Players & Parents Handbook 2015 About the Club... 2 Athelstone Football Club History... 2 Athelstone Football Club Junior Grades... 2 Club Song... 3 Team Values and Codes of Behaviour... 4 Team Values... 4 Player Behaviour... 5 Coaches Code of Behaviour... 6 Parent Guardian Behaviour... 7 Spectators... 8 Season Information... 9 2015 Registration Fees... 9 Age Appropriate... 9 2015 Key Dates... 10 2015 Training Timetable... 11 What time do I play?... 12 Uniform Requirements... 12 AFC-J Weather Policy... 13 Injury... 14 Communication Procedure... 15 Valuables... 15 Football Sizes... 15 Rules... 16 Modification to Rules... 16 NEMJFA Laws of the Game Matrix... 16 10 Goal Rule... 29 Premiership grades only (U11 - U16)... 29 Send Off Rule & Reports... 29 1
About the Club Athelstone Football Club History The Athelstone Football Club was established in 1904 by a group of local market gardeners who donned hessian bags as Guernsey s, which is why we are called "The Raggies". The club originally played at the corner of Maryvale Road and Addison Avenue but later moved to Foxfield Oval on Maryvale Road. The club moved to Torrens Valley Oval on George Street, Paradise in 1976 and built and moved into the current clubrooms. The club played in the East Torrens Football Association in the early years, winning A grade premierships in 1940, 1954, 1959, 1960, 1963, 1965 and 1966. The club then played in the Norwood North Football Association from 1970, winning premierships in 1970, 1971, 1975, 1976 and 1977. The South Australian Football Association (SAFA) was formed in 1978 and we lost the Grand Final that year. We did not taste A grade premiership success in SAFA until 1995, SAFA's last year. The club now plays in the South Australian Amateur Football League in Division 2. Athelstone Football Club Junior Grades Welcome to the Athelstone Football Club Junior Grades. The Athelstone Football Club is located in the north eastern suburbs of Adelaide, South Australia. Here at Athelstone we have a simple philosophy. We give each and every child/youth who would like to play Australian Rules Football for our club, the opportunity to play, regardless of skill level or prior experience. Everyone is welcome at our club, and no one is turned away, unless the team has been filled. Through the Team Values & Codes of Behaviour we endeavour to provide an environment that encourages fun, friendship, development and a safe environment for all involved. The club plays in the North Eastern Metropolitan Junior Football Association, one of the largest in Australia, and provides sporting opportunities for over 300 children aged from 5 to16. Athelstone also runs the AFL accredited Auskick program. 2
Club Song Oh we're from Raggies land A fighting fury We're from Raggies land In any weather you'll see us with a grin Risking head and shin If we're behind then never mind We'll fight and fight and win For we're from Raggies land We never weaken till the final siren's gone Like the Raggies of old We're strong and we're bold For we're from Raggies (the blue and the white) We're from Raggies land. 3
Team Values and Codes of Behaviour Team Values Respect Each Other This refers to the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion No Swearing tolerated This applies to players and team officials Effort = Reward Enjoy the Game Be Proud of the Club Act as an Ambassador for the club Respect Property and Grounds This refers to property and grounds of the Athelstone Football Club and opposition Clubs Respect the History of the Club It is over 100 years old 4
Player Behaviour The Players Code of Behaviour identifies the key principles that all players registered with the Athelstone Football Club Junior Grades will abide by. It provides the basis for fair play and encourages fun, friendship and a safe environment for all involved. The Committee of the Athelstone Football Club Juniors view seriously breaches of this the code of Behaviour and will enforce penalties on any player who breaches it. As a player I will: play by the rules never argue with an official of the game control my temper at all times never verbally abuse officials or other players not provoke my opponent work equally hard for myself and the team recognise good play whether made by my team or the opposition treat all participants as they would like to be treated never bully or take unfair advantage of a team mate or opposition player cooperate with my coach and team mates participate for my own enjoyment and benefit, not just to please parents and coaches respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion be gracious in victory or defeat respect the history of the Athelstone Football Club. As a player I have read and understand the requirements outlined above. I agree to the Players Code of Behaviour and understand the club may impose a penalty or suspension on myself if I do not abide by the conditions outlined above. 5
Coaches Code of Behaviour This Code of Behaviour identifies the key principles on which the Coaches of Athelstone Football Club Junior Grades are required to base their involvement with the club. The code provides the basis for fair play and encourages fun, friendship and a safe environment for all involved. The coaches at Athelstone will: be AFL Level 1 Junior Coach accredited or will be undertaking the accreditation complete the Australian Sports Commission Play by the Rules module every 3 years subject to a National Police Check every 2 years be reasonable in their demands on young players time, energy and enthusiasm focus on the developing players skills and performance, recognising that players are at various stages of development, rather than winning or losing encourage players to always to play according to the rules and to settle disagreements without resorting to hostility or violence never ridicule or yell at a player for making a mistake or losing a competition respect the decisions of officials and teach young people to do the same appreciate good performances and skilful plays by all participants not use foul language, sledge or harass players, opposition coaches or officials support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities congratulate all participants on their performance regardless of the game s outcome condemn the use of violence in any form, whether it is by spectators, coaches, officials or players show respect for the opposition team show respect and appreciate the efforts of officials and administrators. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion. follow the advice of a physician when determining when an injured player is ready to recommence training or competition. The Committee of the Athelstone Football Club Junior Grades view seriously breaches of this the Code of Behaviour and will enforce penalties on those who transgress, reserving the right to pass on any monetary fine imposed on the club by the North Eastern Metropolitan Junior Football Association as a direct result of Coaches behaviour. 6
Parent Guardian Behaviour This Code of Behaviour identifies the key principles on which the parents/guardians of Athelstone Football Club Junior Grades players are required to base their involvement with the club. The code provides the basis for fair play and encourages fun, friendship and a safe environment for all involved. The parents/guardians of AFC-J Players will: encourage players to participate, not force them focus on the players efforts and performance rather than winning or losing encourage players to always to play according to the rules and to settle disagreements without resorting to hostility or violence never ridicule or yell at a player for making a mistake or losing a competition remember players learn best by example respect the decisions of officials and teach young people to do the same appreciate good performances and skilful plays by all participants not use foul language, sledge or harass players, coaches or officials support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities congratulate all participants on their performance regardless of the game s outcome condemn the use of violence in any form, whether it is by spectators, coaches, officials or players show respect for the opposition team show respect and appreciate the efforts of volunteer coaches, officials and administrators. respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion. in the first instance refer any communication/issues to the Coach / Team Manager. If the issue persists or is not resolved to your satisfaction please refer the matter to the appropriate Junior Co-ordinator. The Committee of the Athelstone Football Club Junior Grades view seriously breaches of this the Code of Behaviour and will enforce penalties on those who transgress, reserving the right to pass on any monetary fine imposed on the club by the North Eastern Metropolitan Junior Football Association as a direct result of Parent/Guardian behaviour. 7
Spectators Please read the following rules carefully. They are some of the main rules set by our Association, the North Eastern Metro Junior Football Association. All spectators/parents, officials and bench players must stand at least 2 metres from the boundary line at all times. Spectators/parents must not stand within 10 metres either side or behind the goal square at any time during the game. The only people allowed on the oval during the game are players, umpires, the Coach (U7, U8, U9 & U10 only), official runners, and the Team Manager (for injuries). The Team Manager and Team Captain are the only people allowed to approach the Umpire, before, during or after the game. All queries or complaints regarding decisions must be raised through the Team Manager No parents or spectators are permitted on the oval before, during or after the game in the premiership age groups. Children are allowed to kick footballs on the oval during the breaks but must keep away from the team huddles. Please remember that these rules are made for the protection and safety of all players. Disregarding these rules may cause the Club and Team to incur fines, and may in some cases, result in loss of premiership points. This can be detrimental to team s finals chances. If you have any queries, complaints or comments you wish to be raised with Umpires regarding decisions or behaviour, please DO NOT approach the umpire; direct your comments to your Team Manager. 8
Season Information 2015 Registration Fees U15 s & U16 s $180 U7 s U14 s $160 Non-payment of fees by round 3 will result in players being stood out until fees are paid. Payment plans cans be negotiated with the Treasurer and these must be paid in full by 30 th June 2015 otherwise players will be stood out until payment is made in full. Age Appropriate U7- Must be under 7 on the 1st of January - Players cannot participate in games until they turn five. U8- Must be under 8 on the 1st of January - Players cannot participate in games until they turn six. U9 - Must be under 9 on the 1st January - A player who still qualifies to play U8s will only be allowed to play U09s if they have previously played 2 years in U8 and will be at the discretion of the committee. U10 - Must be under 10 on the 1st of January - Players who still qualify to play U9s will only be allowed to play U10s if they are skill and size appropriate and will be at the discretion of the committee. U11-U16- All players will be registered in their age appropriate group*. Any request to play outside the age group must be discussed with the coordinators and approved by the committee. No guarantees can be granted to a player until closer to the first game of the season when numbers become clearer and will always be at the discretion of the committee. *Players in premiership grades (u11 u16 s) who have played above their appropriate age group in the previous season will be able to continue play with that group if they wish or they can elect to return to their appropriate age group. 9
2015 Key Dates Adelaide Cup Day Monday 9 th March no training for any grades on Friday 6 th March Sunday 29 th march U11 s to U16 s Trial Games vs Hope Valley U9 s Carnival Friday 10 th April U7 & U8 Carnival Sunday 12 th April 9.30am 1.00pm Sunday 12 th April U10 s to U15 s Trial Games vs Payneham School Holidays Monday 13 th April to Friday 24 th April Good Friday 3 rd April & Easter Monday 6 th April no training for any grades on Friday 3 rd April Season starts Sunday 26 th April (possible Friday Night game 24 th April) Queen s Birthday Monday 9 th June - no training for any grades on Friday 6 th June Bye on this weekend. Association Games vs Southern Metro U11 s to U16 s. School Holidays Monday 6 th July to Friday 17 th July. Bye 13 th July.- no training for any grades on Friday 11 th July. Last Minor Round Game 23 rd August. End of season for U7 s to U10 s. Semi Finals for U11 s to U16 s commence weekend beginning Sunday 30 th August (U11 s & U12 s will play on night of Friday 28 th August) Preliminary Finals Sunday 6 th September Grand Finals Sunday 13 th September 10
2015 Training Timetable U7 U10 Training begins Friday 13 th March Fridays: 5.00pm - 6.00pm @ Max Amber Sports Field (Athelstone Football Club) U11 Training Wednesdays: 5.00pm - 6.00pm @ Max Amber SportsField(Athelstone Football Club) Fridays: 6.00pm 7.00pm@ Max Amber SportsField(Athelstone Football Club) U12 Training Thursdays: 5.00pm 7.00pm@ Foxfield U13 Training Tuesdays: 5.00pm 6.00pm @ Max Amber Sports Field (Athelstone Football Club) Fridays: 5.00pm 6.00pm@ Max Amber Sports Field (Athelstone Football Club) U14 Training Wednesdays: 5.30pm 7.30pm @ Foxfield Oval U15 Training Wednesdays: 6.00pm 7.30pm@ Max Amber Sports Field(Athelstone Football Club) U16 Training Wednesdays: 6.00pm 7.30pm@ Max Amber Sports Field(Athelstone Football Club) 11
What time do I play? The majority of games are played on a Sunday. Teams may also be scheduled for games on a Friday night. The table below shows each age group and what time you will be expected at the game day oval. Team Be at the oval by Game starts at Under 7 Under 8 9.00 am 9.00 am 9.30 am 9.30 am Under 9 9.00 am 9.30 am Under 10 10.00 am 10.40 am Under 11 10.00 am 10.40 am Under 12 11.15 am 12.00 noon Under 13 11.15 am 12.00 noon Under 14 12.30 pm 1.20 pm Under 15 12.30 pm 1.20 pm Under 16 2.00 pm 3.00 pm Please note: These times are subject to change and are dependent on programming Uniform Requirements The Football Club will provide each player with an Athelstone Football Club Guernsey, which is to be worn on game days only. This Guernsey is your responsibility for the length of the season and must be handed back to your Team Manager at the end of the last match of the season. Each player will need to supply: White Raggies football shorts for both home and away games. It is compulsory that the new shorts with the Raggies and SACFL logo on them are worn.these can only be purchased from Sports Power Newton. Football boots for training and games Royal blue football socks (plain blue, no hoops) with the SACFL logo on them. It is compulsory that they are worn. These can only be purchased from Sports Power Newton. Mouth guard (optional, but recommended) Sports Power, located in the shopping centre on the corner of Montacute and Stradbroke Rd, will be happy to also to help outfit the players with boots. Sports Power have been great supporters of the club in recent years and offer a 10% discount to all AFC-J players. 12
AFC-J Weather Policy Hot Weather (a) Training sessions shall be cancelled if the Adelaide forecast issued at 5.20am CDT by the Bureau of Meteorology (www.bom.gov.au/sa/forecasts/adelaide.shtml ) on the day the training is proposed to occur is 34 C or greater. Matches, including pre-season trial matches, shall be cancelled if the forecast temperature published in the Advertiser or Sunday Mail on the day the match is proposed to be played is 34 C or greater. (b) Coaches and team managers shall provide additional drinks breaks during training sessions, trial matches and minor round matches and actively encourage junior players to remain hydrated when the temperature is forecast above 25 C. (Players are to bring additional drinks to training sessions) The coach and/or team managers should modify or terminate the training activity if they consider the conditions unsafe for the players. (c) If in their opinion of the field umpire(s) the temperature and humidity conditions have become unsafe for the players they shall advise both team managers that they consider the conditions unsuitable for play and shall terminate the match. Inclement Weather (a) The field umpire(s) shall stop the match and order the players from the field if inclement weather conditions which they consider poses a safety risk to players and officials develop during the match. (b) These rules also apply to Trial Games where there is an Official Umpire appointed by the Association 13
Injury The Athelstone Football Club Junior Grades policy is very clear with regards to injuries at training, or at games. If a player is unable to pick him or herself up off the ground, or is unconscious, the game must stop, and an ambulance will be called. Under no circumstances are parents or team officials to move any player that has a serious injury. If the injury is not serious, or life threatening, i.e. twisted ankle, broken arm etc., the stretcher will be used to remove the player safely from the ground. The safety of each and every player is paramount. Team Officials have a basic first aid kit to assist with minor bumps, scratches and abrasions. Anything requiring more attention than the resources available in the kit will be referred to a parent or guardian for further action. 14
Communication Procedure All communication must be referred to your Team Manager in the first instance. Most problems can be resolved quickly and easily this way. If the problem persists, or is not resolved to your satisfaction, please submit your complaint in writing to the Junior Committee, who will address your issue at a forthcoming meeting. You will be advised of the outcome. Please note that under no circumstances is ANY individual from our club permitted to complain in writing or verbally to any other club or NEMJFA. Every complaint of this nature MUST be brought to the attention of the Chairman or Co-ordinators, who will assist you. Valuables We would prefer that players leave valuables, such as jewellery, watches, expensive clothing and mobile phones etc. at home. Please do not leave any property unattended. We recommend that you leave all bags and belongings with a parent or guardian, or under the supervision of the Team Manager. DO NOT LEAVE BAGS OR BELONGINGS IN UNLOCKED CHANGE ROOMS!! Football Sizes If you are looking to purchase a football and are not sure what size is suitable the table below can be used as a guide. Sherrin Under 7, 8 Size 1 Under 9, 10 Size 2 Under 11,12 Size 3 Under 13,14, 15 Size 4 Under16 Size 5 15
Rules Modification to Rules NEMJFA Laws of the Game Matrix A high level summary of the rules is shown in the document below and this can be found on our website under the Players Information link within the Juniors tab Laws Matrix.pdf U7 & U8 Competition Modified Rules as per below Philosophy and Match Programs explained in the document below and this can be found on our website under the Players Information link within the Juniors tab. Philosophy and Match Program U6 - U 1. Playing Ground The playing ground should be approximately 80m x 60m and have 3 equal zones identified by markers or lines on the ground. 2. The Ball Size Size 1 3. The Team A maximum of 15 players can take the ground at any one time. Unlimited reserves may be used. Fifteen-a-side means: 5 forwards, 5 midfielders, 5 backs + reserves There shall be no rucks or rovers. The interchange of players may take place at any time. Players can be replaced at any time due to injury. Players replaced due to serious injury are not to take any further part in the game. Where difficulty occurs fielding full numbers, both coaches and team managers MUST agree to equate numbers. Excess players should be given to the opposition team if they are unable to field the required numbers. Teams MUST have equal numbers of players on the playing field. Players in each zone should be the same for each team. The spirit of the game is to give all available players a game of football. 3.1 Zones 16
Backs are restricted to the back zone. Centre players are restricted to the centre zone. (Centre Zone players must wear bibs) Forwards are restricted to the forward zone. 3.2 Transition of Ball When ball is in transition from the Back Zone to the Forward Zone, it must be touched by a player in the Mid-Zone. Failure for this to occur will see a free kick awarded to the opposition team at the point at which the ball entered the end zone. 3.3 Scoring Only players who are positioned as Forward Zone players may score. 4. The Possession Rule The ball is possessed by the act of controlling it by catching it, grabbing it, or laying two hands on it when it is on the ground. Once the ball is possessed, all other players must back off to the side of the player in possession, so that the player may kick or handball uncontested (there is to be no blocking or standing in the pathway of the player in possession). Decide doubtful cases with ball-ups. Please note: As all players without the ball must back off to the side of the player in possession of the ball the player with ball does not need to barge, fend off or chop past an opponent. If the player with the ball barges through someone who is standing to the side the umpire will pay a free kick against the player with the ball. Where a player has the ball and has had it for a while the umpire and coach should use more voice to encourage the player to kick or handball. If the player still takes more time it is likely that the player is still developing these skills and therefore the coach is to intervene and coax the player to kick or handball. 5. Playing Time The game shall consist of four quarters of a maximum of ten (10) minutes each. Breaks are 3 minutes at ¼ time and ¾ time and 6 minutes at ½ time. There is no time on. 17
6. Start of Play When all players are inside their own zones, the game shall be started by a ball-up between two centre line players in the middle of the oval. The umpire should nominate different pairs of players for subsequent ball ups after goals are scored Players contesting the ball-up should be of similar size. A player may not grab the ball at ball-ups and play on. The player must knock, palm or punch the ball to a team mate or open ground, and may not play the ball again until it has either been touched by another player or hits the ground. This is known as the full possession rule. 7. After a Goal Play is restarted as in Rule 5. 8. Scrimmage Where a scrimmage develops the umpire shall stop play, send players back to their zones and call a ball-up between two opponents of similar size. These players shall be nominated by the umpire and need not be the closest or the tallest. endeavor to apply the rules of the games whilst preferring to award kicks to players in preference to calling for ball-ups At the ball-up full possession is not permitted. Players should be encouraged to pick up the ball and will be penalized for diving on the ball. 9. Out of Bounds Where the ball goes out of bounds from a kick, a free kick will be awarded to The opposition. If there is a doubt as to which team kicked the ball out of bounds, the umpire shall call for a ball-up 10 metres inside the boundary. When the ball goes out of bounds off hands or body, the umpire shall call for a ball-up 10 metres in from the boundary. At the ball-up full possession is not permitted. 10. Bouncing the Ball Players can run 10 metres and allowed one bounce within their zone before disposing of the ball by hand or foot. 11. Kicking off the Ground A player is not permitted to deliberately kick the ball off the ground. A free kick will be awarded. 18
12. Mark Any player catching a ball (or makes a reasonable attempt) directly from the kick of another player shall be awarded a free kick irrespective of the distance travelled by the ball. A player cannot play on from a mark they must kick or handball. 13. Contact/Tackling Players cannot Hold an opponent with their hands. Steal the ball or knock the ball out of opponent s hands. Push, bump or barge another player (incidental contact only is permitted) Smother an opponent s kick Shepherd 14. Order-Off Rule Umpires may order players from the field under the Association order-off policy. The use of bad language & questioning of umpire s decisions will be penalized. No distance penalty applies 15. Staying in position Coaches and Umpires should instruct players to stay in their correct positions. 16. Coaches / Runners The Coach is allowed on the ground for the purpose of teaching. Runners are not allowed. 17. Spirit of the Game At the end of the game all Players and Coaches should gather together on the ground to shake hands. 18. The Game No premiership win or loss points will be awarded or recorded. No finals series to be played. No publication of ladders No publication of match results 19
U9 Competition Philosophy and Match Programs explained in the document below and this can be found on our website under the Players Information link within the Juniors tab. Philosophy and Match Program U9.pd 1. Playing Ground Oval size approx. ½ standard size. 2. The Ball Size Size 2 3. The Team Only 15 players allowed on field (no ruck, no ruck rover or rover) Where difficulty occurs fielding full numbers, both Coaches and Team Managers MUST agree to equate numbers. Excess players should be given to the opposition team if they are unable to field the required numbers. Teams MUST have equal numbers of players on the playing field. The spirit of the game is to give all available players a game of football 4. Playing Time 12 minute quarters. Breaks are 3 minutes at ¼ time and ¾ time and 6 minutes at ½ time. There is no time on. 5. Bouncing the Ball Only one bounce of the ball before it must be disposed of legally by hand or by foot 6. Tackling Modified tackle only - A player in possession of the ball may be tackled by an opponent wrapping both arms around the area below the top of the shoulders and on/above the knees. The tackle may be from either side or from behind providing the tackle from behind does not thrust forward the player with the ball (That is push back the player in the back). If the player in possession of the ball is taken to the ground in the act of tackling, they will receive a free kick. If the umpire feels the player drops to the ground deliberately in order to receive a free kick, they will be penalized for holding the ball 20
Players can steal the ball from another player Players can smother an opponent s kick Players can shepherd an opponent Players cannot Push the player in the side, back or front. Deliberately bump another player Lift the player off the ground when applying the wrap tackle. 7. Barging No barging or chopping past opponents is allowed. A free kick is awarded. Fending off, with an open hand to the body (not above the shoulders or in the back), is allowed. 8. Full Possession Rule Full possession rule applies eg at rucks, ball-ups and boundary throw ins (ie can t take the ball on the full in ruck, can t handball or kick to themselves) 9. Kicking off the Ground A player is not permitted to deliberately kick the ball off the ground. A FREE KICK WILL BE AWARDED FOR BREACHES OF 5,6,7,8 & 9 ABOVE 10. Out of Bounds Where the ball goes out of bounds from a kick, a free kick will be awarded to the opposition. If there is a doubt as to which team kicked the ball out of bounds, the umpire shall call for a ball-up 10 metres inside the boundary. When the ball goes out of bounds off hands or body, the umpire shall call for a ball-up 10 metres in from the boundary. At the ball-up full possession is not permitted. 11. Mark Any player catching a ball (or showing control of the ball) directly from the kick of another player shall be awarded a mark irrespective of the distance travelled by the ball. 12. Order-Off Rule Umpires may order players from the field under the Association order-off policy. The use of bad language & questioning of umpire s decisions will be penalized. 10 Metre Penalty may be applied at the umpires discretion 21
13. Staying in position Coaches and Umpires should instruct players to stay in their correct positions. 14. Coaches / Runners The Coach is allowed on the ground for the purpose of teaching. Runners Are not allowed. 15. Spirit of the Game At the end of the game all Players and Coaches should gather together on the ground to shake hands. 16. The Game No recording of best players or goal kickers No premiership win or loss points will be awarded or recorded. No finals series to be played. No publication of ladders No publication of match results 22
U10 Competition Philosophy and Match Programs explained in the document below and this can be found on our website under the Players Information link within the Juniors tab. Philosophy and Match Program U10's. 1. Playing Ground oval size approx ¾ standard size 2. The Ball Size Size 2 -:- 3. The Team 18 players allowed on field ( ruck, ruck rover and rover introduced) Where difficulty occurs fielding full numbers, both Coaches and Team Managers MUST agree to equate numbers. Excess players should be given to the Opposition team if they are unable to field the required numbers. Teams MUST have equal numbers of players on the playing field. The spirit of the game is to give all available players a game of football 4. Playing Time 12 minute quarters. Breaks are 3 minutes at ¼ time and ¾ time and 6 minutes at ½ time. There is no time on. 5. Bouncing the Ball Only one bounce of the ball before it must be disposed of legally by hand or by foot 6. Contact/Tackling (will revert to the U9 tackling rules above in season 2015) Full tackle permitted Players can steal the ball from an opponent s hands smother an opponent s kick shepherd Push the player in the side, back or front. 23
Deliberately bump another player 7. Barging No barging or chopping past opponents is allowed. A free kick is awarded. Fending off, with an open hand to the body (not above the shoulders or in the back), is allowed. 8. Full Possession Rule Full possession rule applies eg at rucks, ball-ups and boundary throw ins (ie can t take the ball on the full in ruck, can t handball or kick to themselves 9. Kicking off the Ground A player is not permitted to deliberately kick the ball off the ground. A FREE KICK WILL BE AWARDED FOR BREACHES OF 5,6, 7,8 & 9 ABOVE 10. Out of Bounds Where the ball goes out of bounds from a kick, a free kick will be awarded to the opposition. If there is a doubt as to which team kicked the ball out of bounds, the umpire shall call for a ball-up 10 metres inside the boundary. When the ball goes out of bounds off hands or body, the umpire shall call for a ball-up 10 metres in from the boundary. At the ball-up full possession is not permitted. 11. Order-Off Rule Umpires may order players from the field under the Association order-off policy. The use of bad language & questioning of umpire s decisions will be penalized. 10 Metre Penalty may be applied at the umpires discretion 12. Staying in position Coaches and Umpires should instruct players to stay in their correct positions. 13. Coaches / Runners The Coach is allowed on the ground for the purpose of teaching. Runners are not allowed. 14. Spirit of the Game At the end of the game all Players and Coaches should gather together on the ground to shake hands. 15. The Game No recording of best players or goal kickers No premiership win or loss points will be awarded or recorded. No finals series to be played. 24
No publication of ladders No publication of match results U11 to U12 Competition Philosophy and Match Program is explained in the document below and this can be found on our website under the Players Information link within the Juniors tab. Philosophy and Match Program U11-U NORMAL RULES apply except for the modification listed below: 1. Playing Ground Play on full size oval 2. Ball Size Size 3 Sherrin -:- size 9-11 Faulkner balls must be used. Leather balls are Compulsory 3. The Team 18 Players allowed on the field. Please note By Law 49 applies as per below when there are unequal numbers of players on each side Applies to all Premiership Grade Competitions Member Club s can field 24 players in any match of The League. A minimum of 14 players per team must take the field to constitute a match. Each team must play with an equal number of players (14 18 on field) during the minor round. If a player leaves the playing field due to injury and there is no replacement player available, at the next quarter time break the opposing team is required to remove one of their players from the playing field to ensure the number of players on each team remains the same. This clause does not apply when a player is sent from the field by the umpire or reported. Teams must play even numbers even in finals round matches regardless of the opposing Member Club s playing numbers. It is optional to lend players and it is optional to rotate the loaned players Quarter by quarter or provide them to the opposition for the full match If the team with the lower number of players refuses to accept players offered by the other team then the team with the higher numbers will not be limited and can play up to 18 players. 25
Any team that refuses to even up sides will lose their points for winning the game. Players who play for the opposition must be listed on the opposition team sheet 4. Playing Time 15 minute quarters. Breaks are 3 minutes at ¼ time and ¾ time and 6 minutes at ½ time. There is no time on. 5. Kicking off the Ground A player is not permitted to deliberately kick the ball off the ground. A free kick will be awarded. 6. Number of Bounces A maximum of two bounces of the ball before it must be disposed of legally by hand or by foot 7. Barging No barging or chopping past opponents is allowed. A free kick is awarded. Fending off, with an open hand to the body (not above the shoulders or in the back), is allowed. 8. Scrimmage and Boundary Throw-ins Full possession at the ball-up is not permitted. I.e. A player may not grab the ball at ball-ups and play on. The player must knock, palm or punch the ball to a team mate or open ground, and may not play the ball again until it as either been touched by another player or hits the ground. This is known as the full possession rule. 9. Order-Off Rule Umpires may order players from the field under the Association order-off policy. The use of bad language & questioning of umpire s decisions will be penalized. 25 Metre Penalty may be applied at the umpires discretion 26
U13 Competition NORMAL RULES apply except for the modification listed below: 1. Playing Ground Play on full size oval 2. Ball Size Size 4 Sherrin -:- size 12-13 Faulkner balls must be used. Leather balls are compulsory 3. The Team 18 Players allowed on the field. Please note By Law 49 applies as per below when there are unequal numbers of players on each side Applies to all Premiership Grade Competitions Member Club s can field 24 players in any match of The League. A minimum of 14 players per team must take the field to constitute a match. Each team must play with an equal number of players (14 18 on field) during the minor round. If a player leaves the playing field due to injury and there is no replacement player available, at the next quarter time break the opposing team is required to remove one of their players from the playing field to ensure the number of players on each team remains the same. This clause does not apply when a player is sent from the field by the umpire or reported. Teams must play even numbers even in finals round matches regardless of the opposing Member Club s playing numbers. It is optional to lend players and it is optional to rotate the loaned players quarter by quarter or provide them to the opposition for the full match If the team with the lower number of players refuses to accept players offered by the other team then the team with the higher numbers will not be limited and can play up to 18 players. Any team that refuses to even up sides will lose their points for winning the game. Players who play for the opposition must be listed on the opposition team sheet 4. Playing Time 15 minute quarters. Breaks are 3 minutes at ¼ time and ¾ time and 6 minutes at ½ time. There is no time on. 5. Kicking off the Ground A player is not permitted to deliberately kick the ball off the ground. A free kick will be awarded. 6. Order-Off Rule Umpires may order players from the field under the Association order-off policy. 27
The use of bad language & questioning of umpire s decisions will be penalized. 25 Metre Penalty may be applied at the umpires discretion U14 to U16Competition NORMAL RULES apply except for the modification listed below: 1. Playing Ground Play on full size oval 2. Ball Size U14 s U15 s Size 4 Sherrin -:- size 12-13 Faulkner balls must be used. Leather balls are compulsory. U16 s - Size 5 Sherrin balls must be used. Leather balls are compulsory. 3. The Team 18 Players allowed on the field. Please note By Law 49 applies as per below when there are unequal numbers of players on each side Applies to all Premiership Grade Competitions Member Club s can field 24 players in any match of The League. A minimum of 14 players per team must take the field to constitute a match. Each team must play with an equal number of players (14 18 on field) during the minor round. If a player leaves the playing field due to injury and there is no replacement player available, at the next quarter time break the opposing team is required to remove one of their players from the playing field to ensure the number of players on each team remains the same. This clause does not apply when a player is sent from the field by the umpire or reported. Teams must play even numbers even in finals round matches regardless of the opposing Member Club s playing numbers. It is optional to lend players and it is optional to rotate the loaned players Quarter by quarter or provide them to the opposition for the full match If the team with the lower number of players refuses to accept players offered by the other team then the team with the higher numbers will not be limited and can play up to 18 players. Any team that refuses to even up sides will lose their points for winning the game. Players who play for the opposition must be listed on the opposition team sheet 4. Playing Time 20 minute quarters. Breaks are 3 minutes at ¼ time and ¾ time and 6 minutes at ½ time. There is no time on. 5. Order-Off Rule Umpires may order players from the field under the Association order-off policy. 28
The use of bad language & questioning of umpire s decisions will be penalized. 25 Metre Penalty may be applied at the umpires discretion 10 Goal Rule The maximum winning margin for a team will be set at 10 goals (60 points). That means if the losing sides kicks 4 goals and the winning teams kicks 23 goals, they will only be credited with 14 goals to calculate their percentage. Premiership grades only (U11 - U16) Depending on the number of teams registered in an age group the competition may consist of a Red, Blue and White division. The Red division being the strongest division. The divisions are constructed to support an even competition for all teams within the division and are based on results from previous years and feedback from clubs. Send Off Rule & Reports Umpires have the power to send off players in any grade. A Red and Yellow card system is used by the umpires o Red Card denotes a reportable offence and player will be sent off for the rest of the game. No replacement is allowed. o Yellow Card denotes a send-off and the player will be sent off for Ten Minutes playing time. No replacement is allowed. The player can return after the send-off period is completed. o Two yellow cards will mean that that the player is off for the rest of the game and will receive an automatic 1 game suspension. o Two yellow cards in the season means the player will be automatically suspended for the next scheduled game. Umpires have the power to report players and officials in any grade as per the AFL Laws of Australian Football. Players reported will be sent off as stated above. Under 7 s to Under 10 s When a player has been reported, the umpire will accompany the player to the boundary line and inform the Team manager that the player has been reported Offences will be dealt with between the club and the association. Under 11 s to Under 16 s When a player has been reported, the umpire will accompany the player to the boundary line and inform the Team manager that the player has been reported All reported players are required to face the tribunal and if the report charge is upheld they will receive the appropriate game suspension. Depending on the reason for the report the player may accept the report charge and incur the appropriate set penalty (games suspension) and not be required to 29
attend the tribunal. Please note that in line with the Community Football League rules that any suspension applies to all football competitions they play in School and SANFL and both the school and SANFL are notified of their suspension irrespective of whether they play for the school or SANFL. 30