Forest Lions Junior AFL Club Parents Handbook 2015
Welcome to the Forest Lions 2015 AFL Season Whether you are a new family or one with a returning player, welcome to the Forest Lions Junior AFL Club for the 2015 season. The 2015 season has started well for the Forest Lions with a good pre-season and increased numbers again this year. We are proud to be in the position to field 11 teams including two Under 9s, three U10s, two Under 12s and age group through to U15s. It has been some years since we have had teams in the higher age group. As a club it is great to see the growth in numbers in all age groups as well strive to getting back to a full club with an U17 s next year. But as a club and committee we are also looking at how we can improve the club and the experience for people with in the club or visiting. One of the initiatives for the 2015 is the purchase of an electronic scoreboard and we thank John Bull Removals for coming on board as the naming sponsor this year. We also thank all our sponsors for their ongoing support and encourage the club to support them in return. The Forest Lions Committee has put together this booklet to provide families with some basic information about the club, its expectations and Junior AFL in general. We hope this will make your 2015 season as enjoyable as possible. As a committee we welcome any new members as anyone can contribute their particular skills or knowledge to the club and help make it better. We also welcome any feedback and so please feel free to contact myself, or any member of the committee during the season. Hope you enjoy the 2015 AFL season. Joshua Gaughan Forest Lions Junior AFL Club President Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 2 of 26
Table of Contents Forest Lions Are ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4 Forest Lions Mission Statement ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4 Forest Lions Code of Conducts Club Goal Players Code of Conduct ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5 Parent & Spectators Code of Conduct --------------------------------------------------------------------- 5 Bullying ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5 Forest Lions Committee ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6 Contact Us--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Home Ground ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 Training Team Training Times ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Training Gear ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7 Wet Weather ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7 Forest Lions Uniform Uniform Price List ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 8 Game Day --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8 Lost Property------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 8 Match Day Information -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9 Ground Locations ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 9 Draw ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9 Length of Game -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9 Breaks -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9 Player Numbers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9 Umpires ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 9 Scoring System ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10 Best & Fairest ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10 Club Song -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10 Parental Help Involvement Team Coach ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11 Assistant Coach ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11 Assisting with Training ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11 Team Manager -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11 Canteen & BBQ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11 Match Day Runner --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 Water Carrier ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 Half Time Refreshments -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 Goal Umpire------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 13 Boundary Umpire ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13 AFL Rules for Age Groups Auskick ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 15 Under 9 & Under 10 Rules ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16 Zoning (U9/10) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19 Under 11 & Under 12 Rules ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20 Youth Rules (U13-17) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22 10 Goal Rule (Mercy Rule) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22 Final Series Format -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23 Goal Umpiring --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24 Club Sponsors --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26 Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 3 of 26
Forest Lions Are FRIENDLY Approachable Open communication Social Encourage players to play with their mates FUN Appreciate and celebrate good play from all Fair We always sing our club song POSITIVE We encourage umpires and opponents Praise good play from the opposition Shake hands after every game Emphasise learning and improving over winning PROFESSIONAL We have and follow training and game plans On time for training and games Organised INCLUSIVE Every player is given equal opportunity to play Team captaincy is rotated Awards recognise the contribution of all Forest Lions Mission Statement To provide a safe and friendly environment for junior footballers to learn the fundamentals of playing football as a member of a team. To develop individual skills so that teams may be competitive. To provide an environment where junior players enjoy playing football. To provide an environment where junior footballers and their parents are able to enjoy themselves and build lasting friendships. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 4 of 26
Forest Lions Codes of Conduct Club Goal As a Junior AFL Club our aim is to create a family friendly environment where boys and girls can learn new footy skills, be active and enjoy the mateship of being part of a team. To ensure this continually happens the club, along with the AFL Association have developed Codes of Conduct for the various members involved in our club. Please read through the codes below and discuss them with the members of your family. Player s Code of Conduct Play by the rules. Don t argue it is not a good. Control your temper you will gain real respect. Be a team player teams win games, not individuals. Treat all players fairly as you would like to be treated. Work with your coach and teammates not against them. Play for enjoyment and to improve your skills. Don t lower yourself, your coach, your parents or your team by making any remarks based on race or gender. Parent and Spectators Code of Conduct Encourage participation, don t force it. Teach the message that it s not whether you win or lose but how you play the game. Encourage an understanding of the rules by showing a genuine interest. Never ridicule mistakes or defeats you will destroy confidence very quickly. Remember you are there to support the children s enjoyment before your own. Lead by example and respect all players, coaches, umpires and spectator. Personally recognise all volunteers who are giving their valuable time. Never publicly criticise umpires raise your concerns calmly in private via the coach. Lead the way in stamping out all racial, verbal or physical abuse. Abstain from the use of vulgar and abusive language. It sets a very bad example for the children. Consumption of alcohol at Junior games and training is prohibited. Drunken abusive parents set a very bad example for the children and reflect poorly on the club as a whole. Please be aware that from Jan 7 2013, the NSW government has banned smoking at public sports grounds. Bullying Whilst coaches and managers do their best to ensure bullying does not occur at training or on match days, if this does happen please report any incidents to your manager or coach. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 5 of 26
Forest Lions Committee Name Position Responsibility Contact Joshua Gaughan President Club Overall president@forestafl.com.au Craig Fairbairn & Josh Stacey Vice President Administration vicepresident@forestafl.com.au Danielle White Secretary Club Administrator secretary@forestafl.com.au VACANT Treasurer Financial Management treasurer@forestafl.com.au Mark Hurst Registrar Registration registrar@forestafl.com.au Ken Johnston Katrina O Donnell Anna Dobson Steve Dixon VACANT Angela Leigh Tony Eyres Chris Hurley Anna Dobson Wendy Krause VACANT Danielle White Coach Coordinator Auskick Coordinator Managers Coordinator Grounds Manager Assistant Ground Manager Website Manager Social & Fundraising Umpires Coordinator Property Manager Canteen Coordinator Recruitment manager Trophy Coordinator Coaching Auskick Team Managers Facilities Management Maintenance Coordination Facilities Management Maintenance Website Functions Coordinator, Fundraising Coordinator Umpires Property Canteen Recruitment Trophies coachcoordinator@forestafl.com.au auskickcoordinator@forestafl.com.au propertymanager@forestafl.com.au groundsmanager@forestafl.com.au groundsmanager@forestafl.com.au websitemanager@forestafl.com.au socialcoordinator@forestafl.com.au umpirecoordinator@forestafl.com.au propertymanager@forestafl.com.au canteen@forestafl.com.au recruitmentmanager@forestafl.com.au trophycoordinator@forestafl.com.au If you have any concerns please direct them in the first instance, to your player s team coach or manager. If you feel that your issue has not been dealt with to your satisfaction, please feel free to contact the appropriate member of the committee. Contact Us Forest Lions Junior AFL Club PO Box 398 Forestville NSW 2087 Home Ground Lionel Watts Reserve, Blackbutts Road, Frenchs Forest Forest Lions Website For the latest news from the Forest Lions and more info on events, please visit our website at www.forestafl.com.au Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 6 of 26
Training Team Training Times Team Name Training Times Head Coach Auskick (4-8yrs) Tues 4:30-5:30pm Geoff Pridgeon U9s Thurs 5:30-6:30pm John Harrison U10s Thurs 5:30-6:30pm Duncan Geddes U11s Thurs 5:30-6:30pm Craig Fairbairn U12s Wed 5:30-7:00pm Phil White/Ed Wilson U13s Tues 5:30-7pm Derek Whelan U14s Tues 5:30-7pm Ken Johnston U15s Tues 5:30-7pm Darren Delacy All teams train at Lionel Watts Reserve Training Gear Players need to wear studded footy boots and comfortable clothing to train in. A jacket is recommended for the winter months. Bring along a water bottle too. Mouth guards are optional for training. Wet Weather Training will only be cancelled due to bad weather at the coach s discretion or if Warringah Council closes Lionel Watts Oval. Please check via the Wet Weather Hotline 9981 2099 or council website. Warringah Council Wet Weather Web Page The team manager will send a message out to notify the team. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 7 of 26
Forest Lions Uniform Forest Lions provide all their players with match jumpers. These are handed out at the beginning of the season and collected at the last match of the season. Players need to provide their own socks, shorts, boots and mouth guards. Sock and shorts need to be purchased through the club. This can be done through the club canteen on match days. Please make sure you label all your players gear. Uniform Price List Socks -------------------------------------------------- $15 Shorts ------------------------------------------------- $20 Socks & Shorts together -------------------------- $30 Game Day Players will need to bring a water bottle to all matches. Please make sure that nails are trimmed as they are inspected by the umpires before each game. Skins (short/knee-length) may be worn under the uniform in colder weather, must be black or skin coloured. Mouth guards are recommended by the GSJAFL Association but not mandatory. Forest Lions leaves the choice to the discretion of parents. Lost Property Lost property will be placed in a box just inside the door to the canteen. Please check there if you are missing anything. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 8 of 26
Match Day Information Please be at the grounds at least 30-45 minutes before the game is due to start. This allows time to warm up and the coach to allocate starting positions. Ground Locations Can be found on Sporting Pulse website. It lists all the clubs and their home grounds in the Sydney Harbour North Shore & North West region. Sporting Pulse Venue Locations Draw The team manager will email out a draw with times, date and venues. This draw is issued at the start of the season but can be subject to change during the season. You can check your teams fixture list and results on the Sporting Pulse website. Sporting Pulse website - Fixtures & Results Length Of Game Age Group Under 9/10 Under 11/12/13/14/15 Under 17 Breaks Length of Quarter 4 x 10 minutes 4 x 15 minutes 4 x 17 minutes Under 9/10 Under 11/12/13/14/15/17 ¼ time 4 minutes 4 minutes ½ time 4 minutes 7 minutes ¾ time 4 minutes 4 minutes NB- Teams swap directions each quarter Player Numbers Age Group Min Number of Players Number for Match Max on Field Max Interchange (Subs) U9-U10 9 12 12 unlimited U11-U12 12 12 15 6 U13-U17 Div 1 & 2 15 Other Div - 13 16 18 6 Umpires There are normally two umpires on the field. Trainee umpires are first year umpires and in training. They generally only umpire U9-U11 games. They will be paired with a more experienced umpire who acts as their mentor. Most umpires also play AFL and they attend weekly training sessions and umpire junior matches. Please be supportive of them. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 9 of 26
Scoring System 6 points is awarded for a Goal (ball kicked between the two middle posts) 1 point for a Behind (ball kicked between one middle and one outer post) 1 point if the ball is touched on the way through any of the pole combinations 1 point if the ball hits the inner posts Best & Fairest At the end of a match the coach, assistant coach and parents will be asked to vote for the Best & Fairest player. The Team Manager will provide a parent voting roster, instructions and voting forms. The scores are tallied at the end of the season and awards given on presentation night. Club Song The club song is sung by the team at the end of every match. The words can be found at the end of this booklet. (Sung to the tune of La Marseillaise, the French national anthem) We are the team from Forest Lions, We wear the colours red, gold & blue! We will always fight for victory We will always see it through. In the air, or on the ground, We will beat them all around. Go Lions, Forest Lions, We'll kick the winning score. You'll hear the Mighty Roar!! Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 10 of 26
Parental Involvement There are a number of ways you can help support your child s team. Team Coach To provide excellent coaching for all teams, all Forest Lion coaches are asked to complete the Level 1 coaching course run by AFL NSW. The club covers the cost of this. The coach runs one training session during the week and attends games. Under 9s-U10s coaches are permitted on the ground to support and encourage their players. They need to wear a blue Coach s Bib supplied by the club at games. For other age groups coaches must use a runner to deliver messages to players. Coaches Function Display and foster respect for Umpires, opponents, Coaches, Officials, parents, volunteers and spectators. Safety and welfare of the player is of the utmost importance. Ensure timeliness of players in and around the game commencement & breaks. Remember that the Coach plays a key role in the emotional control of all team members and staff (this can include parents). Where on the field coaching is permitted, understand your role and positioning. Off field coaching requires the use of a Runner. Coaches Be Aware Ensure that you are an AFL Accredited Coach. Understand relevant playing conditions for your age group. Ensure ALL players receive adequate game time, and experience different playing positions, in line with the AFL Junior Policy. Understand the roles of your match day staff ie Team Managers, Runners and Water Carriers. The Game is to be ENJOYED by ALL. Do not: ridicule, engage in physical and/or verbal intimidation, abuse or threaten any Player, Official, Umpire, Volunteer or Spectator. Such actions are totally unacceptable and may result in you being reported. Assistant Coach Supports the Team Coach at training and may act as Match Day Runner. Assisting with Training Coaches are always glad of some extra help on training nights. Please talk to them on how best you can assist. Team Manager The Team Manager helps the Coach by dealing with the admin side of the team eg setting up team rosters, sending out information on draws and match day paperwork. There is a separate Manager s Handbook to help with this position. They need to wear a maroon Manager s Bib supplied by the club. Canteen & BBQ All parents are asked to participate in helping at the Club Canteen or BBQ at Home Games. It is half hour shift. The Team Manager will draw up a roster. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 11 of 26
Match Day Runner (U11s+) Needs to wear a pink bib supplied by the club. Runners Function In all matches it is the job of the Runner to relay messages from the coach to their team s players. Runners are only permitted on ground when actually relaying a message and must not remain on ground continually. Runners must return to the coaching bench after delivering their messages. Runners Be Aware A Runner can t be in the forward 50m arc after a behind has been scored and the ball is being kicked back into play. Field Umpires can order the Runner from the ground if they feel the Runner is on the ground too much. A Runner cannot approach or make any comments to Umpires, Players or Officials from the opposing side. For this Runners can be reported. When a player is injured on the field a Runner can go to the player to check on their welfare. Please note that play will not stop unless a stretcher or ERC is called onto the field or unless the Field Umpire is of the opinion that play could endanger the injured player. Water Carrier (U11s+) Runs water to players when needed during the game. They need to wear a yellow bib supplied by the club. U11 & U12 must be 12 year or older, U13-U17 must be 13 years or older. Water Carrier Function The job of the Water Carrier is to run water out to players when they require a drink. Once finished they must leave the ground. Water Carriers should only enter the field when play is at the other end of the ground. Water Carriers are not permitted to act as a second Runner (ie Can t deliver messages to players). Water Carrier Be Aware Field Umpires can order the Water Carrier from the ground if they feel he or she is loitering and spending too much time on the ground. A Water Carrier can t approach or make any comments to Umpires, Players or Officials from the opposing side. For this the Water Carrier can be reported. A Water Carrier can t be in the forward 50m arc after a behind has been scored and the ball is being kicked back into play. When a player is injured on the field a Water Carrier can go to the player to check on their welfare. Please note that play will not stop unless a stretcher or ERC is called onto the field or unless the Field Umpire is of the opinion that play could endanger the injured player. Half Time Refreshments All parents are asked to take a turn in providing refreshments for their team. Usually this is fruit. Please avoid anything with nuts in, as the can cause bad allergic reactions in some children. The Team Manager will draw up a roster. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 12 of 26
Goal Umpires Each team needs to provide one Goal Umpire each week. The Team Manager will draw up a roster. Don t panic when it is your turn. Some parents enjoy this role and will happily swap a BBQ or Canteen roster with you. Goal Umpire Function Introduce yourself to the Field Umpire before the commencement of play. Adjudicate on scoring during the match by standing behind the Goal line, in line with the flight of the ball. If the ball is high move to a position under the ball s flight to judge the correct score. If the ball is coming in low, move to the post on the line to see that the ball crosses the line fully. Wait for the Field Umpire to give the all clear before giving a decision. A behind is signaled with one arm, a goal is signaled with two arms. Both Goal Umpires must wave the flags for a score. One flag is used for a behind, and two flags are used for a goal. Enter score on the scorecard and check with the other Goal Umpire at the end of each quarter and at the end of the game, that the scores match. Give the scorecard to the Field Umpire at the end of the match to sign, and then give the scorecard to the home team s manager. Change ends of the grounds at half time. Goal Umpire Be Aware Communication with the Field Umpire should be restricted to matters arising from Umpiring duties. Always act in a professional manner and refrain from barracking for or giving support to a team and giving advice or making comments to the Players, other Officials or Supporters. If the Field Umpire is of the opinion that a Goal Umpire is making wrong or incompetent decisions, he or she may demand the offending club replace the Goal Umpire before re-commencing the match. A Field Umpire can overrule the Goal Umpire s decision. Occasionally the Field Umpire will consult with you to decide the correct score. Boundary Umpires (U13+) For U13+ each team needs to provide one Boundary Umpire each week. The Team Manager will draw up a roster. Need to wear the white bib provided by the club so the can be easily identified by the Umpires. Boundary Umpire Function Move along the boundary line to adjudicate on where the football leaves the playing field. If the ball is touched or bounces before going over the line, blow the whistle and put one arm straight above your head. If the ball is kicked out on the full, blow the whistle and signal with two arms out from your side. The ball is only out when the entire football is over the line. If any part of the ball is on the line, then the ball is still in. A player can run outside the line while holding the ball as long as the ball is still in play. In Under 13-14 give the match ball to the Field Umpire to be tossed up. In Under 15 & 17 throw the ball back into play over your head. At the start of each quarter and after a goal has been scored return the ball to the Field Umpires, then stand at the corner of the centre square. Each team can only have four players in the centre square for a centre ball up. If a team has more than this, blow your whistle and advise the Field Umpire. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 13 of 26
Boundary Umpire Aware Communication with the Field Umpire should be restricted to matters arising from Umpiring duties. Always act in a professional manner and refrain from barracking for or giving support to a team and giving advice or making comments to the Players, other Officials or Supporters. If the Field Umpire is of the opinion that a Boundary Umpire is making wrong or incompetent decisions, he or she may demand the offending club replace the Goal Umpire before re-commencing the match. A Field Umpire can overrule the Goal Umpire s decision. Occasionally the Field Umpire will consult with you to decide the correct score. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 14 of 26
AFL Rules for Age Groups Auskick This is played for fun and no scores are recorded, as there is no league. Auskick is undertaken as per the rules and regulations set out in the Auskick Handbook and Lesson Cards. The two Clubs will play a game as a follow up to the Auskick program. The sides must be of equal size and played under the rules set out in the Aussie Footy Rules handbook. Children must be aged eight and under. The size of the team should ideally be nine a side (ie. three Players from each team in three zones). The playing area shall be approximately half a standard size field. Standard field size is 90 x 65 metres. Players must be rotated at the start of each quarter allowing everyone to experience playing as a forward, centre and back. Players use a size 1 synthetic ball. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 15 of 26
Development Grade / Junior Rules 2015 Under 9 & Under 10 Playing Field 110 x 80 metres (cones or lines to mark zones). Increased by agreement. Field is divided into 3 equal zones. Ball Size Size 2 ball (synthetic). Team 9 or 12 players with any number of reserves. Number of players must be equal. Team consists of up to 4 equal numbers of Forwards, Backs and Centres. Players remain in position for all of the quarter after which the players must change zone. Arm bands are used to designate the position of players. These are swapped at the end of each quarter. Interchange (substitution) of players may take place at any time. All players should play at least three quarters. Zones/Positions and Transition of the Ball (only applies for U9 & U10) Players will be instructed by the Umpire to stay in their correct position. When the ball is in transition from the Back Zone to the Forward Zone, it must be touched by a player in the Centre Zone. Failing this, a free kick will be awarded to the opposition team at the point where the ball entered the Back Zone. Scoring Only forward players can score from within the Forward Zone. Forward Players are marked with a clearly identifiable armband. Where a non forward scores, a free kick will be awarded to the opposition team at the point where the ball entered the Forward Zone. After a behind, the player kicking in cannot dispose to themselves. Playing Time 4 x 10 minute quarters Starting and Restarting Play A ball-up is conducted between two centre players of similar height nominated by the Umpire. The Umpire should nominate different pairs of players for subsequent ball-ups after goals are scored. Only three centre line players attend centre bounces (20m clearance from all other players). The Umpire is to enforce a similar 20 m clearance for field ball ups. There is no full possession allowed. The full possession rule is applied as follows: A player contesting the ball-up may not grab the ball and play on, The player must knock, palm or punch the ball to a teammate or open ground, and may not play the ball again until it has been touched by another player or hit the ground. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 16 of 26
Under 9 & Under 10 Continued Scrimmage and Field Ball-Ups Field ball-ups are contested by two players of similar height (selected by Umpire) Before the ball-up, the Umpire should clear the area by sending players back to their positions. No more than three players from each team shall be closer to the ball up than 2 metres. No full possession permitted. There is no full possession permitted. Out of Bounds From a kick a free kick is awarded to the closest opponent. A player cannot kick for goal from this free kick. If in doubt ball-up 5 metres in from boundary. Off hands or body ball-up 5 metres in from boundary. No full possession permitted. Gaining Possession A player s prime objective should be to gain possession of the ball (eyes on the ball). Restrained side (shoulder to shoulder) contact is permitted when players are contesting a loose ball, provided the ball is within 5 metres. Running with the player rather than running at the player must be the intention. Front on contact or contact from behind is strictly prohibited. The ball is possessed by controlling it, catching it, grabbing it, or laying two hands on it, when it is on the ground. Tackling Players can perform a modified tackle. 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 knees. The tackle may be from either side or from behind providing the tackle from behind does not thrust the player with the ball forward, ie no pushing in the back. If a player in possession of the ball is taken in the ground in the act of tackling, they will receive a free kick. If the Umpire feels the player dropped to the ground deliberately in order to receive a free kick, they will be penalised for holding the ball. A player in possession of the ball, when held by an opponent applying the wrap around tackle, should be given a reasonable chance to dispose of the ball by kick or handball, or by attempting to kick or hand pass, otherwise a free kick shall be awarded to the tackler for holding the ball. The Field Umpire shall conduct a ball-up when the player with the ball has the ball held to their body by an opponent, unless the player has had a reasonable time to dispose of the ball prior to being tackled, in which case a free kick shall be awarded to the tackler for holding the ball. The Field Umpire shall allow play to continue if the ball is knocked out of a player s hands by an opponent. A player not in possession of the ball, when held by an opponent, shall be awarded a free kick. There is strictly no bumping, slinging or deliberately bringing the opposition player in possession of the ball to the ground. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 17 of 26
Under 9 & Under 10 Continued Players cannot: Knock the ball out of an opponent s hand Push the player in the side Steal the ball from another player Smoother an opponent s kick Shepherd an opponent Smothering Not permitted Barging No barging, fending off or chopping past opponents is permitted. A free kick shall be awarded to the nearest opponent. Shepherding Not permitted. Marking A mark is awarded irrespective of the distance the ball has travelled to any player who catches it or shows control. Distance Run and Bouncing the Ball A player running with the ball must bounce it (or touch the ball to the ground) within 10 metres. Only one bounce is permitted. Players cannot dispose of the ball to themselves intentionally. Kicking Off the Ground Not permitted unless accidental. Penalties (after a Mark or Kick) A 10 metre penalty can be applied at the Umpire s discretion if they feel a player has been hindered in any way. Order Off Rule As per Rule 9 of AFL GSJ By-Laws Spirit of the Game Players, Coaches and Officials and Umpires to shake hands before and after the game. No scores or ladders to be kept. Coaches Coaches are allowed on the field to teach but no closer than 15 metres from play. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 18 of 26
Zoning: (Under 9/10) This brief guide is for the benefit of parents and other spectators to help them understand what is happening on the field. Modified rules are used in these Age Groups to give participants the best opportunity to participate in the great game of AFL. The field is divided into three zones: Forwards, Centres and Backs. The players are rotated through the zones in each game to ensure that all players experience the different field positions. Four distinguishable markers (low domes) are placed on the sideline to mark the zones. The Forwards are the only players that can kick a score. These players are marked with a clearly identifiable armband indicating that they are the forwards. Should a centre player kick the ball through the goal posts, no score is recorded and it is treated like any other out of bounds. It is important to realise that the marking of zones is to help both the players and the Umpire understand where players should be. It is not a taboo marker but an indication that a player is close to the end of the zone. In essence there is a little grey area where a player may dispose of a ball just over the zone line. The Umpire will communicate with the players and attempt to ensure that the use of the grey area is kept to a minimum. The use of armbands by the forwards helps the umpire identify where a player is intended to be. Players are unable to take full possession of the ball at the start of play (ballup/centre bounce) or the recommencement of play around the ground. In fact, the Umpire will use different players from the zone that play is in to contest the bounce. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 19 of 26
Development Grade / Junior Rules 2015 Under 11 & Under 12 Playing Field 110 x 80 metres (min). Increased by agreement. Ball Size Size 3 ball (Default ball is leather, a synthetic ball can only be used by agreement of coaches). Team 12-15 players with up to six reserves. Number of players on ground must be equal. Interchange (substitution) of players may take place at any time. All players should play at least three quarters. Scoring After a behind, the player kicking in cannot dispose to themselves. Playing Time 4 x 15 minute quarters Starting and Restarting Play A ball-up is contested between two centre players of similar height as nominated by the Umpire in the centre of the ground. Only three players from each team shall be closer to the ball than about 20m. The Umpire is to enforce a similar 20m area for field ball-ups. There is no full possession allowed. The Full Possession Rule is applied as follows: A player contesting the ball-up may not grab the ball and play on, The player must knock, palm or punch the ball to a teammate or open ground, and may not play the ball again until it has been touched by another player or hit the ground. Scrimmage and Field Ball-Ups Field ball-ups are contested by two players of similar height (selected by Umpire). Before the ball-up, the Umpire should clear the area by sending players back to their positions. No more than three players from each team shall be closer to the ball-up than about 20 metres. There is no full possession permitted. Out of Bounds From a kick a free kick is awarded to the closest opponent. A player cannot kick for goal from this free kick. If in doubt ball-up 5 metres in from boundary. Off hands or body ball-up 5 metres in from boundary. No full possession permitted. Gaining Possession No specific rule for Under 11 & Under 12 Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 20 of 26
Under 11 & Under 12 Continued Tackling Full tackling as per Rules of Australian Football apply. No Sling tackle permitted. Smothering (Stopping a kick immediately after it leaves the boot. Generally undertaken with the hands or body). Smothering is permitted Barging Barging and fending off with open hand to the body (provided it is not above the shoulders or in the back) is permitted. Shepherding (Blocking an opposing player. This can be to stop him tackling a teammate in possession of the ball, or attempting to gather it; to stop him intercepting a ball heading for goal; or just to stop him possessing the ball himself). Shepherding permitted as per laws of Australian Football. Marking A mark is awarded when a player catches the ball directly from another player s kick that has travelled at least 10 metres. Distance Run and Bouncing the Ball A player running with the ball must bounce it (or touch the ball to the ground) within 15 metres. Only two bounces are permitted. Players cannot dispose of the ball to themselves intentionally. Kicking Off the Ground Not permitted unless accidental. Distance Penalty A 25 metre penalty can be applied at the Umpire s discretion if they feel a player has been hindered in any way. Order Off Rule As per Rule 9 of AFL GSJ By-Laws Spirit of the Game Players, Coaches and Officials and Umpires to shake hands before and after the game. The 10 Goal Rule applies in competition football. Coaches Coaches are not allowed on the field. Messages delivered by a runner who must be an adult or a player that is mature enough to umpire the game. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 21 of 26
Youth Rules U13-U17 The rules are similar to the U12 with the exceptions below: Unless provided for elsewhere in these Rules, teams will play under the Laws of Australian Football (the exception being rule 13.3 Kick into play after goal umpire signal). 13.3 Kick in to Play After Goal Umpire Signal A Player of the defending Team may kick the football into play when the goal Umpire has signaled that a behind has been scored. Playing Field Between 135 185 metres in length Between 110 155 metres in width Ball Size Size 4 Ball (leather). U13 & U14 Full size ball (leather) U15/16/17 In the event of wet weather conditions, the Umpire with the agreement of Coaches, has the discretion to allow the use of a wet weather (synthetic) football Team Number of players on ground must be equal other than for send offs. Interchange (substitution) of players may take place at any time. Tackling Tackling is permitted as per the Laws of Australian Football, however, in Under 13 s and Under 14 s: No player shall be deliberately slung, dumped or thrown to the ground via any tackle. Spirit of the Game At the end of a game, all Players, Coaches and Umpires should gather in the centre of the ground and shake hands. 10 Goal Rule (formerly Mercy Rule) This rule is applied to all Under 11 to Under 17 competitions and to all Girl competitions: The purpose of this Rule is to encourage Coaches, once an unassailable lead (10 goals/60 points) is reached during a game, to appreciate that it serves no purpose to inflict massive losses on their opposition but rather at that point in time to revert to experimenting with Players playing in different positions and to even-up the skill levels of the teams. This Rule replaces the previous Mercy Rule and will apply to all Competition Age Groups. Games on match day will proceed as a normal match, for the whole match period. Clubs will enter final scores into Footyweb as normal. After the game, the match points and percentage will be adjusted to ensure that no winning margin exceeds 10 goals/60 points. This will be completed by a ladder adjustment by AFL Sydney Juniors on the Monday following the fixture games Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 22 of 26
Format of Final Series Where the number of teams in the competition is 6 to 11 teams, the top placed 4 teams will participate. Where the number of teams in the competition exceeds 11 teams then the top placed 6 teams will participate. Format of the Finals for 4 teams: Week 1 Semi Finals A 1 v 2 B 3 v 4 Week 2 Prelim Finals C Loser A v Winner B Week 3 Grand Finals Winner A v Winner C Format of the Finals for 6 teams Week 1 Semi Finals A 1 v 2 B 3 v 6 C 4 v 5 Week 2 Prelim Finals D Winner A v Lowest ranked winner of B & C E Loser A v Highest ranked winner of B & C Week 3 Grand Finals Winner D v Winner E Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 23 of 26
Goal Umpiring The responsibilities of the Goal Umpire are to: Keep a record of all the goals and behinds scored in a match. Provide the scorecard to the Umpire and a copy to the Team Manager (at age levels when scores are entered). To judge whether a Goal or a Behind has been scored. Goal = 6 points When the ball completely crosses the goal line (between two middle posts) after being kicked by a player on the attacking team without touching a player or goal post. Behind = 1 point If the ball completely crosses the behind line (between one outer and one inner post) If the ball hits the goal post or travels over the goal post Is touched by a player, before crossing the goal line If the ball is taken over the goal or behind line by a player Out of Bounds If the ball touches or passes over the behind post, then the ball is considered out of bounds. Signaling a Score After a Goal or Behind is scored you must give the appropriate signal to inform the umpire and other Goal Umpire of this score. The following page demonstrates the appropriate signals given by a goal umpire. Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 24 of 26
Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 25 of 26
Club Sponsors We would like to thank the following companies for their support during the 2015 season: The Forest Club (Forestville RSL) John Bull Removals & Storage Allcom Networks Pty Ltd Kyrooke Electrical Lawson & Norris Plumbing Wholey Mackerel Seafoods The Coffee Roaster Imbue Café RG Wholesale Meats Forest Lions Parent Handbook 2015 Page 26 of 26