Tribunal. 2.4 The Executive shall appoint an Investigator as and when required. AGE GROUPS 3.1 The age groups of the BJFL shall be determined at the AGM of 2017 and shall then apply for such time as determined at that AGM. The age divisions to apply until then as determined at the 2016 AGM are Under 9, Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 & Females Under 12,15 & 18 Youth Girls. Under 9, Under 10 and U12 girls divisions to operate with modified rules as per The Football Victoria Development Junior Match Policy and as amended by the BJFL. Please refer to separate manual containing rules and regulations 3.2 Each age division is open to all Players who are under the relevant age for that division at the date as determined by the AFLVC. 3.3 A person cannot play in the BJFL until he or she has attained the minimum age as per AFLVC requirements. 4

18 TEAM NOMINATIONS 4.1 Nomination of a team to play in any season shall only be accepted if made by an affiliated Club on the prescribed BJFL nomination form. Any Team that has not been so nominated by the closing time for Nominations shall not be included in that season s Fixture. Team Age Group Nominations shall close on March 1 each year unless the Executive declares a later closing date. Team Nominations must be accompanied by a Provisional List of Registered Players for that Team, and shall not be accepted for a Team with such a List having less than 14 Players. A fee of $100+ GST per Team must also accompany team Nominations. The divisional split for all Team age group nominations shall close no more than 2 weeks later. 4.2 Any Club withdrawing a Team from the competition after Nominations close shall forfeit all fees paid to the BJFL for the Team and must also pay all fees due to be paid for that Team up until the time the Team is withdrawn. 4.3 The Executive shall have the right to accept, refuse or review any Team Nomination and may impose any condition it deems necessary before accepting any Nomination. 4.4 If 2 or more Clubs wish to field a merged team in any season, they shall consult with the Executive at least 14 days prior to the close of nominations. 4.5 Any non-affiliated Club applying for affiliation with the BJFL must have that application ratified at a GM. 4.6 Each Club shall, when nominating any team, register its Team Jumper (Colours, Design and Emblems), and its Team Name with the Executive. The Executive may refuse to register any new or changed Team Jumper or Name if it is of the opinion that any such Jumper or Name is too similar to, or conflicts with, any Jumper or Name already registered. Further the Executive may, at its reasonable discretion, refuse to register any Jumper or Name that contains Advertising or a Sponsor s Name, or it may place such restrictions in relation thereto that it considers reasonably appropriate. 4.7 Variations to team lists: Following initial nomination of teams, any variations must be advised to the BJFL and include an updated list. Should a team have a full complement of players as per by-law 8.4, then application for any variation must be made to the BJFL advising reason(s) for the deletion of any player or players prior to the inclusion of any additional player(s). GENERAL MEETINGS 5.1 All Clubs are required to be represented by a Delegate at all General Meetings. Any Club failing to be so represented at a GM without notifying the Secretary or JOM prior to the GM shall be liable to a fine of $ The President, or in his absence, one of the Vice-Presidents, shall preside as the Chairman at every GM. If the President and the Vice-Presidents are all absent from a GM, those present entitled to vote shall elect one of their number to chair the GM. 5.3 For the purposes of these By-Laws, it is provided that for voting at any GM, each Club has one vote (to be exercised by its Delegate), and each member of the Executive has one vote. Votes may only be cast personally by those present at the GM. In the case of an equality of voting on a question, the Chairman is entitled to exercise a second or casting vote. 5.4 A Club is not entitled to vote at a GM if all monies due and payable by it to the BJFL have not been paid by the prescribed date if that date precedes the GM. 5

19 MATTERS DETERMINED PRE-SEASON FOOTBALLS 6.1 The Executive shall determine the appropriate Footballs to be used in each age division for the forthcoming season by 31 January each year and shall notify all Clubs of its decision by 7 February. All Teams must supply the Footballs so determined in accordance with these By-Laws. INTERLEAGUE ORGANISATION 7.1 AFLCV Junior Youth Football Academy will control all BJFL Inter League programs in consultation with the BJFL Executive 7.2 A player shall be eligible for selection in any Age Division for which he meets the Age restrictions, regardless of the Age Division in which he usually plays in the BJFL. 7.3 Clubs are to be notified as to times when Interleague squads train and as to players selected. Clubs should encourage participation of Players. 7.4 All Players train and play for Interleague at their own risk. PART C - THE HOME & AWAY SEASON REGISTRATION OF PLAYERS 8.1 A Player must be registered with the BJFL each season by 5:00 PM on the Friday prior to the Player s first game in the BJFL. Registration shall not be complete until the information from the prescribed AFLVC registration form is entered into and accepted by the AFLVC registrations data base. 8.2 Each Club shall appoint a Club registrar who shall submit a provisional list of Registered Players to AFLCV administration for each team by 5:00pm on the Wednesday prior to the first game of the season. (Including grading games) 8.3 No Team in the Under 9 or Under 10 Division is allowed to have more than 16 Players registered. No Team in the Under 12, Under 14 and U16 Division is allowed to have more than 24 Players registered. CLEARANCES AND PERMITS 9.1 The AFLVC Rules and Regulations regarding clearances shall apply to the BJFL. ELIGIBILITY TO PLAY 10.1 Players playing in BJFL games must be under the maximum age for each age group at the date prescribed by By-Law 3.2, and must have reached the Minimum Age as per By-Law

20 10.2 A Player must provide the Registrar with an extract of birth certificate or a copy of School record of date of birth, if requested Subject to meeting age eligibility, players may play no more than 5 games in a higher age group throughout the season. (May not be exceeded under any circumstances - players may not play in a lower age group other than where they are registered and players from another team/ age group must be clearly recorded on the bottom of the team sheet). Any team using players under this system shall be limited to a maximum of 20 players on that day. Any breaches exceeding the maximum of 5 games shall be subject to such penalty as applied at the discretion of the Executive in terms of by-law 28.1 (e.g. any or all of, suspension, fine and/or loss of points) a Under 12 players may play up to a maximum of 5 games per season in the next highest Under 12 team of their club. (May not be exceeded under any circumstances) Any team using players under this system shall be limited to a maximum of 20 players on that day. U12 Players may not play in a lower level team other than where they are registered Players within the same Age Group may move up or down from Division 1 and Division 2/3 throughout the season. Once a player has played or been listed on the team sheet for more than 8 games in Higher Division, they can then only play finals in that team. The Higher Division team/teams must have nominated 10 players with team nominations (Refer to by-law 8.2) who are ineligible to play in the Division 2/3 Team under this provision. Eligible players may play Division 1 and Division 2 or 3 on the same weekend if required, on a maximum of 5 occasions per player. Any team requiring additional players under this system shall be limited to a maximum of 20 players Note: Please read by-law 29 for Finals Eligibility. Any breaches exceeding the maximum of 5 games shall be subject to such penalty as applied at the discretion of the Executive in terms of by-law 28.1 (e.g. any or all of, suspension, fine and/or loss of points) 10.4 Requests for variations to submitted team lists will be considered up to the second week following completion of grading games (should these be played), and if approved, amended team lists must be lodged by 5.00pm on the Friday prior to the next round. If no amended team list is provided the original team lists submitted by each club will be accepted as final. DIVISIONAL SPLITS 11.1 Teams competing in any Age Group may be split into divisions within that Age Group to suit the circumstances of the Season - e.g. team numbers. Any split shall be at the discretion of the Executive. MATCH PROVISIONS FIXTURES, LADDERS, CANCELLATIONS, FORFEITS ETC Premiership points shall be allotted for a win or for a bye and 2 points for a draw Ladders shall be calculated on firstly Premiership Points, secondly on percentage 12.3 Any Club wishing alterations or special considerations in regard to the season s fixture, must give at least 14 days notice in writing to the Executive, with any alteration to be absolutely at the discretion of the BJFL Executive. Any fixture may be changed at any time by the Executive at its discretion. 7

21 12.4 The Executive may decide to cancel any game due to wet weather. In the case of a general Cancellation, the Executive shall endeavour to have this announced on local radio at 7:00 AM or as soon thereafter as possible on the day of play A Team which is to forfeit any game must advise AFLCV before 12 Noon on the Friday prior to the day of play. It must still pay Match Fees for the game, but any Team forfeiting after this deadline must pay the Match Fees for both teams Whenever a forfeit occurs the Executive shall, at its discretion, determine the allocation of premiership points and calculation of percentage in relation thereto If a team arrives with enough players which would enable a game to proceed by lending extra players to the opposition (not having minimum numbers), but does not or will not lend players, then no points will be granted to either team, (even though the other team would have been required to forfeit) TEAM NUMBERS AND TEAM SHEETS 13.1 For any BJFL Game, each Team shall consist of no less than 14 (11 YG) and no more than 24 (21 YG) Players. Teams can only have an Interchange bench consisting of no more than 6 Players. (Unless fielding players due to by-law 13.6) The minimum number (14) (11 YG) must be ready to play 10 minutes prior to the official starting time of the match. 13.1a An exemption to the maximum allowed 24 players is extended for Castlemaine, Woorineen, Kyneton and Maryborough JF Clubs to a total of 30 players for their Under 14 and U16 s & Girls teams on the basis that only one team is entered into those age divisions. Should they wish to enter two teams, then the normal 24 player maximum for each team shall apply. NOTE: (Maximum match day team numbers of 24 (21- U15YG,18YG) players shall still apply) YG ; If agreed by both teams, a maximum of 18 players can take the field with a maximum of 3 interchange players 13.2 Official BJFL Team Sheets shall be the only recognised record of a Player s games played in the Season, and no other record or evidence shall be considered Any Team playing a Player who is not listed on the official BJFL Team Sheet for any game shall be deemed to have played an ineligible Player. The onus is on Clubs to ensure that official Team Sheets are filled out in a neat, legible and correct manner and an illegible Sheet will not be an acceptable defence to a charge arising under this By-Law Each Team Sheet shall include the following: The Surname and Christian name and Playing Number of each Player, and The Surname and Christian name of each of the Team s Match Officials for the game (as referred to in By-Law 18) 13.5 Each Team Sheet shall be clearly signed by the Coach or Team Manager, and must be handed to the Field Umpire no later than 10 minutes before the scheduled commencement of the game At the commencement of a game, if a team has less than 18, (14 Youth Girls) players, the opposing team shall be limited to that number of players on the field. The alternative to playing with less than 18 (14 YG) is as follows: Teams may share players to allow all players the opportunity to play on the day. (Players loaned to any team on the day must be recorded on team sheet of team actually playing for on that day - clearly noting accordingly) (Applies to home and away games only) Note: Loaned players may not be varied during the game i.e. players may not be changed at each or any interval 8

22 TIMES OF PLAY 14.1 Unless otherwise determined by the Executive, games shall be of the following duration For Under 14 or older Age Groups - 4 x 20 Minute Quarters, with maximum breaks between Quarters of 5, 10 and 5 Minutes respectively For all younger Age Groups - 4 x 15 Minute Quarters, with maximum breaks between Quarters of 5, 5 and 5 Minutes respectively. Under 9 and Under 10 Age Groups to operate as per modified rules of The Football Victoria Development Junior Match Policy and as amended by the BJFL Except for Finals (as provided in By-Law 30.2), no time on shall be played in any BJFL game If the scheduled playing time in any BJFL Match is interrupted by 10 minutes or more in a single instance, (arising for example, as a result of a serious injury to a player, or from a power failure or from any other cause), then at the discretion of the Executive, either The playing time for the match shall be reduced to such time as the Executive determines, but so both teams have an equal time to kick to both ends, or The match may be terminated and the Executive may then, in accordance with the Laws of the Game award the result or declare the match abandoned, or call a replay at such time and place as it may determine. ACCEPTABLE EQUIPMENT 15.1 In the interest of Player safety the Executive (in conjunction with the BUA) reserves the right to deem what items of equipment or clothing a Player can or cannot use when playing in BJFL games. Items required for medical reasons are exempt from this By-Law, but in the event of any dispute a medical certificate must be supplied before such exemption shall apply The AFLVC Rule as to the use of Gloves by underage players and the Laws of the Game as to Player s Boots, Jewellery and Protective Equipment apply to all BJFL games. FIELD UMPIRES AND STEWARDS If no Field Umpire is available for any Match, or if a Field Umpire is unable to continue in any Match, the Coaches of the 2 Teams may by agreement appoint any person or persons (recommended one from each Club) to umpire the Match or the remainder of it, failing which the Match shall be abandoned Only the team Captain shall be permitted to speak to Field Umpires during the progress of the match at intervals. (In the event that the Captain is not confident in approaching the umpire(s) the Team Manager may assist them to speak with the umpire to convey the message) Any breach of this rule may be referred to the Tribunal and is not intended for specific umpire decision clarifications A Field Umpire may overrule any decision made by a Boundary or Goal Umpire provided by a Club in accordance with By-Law 18 COACHES 17.1 To be eligible to hold a Coaching position within the BJFL, all Coaches must meet the requirements of the Worksafe AFLVC Handbook listed under Coaching Accreditation The Executive may conduct compulsory meetings of Coaches, but no penalty shall apply if a genuine reason is given for non-attendance. Coaches may send a representative 9

23 17.3 Coaches are permitted inside the fence during play but must stay outside the boundary line. BJFL blue vest must be worn To be eligible to Coach in the BJFL all Coaches (Including Assistant Coaches) must obtain a Working with Children Check Volunteer. MATCH OFFICIALS 18.1 Subject to By-Law 30.1, BJFL Teams are required to provide one of each of the following Match Officials for every game in which that Team participates. The names of each Official shall be included on the Team Sheet for the Match. Each official must wear the appropriate BJFL Vest throughout the Game, must be at least 14 Years of Age (except in the case of Water Carriers) and must be capable of performing the duties required. The Officials to be provided and the Vests they are to wear are:- Coach - BJFL Blue Vest Team Manager - BJFL Yellow Vest Official Runner - BJFL Green Vest Water Carrier - BJFL Red Vest Trainer/Medical - BJFL Red Vest with White Cross Timekeeper /Umpire s Escort - BJFL Orange Vest Boundary Umpires - BJFL White Vest Goal Umpire - BJFL White Vest 18.2 A Team may have up to 2 Water Carriers for any Game and ONE Trainer/Medical person. Water Carriers can only enter the field of play at a reasonable break in the game, (e.g. After a goal is scored) (Trainer/Medical person shall not be allowed to be a water carrier and shall only be allowed to enter the field of play in the case of an injury) A greater number may be allowed at the discretion of the Executive. NOTE: The above does not exclude either water carrier from being a qualified medical person The BJFL recommends that each Team should have at least 1 Trainer who has a current First Aid Certificate or Level 1 Trainers Certificate as a minimum accreditation Boundary Umpires must be equipped with a Whistle. They must fairly carry out all the duties of Boundary Umpires under the AFL Laws of the Game, but are not able to Report any Player or Official. All Clubs have the option to provide 2 boundary umpires for a game should the Clubs need arise Goal Umpires must be equipped with Flags and a Score Card. They must fairly carry out all the duties of Goal Umpires under the Laws of the Game, but are not able to Report any Player or Official. They must record scores on their Score Cards during the Game and must confer and reconcile their Score Cards at each break Time Keepers must be equipped with a reliable Clock or time-keeping device, a Time Card and a Bell or siren. They must ensure that each quarter of each game is played for the correct time in accordance with these By-Laws, and that breaks are restricted to the maximum allowable. They must record starting and ending times for each quarter on their Time Cards. In addition they must Record on the Time Cards details of any Orders Off during the game, including the Name and Number of the player Ensure a player ordered off does not return until the required period of playing time has elapsed Jointly act as Interchange Stewards as required by By-Law 23.2, and each keep a separate record of all Scores made by each Team during the Game. 10

24 18.6 (a) Each Team must provide an Umpire s Escort whose duties are to Escort the Central Umpire on and off the Playing Field, this person may be either the Time Keeper or Goal Umpire from either side participating. Team Sheets to be marked accordingly In the Event that the Goal Umpires disagree on the final scores in any Match, the Executive shall take into consideration the scores separately recorded by the Timekeepers in determining the result of the Match Official Runners may only enter the playing arena during a Game to confer with players of their own Team, after which they must immediately leave the arena Trainers/Water Carriers may only enter the playing arena during a game to provide medical assistance, or to carry water to players, after which they must immediately leave the arena Official Runners and Trainers/Water Carriers must comply with any instruction of the Field Umpire. The Field Umpire may order any such person off the arena, and may Report any person who infringes this By-Law. Any such report shall be referred to the Tribunal A Team may also have an Assistant Coach as a Match Official. In that case, the name of the Assistant shall be recorded on the Team Sheet for the Match. The Assistant shall wear the BJFL Blue Vest and shall comply with By-Law 17.3 and this By-Law in the same manner as the Coach is required to do All Match Officials must wear BJFL official identification vests at all times during all BJFL games. Any Official not wearing his vest shall be liable to a fine. CLUB RESPONSIBILITIES 19.1 At any ground where a Junior Club shares a facility with a Senior Club, it is the responsibility of that Junior Club (whether or not it is fixtured to play there and whether or not it is the Home Team) to ensure that goal post covers are fitted, that any other safety equipment items that may be required are readily available, that Change Rooms are open and operational and that the interchange area is marked at the facility for all fixtured BJFL Games The Home Team is responsible for the following Collecting all match slips and handing them in to the prescribed place by the prescribed time on the day of play Providing the football for the match as prescribed under By-Law 6, and Providing markers for Interchange area (refer By-Law 23.3) 19.3 Both participating Teams are responsible for the following in relation to Change Rooms (whenever available) Ensuring the rooms are left in a clean and tidy condition before they vacate the rooms (even if another club is to use the rooms for following game) Ensuring no valuables or property are left unattended. The BJFL shall not be responsible for any loss or damage to a Club s or Player s personal property A Club shall be liable for any damage caused to any rooms being used by that Club s Team Teams must ensure that no footballs are kicked within the confines of the rooms. Handpasses only shall be permitted Any Team failing to abide by this By-Law shall receive a written warning. If that Team offends this By-Law again during the season it may be banned from using any change room used in the BJFL for a time as determined by the Executive. Any ban may include the Finals Series. 11

25 19.4 All Clubs shall be responsible for the conduct of their Members, Players, Officers and Officials and shall also endeavour to properly control spectators during and at all fixtures in which that Club is involved, and shall use their best endeavours to ensure that spectators comply with By- Law 19.5 and the BJFL Code of Conduct Spectators must remain outside the fence during play and should stand clear of the Goal Umpire. On grounds where there are no fences spectators must stand well back from the boundary. BJFL GAME RULES ORDER OFF RULE 20.1 The AFLVC Order Off Rule will apply to all BJFL Games with the following additional provision to apply: Under 12 BJFLUG Blue Card; 5 minute cool off with player replacement allowed Any player ordered off for a third or subsequent time during the Season without being reported, shall be ineligible to play in the match following the third or subsequent order off. FIFTY METRE AND TWENTY-FIVE METRE PENALTIES 21.1 A 50 metre Penalty shall be applied in accordance with the Laws of the Game in all Age Group Games for Under 15 or older Age Groups but this penalty shall be reduced to 25 metres in all younger Age Groups and female divisions A mark shall be paid in accordance with the Laws of the Game in all Age Group Games for Under 15 or older Age Groups but this distance shall be reduced to 10 metres in all younger Age Groups except Under 9 & 10 s. (Marks are awarded for a kick no matter what distance it travels in Under 9 & 10 Division) CENTRE SQUARE RULE 22.1 The Centre Square Rule shall apply to all Age Groups of the Bendigo Junior Football League and will be enforced only on grounds where the centre square is already marked or has provision for Senior Football to be played. INTERCHANGE 23.1 An Interchange area must be used in all BJFL Games. The procedures for the interchange of Players during a Game shall be as provided in the Laws of the Game. A Player who does not leave the ground in accordance with those procedures shall not be permitted to take no further part in the Match The BJFL may appoint a Steward to supervise the interchange procedures during any Game (e.g. Finals). In all other Games where no Steward has been so appointed, the Timekeepers appointed by both Teams shall jointly act as Stewards for the purposes of the interchange law, and shall stand together at the interchange area throughout the Match On grounds that are not marked, the Interchange area must be designated by plastic dome type markers supplied by the Home Team (per By-Law ), placed 15 metres apart in an area that is to the satisfaction of both Coaches and the Field Umpire. 12

26 AFTER MATCH PROVISIONS RESULT SHEETS 24.1 As soon as possible after the completion of a BJFL Game, the Home Team s Coach or Team Manager must confer with the Coach or Team Manager of the opposition Team, then complete the Result Sheet in a neat and legible fashion. Result sheets must be filled out as follows: Filled out in blue or black pen only No brackets around goals kicked If two or more Players have kicked the same number of goals, write that number of goals only after last name. Use commas after Goal Kickers Use only initials or Christian names (no nicknames) No more than 6 best Players per Team All match day documents must be submitted to the AFLCV administration hub by the home team, no later than 12 noon on the Monday following the round. Out of town clubs to submit by Tuesdays mail or if possible arrange for the away club to submit Illegible result sheets will not be published, and no correspondence will be entered into concerning this. PROTESTS AND INVESTIGATIONS 25.1 Protests as to the result of any BJFL Game may only be lodged by a Club or a member of the Executive. A Protest by a Club must accord with By-Law 1.5 and must be lodged with the Secretary or JOM within 72 hours of the starting time of the Game in question An Executive hearing shall be convened to hear and arbitrate on all matters that have been brought before it under By-Law The Executive may refer any matter under this By-Law to the Investigator for further investigation, and, if it decides not to determine the matter itself, it may refer the matter to the Tribunal for decision The AFLVC Rules concerning unbecoming conduct apply to the BJFL and an independent investigation shall be carried out whenever a notice is lodged under the AFLVC Rules alleging any such conduct Any person or Club requested to provide evidence by the Investigator shall fully co-operate with him, including Truthfully answering any questions from the Investigator, Producing any relevant document in his custody or control when requested, Responding courteously and politely to Investigator requests. REPORTS AND OPTIONAL PENALTIES 27.1 Umpires shall report to the BJFL any player or official who commits a Reportable Offence during a Match or on the day of a Match within the immediate proximity of the venue where the Match is conducted. Reports are to be made in accordance with the Laws of the Game The reporting procedure adopted by the AFLVC (as set out in the AFLVC Handbook) applies to Reports made by Umpires to the BJFL The AFLVC Rules for Optional Set Penalties apply to the BJFL. For offences covered by those Rules, Players may be suspended for set periods. In these cases the Report shall not be heard by the Tribunal unless a request is made by either the Umpire who lodges the Report, the Reported Player, the player allegedly offended against or either Club. Such requests must 13

27 comply with By-Law 1.5 and be lodged with the Secretary or JOM no later than 12 noon on the first working day immediately following the Match. If the Tribunal subsequently finds the charge sustained, it shall have power to impose such penalty as it deems fit Boundary and Goal Umpires provided by Clubs in accordance with these By-Laws are not able to report a Player or Official Any player who is suspended by the Tribunal, or for whom a set penalty is imposed as above, or who receives a suspension under any other By-Law, shall be ineligible to win a Best and Fairest Award of the BJFL in the year in which the suspension or set penalty is imposed. PENALTIES, FINES AND APPEALS 28.1 If at any time any Player, Club Official, Club, Umpire, member of the Executive or any other person ("the Offender") shall, in the reasonable opinion of the Executive, be guilty of a Reportable Offence or of misconduct or unbecoming conduct or conduct prejudicial to the interest of the BJFL, then the Executive may, subject to the BJFL Rules, at any time during the calendar year when the incident leading to such action occurs or within 3 months thereafter, at its discretion Request the Investigator to investigate the incident and then take such further action under this By-Law or any other By-Law as it considers appropriate, or Impose a Fine of not less than $10 nor more than $500 on the Offender, or If the Offender is a Club, cause that Club to be expelled or suspended as a member of the BJFL in accordance with the BJFL Rules, or Deregister or refuse to register any Player or Official for any period of time, or Impose such further penalty as it thinks fit, or Do any combination of the foregoing The Executive shall not impose any of the penalties set out in the preceding By-Law 28.1 (other than Reporting an Offender) unless it has given the alleged Offender details of the alleged offence and the opportunity of being heard or of making a written statement to which due consideration is given by the Executive All fines other than those handed down by the tribunal or independent investigator shall be determined by the Executive. This includes any breach under the Most Disciplined Club Award Criteria where the Executive believe the club has breached and/or not co-operated with the MDCA incident response form guidelines and the BJFL internal investigation policy. This shall also include any suspended fines or penalties issued Any person or Club receiving a penalty or fine or aggrieved by a Decision by the Executive or Investigator may appeal. Notice of the Appeal must accord with By-Law 1.5 and must be lodged with the JOM within 72 hours of the occasion for the Appeal. The fee set out in By-Law 28.6 must accompany the Notice of Appeal. The Tribunal shall hear the Appeal Any person or Club receiving a penalty or fine as a result of a decision by the Tribunal shall have any Right of Appeal in the AFLVC Rules but as an alternative may use the Grievance Procedure set out in the BJFL Rules, provided the person or Club notifies the Secretary or JOM (acting as the Grievance Officer) per By-Law 1.5 within 72 hours of the Tribunal decision. The fee set out in By- Law 28.6 must accompany the Notice of Appeal. In such a case the Grievance Officer shall cause the matter to be re-heard by an Independent Tribunal ( the Second Tribunal ) consisting wholly of different persons to those comprising the original Tribunal. The Second Tribunal may have regard to any of the proceedings of the original Tribunal, but otherwise shall deal with the matter as a new hearing. If it determines a penalty should apply, it may then impose such penalty as it considers appropriate, including an additional or greater penalty than that originally handed down if it considers this appropriate. Until such time as the Second Tribunal has handed down its verdict, the decision of the original Tribunal shall apply. 14

28 28.6 A Notice of Appeal lodged under By-Law 28.4 or 28.5 shall not be valid unless it is accompanied by payment of a non-refundable fee of $200 which shall in all cases be retained by the BJFL. FINALS ELIGIBILITY 29.1 A player must play a minimum of 4 BJFL games in any division (AGE APPROPRIATE) in the current home and away season before they may be considered eligible to play finals in that division. (If no games are played in any particular division, they are ineligible to play finals in that division) Exemptions may be available upon request for Exceptional circumstances A player must be registered by the commencement of the 4 th last round of the home and away season Under 12: Players may only play in the finals for the division in which they are nominated prior to their first game. (Refer to By-Law 8.2) 29.4 To play in Division 2/3 finals, Senior listed players (Not included in nominated 10 players and not having played more than 8 games) must have played at least 5 Division 2/3 games during the year. (If played less than 5 Division 2/3 games, must have played no more Division 1 than Division 2/3 games) 29.5 Should any team have less than 20 players at finals time, they may make application to play ineligible players from their lower division team, provided that team hasn t played/isn t playing finals, up to a maximum of 20 players. Such application is to be made to the BJFL Executive at least four (4) days prior to each week of finals matches. Their decision shall be final. The BJFL Executive shall have the power to seek medical evidence of a players injury should they consider it necessary 29.6 Although all BJFL fees are due and payable by the 30 th June each year, should any fees remain outstanding, then such clubs teams will be ineligible to compete in any finals matches until full payment is made. FINALS SERIES The BJFL shall provide all footballs for all Finals series matches. (Each team still required to bring a football as a spare so that at least 2 Footballs are available for every finals game) as prescribed under By-law 6. The BJFL shall in addition, provide a new football for each Grand Final game. NOTE: Footballs provided in other than Grand Finals shall remain the property of the BJFL. Each Team competing in Finals is also responsible for the following Collecting match slips as prescribed and handing them to the nominated person by the required time Unless the Executive determines otherwise, it shall not be necessary for any team to supply any Umpire or Timekeeper for any Finals game. If the Executive decides any such person must be provided, then each Team must provide such a person Unless the Executive otherwise determines, Time On shall be played in the second half only of all Finals games, and in any extra Time periods played under By-Law 30.3, in accordance with the Laws of the Game except that the Law that Time On always be added while the ball is out of bounds [Law (d)] shall not apply. 15

29 The clock shall not be stopped for scoring of goals UNLESS there is an undue delay. i.e. ball goes outside the perimeter fence (There should however be very few occasions when this is necessary due to there being spare balls held by the Inter-Change stewards. INJURY If the umpire halts play in ANY quarter for a serious injury, the clock shall be stopped and time-on will apply In all Finals including the Grand Final if scores are confirmed level by the Goal Umpires at the scheduled time of completion of a game, the Field Umpire shall resume the match after a break of 2 minutes as follows: Teams shall change ends and play 2 x 5 minute periods. Teams shall change ends after the completion of the first 5 minute period If scores are still level, the Captains shall toss for ends. Play will then immediately resume and the Team that scores first shall be the winner Coaches are permitted to address their Players at the completion of normal time only, for a time period not exceeding 2 minutes. They may not address Players again during the extra time period If Time On has been played per By-Law 30.2 for that game, Time On shall also be played in the extra time periods playable under this By-Law Any Team causing delays before, during or after its Finals game shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $ The BJFL shall during the Finals series charge admission into finals venues. Admission prices shall be determined by the Executive at least 6 weeks prior to the Finals series and notified to Delegates at the following GM The following provisions shall apply unless the Executive determines that a different procedure is to be used in a particular Season: In Divisions where 8 or less Teams compete, there shall be a Final Four In Divisions where 9 or more teams compete, there shall be a Final Five Finals shall be played over 4 weeks as follows: Where a Final Four applies - Week 1 - First Semi-Final (SF1) Week 2 - Second Semi-Final (SF2) Week 3 - Preliminary Final (PF) Week 4 - Grand Final Where a Final Five applies- Week 1 - Elimination Final (EF) Qualifying Final (QF) Week 2 - First Semi-Final (SF1) Second Semi-Final (SF2) Week 3 - Preliminary Final (PF) Week 4 - Grand Final - 3 rd V 4 th - 1 st V 2 nd - Winner SF1 V Loser SF2 - Winner SF2 V Winner PF - 4 th V 5 th - 2 nd V 3 rd - Winner EF V Loser QF - 1 st V Winner QF - Winner SF1 V Loser SF2 - Winner SF2 V Winner PF 30.7 Subject to By-Laws 29 and 30, the provisions of By-Laws 12 to 28 inclusive apply to all Finals games. 16

30 PART E - OTHER PROVISIONS BEST & FAIREST AWARDS 31.1 Field Umpires, including persons appointed to umpire under By-Law 16.1, shall award votes for Best and Fairest Players in all Season Games in accordance with procedures set down by the Executive Each Age Group shall have a separate Award as shall each Division within any Age Group. Where a Team s Division is changed following the split made under By-Law 11, votes cast before the split shall nevertheless be awarded to the player in the Division in which that player s Team competes after the split, so that the player is credited with all votes cast for him during the Season Games in that Age Division In the event 2 or more players receive an equal amount of votes in the Award for any Division, they shall each receive the Award By-Law 27.5 applies to make certain Players ineligible for an Award The Executive may determine to offer additional Awards at its discretion. LIFE MEMBERS 32.1 The Executive shall be empowered to elect life members to the BJFL Clubs may submit names of suitable nominees To be eligible a nominee must have given outstanding service to the BJFL Nominations for each year shall close on July 30 of that year CHANGES TO THESE BY-LAWS 33.1 These By-Laws may be altered, added to or varied by a majority vote at the AGM or at a Special GM. A Special GM for this By-Law is one of which Clubs have been given at least 21 days notice of the GM and its Agenda. No business other than that set out in the notice convening the Meeting shall be transacted at the Meeting The Secretary /JOM shall give notice of a Special GM for the purposes of By-Law 33.1 if so requested by the Executive or by any 2 Clubs No changes to these By-laws shall take effect after May 30 until the end of the Season for that year, except in the case of extraordinary circumstances. 17

31 BJFL Under 15 Girls Rules & Regulations 2017 UNDER 15 GIRLS RULES & REGULATIONS FOR ADOPTION BY AFL VICTORIA LEAGUES (2013) CONTENTS SUMMARY Player Registration Age Team Numbers on Match Day Game Format Uniforms & Equipment Modified Match Rules Finals and Representative Football Eligibility Player Transfers... 2 UNDER 15 GIRLS BY-LAWS TO BE ADOPTED - from AFL Victoria Youth Girls Program By-Laws March UNDER 15 GIRLS SPECIFIC MATCH RULES TO BE ADOPTED - from AFL Victoria s Youth Girls Program Schedule 1 - LAWS OF AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL (as adopted by AFL Victoria s Youth Girls Program)... 5 UNDER 15 GIRLS SPECIFIC TRANSFER RULES TO BE ADOPTED - from AFL Victoria s Youth Girls Program Schedule 5 PLAYER TRANSFER POLICY March

32 BJFL Under 15 Girls Rules - SUMMARY Below is a summary of the modifications to be adopted by Victorian community leagues conducting Under 15 Girls competitions. 1. Player Registration Age - Under 15 Girls Player Age Range years old by Jan 1 st of competition year - Players must be turning 13 to 15 in the year of competition. - For Leagues that don t conduct an Under 12s Junior Girls competition, girls who turn 12 in the competition year can apply for a Special Permit to play once they have turned 12 years of age. - Players CAN NOT be turning 19 during the year - Special exemptions can be granted in EXTREME cases for girls turning 19 who just miss the cut off date. 2. Team Numbers on Match Day - Maximum of fifteen players per team - Up to six players on the bench - Teams must have 11 of their own players to play an official match. - If a team doesn t have fifteen players, the opposition must play with the same number of players. They can also loan them players if both teams agree. - A back and forward pocket and a midfielder is removed from a usual eighteen player structure to accommodate fifteen players. - in the event that a team doesn t get 11 of their own players, it is important that they play a scratch match instead to assist with retention of existing girls. The game will be a forfeit against the team without sufficient numbers. If agreed by both teams, a maximum of 18 players can take the field with a maximum of 3 interchange players. 3. Game Format - Games are played over 4 fifteen minute quarters. - No time on unless blood rule is enacted or stretcher is called. 4. Uniforms & Equipment - No jewellery is to be worn, including metal hairclips such as bobby pins. Players caught wearing prohibited equipment should receive a Yellow Card, and can NOT be replaced. - Mouthguards are compulsory in Under 15 Girls football. Players caught not wearing a mouthguard by umpires should receive a Yellow Card, and then replaced by another player. - Footballs must be a size four synthetic football for club games. - Representative football will be played with a size four leather Sherrin football. 5. Modified Match Rules - Players can not take the ball out of the ruck. - Players can only have up to two bounces before disposal. - Players can not intentionally kick the ball off the ground. - Marks are paid over ten metres. - Penalties are twenty-five metres. - Players must wait for the flags to be waved after a behind before kicking the ball in. - Only three players allowed per team at centre square bounces. - Players can not chop the arms of an opponent whilst in possession of the ball. 6. Finals and Representative Football Eligibility - Under 15 Girls players cannot play any games in the Victorian Women s Football League (including VWFL finals). Exemptions can be applied for 7. Player Transfers - Transfers between Under 15 Girls teams are capped. - Under 15 Girls teams can only receive four players from other Under 15 Girls teams on transfer. - Under 15 Girls who wish to play at a club that has already received their maximum of four players can apply for a Special Transfer. - Special Transfers will only be granted if the player can demonstrate that they have a parent or sibling playing at the new club, or it is their closest club to their permanent residence.

33 UNDER 15 GIRLS BY-LAWS TO BE ADOPTED - from AFL Victoria Youth Girls Program By-Laws March PLAYER REGISTRATION 4.1 General (a) No person may play in any matches authorised or conducted by the Program, other than practice matches, unless:... (ii) A player must be 12 years old as at 1 January in each year to be eligible to be registered with an affiliated body. A player aged twelve who is not turning thirteen in the competition year may apply for a 12 Year Old Player Permit from the Competition Manager if their League does not run an Under 12s Junior Girls competition. Considerations for under age players to participate in the Program include: (A) (B) the player s size and ability; and communication between the Match Day Manager, player and parent/guardian prior to taking the field. (iii) Not exceeded 18 years of age by January 1 of the competition year. (A) Players having exceeded 18 years of age by January 1 of the competition year may apply in writing to the Advisory Board for permission to play in the Program. (B) The applicant must be able to demonstrate : (i) that she has not played community football before; (ii) sufficient serious and extenuating circumstances that would prohibit her from or disadvantage her in playing in a senior football competition; and (iii) her experience, age, size and ability will not unreasonably disadvantage participants in the Program. (C) The decision to allow the applicant permission to play will be at the sole discretion of the Advisory Board. 4.3 To Participate in Finals Matches... (c) Any player playing 1 game in a senior women s team will be ineligible to play in the finals series unless: (i) she has played no more than 5 senior matches; and (ii) she has played at least 5 first round matches in the Under 15 Girls Program. 5. FOOTBALL COMPETITIONS 5.4 Minimum Player Lists The minimum numbers of players to constitute a side shall be U N I F O R MS 12.3 Jewellery Jewellery of any description must not be worn whilst playing, including metal hair pins. Body piercing must be removed and cannot be covered by taped. When identifying players wearing a prohibited jewellery, field umpires will stop play and issue the player with a Yellow Card. This player will then be required to leave the field for ten minutes and can not be replaced. Play will recommence with a free kick awarded to the opposition team from where the ball was positioned when the umpire stopped play Mouth Guards It is compulsory for players to wear a mouth guard in all official Under 15 Girls matches. When identifying players not wearing a mouth guard, field umpires will stop play and issue the player with a Yellow Card. This player will then be required to leave the field for ten minutes. The offending player can be replaced by another player. Play will recommence with a free kick awarded to the opposition team from where the ball was positioned when the umpire stopped play.

34 13. CONDUCT OF MATCHES 13.1 Team Benches (a) A team may have up to a maximum of six (6) players on the interchange bench Minimum Playing Numbers (a) If one team is short of players at the commencement of a match then the number of players must be adjusted so that both teams have the same number of players on the field. (b) If both coaches are in agreement, players can be transferred from team to the other to even up playing numbers. This should be noted on the team sheet of the team to which they have been transferred for the day as being on loan.

35 UNDER 15 GIRLS SPECIFIC MATCH RULES TO BE ADOPTED - from AFL Victoria s Youth Girls Program Schedule 1 - LAWS OF AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL (as adopted by AFL Victoria s Youth Girls Program) 4. THE FOOTBALL 4.1 SUPPLY AND SELECTION OF FOOTBALLS Footballs will be size 4 synthetic match balls for all Under 15 Girls competition matches. All Under 15 Girls Representative matches will use a Sherrin size 4 synthetic/leather match ball. 5. TEAMS 5.1 NUMBER OF PLAYERS IN TEAM Unless the number is varied under Law 5.2, a Team must consist of no more than 15 players, who may be on the Playing Surface at any one time, with no more than six (6) Interchange Players. (a maximum of 18 can take the field if agreed by both teams) 5.2 VARIATION OF NUMBER Teams cannot take the field with less than eleven (11) players, all of whom must be duly registered. 9. PLAYERS BOOTS, JEWELLERY AND PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 9.1 INTERPRETATION For the purposes of this Law 9, Protective Equipment includes but is not limited to:- (a) mouth guards; (b) hard-shell helmets; (b) knee braces; (c) shoulder pads; (d) back supports; (e) arm guards; and (f) any other item designated as such by the relevant Controlling Body Compulsory Protective Equipment (a) The wearing of mouth guards is compulsory in all Under 15 Girls matches. (b) When identifying players not wearing a mouth guard, field umpires will stop play and issue the player with a Yellow Card. This player will then be required to leave the field for ten minutes. The offending player can be replaced by another player. Play will recommence with a free kick awarded to the opposition team from where the ball was positioned when the umpire stopped play. 10. TIMEKEEPERS, DURATION OF MATCHES, QUARTER AND INTERVALS 10.3 LENGTH OF QUARTERS (a) The duration of quarters shall be 15 minutes. The designated breaks between quarters for all Program matches shall be as follows: 1/4 Time - 5 Minutes 1/2 Time 10 Minutes 3/4 Time - 5 Minutes 11. COMMENCING PLAY AND CHOICE OF GOAL 11.3 BOUNCING THE FOOTBALL Permitted Numbers at the Centre Bounce When the football is bounced to start a quarter or recommence play after a Goal has been scored, the following shall apply:- (a) a maximum of 3 Players from each Team are permitted in the Centre Square;

36 Contesting the Centre Bounce (a) The centre bounce or throw up shall be contested by a Player from each team who the field Umpire deems to be of relatively equal size. The Player contesting the centre bounce shall be positioned in her team s defensive half of the Playing Surface and with both feet within the 10 metre circle. The Player may only enter the team s attacking half after the football touches the ground, in the act of bouncing, or once the ball leaves the field Umpire s hand, in the act of being thrown up. The player shall not be permitted to block an opponent s approach to the contest. The Player must have both feet within the 10 metre circle at all times until they contest the bounce or until the umpire calls play on due to an offline bounce. No other player may enter the 10 metre circle until the football touches the ground, in the act of bouncing, or once the ball leaves the field Umpire s hand, in the act of being thrown up. 13. KICKING THE FOOTBALL INTO PLAY AFTER A BEHIND HAS BEEN SCORED 13.3 GOAL UMPIRE MUST FINISH WAVING FLAGS A Player from the defending Team may only kick the football into play when the Goal Umpire has completed waving the flag to signal that a Behind has been scored. If a defending Player kicks the football before this time, the field Umpire shall direct the Player to kick the football again. 14. MARKING THE FOOTBALL 14.1 DEFINITION A Mark is taken if, in the opinion of the field Umpire, a Player catches or takes control of the football: (a) within the Playing Surface; and (b) after it has been Kicked by another Player a distance of at least 10 metres; and (c) which has not touched the ground or been touched by another Player during the period when the football was Kicked until it was caught or controlled by the Player. 15. FREE KICKS 15.2 FREE KICKS RELATING TO POSSESSION OF THE FOOTBALL Remaining in Possession and Bouncing the Football (b) Where a Player is moving whilst in possession of the football, he or she must bounce or touch the football on the ground at least once every 15 metres, irrespective of whether such Player is running in a straight line or otherwise. For the purposes of this Law, a Player shall be deemed to be in possession of the football during the period when the Player handballs the football to himself or herself and regains possession without the football touching the ground. A Player may only bounce the ball up to two (2) times before disposing of it Holding the Football Prior Opportunity/No Prior Opportunity Where the field Umpire is satisfied that a Player in possession of the football: (a) has had a prior opportunity to dispose of the football, the field Umpire shall award a Free Kick against that Player if the Player does not Kick or Handball the football immediately when he or she is Correctly Tackled; or (b) has not had a prior opportunity to dispose of the football, the field Umpire shall award a Free Kick against that Player if, upon being Correctly Tackled, the Player does not Correctly Dispose or attempt to Correctly Dispose of the football after being given a reasonable opportunity to do so. A free kick shall be awarded against a player who takes full possession of the football at a bounce or throw by a field Umpire or at a boundary throw in, instead players are required to tap or punch the ball back into play from a bounce or throw by a field Umpire, or boundary throw in FREE KICKS RELATING TO DISPOSAL OF THE FOOTBALL Incorrect Disposal and Payment of Free Kick When the football is in play, a Free Kick shall be awarded against a Player who hands the football to another Player or who throws the football or who deliberately kicks the ball off the ground while the ball is in play FREE KICK PERMITTED AND PROHIBITED PHYSICAL CONTACT Prohibited Contact and Payment of Free Kick (n) by chopping the arms of an opponent while in possession of the ball.

37 18. TWENTY FIVE METRE PENALTY 18.3 LOCAL CONDITIONS A Controlling Body may reduce the distance of a fifty metre penalty to 25 metres for the Matches played in the competition conducted by the Controlling Body.

38 UNDER 15 GIRLS SPECIFIC TRANSFER RULES TO BE ADOPTED - from AFL Victoria s Youth Girls Program Schedule 5 PLAYER TRANSFER POLICY March INTRODUCTION The Player Transfer Policy aims to inform Clubs of the rules currently governing the movement of players from one Affiliated Club to another within the Under 15 Girls Program, in conjunction with the Under 15 Girls By-laws. Scope The policy will apply to all currently registered players (aged 14 and over as of January 1) and Affiliated Clubs of the Under 15 Girls Program. 2. RULES FOR PLAYER TRANSFERS The following rules have been endorsed by the Under 15 Girls Program Executive: Transfer Timeframe - Transfers will not be processed prior to the start of business on February 1 for that season, with the exception of transfers opening for the month of November. - No Transfer will be approved after the close of business on June 30 of that season. Transfer Process - The new Club that a player wishes to Transfer to must apply for the player Transfer via the online player Transfer process in the online competition management system. - The former Club rejects or grants the Transfer (subject to conditions set out in Transfer Refusals) via the Footy-Web online competition management system. - AFL Victoria must then grant/refuse the Transfer via the Footy-Web online competition management system. (Should this Transfer exceed the new Club s maximum number of allowable Transfers, the Transfer will be rejected by AFL Victoria. The new Club will then need to apply for a Special Transfer for the player - see Transfer Restrictions). Transfer Restrictions - The maximum number of Transfers a Club can receive in any one season is four (4) and an unlimited number of special Transfers (see Special Transfers). Approvals - The former Club has within six (6) clear business days of the submission of the online Transfer request from a player s new Club to approve a Transfer via the online competition management system. - Should the former Club fail to respond, the Transfer will occur automatically, following the expiry of the six (6) clear business day timeframe (subject to Transfer restrictions). Refusals - The former Club can refuse the Transfer of a player within the designated timeframe of six (6) clear business days by notifying the Competition Manager of the refusal via the online competition management system. - A refusal can only occur where the Club can substantiate that the Player: o Is indebted to the Club; and/or o Is in possession of Club property (eg. jumper) that needs to be returned; and/or o Wishes to withdraw their Transfer application.

39 3. RULES FOR SPECIAL TRANSFERS Special Transfer process - A Special Transfer must be applied for by a Club wising to receive a player after receiving four (4) Transfers for the current season. - A Special Transfer Form must be completed and submitted by the Club for each player for which a special Transfer is sought and submitted to the Competition Manager with the relevant supporting documentation. - The Club wishing to be granted a player via Special Transfer must also complete the above electronic Transfer process. The player s former Club must electronically approve the Transfer before the Competition Manager will approve the Special Transfer. - A Special Transfer will only be granted to Clubs after they have exceeded the maximum number of annual Transfers. Number of Special Transfers - A Club can receive an unlimited number of special Transfers in any one season. Approvals - A Special Transfer may be granted to a Club for a player who: o Can demonstrate that the new Club is geographically the closest Club (apart from their former Club) to their permanent place of residence; or o Can demonstrate that the player has a sibling or parent who is a registered and financial member of the Club seeking the Special Transfer, and that the sibling or parent is, or intends to be, playing for the Club which is seeking a Special Transfer in the current season. Refusals - The Competition Manager will refuse a request of Special Transfer if: o The player for which the Special Transfer is being applied has not been cleared from their former Club; or o The Club fails to demonstrate that the new Club is geographically the closest Club (apart from their former Club). to the permanent place of residence of the player who applied for a special Transfer; or o The Club fails to demonstrate that the player for which the Special Transfer is being applied has a sibling or parent who is a registered and financial member of the Club seeking the Special Transfer, and that the sibling parent is, or intends to be, playing for the Club which is seeking a Special Transfer in the current season. Notification - The Competition Manager will notify the Club seeking a Special Transfer of the outcome within six (6) clear business days of receiving the Special Transfer Form and all relevant documentation.

40 THE 2017 PERMIT SYSTEM AND AREA AGREEMENTS PLEASE NOTE: NO match day permits are to be issued for players during AFL Central Vic finals series

41 1. PERMITS There are a number of ways in which a player can participate with another club without being transferred (cleared) to that club. These are all covered under AFL Vic Country Regulation 2.0. AFL Vic Country Permit: A player can play up to eight games with a premier league club but these games can only be with the senior grade competition, neither reserves nor underage. (refer to AFL Vic Country regulations ) AFL Vic Country Student permits: A student living away from home and returning to the club with which he was last registered prior to being registered with his current club, during registered school holidays or semester breaks may apply for a permit to play with this club. (refer to AFL Vic Country regulation 2.11) AFL Vic Country Underage compassionate permit: If a player is under 16 years of age as of the 1 st of January in any given year and is in a situation where his/her parents have separated and have special custody arrangements, this player may apply for a permit to play at a second club which is more than 150km away from his/her original club. This type of permit cannot be applied for after the 30 th June in the given year. (refer to AFL Vic Country regulation 1.13) Area Agreement permits: These are the most common permits and a player can apply for a permit only if his current league and the league in which he wishes to compete have developed an area agreement that allows this to occur. (refer to AFL Vic Country regulation 2.10 and the information following) Day Permit from the opposition on the day: If an underage team is short of players on any particular day, then some leagues allow players from the opposing team play for the opposition on a day permit. Please note that these players should be removed from their current club s team list and then applied for on line in the same manner as any other permit player. Also, these players should NOT play half a game for the opposition then change with another player and play the other half for their team. They must play the entire game with one team or the other. (refer to AFL Vic Country regulation 2.9) NOTE: For the purpose of numbers on the team lists, these opposition permit players do not count as players from another league and therefore do not necessarily limit the team list to 20 players (unless permit players are also used from another league on the same day) NOTE: Permits may be applied for at any time during the season (except the underage compassionate permit). They are not subject to the June 30 th cut off day that applies to transfers (clearances) 2. OBTAINING A PLAYER ON A PERMIT. All requests for a player on a permit must be applied for on line through the Sportzware system on the members database. However, prior to applying on line, the appropriate paper work must be completed. You can only apply for a permit player if we have an area agreement with that player s current league or if he falls under the AFL Vic Country permit system. 6.1 Paper work required: A match day permit form (Appendix 4) must be completed by all relevant people. This form must be signed by all parties which includes the player, a parent or guardian of the player (if he is under 18), a representative of the player s current club and a representative of the club requesting the permit. THE PLAYER S NAME and DATE OF BIRTH MUST be written legibly in the appropriate place on the form. A copy of this form must be forwarded to AFL Central Victoria, usually via facsimile ( ) or with the match day documents.

42 Once this form has been completed ONCE, then the club may apply for the player on line whenever he is able to participate as a permit player. Without this form, the player MUST NOT be requested on line. 6.2 Requesting the player as a permit player: Follow the same procedure as if you are requesting a transfer. Log onto the Sportzware membership for your club and then move the cursor over the Members link on the top menu bar. Then click on the Request a Transfer/Permit link This will bring up the following page: Search for the required player on the database by using one of the search options shown in the above information. The BEST search option is the last one which allows a club to search for any individual registered on the Footyweb system (Nationwide). BUT the player s surname and date of birth MUST be entered exactly as registered in the system. If not, the player will not be found and a more complicated search will be required. The actual best option is if the player knows his footyweb registration number; but this is highly unlikely. However, when entering this number it must be an eight (8) digit number. Therefore include the appropriate number of zeros (0) in front of the player s number so that it is an eight digit number.

43 Enter the player s surname and date of birth (in the format shown) and then click on the Select button. When the player information is shown on the screen, click on the select link in front of the correct player s name. This will bring up the player s details. Once you have re-confirmed that this is the correct player, Scroll down passed the Submit Transfer button. From the drop down Permit Type menu select 1. Match Day Enter the date in which you wish the player to participate. The From date and the To date should be the same. Click on the Submit Permit button. No further action is required The player is now available to be selected onto your team sheet for that particular date. When the team sheet is printed out, he should be indicated with a (P) beside his name. There is no need to submit a new permit form each time you require this player once the form has been submitted. Even if you complete and submit the form but do not use the player until later on in the season, you do not need to complete a new form. Just apply on line in the manner above each time the player is required BUT making sure that he is available to play. Also clubs must be aware of any restriction placed on the permit player. This may include, but not limited to, a maximum number of permits that he/she can play in any one season as well as a limit to the number of permit players being allowed to play in any one match. NOTES: 1. If a player has NOT played since season 2007, then they will not appear on the system. In this case OR if you still cannot locate the correct player on the system, you will need to fax ( ) the transfer request form to the League Administration and they will commence the process of requesting the transfer on your club s behalf. 2. If the player cannot be found it may be that he is not yet registered on the system or the spelling of his surname and/or date of birth is not exactly as stored in the database system. If this is the case, then the club will also need to forward the application to the league administrator for processing. 3. WHAT ARE THE OTHER PERMITS FOR? In applying online, you may have noticed that there are two other permit types available: 2. Local interchange 3. Temporary Transfer Local interchange is used when a player is on interchange with another club in another league for an extended period of time. For example, a player with your club has been selected in the Bendigo Pioneers squad. The Bendigo Pioneers will apply for a local interchange for the entire season. He will NOT be transferred from your club to the Pioneers. However, this player will be able to be selected on your team sheet if he is not required for the pioneers on any on weekend without the need to be transferred back again. This process is not an automatic approval but will need each club and league to approve the permit on line. (A match day permit is automatically approved once the application on line has been processed) This type of permit should also be used if a senior club and a junior club have developed an approved alignment or if the senior club and the junior club are the one incorporated body. Temporary Transfer is used for a player transferring to a club in the Northern Territory competition (and vice versa) during the off-season. This type of transfer also requires on line approval by all clubs and leagues.

44 AREA AGREEMENT 2017 This is an agreement between the BENDIGO JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE INC. (BJFL) and the BENDIGO FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE INC (BFNL) 1. AREA AGREEMENT: 1.1 This agreement has been signed pursuant to the AFL Victorian Country Rules and Regulations pertaining to clearances and permits and, in particular, clause 2.10, whereby an interchange of players between Clubs of the above-mentioned Leagues may take place without clearance and is subject to any provisions contained within this agreement. 1.2 This agreement is not relevant for clubs that have developed an alignment endorsed by the AFL Central Victoria Commission. 1.3 This agreement is not relevant for clubs that are the one incorporated body and have teams affiliated with both the BFNL and the BJFL 2. SPECIAL CONDITIONS: 2.1 That this Agreement is in force for the current season only, with the agreement to be signed off at the start of the year. Copies to be held by each League and distributed to every club secretary. 2.2 That the players involved desire to play with the club in the other League on the day in question. 2.3 That the two Clubs named in this agreement are agreeable to the players playing on the day in question. 2.4 That the players and clubs concerned are acquainted with AFL Vic Country Regulation 2.0 regarding permits. 2.5 That all relevant persons complete a current permit form, and that this form is submitted to the league administration prior to the player playing their first permit game. Failure to do so may result in a penalty as deemed appropriate by league administration. 2.6 That all available Club registered players are selected before permit players can receive an endorsement to play. 2.7 The number of permit players from any one club be restricted to a maximum of three (3) on any one day for any one team 2.8 A player may only play on permit with one club during the current season. 3. NUMBER OF PERMITS: 3.1 BFNL registered players will NOT be granted match day permits to play in the BJFL during the current BJFL season. 3.2 A BJFL player may be granted a maximum of eight (8) area permits by their club to play in the BFNL under 18 competition during the BFNL home and away season. 3.3 Permits can be issued if there are no more than 20 players listed (including permit players) on the BFNL under 18 team sheet. 3.4 BJFL registered players may play TWO games per weekend but only ONE per day 4. NUMBER OF PERMIT PLAYERS Each BFNL team is only permitted to play a maximum of SIX permit players in any one match. 5. TRANSFERS 5.1 Transfers of players between the above-mentioned Leagues shall be as outlined in AFL Victoria Country regulation 1.0 and specifically regulation 1.9 (closing date for clearances and permits). That is, a transfer request must be submitted before the 1 st July in the current season. 5.2 Match day permits are not subject to the same cut-off date as a transfer and may be applied for anytime during the home and away season. 6. REPORTED PLAYERS A BJFL player, playing on permit in the BFNL, who is reported shall face the Tribunal of the BFNL. Any penalty that is imposed shall apply in all competitions. 7. FINALS. No match day permits are to be issued for players to play in any grade of the Final series of the BFNL.

45 AREA AGREEMENT 2017 This is an agreement between the BENDIGO JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE INC. (BJFL) and the HEATHCOTE DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE INC (HDFNL) 1. AREA AGREEMENT: 1.1 This agreement has been signed pursuant to the AFL Victorian Country Rules and Regulations pertaining to clearances and permits and, in particular, clause 2.10, whereby an interchange of players between Clubs of the above-mentioned Leagues may take place without clearance and is subject to any provisions contained within this agreement. 1.2 This agreement is not relevant for clubs that have developed an alignment endorsed by the AFL Central Victoria Commission. 1.3 This agreement is not relevant for clubs that are the one incorporated body but have teams affiliated with both the HDFNL and the BJFL 2. SPECIAL CONDITIONS: 2.3 That this Agreement is in force for the current season only, with the agreement to be signed off at the start of the year. Copies to be held by each League and distributed to every club secretary. 2.4 That the players involved desire to play with the club in the other League on the day in question. 2.3 That the two Clubs named in this agreement are agreeable to the players playing on the day in question. 2.4 That the players and clubs concerned are acquainted with AFL Vic Country Regulation 2.0 regarding permits. 2.5 AFL Country regulation 2.10 (c) (iv) shall apply in this agreement. That is, a HDFNL player may not play on permit when their club has a scheduled bye unless they have previously played with the BJFL club in the current season. 2.6 That all relevant persons complete a current permit form, and that this form is submitted to the league administration prior to the player playing their first permit game. Failure to do so may result in a penalty as deemed appropriate by league administration. 2.7 That all available Club registered players are selected before permit players can receive an endorsement to play. 2.8 The number of permit players from any one club be restricted to a maximum of three (3) on any one day for any one team 2.9 A player may only play on permit with one club during the current season. 3. NUMBER OF PERMITS: 3.1 An HDFNL player may be granted a maximum of eight (8) area permits by their club to play in the BJFL during the BJFL home and away season, if they meet any age requirement of the BJFL. 3.2 Once a player has played in the senior grade of the HDFNL, has represented the HDFNL at under 17 level or higher or has played a TAC cup game or during the current season, then that player is ineligible to apply for any further permits to play in the BJFL competition during that season. This means that the player s initial permit application form is no longer valid for the remainder of the season. (NOTE: the senior grade does not include any reserves games) 3.3 Permits can be issued if there are no more than 20 players listed (including permit players) on their relevant team sheet. 3.4 HDFNL registered players may play TWO games per weekend but only ONE per day 3.5 A BJFL player may be granted a maximum of eight (8) area permits by their club to play in the HDFNL under 17 competition during the HDFNL home and away season. 3.6 Permits can be issued if there are no more than 20 players listed (including permit players) on their under 17 team sheet. BJFL registered players may play TWO games per weekend but only ONE per day 4. NUMBER OF PERMIT PLAYERS

46 4.1 Each HDFNL team is only permitted to play a maximum of SIX permit players in any one match. 4.2 Each BJFL team is only permitted to play a maximum of FOUR permit players in any one match. 5. TRANSFERS 5.1 Transfers of players between the above-mentioned Leagues shall be as outlined in AFL Victoria Country regulation 1.0 and specifically regulation 1.9 (closing date for clearances and permits). That is, a transfer request must be submitted before the 1 st July in the current season. 5.2 Match day permits are not subject to the same cut-off date as a transfer and may be applied for anytime during the home and away season. 5.3 If a player transfers from the BJFL, they are not eligible to play on permits in the BJFL for the remainder of the season. In exceptional circumstances, a player may apply in writing to the BJFL Executive for permission to play on permit back in the BJFL after being transferred under 4.1 above. 6. REPORTED PLAYERS A player playing on permit who is reported shall face the Tribunal of the League in which the offence was committed. Any penalty that is imposed shall apply in all competitions. 7. FINALS. No match day permits are to be issued for players to play in any grade of the Final series of either league.

47 AREA AGREEMENT 2017 This is an agreement between the BENDIGO JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE INC. (BJFL) and the LODDON VALLEY FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE INC (LVFNL) 1. AREA AGREEMENT: 1.1 This agreement has been signed pursuant to the AFL Victorian Country Rules and Regulations pertaining to clearances and permits and, in particular, clause 2.10, whereby an interchange of players between Clubs of the above-mentioned Leagues may take place without clearance and is subject to any provisions contained within this agreement. 1.2 This agreement is not relevant for clubs that have developed an alignment endorsed by the AFL Central Victoria Commission. 1.3 This agreement is not relevant for clubs that are the one incorporated body but have teams affiliated with both the LVFNL and the BJFL 2. SPECIAL CONDITIONS: 2.5 That this Agreement is in force for the current season only, with the agreement to be signed off at the start of the year. Copies to be held by each League and distributed to every club secretary. 2.6 That the players involved desire to play with the club in the other League on the day in question. 2.3 That the two Clubs named in this agreement are agreeable to the players playing on the day in question. 2.4 That the players and clubs concerned are acquainted with AFL Vic Country Regulation 2.0 regarding permits. 2.5 AFL Country regulation 2.10 (c) (iv) shall apply in this agreement. That is, a LVFNL player may not play on permit when their club has a scheduled bye unless they have previously played with the BJFL club in the current season. 2.6 That all relevant persons complete a current permit form, and that this form is submitted to the league administration prior to the player playing their first permit game. Failure to do so may result in a penalty as deemed appropriate by league administration. 2.7 That all available Club registered players are selected before permit players can receive an endorsement to play. 2.8 The number of permit players from any one club be restricted to a maximum of three (3) on any one day for any one team 2.9 A player may only play on permit with one club during the current season. 3. NUMBER OF PERMITS: 3.1 An LVFNL player may be granted a maximum of eight (8) area permits by their club to play in the BJFL during the BJFL home and away season, if they meet any age requirement of the BJFL. 3.2 Once an LVFNL registered player has played in the senior grade of the LVFNL, represented the LVFNL at under 18 level or has played a TAC cup game during the current season, then that player is ineligible to apply for any further permits to play in the BJFL competition during that season. This means that the player s initial permit application form is no longer valid for the remainder of the season. (NOTE: the senior grade does not include any reserves games) 3.3 Permits can be issued if there are no more than 20 players listed (including permit players) on the relevant BJFL team sheet. 3.4 A BJFL player may be granted a maximum of eight (8) area permits by their club to play in the LVFNL under18 competition during the LVFNL home and away season. 3.5 Permits can be issued if there are no more than 20 players listed (including permit players) on their under18 team sheet. 3.6 BJFL & LVFNL registered players may play TWO games per weekend but only ONE per day 4. NUMBER OF PERMIT PLAYERS 4.1 Each LVFNL team is only permitted to play a maximum of SIX permit players in any one match.

48 4.2 Each BJFL team is only permitted to play a maximum of FOUR permit players in any one match. 5. TRANSFERS 5.1 Transfers of players between the above-mentioned Leagues shall be as outlined in AFL Victoria Country regulation 1.0 and specifically regulation 1.9 (closing date for clearances and permits). That is, a transfer request must be submitted before the 1 st July in the current season. 5.2 Match day permits are not subject to the same cut-off date as a transfer and may be applied for anytime during the home and away season. 5.3 If a player transfers from the BJFL, they are not eligible to play on permits in the BJFL for the remainder of the season. In exceptional circumstances, a player may apply in writing to the BJFL Executive for permission to play on permit back in the BJFL after being transferred under 4.1 above. 6. REPORTED PLAYERS A player playing on permit who is reported shall face the Tribunal of the League in which the offence was committed. Any penalty that is imposed shall apply in all competitions. 7. FINALS. No match day permits are to be issued for players to play in any grade of the Final series of either league.

49 AREA AGREEMENT 2017 This is an agreement between the BENDIGO JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE INC. (BJFL) and the NORTH CENTRAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE (NCFL) 1. AREA AGREEMENT: 1.1 This agreement has been signed pursuant to the AFL Victorian Country Rules and Regulations pertaining to clearances and permits and, in particular, clause 2.10, whereby an interchange of players between Clubs of the above-mentioned Leagues may take place without clearance and is subject to any provisions contained within this agreement. 1.2 This agreement is not relevant for clubs that have developed an alignment endorsed by the AFL Central Victoria Commission. 2. SPECIAL CONDITIONS: 2.7 That this Agreement is in force for the current season only, with the agreement to be signed off at the start of the year. Copies to be held by each League and distributed to every club secretary. 2.8 That the players involved desire to play with the club in the other League on the day in question. 2.3 That the two Clubs named in this agreement are agreeable to the players playing on the day in question. 2.4 That the players and clubs concerned are acquainted with AFL Vic Country Regulation 2.0 regarding permits. 2.5 AFL Country regulation 2.10 (c) (iv) shall apply in this agreement. That is, an under 16 NCFL player may not play on permit when their club has a scheduled bye unless they have previously played with the BJFL club in the current season. 2.6 That all relevant persons complete a current permit form, and that this form is submitted to the league administration prior to the player playing their first permit game. Failure to do so may result in a penalty as deemed appropriate by league administration. 2.7 That all available Club registered players are selected before permit players can receive an endorsement to play. 2.8 The number of permit players from any one club be restricted to a maximum of three (3) on any one day for any one team 2.9 A player may only play on permit with one club during the current season. 3. NUMBER OF PERMITS: 3.1 An NCFL player may be granted a maximum of eight (8) area permits by their club to play in the BJFL during the BJFL home and away season, if they meet any age requirement of the BJFL. 3.2 Once a player has played in the senior grade of the NCFL, represented the NCFL at under16 level or higher or has played a TAC cup game during the current season, then that player is ineligible to apply for any further permits to play in the BJFL competition during that season. This means that the player s initial permit application form is no longer valid for the remainder of the season. (NOTE: the senior grade does not include any reserves games) 3.3 Permits can be issued if there are no more than 20 players listed (including permit players) on their relevant team sheet. 3.4 NCFL registered players may play TWO games per weekend but only ONE per day 3.5 A BJFL player may be granted a maximum of eight (8) area permits by their club to play in the NCFL underage competitions during the NCFL home and away season. 3.6 Permits can be issued if there are no more than 20 players listed (including permit players) on their relevant team sheet. BJFL registered players may play TWO games per weekend but only ONE per day 4. NUMBER OF PERMIT PLAYERS 4.1 Each NCFL team is only permitted to play a maximum of SIX permit players in any one match.

50 4.2 Each BJFL team is only permitted to play a maximum of FOUR permit players in any one match. 5. TRANSFERS 5.1 Transfers of players between the above-mentioned Leagues shall be as outlined in AFL Victoria Country regulation 1.0 and specifically regulation 1.9 (closing date for clearances and permits). That is, a transfer request must be submitted before the 1 st July in the current season. 5.2 Match day permits are not subject to the same cut-off date as a transfer and may be applied for anytime during the home and away season. 5.3 If a player transfers from the BJFL, they are not eligible to play on permits in the BJFL for the remainder of the season. In exceptional circumstances, a player may apply in writing to the BJFL Executive for permission to play on permit back in the BJFL after being transferred under 4.1 above. 6. REPORTED PLAYERS A player playing on permit who is reported shall face the Tribunal of the League in which the offence was committed. Any penalty that is imposed shall apply in all competitions. 7. FINALS. No match day permits are to be issued for players to play in any grade of the Final series of either league.

51 AREA AGREEMENT JUNIOR LEAGUE/JUNIOR LEAGUE An agreement between the BENDIGO JFL and the GOULBURN CAMPASPE JFL This agreement is signed pursuant to AFL Victoria Country Rules and Regulations pertaining to clearances and permits and in particular clause 2.10 Area Permits, whereby an interchange of players between clubs of the abovementioned leagues may take place without clearance or permits and is subject to any provisions contact within this agreement. PROVIDED HOWEVER: (i) That this Agreement is in force for the current season only. (ii) That the player(s) concerned are acquainted with AFL Victoria Country regulations 2.1 and 2.5 regarding one day permits to Major Leagues and eight (8) matches. (iii) That prior to each match played, the player shall obtain written permission to do so from his parent club. The permit shall be in triplicate similar to a one day permit form and dispersed as required under Regulation 2.1 of the AFL Victoria Country Rules and Regulations. (iv) That this agreement cannot be altered unless agreed to by the Football Development Managers. LOCAL CONDITIONS: 1. INTERCHANGE OF PLAYERS Under this agreement, a player may only play on permit with one club in each league during the current season. BJFL players are permitted 8 permits to play in the GCJFL. Player must NOT have previously played Senior or Reserve Grade Football. Player must NOT have previously played TAC Cup. Player must NOT have previously represented the BJFL in the current season. The total number of permits must not exceed 6 GCJFL League players are permitted 8 permits to play in the BJFL grades provided: The player is eligible to compete in the relevant age group The total number of permits must not exceed 6 2. FINALS PERMITS & ELIGIBILITY NO permits are issued to play finals in either League. 3. GAMES PER DAY/WEEKEND Players ARE permitted to play 2 games per weekend provided: no more than 20 players, including permit players, appear on the club team-sheet; and only ONE (1) game per day Club registered players must be selected before permit players can receive endorsement to play. A player may only play on permit with one club in the other league for the current season. 4. NUMBER OF PERMITS BJFL Teams are only permitted a TOTAL 6 permit players in any one match. GCJFL Teams are only permitted a TOTAL 6 permit players in any one match. 5. REPORTED PLAYERS A player playing on permit that is reported shall face the Tribunal of the League of which the offence was committed. Any penalty that is imposed shall apply in all competitions. 6. PERMIT BREACHES

52 Any breach of Permit arrangements and agreements will be referred to the AFL Victoria Country Rule 1.3 Penalty for playing ineligible or unregistered players. This agreement is valid and will remain current unless endorsed by an AFL Victoria Country Football Development Manager.

53 AFL GOLDFIELDS and AFL Central Victoria JUNIOR AREA AGREEMENT This agreement is for Under 18.5 s and below An Area Agreement between the AFL Goldfields Region and AFL Central Victoria Region incorporating all Leagues affiliated with these two Regional Commissions. This Agreement is signed pursuant to the AFLVC rules and regulations pertaining to clearances and permits and in particular the clause 2.10 Area Permits, whereby an interchange of players between the abovementioned Leagues / Regions may take place without clearance or permits and is subject to any provisions contained within this agreement. PROVIDED THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS APPLY: 1. That this agreement is in force for the 2017 season only. 2. That the players involved desire to play with the Club on the date(s) requested. 3. That the Clubs involved are agreeable to the players playing on the day in question and have both signed off on the permit via SportsTG 4. That the players concerned are aware of the AFL VC regulations Rule 2.0 regarding Permits. 5. Unless otherwise permitted in local league By-Laws, players of any club having a Bye, split round, inter-league or forfeits will not be allowed to play with another club on permit unless he/she has previously played with the Club in the current season under this agreement. 6. The club playing the player from the other League shall show his registered club on the match team sheet. 7. All club registered players must be selected before permit players can receive endorsement to play. 8. That any player shall not be permitted to play more than (8) eight Home & Away matches with another club under the provisions of this agreement. 9. Unless otherwise stated in League By-Laws, permit players will not be able to play finals, however if a League s bylaws do allow this, they may play only one match per day and have satisfied the local league finals eligibility By Laws. All available registered players must be selected in preference to permit players during finals. 10. That the number of players played by any club under this agreement on any one day be restricted to six (6) permit players with a maximum of three (3) coming from any one club. 11. That the number of players played by any club under this agreement be restricted to (6) six only on any one day. a. If a club has the following number of their own registered players available of the correct age bracket, the following number of permit players will be the maximum allowed: i. 14 players available on the team sheet : 6 permit players allowed ii. 15 players available on the team sheet: 5 permit players allowed iii. 16 players available on the team sheet: 4 permit players allowed iv. 17 players available on the team sheet: 3 permit players allowed v. 18 players available on the team sheet: 2 permit players allowed vi. 19 players available on the team sheet: 1 permit player allowed vii. 20 players available on the team sheet: no permit players allowed

54 12. That a player may play two games per weekend but only one game per day under this agreement. A player s registered club has the option to authorise or refuse any permit application and clubs may only play a player on permit when both clubs have authorised the permit. 13. That a player from any League may play with more than one club from another League but only one match per day. 14. Once a player has played a TAC Cup or a Senior first XVIII match in the current season he/she is deemed to be a senior player and will be ineligible to play Junior Football (Under XVIII or below) under the terms of this agreement. AFL VC Rule 2.1 (permits to Major Leagues) will still apply. 15. That a player having played the maximum number of (8) eight matches with a club under this agreement shall need to obtain a full clearance before he/she is able to continue to play with that club. Any clearance application of a player who has played the maximum number of permit games must be approved by the Regional Commission of the players registered club and clearance regulations as outlined in the AFL Victoria Country handbook must apply. 16. Players playing on permit are not eligible for any League Awards 17. For Ballarat FNL affiliated clubs only, players who have participated in an interleague side representing their registered club in the current or previous season are precluded from using this permit. This permit is designed for the use of players who are missing out on a weekly game with their registered club and should not be used to filter Ballarat FNL players out to neighbouring Leagues. 18. That prior to 5.00pm on the Friday before the first permit match played, the player shall obtain written permission to do so from his registered Club by completing four (4) copies of the Area Permit Form as supplied below (Appendix 1). The four forms are to be distributed as follows one for each Club involved and one to each League involved with the permit. This condition must be strictly adhered to. Failure to do so could see the club penalised under AFL VC Rule 1.3 (ineligible players). It is the responsibility of the club seeking the permit to have the paperwork submitted. 19. All permits shall be transacted via the AFL Sporting Pulse permit system using the Type 1 match day permit option with the requested date/s only specified. Signed paperwork as stated in clause 19 must be completed prior to requesting the Footy Web permit and no player is to take the field until the on line permit has been approved by the players registered club. Any club who does not wish to allow a Type 1 Permit to proceed will need to immediately make contact with their League Operations Manager or League Administrator who will follow it up with the necessary contacts. 20. Any club found to have breached the Area Permit Agreement and its conditions will be subject to AFL VC Rule 1.3 (ineligible players). 21. Any player reported whilst on permit shall face the independent tribunal of the League in which the alleged offence was committed. Any penalty imposed will apply to all AFL VC competitions.

55 Bendigo Bank Bendigo Junior Football League CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 1. Players 2. Parents 3. Coaches 4. Spectators 5. Club Umpire 6. Officials 7. Administrators 8. Teachers 9. Media The Bendigo Junior Football League Code of Behaviour is based upon the AUSTRALIAN SPORTS COMISSION Code of Behaviour and has been amended and altered to the needs of the BJFL The Coaches Code of Behaviour is now the standard code set by the AFL Victoria Country

56 1 PLAYER S CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 1.1 Abide and play by the rules of the game and the rules set down by the Bendigo Junior Football League, your Club and Coach. 1.2 Never argue with an Official, do not question the Officials and Umpires judgement and never question their honesty. 1.3 Control your temper. Verbal abuse of Officials or other Players, deliberately distracting an opponent is not accepted. 1.4 Work equally hard for yourself and your team. Your Team s performance will benefit and so will you. 1.5 Never ridicule or yell at other players for making mistakes. Your involvement is to play for fun and enjoyment and winning is only part of it. Be a good sport; applaud all good play whether they are your Team, opponent or the other Team. 1.6 Treat all Players as you would like to be treated. Do not interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of another player. Always conduct yourself in a manner that is expected of your Team mates, Club and Family. 1.7 Co-operate with your Coach and Team mates, and respect the ability of your opponent. Without them there would be no game. 1.8 Place in proper perspective the isolated incidents of unsporting behaviour rather than make such incidents the highlight of the game. 1.9 Players must not assault or attempt to assault an umpire, another Player, Officials or Spectators Be proud to walk off the ground after each game knowing that you have given your best effort and never involve yourself in an argument with opposing Players, Umpires or Officials. 2 PARENT S CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 2.1 If Children are interested, encourage them to participate. However if a child is not willing, do not force him or her. 2.2 Focus on the Child s efforts and performances rather than the overall outcome of the game. This assists the Child in setting a realistic goal related to his/her ability by removing the emphasis on winning. 2.3 Teach Children that an honest effort is as important as victory, so that the result of each game is accepted without undue disappointment. 2.4 Encourage Children to always participate according to the rules. 2.5 Never ridicule or yell at a Child for making a mistake or losing a game. 2.6 Remember that Children are involved in organized sport for THEIR enjoyment, not yours. 2.7 Remember that Children learn best from example. Applaud good play by all Teams. 2.8 If you disagree with an Official, raise the issue through appropriate channels (via your Child s Club who can then bring it to the attention of ruling body) rather than question the Official s judgement and honesty in public. Remember, most Officials give their time and effort for your Child s involvement. 2.9 Support effort to remove verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities Recognise the value and importance of volunteer Coaches. They give their time and resources to provide recreational activities and deserve your support. 3 COACHES CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 3.1 Be familiar with the laws of Australian Football and abide by the rules and conditions of your League and Club 3.2 Teach your Players that the rules of the game are mutual agreements, which no player should evade or break 3.3 Group Players to age, height, skill and physical maturity whenever possible in any competitive practice session. 3.4 All Players need and deserve equal time, if not more. Make a concerted effort to avoid over playing the talented Players more than the just average Players. 3.5 Remember that Players involved play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only part of it. Emphasise the importance of learning and development of skills and positive attitudes. Never ridicule or yell at your Players for making mistakes or losing a competition. 3.6 Ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age and ability of Players. 3.7 The scheduling and length of training times and competitions should take into consideration the maturity level of the Player. 3.8 Develop Team respect for the ability of opponents as well as for the judgement of Umpire, and opposing Coaches.

57 3.9 Follow the advice of a qualified person when determining when an injured Player is ready to play or train again Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed of sound junior coaching principles and developments. Attain coaching accreditation, in accordance with bylaw 17.1, and to become an active member of the local branch of the Australian Coaches Association. (AFCA) 3.11 Avoid use of derogatory language based on gender or race Be reasonable in the demands you make on the time commitments of the players in your care, having due consideration for their health and well-being 3.13 Be supportive at all times and refrain from any form of personal, verbal or physical abuse or unnecessary physical contact with the players in your care or from the opposition team 3.14 At all times display and teach appropriate sporting behaviour, ensuring that players understand and practise fair play 3.15 Ensure that players are involved in a positive environment where skill learning and development are priorities and are not overshadowed by a desire to win 3.16 Reject the use of performance enhancing substances in sport and abide by the guidelines set forth in the AFL Anti-Doping and Illicit Drugs policies 3.17 Display and foster respect for umpires, opponents, coaches, administrators, other officials, parents and spectators 4 SPECTATORS CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 4.1 Children play organized sport for fun. They are not playing for the entertainment of Spectators nor are they miniature professionals. 4.2 Applaud good performances and efforts from each Team. Congratulate all participants upon their performance regardless of the game s outcome. Negative barracking will not be tolerated. 4.3 Respect the Officials decision. If there is a disagreement, follow the appropriate procedure in order to question the decision and teach the Children to do likewise. 4.4 Never ridicule or scold a Child for making a mistake during competition. Positive comments are motivational. 4.5 Condemn the use of violence in any form, be it Spectators, Coaches, Officials or Players. 4.6 Show respect to your Teams opponents. Without them there would be no game. 4.7 Encourage Players to follow the rules and the Officials decision. 4.8 Demonstrate appropriate social behaviour by not using foul language, harassing Players, Coaches or Officials. 5 CLUB UMPIRES CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 5.1 Ensure rules and regulations are interpreted to match the skill level of the Children and their needs. 5.2 Compliment all participants on their efforts. 5.3 Be consistent, objective and courteous in calling all infringements. 5.4 Condemn unsporting behaviour and promote respect for all opponents. 5.5 Use common sense to ensure the spirit of the game for Children is not lost over emphasising errors. 5.6 Ensure that your behaviour and performance is consistent with the principles of good sporting behaviour; remember actions speak louder than words. 5.7 Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed of sound officiating principles and the principles of growth and development of children, 6 OFFICALS CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 6.1 Be familiar with the laws of Australian Football and abide by the rules and conditions of your league and club. 6.2 Encourage team members to participate if they are interested. However, if a person is not willing do not force them. 6.3 Encourage your team members always to play by the rules. 6.4 Remember your team members learn best by example. Applaud good play by both your team and by members of the opposing team. 6.5 Always act in a respectful manner towards members and supporters of opposition clubs and the League. 6.6 Remember your team members should be involved in Football for their enjoyment, not yours.

58 6.7 If you disagree with an umpire or another official, raise the issue through the appropriate channels rather than questioning the official's judgment and honesty in public. Remember, most officials give their time and effort for your team member s involvement. 6.8 Support the League in implementing policies and procedures and carry out tasks to the best of your ability within the timeframes outlined by the League. 6.9 Be supportive at all times and refrain from any form of personal, verbal or physical abuse or unnecessary physical contact with the players in your care or from the opposition team 6.10 At all times display and teach appropriate sporting behaviour, ensuring that players understand and practise fair play 6.11 Display and foster respect for umpires, opponents, coaches, administrators, other officials, parents and spectators 6.12 Ensure that players are involved in a positive environment where skill learning and development are priorities and are not overshadowed by a desire to win 6.13 Reject the use of performance enhancing substances in sport and will abide by the guidelines set forth in the AFL Anti-Doping and Illicit Drugs policies 7 ADMINISTRATORS CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 6.1 Remember you re administering a sport involving children. Lead by example in all aspects of your involvement, whether at Club or League level. 6.2 Give all young people a fair go regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion. 6.3 Equipment and facilities must be safe and appropriate to the level of participating Children. 6.4 Rules, equipment, length of games and training schedules should take into consideration the age, ability and maturity level of participating Children. 6.5 Ensure that adequate supervision is provided by qualified and competent Coaches and Officials, capable of developing appropriate sports behaviour and skill technique. 6.6 Remember Children participate for enjoyment. Play down the importance of rewards. 6.7 Avoid the game becoming primarily spectator entertainment. Focus on the needs of the participant rather than the enjoyment of the spectators. 6.8 Provide clinics aimed at improving the standards of Coaching and Officiating, with the emphasis on appropriate behaviour and skill technique. 6.9 Ensure that parents, Coaches, Officials and Players understand their responsibilities regarding fair play Distribute a Code of Behaviour to Players, Parents, Coaches, Spectators, Officials, Teachers and the Media. 8 TEACHERS CODE OF BEHAVIOUR The following is a suggested code of behaviour for those Teachers who support the aims of the AUSSIE SPORTS program. 8.1 Encourage Children to develop basic skills in a variety of sports and discourage over specialisation in one sport or in one playing position. 8.2 Create opportunities to teach appropriate sports behaviour as well as basic skills. 8.3 Ensure that skill learning and appropriate behaviour have priority over highly structured competitions for young Children in early Primary school. 8.4 Ensure that skill learning and free play activities have priority over highly structured competitions for young Children in early Primary school. 8.5 Prepare Children for inter house and inter school competitions by first providing instruction in basic sports skills. 8.6 Make Children aware of the physical fitness values of sport and their life-long recreational value. 8.7 Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed of sound coaching principles and the principles of physical growth and development. 8.8 Help Children understand the fundamental differences between the junior games competitions they play and the professional sport. 8.9 Help Children understand the responsibilities and implications of their freedom to choose between fair and unfair play.

59 9 MEDIA CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 9.1 Provide appropriate coverage of both competitive and non-competitive junior sport. 9.2 Be aware of the difference between Adult sports programs and Children s sports programs. 9.3 Place in proper perspective the isolated incidents of unsporting behaviour rather than making such incidents the highlight of the event. 9.4 Focus upon Children s fair play and their honest efforts. 9.5 Children are not miniature professionals and Adults should not place unfair expectations on them. 9.6 Identify and report on the problems of children participating in organized sports and report the violations and distortions of their rights as participants. 9.7 Be aware of the difference between the goals of amateur sports and those of professionals sports. Make the readers, viewers and listeners aware of these differences. 9.8 Play for the fun of it and not just to please Parents and Coaches The Bendigo Junior Football League Code of Behaviour is based upon the AUSTRALIAN SPORTS COMISSION Code of Behaviour and has been amended and altered to the needs of the Bendigo Junior Football League. The Coaches Code of Behaviour is now the standard code set by the AFL Victoria Country.

60 WorkSafe Victorian Country Football League CYBERSAFETY POLICY Rationale The WorkSafe Victorian Country Football League (VCFL) has an obligation to maintain a safe physical and emotional environment for league officials, staff, registered players, umpires, coaches, club members, parents, spectators and sponsors. This responsibility is increasingly being linked to the use of the Internet and Information & Communication Technologies (ICT), and has seen the emergence of a number of related Cybersafety issues. The Internet and ICT devices/equipment bring great benefits to all users and to the effective operation of the WorkSafe VCFL, individual leagues and clubs. The WorkSafe VCFL places a high priority on the acceptable use of ICT devices/equipment which will benefit members however; it recognises that the presence in the sporting arena of these technologies can also facilitate anti-social, inappropriate, and even illegal behaviour and activities. The WorkSafe VCFL aims, therefore, to maximise the benefits of these technologies, while at the same time to minimise the dangers and manage the risks. WorkSafe Victorian Country Football League VISY PARK, Gate 3, Royal Parade, CARLTON NORTH VIC 3095 Mailing Address: G.P.O. Box 4337, MELBOURNE VIC 3001 Ph: (03) Fax: (03) vcfl@aflvic.com.au Website: Reg No. A 7020 ABN No

61 UNDERLYING PRINCIPLES The policy is written in light of the Mission Statement of the WorkSafe Victorian Country Football League whereby the WorkSafe VCFL aims: To Develop, Foster, Co-ordinate and Sustain Australian Football at the Club and League level throughout Country Victoria Policy The WorkSafe VCFL and its member clubs will develop and maintain rigorous and effective Cybersafety practices which aim to maximise the benefits of the Internet and ICT and allow for the effective operation of the WorkSafe VCFL and member leagues and clubs, whilst minimising and managing any risks. These Cybersafety practices will aim to not only maintain a cyber safe sporting environment but also to address the needs of the league officials and club members to receive education about the safe and responsible use of present and developing information and communication technologies. Associated issues the League will address include the need for relevant education about Cybersafety for the WorkSafe VCFL and its leagues & clubs, the need for ongoing funding for Cybersafety practices through inclusion in the annual budget, implications for the design and delivery of the cybersafety program, the professional development and training, disciplinary responses to breaches of the cybersafety policy and the availability of appropriate professional support. The WorkSafe VCFL takes seriously its responsibility in providing robust policy, guidelines and education for its members in relation to what is deemed acceptable and appropriate online behaviours. The League and/or club name, motto, crest, logo and/or uniform must not be used in any way which would result in a negative impact for the league or club and its members. Members of the WorkSafe VCFL and its clubs have a responsibility to ensure that all online communications are in keeping with the leagues expectations in relation to appropriate and respectful interactions with officials, coaches, umpires, players, parents, spectators and sponsors. Players will not post inappropriate comments about individual WorkSafe VCFL or club members which if said in person during the playing of a game would result in disciplinary action being taken. WorkSafe Victorian Country Football League VISY PARK, Gate 3, Royal Parade, CARLTON NORTH VIC 3095 Mailing Address: G.P.O. Box 4337, MELBOURNE VIC 3001 Ph: (03) Fax: (03) vcfl@aflvic.com.au Website: Reg No. A 7020 ABN No

62 Cyberbullying is a way of delivering covert psychological bullying. It uses information and communication technologies to support deliberate, repeated and hostile behaviour, by an individual or group that is intended to harm others. (Belsey 2007) Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to, the following misuses of technology: harassing, teasing, intimidating, racially vilifying or threatening another person by sending or posting inappropriate and hurtful messages, instant messages, text messages, phone messages, digital pictures or images, or Web site postings (including social network sites eg facebook or blogs) and the sending, receiving and/or possession of naked or sexually explicit images of a person. Club members must also be aware that postings from their individual accounts, whether done by themselves or another person will remain the responsibility of the account owner. All members of the WorkSafe VCFL and individual clubs must be aware that in certain circumstances where a crime has been committed, they may also be subjected to a criminal investigation by Police over which the league and/or club will have no control. This particularly applies to sexting where the image is of a person under the age of 18 years whereby Police will be informed immediately a club becomes aware of the situation. Procedure WorkSafe VCFL and/or club officials or members who feel that they have been the victims of such misuses of technology should save and store the offending material on their computer, mobile phone or other device. They should then print a copy of the material and immediately report the incident to the relevant club/league representative. All reports of cyberbullying and other technology misuses will be investigated fully in accordance with WorkSafe VCFL Rule 5.0 and may result in a notification to Police where the WorkSafe VCFL, league or club is legally obliged to do so. If the WorkSafe VCFL and/or individual League s executive receives a complaint about an online issue, the allegations will be forwarded to the relevant League Investigation Officer. If there is evidence, charges will be laid and the complaint will proceed to the league s Independent Tribunal, exactly the same as if the investigation relates to physical violence or other reportable offences. WorkSafe Victorian Country Football League VISY PARK, Gate 3, Royal Parade, CARLTON NORTH VIC 3095 Mailing Address: G.P.O. Box 4337, MELBOURNE VIC 3001 Ph: (03) Fax: (03) vcfl@aflvic.com.au Website: Reg No. A 7020 ABN No

63 Penalties Any proven charges will automatically lead to a minimum of a two (2) match suspension for a registered player. In deciding the final penalty, consideration will be given to the seriousness of the act, the impact on the victim, the impact on the club/league/worksafe VCFL and the prior good history or otherwise of the player. Players charged with these types of offences for a second or subsequent time and where a suspension has been previously imposed will face deregistration. Any player presented before the tribunal for the first or subsequent time on a cyberbyullying offence must be aware that the penalties available to the tribunal members will cover the complete range including deregistration. In the case of a non playing club member being proved to have engaged in harassment or bullying, the club employing, engaging or otherwise associated with the person a the time of the conduct shall be deemed to be vicariously liable for the conduct of the person and shall pay to the League a penalty to be determined by the league. Policy prepared by:- Susan McLean for the WorkSafe VCFL and the WorkSafe VCFL Rules Committee Important terms used in this document: (a) The abbreviation ICT in this document refers to the term Information, Communication and Technologies. (b) Cybersafety refers to the safe and responsible use of the Internet and ICT equipment/devices, including mobile phones (c) The term ICT equipment/devices used in this document, includes but is not limited to, computers (such as desktops, laptops, PDAs), storage devices (such as USB and flash memory devices, CDs, DVDs, floppy disks, ipods, MP3 players), cameras (such as video, digital, webcams), all types of mobile phones, video and audio players/receivers (such as portable CD and DVD players),gaming Consoles, and any other, similar, technologies as they come into use. Copyright Cyber Safety Solutions 2009 WorkSafe Victorian Country Football League VISY PARK, Gate 3, Royal Parade, CARLTON NORTH VIC 3095 Mailing Address: G.P.O. Box 4337, MELBOURNE VIC 3001 Ph: (03) Fax: (03) vcfl@aflvic.com.au Website: Reg No. A 7020 ABN No

64 BJFL DUTY OF CARE The BJFL considers player welfare as the most important aspect of junior football. It is for this reason, after several unsavoury incidents this year that the BJFL has decided to issue this statement to communicate to all parties involved, especially the coaches, club officials, players and the umpires. The BJFL is issuing a warning to all involved to ensure games are played in the right spirit with the understanding there is a duty of care that all players, coaches, officials and spectators must abide by. That there are to be no overly aggressive or sling tackles, bumps are to be of fair and reasonable proportion taking in to consideration the differential in size and ability of their opponents. Abusive or bad language will not be tolerated nor will back chatting our officiating umpires or opponents. Any off field abuse or criticism towards officiating umpires, whether from officials or supporters, will be deemed an offence and the officiating umpires have instructions to rate clubs accordingly on the match day incidents reports. On briefing the Bendigo Umpire Association, the BJFL have requested the umpires to introduce themselves to all parties involved, prior to the commencement of games (if possible) and to highlight current focus areas and to provide instructions and guidance to give a better understanding to the players and officials. The Umpires have also been given full support to stamp out any unsavoury incidents early in games and to award the appropriate maximum penalties to players early on. They have also been instructed to apply penalties to officials and supporters for any unruly behaviour or breach of the BJFL s Codes of Conduct policy. P.O Box 415, Golden Square Vic 3555 Level 1, Mundy Street, Bendigo Vic 3550 Phone Fax norm.sheahan@aflcentralvic.com.au