2020 Season Club Manual - Western Suburbs Junior Australian Football Club - WSJAFC - Wests Juniors AFL
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Western Suburbs Junior Australian
Football Club – WSJAFC
40 Hampton Street Croydon Park NSW 2133
2020 Season
Club Manual
www.westsjuniorsafl.com.auContents
Committee Page 2
Season Page 3
Games Page 3
Parent Helpers Page 3
Canteen / BBQ Page 3
Scheduled Training Times Page 4
Wet Weather Arrangements (Games and Training) Page 4
Notifications & Updates Page 4
Playing Gear Page 4
Player Registration Prices and Fees Page 5
Sponsorship Page 5
Social Functions Page 6
Insurance Page 6
Conduct and Disciplinary Matters Page 6
Playing in Age / Playing Up Page 7
Evening Up Page 7
Representative Football and the Swans Academy Page 7
Best & Fairest Voting – Age group awards & Club Champions Page 7
Team Photographs Page 7
Club Song Page 8
Senior Club (Men’s & Women’s) Page 8
Licensed Club Page 8
Picken Oval and Wagener Oval Page 8
Learning to Umpire Page 9
Websites Page 9
APPENDIX A – Codes of Conduct AFL Sydney Juniors Page 10
1Committee 2019 20
Executive Committee
President & AFL Daniel Coughlin 0418 940 727 danielcoughlin1@optusnet.com.au
contact
Vice President Paul Ryan 0447 777 069 paulmeg@bigpond.net.au
Secretary Simon Cooper 0457 517 274 simon.cooper@nas.edu.au
Treasurer & Public Richard Stone 0408 409 200 Richard.Stone@anz.com
Officer
Registrar Melissa Winkler 0403 979 300 melissawinkler20@gmail.com
Committee Members (Rule 28)
Auskick Coordinator Penn Burrows Pennbur@yahoo.com
Fundraising Vacant
Coordinator
Property Steward Jason Rudd 0418 601 094 jason.rudd@ttpp.net.au
Child Protection Officer Meghan Ryan 0410 681 966 meghan.ryan6@det.nsw.edu.au
Recruitment Officer Vacant
Canteen Coordinator Selina Asilevi 0417 489 412 Selinaasilevi@yahoo.com.au
Grants & Sponsorship Donal O’Sullivan 0408 290 038 donal@clarecom.com.au
Committee Members (Rule 29)
Umpire Coordinator Natalie nat71@ymail.com
Anagnostopoulos
Coaching Coordinator Ben Polley benjaminpolley3@gmail.com
Website Manager & Vacant
Social Media
Merchandise Melissa Winkler 0403 979 300 melissawinkler20@gmail.com
Coordinator
Football Operations Paul Ryan 0447 777 069 paulmeg@bigpond.net.au
Senior’s Liaison Yvette Andrews yvettesydney@icloud.com
(Women’s)
Senior’s Liaison Brian Nieser 0409 998 700 brian_nieser@hotmail.com
(Men’s)
Photo Coordinator Jennifer Moore 0422 963713 jennifer_kay17@hotmail.com
22020 Season
The first round of the 2020 season will be on the weekend April 4- 5.
There will be no games over the first and middle weekends of School holidays throughout 2020. There are
no regular games scheduled for the Queen’s Birthday weekend, however this weekend is set aside for the
representative football carnival.
The final round of the regular season will be played on the August 15-16, which will be followed by 3 more
weekends of finals or gala days. This depends on the age and Division (where relevant) of the team. Team
managers will be able to confirm the schedule for each team.
Please note that the season effectively runs until the weekend of September 5-6 (depending on the team’s
success). It is important for all players to be available until the end of the season. If a team makes the finals
and some players are unavailable it impacts on all the others. If for extenuating reasons a player is not going
to be available for the whole season please discuss this with the Coach and Team Manager at the earliest
opportunity.
Games
The vast majority of our home games will be played at Wagener Oval. There may be occasions where
games are transferred to another Oval where clashes occur with Senior Football.
Auskick to U11 play their games on Saturdays, Auskick teams in the morning and older age teams late
morning and early afternoon. U12 to U17 will play on a Sunday with times variable. Please contact your team
manager for game day times and details.
The Draw will be uploaded to the following link by the end of March. Occasionally there will be changes due
to Wet Weather or other factors. Any changes will be communicated to you via your Team Manager.
http://aflsj.com.au/fixtures-results/sydney-harbour-fixtures/
You can also access fixtures and results on your phone through the SportsTG Gameday app.
Parent Helpers
It is expected that all families will be able to assist at some point throughout the season, even in a small way.
As well as the canteen/barbeque (see following), we need parents to help with things like setting up the
ground before games, managing the siren timing and other details at home games, goal umpiring, jumper
washing, water bottles, etc.
Please see your team manager to find out how you can help things run more smoothly on match days and
when asked to assist with something please don’t find excuses, just jump in and help.
It is also important that new people come forward for roles on the Committee each year as children move
through the age groups and on to the Senior Club. The Committee meets only once a month. Positions are
filled at the Annual General Meeting in October each year. There are also ways you can help without being
on the Committee so if you can spare a little time please contact the President or Secretary to find out how
you can make a difference.
Canteen / BBQ
One of our largest income streams is via the home game day canteen and BBQ. Without the canteen, the
day would be less enjoyable and the registration fees would need to be a lot higher.
The Club requires each player’s family to take turns in contributing time to the running of the canteen/BBQ
on home game days. This is organized via a roster issued by the Team Manager.
We ask that on your rostered day, you serve over the period of the half time break of the game before your
child’s game to the half time break of your child’s game – this enables everyone to watch the second half of
their child’s game. If you are unable to be there on a particular home game day please arrange a swap with
another family and let your team manager know.
3Scheduled Training Times
Auskick through to U11
Training will be conducted at Picken Oval, Hampton Street, Croydon Park.
Auskick through to U11s train on Wednesdays, from 5:30 PM to 6.30 PM for Auskick, and to approx. 7 PM
for U10s and U11s.
U12 through to U17
Training will be held at Wagener Oval, Whitfield Ave, Ashbury.
U13s, U14s, U15s, U17s will train on both Tuesdays and Thursdays from around 5:30 PM to 7 PM, or
Wednesdays and Fridays from around 5:30 PM to 7 PM. See your team manager for information.
The Girls U12s and U15s teams will train at Picken Oval on Wednesdays from 6.30 pm.
Training is meant to be fun, but it’s also a time to concentrate on skill development, team play and fitness.
Please talk to your child and encourage them to come to training with a positive attitude. Disruptive
behaviour reduces the value of training for all players (not to mention the coach!) and will not be tolerated.
Wet Weather Arrangements (Games and Training)
Wet weather may prevent the access to grounds for games and training. For all games in the Sydney AFL
Juniors competition a special website has been developed to provide wet weather updates for all venues –
the address is: http://wetweathercheck.com/
Team mangers will also provide updates regarding any altered training arrangements due to wet weather.
Notifications and Updates
All other notifications and updates in relation to the Club can be found on:
Facebook – Wests AFL Juniors
Twitter – @WestsAFLJuniors
Website – http://www.westsjuniorsafl.com.au
Please ensure you provide the Club with your correct contact details (can be more than one) & don’t forget to
Like our Facebook page & become a Follower to our Twitter account, so you will be kept informed as soon
as updates become available.
Playing Gear
Boots
Please ensure your child has good fitting football boots. Any boots will do as long as they don’t have metallic
studs, a lot of the stores may try to sell you an “AFL” boot but they are basically all the same.
Socks and Shorts
We will issue your child with Club socks and shorts, which are yours to keep. For those that have shorts and
socks from last year, if they still fit and are in good condition please use them again as this helps to avoid
unnecessary replacement costs.
Guernseys
Guernseys are given out prior to each match by the team manager and should be returned to the manager at
the end of each game. For our younger Auskick groups who start early on a Sat. morning we may issue a
guernsey to you to hold for the year. Please take good care of it, as we will require it back at the end of the
year.
Mouthguard
As part of our duty of care to players the AFL recommend players wear a dentist‐fitted mouth guard. This is
the best way to provide a high level of protection to your child’s teeth. Generic mouth guards available in
chemists and sports shops do provide some level of protection, but nowhere near that of a properly fitted
mouthguard.
4Player Registration and Registration Fees
All players must be registered in order to play. Players can be registered at club registration days or anytime
via the registration link on the WSJAFC website: http://westsjuniorsafl.com.au/register/
Minimum Age requirement
Please note that the minimum age to register is 5 years of age (i.e. the child must turn 5 by the end of the
calendar year in which they wish to start playing). This is a requirement of AFL Auskick and the Club does
not have any discretion to accept younger players.
Registration Fees for 2020
Early Bird Registration until the end of February 2020 - $160 per player
Registration from 1st of March 2020 is $200 per player with $10 off for each subsequent sibling – i.e. 1st Child
= $200, 2nd Child = $190, 3rd Child = $180 and so on
Active Kids Vouchers
The NSW Government Active Kids program provides two $100 vouchers for parents, guardians and carers
of school-enrolled children to use towards sport and active recreation costs each year.
Voucher 1 is valid January to December and Voucher 2 is valid July to December.
Active Kids vouchers can be used to register Players with WSJAFC.
Please note that vouchers must be used at the time of on-line registration, as the club cannot redeem
vouchers on you behalf after registration has been paid.
Further information about the Active Kids program and how to apply for a voucher can be found at the
following link: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/active-kids
What does the registration fee cover?
The player registration fee covers all costs associated with playing and training for the season. Players are
provided with socks and shorts to keep. There is a small cost for player/team photos each year.
Why do we need the money?
There are many costs associated with running the club each season: footballs, equipment, jumpers, shorts,
socks, trophies, umpire fees, etc. In addition there are substantial costs associated with Association
registration and affiliation fees, ground hire, coaching accreditation and Insurance.
It costs well over $200 per player each season - substantially more than our player registration fee - to cover
these running costs. Western Suburbs Junior Australian Football Club is committed to keeping registration
costs as affordable as possible – in fact we have the cheapest registration fees of all the clubs in our region
and the fees are significantly lower than many other sporting codes.
Where else do we get the money?
Other than registration fees, we meet our costs through government and community grants, canteen sales,
sponsorship, social functions and other fund raising activities, all of which need your support.
Sponsorship
The Club has adopted a flexible sponsorship program to enable local businesses, parents and supporters to
sponsor individual teams by purchasing items for all the players on the team from the range of available
merchandise. The club Merchandise Coordinator (details on p.3) can provide details about the available
items and current costs. The Club requires a 20% contribution in addition to the merchandise cost to assist
the Club’s operations overall (for example, if a sponsor chooses $1,000 worth of gear including the cost of
logos, the total cost would be $1,200).
Please note that sponsorship proposals must be approved by the WSJAFC committee before
proceeding.
West’s Juniors are also in the process of examining whole of club sponsorship. While that is occurring the
Grants and Sponsorship Sub Committee welcomes any proposals from prospective sponsors and
supporters. Please contact the Grants & Sponsorship Coordinator (details on p.3).
5Social Functions
We don’t have many, but they’ve been great successes, socially and financially. Whether it’s a Trivia Night,
Fancy Dress Disco or other function, please make the effort to support your Club, meet other parents and
enjoy yourself into the bargain.
Insurance
For Auskick players insurance is provided through AFL Auskick and details are available by following this link
in your browser: https://afl.jltsport.com.au/players/nab-afl-auskick
Current policy can be downloaded here:
https://afl.jltsport.com.au/documents/Policy_Wording_Auskick_and_Rec_Football.pdf?201908012126
For all other players insurance is included in your registration fees and is provided under a broad
arrangement brokered by the AFL, from Jardine Lloyd Thompson Australia under the brand jltsport.
The cost of insurance is a significant financial impost on the club and the choice of cover is not taken lightly.
Four levels of cover are available and the Club has recently upgraded from the standard Bronze level cover
recommended by the AFL to the top level Platinum, which, in summary only, provides the following Non
Medicare Medical Costs benefits:
• 90% reimbursement
• Max $7,500 benefit per claim
• $50 excess per claim
Platinum cover also provides a Capital Benefit of $250,000 maximum (see website for restrictions).
Please ensure you read the full detail of the policies and summaries available on the jltsport website, click
here, or follow this link in your browser: http://afl.jltsport.com.au
To download a claim form, click here, or follow this link in your browser:
https://afl.jltsport.com.au/players/makeaclaim
Conduct and Disciplinary Matters
AFLNSW places a premium on the provision and maintenance of a safe and structured environment under
which our children can play AFL. A copy of the Codes of Conduct for Players, Parents & Supporters,
Coaches, Administrators and Officials is included in Appendix A to this manual. The Club expects everyone
to read the codes and ensure that they abide by those that apply to them. Parents should note that when
performing a role during a game, eg boundary or goal umpire, you are subject to the Officials Code of
Conduct.
AFL Sydney Juniors have a well‐defined rule set and structure for dealing with any on-field or off-filed
disciplinary matters.
For U11’s any disciplinary matters reported by an umpire or official will be dealt with by the use of prescribed
penalties, the clubs committee and an association representative or by a regional tribunal hearing (requiring
attendance) for serious offenses.
For U12’s and up again either prescribed penalties or a Tribunal is used. Any off field issues involving
players, coaches, parents, care givers or spectators reported by umpires or club officials are dealt with
seriously and usually involve a tribunal hearing requiring attendance.
All adults in attendance at training and games are reminded of the published Code of Conduct and are asked
to let the umpires and match officials handle any on field issues on the day. If, as a parent or spectator at a
game, you become aware of a significant issue, both on field or off field please make note of the
circumstances of the incident, and bring it to the attention of the Ground Manager at the game. The club can
raise a Code of Conduct breach notice against the perpetrator and bring them to account through the
process. It is incumbent on all of us to ensure these matters are not left idle and perpetrators of poor
behaviour are educated as to the standards required.
6Playing in Age / Playing Up
The club is committed to providing an environment where players get a maximum of playing time in their
appropriate age group. To that end it is important that players play in the appropriate team to their age.
Exceptions can be made if there are spare places in a team and players in that age group are not deprived
of playing time, or if there are circumstances around when a player is available for games and games
outside their age group may provide a more convenient time or day to work around other commitments.
Requests should be made through the club committee.
Once a player’s commitment to playing games in their age are completed, players of a higher ability are
welcome to “play up” an additional game in the next available level if there are places available in that team,
or to provide additional bench support, and players in that team are not deprived of significant playing time.
Evening Up
Evening up to opposition teams who have less players is defined in the rules and is compulsory across all
grades, not just Auskick.
If the opposition team is short of players please encourage your child to play with the opposition. Your coach
will generally try to rotate players through, so your child may only play for a quarter or half for the opposition
with other players in your team then required to even up.
Representative Football and the Swans Academy
For U9 and up the Association has run representative programs for our players of higher levels of ability.
These have generally provided an opportunity for these players to play with and against other players at a
higher standard.
The representative carnival is played on the Queens Birthday Long Weekend – your Coach will contact you if
you are selected.
For players that are selected for these teams the cost is approximately $125 per player, which includes a
hoodie and socks and shorts that the player keeps.
The club will meet half of this cost for participating players with parents required to pay the other half of the
fee. The contribution should be paid to the Club as soon as the player is admitted to the Representative
side/team so that the Club can remit the full fee thus enabling the player to participate.
Swans Academy is separate from Club Football. The Academy may select players that try out. See this link
for more details http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/academy
Best & Fairest Award Age Group Awards and Club Champions
We aim to have a uniform voting system for best and fairest in each grade. Please note: there are no ability‐
based awards in Auskick.
This will be used at the end of the season to determine the best and fairest in each age group (except
Auskick) as well as the Club Champions (one for U9s & U10s and one for U11s and up).
There are participation trophies awarded to all players in Auskick and teams up to U12s.
The manager in each grade approaches 3 parents on game day and asks them to record best and fairest
votes on a 3, 2, 1 basis. If you are asked to vote please watch the game closely and give an unbiased
assessment of the 3 best players on the day.
Please ensure to include Wests players that may have been playing for the opposition if they are required to
even up. The votes are tallied at the end of the year to determine the best and fairest etc.
Team Photographs
We will organise a professional photographer during the year to take a team photo and individual player
photos. The team and individual photos are available for purchase and your Team Manager will provide all
the details.
7Club Song
To the tune of “When Johnny Comes Marching Home”
When Wests come charging through the pack, hurrah, hurrah
We’ll give them a mighty welcome back, hurrah, hurrah
The crowd will roar, the team* will grin
Cause victory’s great and losing’s a sin
And they’ll all step back when Wests come charging through.
We won the game; we won the fight, hurrah, hurrah
We let them feel the Westies’ might, hurrah, hurrah
The ball was bounced and in we went
And down they went like wet cement
And they’ll all step back when Wests come charging through.
* The word “team” is replaced with the word “boys” or “girls” as appropriate for teams where the Rules of the
Sydney AFL Juniors do not permit boys and girls to play together. Currently this is the U12s and U15s girls
only competition, and the U15s and U17s boys only competitions. All other teams under the Rules can have
both boys and girls registered and the above version of the song should be used. This is the case regardless
of whether or not there are boys and girls registered for the team in any particular year.
Senior Club (Men’s & Women’s)
The Western Suburbs Football Club has been in existence for more than 80 years and runs teams in the
Premier Division through to U19s in the Sydney AFL Premier League. From February 2019, Western
Suburbs Magpies men’s club and the women’s team named the Western Wolves, have officially merged to
become known as Inner West Magpies. The teams generally train and play home games at Picken Oval.
The Junior and Senior Clubs are closely linked with several current and ex senior players and administrators
involved in both clubs. More details can be found about the Senior Club by clicking on this link -
http://innerwestmagpiesafl.com.au/
We encourage you get out and support the Senior Club games when you can.
Licensed Club
At Picken Oval, the Licenced Club, known as Magpie Sports, is a premises of the Canterbury Hurlstone Park
RSL Club Ltd. It is a great facility that provides a lot of support to the Senior and Junior Clubs, and we
encourage you to join. You will usually find a number of club parents enjoying a quick drink and meal
following training and games and all of our functions will be held there.
Picken Oval and Wagener Oval
We’ve seen significant improvement in the state of Picken Oval occur over recent years with the new change
rooms and lighting installed and the oval surrounds being landscaped and the installation of oval fencing.
The AFL, Magpie Sports and the Junior & Senior Clubs are all involved in trying to take the ground further
with plans for a scoreboard and seating.
The other oval used by the Club is W.H. Wagener Oval, located at Whitfield Avenue in Ashbury. The facilities
at this ground have recently been upgraded with new playing surface and new lights. New change rooms &
canteen are currently under construction and will hopefully be completed by the start of the 2020 season.
The playing surface at Wagener is first class and we are really lucky to have such a great facility to offer our
junior teams. All Auskick & Junior games are now played at Wagener on Saturdays & Sundays. The ground
is also used by the AFL for other events like AFL 9’s, school competitions etc
The Club also relies on working bees to complete some minor improvements to amenities. Many grant
applications require a commitment of funds or labour in kind from the Club. Please watch out for notices
about the working bees and come along to help, even if it is just for an hour or so.
8Learning to Umpire
Players who are turning 14 this year have the opportunity to become umpires. Excellent training is provided
and it is a great way to improve your knowledge and understanding of the game and therefore your own skill
when playing. It is also a great way to earn some cash! Anyone who is interested can contact the Club’s
Umpire Coordinator (details on p.3)
Websites
Western Suburbs Junior Australian Football Club (WSJAFC)
All club news and information, game results, competition draws and ladders, can be accessed on the
WSJAFC website: http://www.westsjuniorsafl.com.au
AFL Sydney Juniors
The website of the AFL organisation in charge of running junior club football in the Sydney region. Game
results, competition draws and ladders can also be accessed here along with competition rules and other
coaching and game resources.
http://www.aflsj.com.au./
Inner West Magpies (senior football club)
http://innerwestmagpiesafl.com.au/
9APPENDIX A
Codes of Conduct – AFL Sydney Juniors
Reproduced from: http://aflsj.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2019/07/2019-AFL-Sydney-Juniors-By-Laws-V1.1.pdf
Players Code of Conduct
Players are bound by the following Code of Conduct on Match day and during training or other Club activities:
(a) Play in accordance with the Laws including by (but not limited to):
(i) avoiding striking, kicking, kneeing, stomping on, charging, scratching, tripping, spitting at, wrestling,
pinching another person (or attempting to do so), or any other inappropriate or unsporting behaviour;
(ii) refraining from rough conduct or forceful contact with, head butting, eye-gouging or making contact to the
face of an opponent (or attempting to do so); and
(iii) abstaining from abusive, insulting, threatening, inappropriate or obscene language, Communication or
behaviour.
(b) Respect the Umpires and other Officials including by (but not limited to):
(i) accepting decisions of the Umpire without dispute;
(ii) accepting directions and requests made by Team and other Officials without argument; and
(iii) encouraging Team mates to behave in a like manner.
(c) Encourage a safe, friendly and fun environment for all Players, Officials, parents and spectators including by (but
not limited to):
(i) controlling your temper and playing attitude;
(ii) refraining from sledging, bullying and other inappropriate discriminatory behaviour, unnecessary and
aggressive physical activity;
(iii) focussing on your own performance and play as a Team member;
(iv) applauding good play and the achievements of other Players, including the opposition;
(v) avoiding voicing criticism of or ridiculing others, - including via social media;
(vi) consulting your Team Manager or Coach regarding any disagreement with a decision or direction or
regarding any inappropriate behaviour;
(vii) respecting the facilities and equipment of your own and opposing Clubs; and
(viii) accepting any warning, penalty or punishment imposed without dispute and taking responsibility for your
actions.
Notes for Players
(i) Play in accordance with the Laws.
(ii) Never argue with an Official. If you a Player disagrees with a decision, you should ask the Team Manager
to raise the matter at an appropriate time.
(iii) Control your temper. Verbal abuse of Officials and sledging other Players or deliberately distracting or
provoking an opponent are not acceptable or permitted behaviours in any sport and may be a breach of
your state, league or national Member Protection Policy.
(iv) Never engage in any type of unnecessary physical activity either on or off the field.
(v) Work equally hard for you and your Team. The Teams performance will benefit, and so will yours.
(vi) Be a good sport. Applaud all good play whether made by your Team or the opposition.
(vii) Treat all participants as you would like to be treated. Do not bully or take unfair advantage of another
competitor.
(viii) Co-operate with your Coaches, Team-mates and opponents. Without them, there would be no competition.
(ix) Participate for your own enjoyment and benefit and for the enjoyment and benefit of your Teammates, not
to please anyone else.
(x) Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants, regardless of their gender, ability, cultural
background or religion.
(xi) Don’t take part in any form of bullying including via the use of social media. For more information see the
National Member Protection Policy.
(xii) Be prepared to be responsible for your actions.
10Parents and Supporters/Spectators Code of Conduct
Parents and supporters/spectators are bound by the following Code of Conduct on Match day and during training or
other Club activities:
(a) Support your child and child’s Team by behaving in a positive fashion including by (but not limited to):
(i) providing only positive feedback and recognition for Players’ efforts;
(ii) refraining from instructing, Coaching or distracting your child during play or training;
(iii) abstaining from abusive, insulting, threatening, inappropriate or obscene language or communication or
behaviour;
(iv) avoiding detrimental statements in public (radio, television, print or electronic or social media) in
respect to the performance of any Match Officials, Umpires, Players or any policy decisions of the Club,
the Regions or AFL Sydney Juniors and
(v) encouraging participation, enjoyment and performance equally.
(b) Respect the Umpires and other Officials including by (but not limited to):
(i) accepting decisions of the Umpire without dispute;
(ii) accepting directions and requests made by Team and other Officials without argument; and
(iii) encouraging other parents and supporters/spectators to behave in a like manner.
(c) Encourage a beneficial environment for all Players, Officials, parent and spectators including by (but not limited
to):
(i) controlling your temper and disruptive behaviour;
(ii) refraining from aggressive barracking, bullying and other inappropriate discriminatory behaviour,
unnecessary and aggressive physical activity;
(iii) applauding good play and the achievements of all Players including from the opposing Team;
(iv) avoiding voicing criticism of or ridiculing others in public - especially via social media;
(v) consulting the Team Manager or Coach regarding any disagreement with a decision or direction or
regarding any inappropriate behaviour;
(vi) recognising and respecting the efforts of all volunteers;
(vii) respecting the facilities and equipment of your own and opposing Clubs; and
(viii) accepting any warning, penalty or punishment imposed without dispute and taking responsibility for your
actions.
Notes for Parents and Supporters
(i) Play in accordance with the Laws
(ii) Never argue with an Official. If you a Player disagrees with a decision, you should ask the Team Manager
to raise the matter at an appropriate time.
(iii) Control your temper. Verbal abuse of Officials and sledging other Players or deliberately distracting or
provoking an opponent are not acceptable or permitted behaviours in any sport and may be a breach of
your state, league or national Member Protection Policy.
(iv) Never engage in any type of unnecessary physical activity either on or off the field.
(v) Work equally hard for you and your Team. The Teams performance will benefit, and so will yours.
(vi) Be a good sport. Applaud all good play whether made by your Team or the opposition.
(vii) Treat all participants as you would like to be treated. Do not bully or take unfair advantage of another
competitor.
(viii) Co-operate with your Coaches, Team-mates and opponents. Without them, there would be no competition.
(ix) Participate for your own enjoyment and benefit and for the enjoyment and benefit of your Teammates, not
to please anyone else.
(x) Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants, regardless of their gender, ability, cultural
background or religion.
(xi) Don’t take part in any form of bullying including via the use of social media. For more information see the
National Member Protection Policy.
(xii) Be prepared to be responsible for your actions.
11Official’s Code of Conduct
The Officials of all Clubs are bound by the following Official’s Code of Conduct on Match day and during training or other
club activities:
(a) Officiate in accordance with the role to which you are appointed including by (but not limited to):
(i) acquiring a proper knowledge of and abiding by the Laws and By-Laws (and, where appropriate) applying
them honestly, uniformly and fairly;
(ii) refraining from destructive or exaggerated feedback and commentary on the efforts of Players’ and other
Officials’;
(iii) abstaining from abusive, insulting, threatening, inappropriate or obscene language, communication or
behaviour;
(iv) avoiding detrimental statements in public (radio, television, print or electronic or social media) in respect to
the performance of any Match Officials, Umpires, Players or any policy decisions of the Club, the Region
or AFL Sydney Juniors;
(v) encouraging participation, enjoyment and performance equally.
(b) Respect the Umpires and other Officials including by (but not limited to):
(i) accepting decisions of the Umpire without dispute;
(ii) refraining from approaching the Umpires (except when acting as Ground Manager - or if a Goal, or
Boundary Umpire, limited to assisting the Field Umpire as requested);
(iii) accepting directions and requests made by Ground Managers and other authorised Officials without
argument; and
(iv) encouraging other Officials to behave in a like manner.
(c) Encourage a safe, friendly and fun environment for all Players, Officials, parent and spectators including by (but
not limited to):
(i) taking steps to ensure Coaches, Boundary and Goal Umpires, First Aid and other Officials understand
their respective responsibilities and respect the need for fair play in sport;
(ii) controlling your temper and refraining from disruptive behaviour;
(iii) refraining from unnecessary interference, bullying and other inappropriate behaviour, unnecessary and
aggressive physical activity;
(iv) applauding good play and the achievements of all Players including from the opposing Team;
(v) avoiding voicing criticism of or ridiculing others including via social media;
(vi) recognising and respecting the efforts of all other volunteers;
(vii) consulting the Ground Manager regarding any disagreement with a Match day decision or direction or
regarding any inappropriate behaviour on Match day;
(viii) addressing early (and assisting other Officials in highlighting and dealing with) any misconduct and other
inappropriate behaviour;
(ix) respecting (and ensuring the safety of) the facilities and equipment of your own and opposing Clubs; and
(x) accepting any warning, penalty or punishment imposed without dispute and taking responsibility for your
actions.
(d) Promoting the health of your club and the Competition including by (but not limited to):
(i) being a positive role model in behaviour and personal appearance;
(ii) involving others in planning, leadership, evaluation and decision making related to Australian Football;
(iii) creating pathways for people to participate and develop through the sport, not just as Players but also as
Coaches, Umpires and administrators;
(iv) appointing, training and developing qualified and competent Coaches and Officials;
(v) helping Coaches and Officials highlight appropriate behaviour and skill development and to improve the
standards of Coaching and officiating;
(vi) seeking continual self-improvement through study, performance appraisal and regular updating of
competencies;
(vii) being consistent and courteous in calling all infractions.
(viii) condemning deliberate fouls as being unsporting and promoting fair play and appropriate sports behaviour;
(ix) placing the health and safety of the Players as the most important reason to be weighed during the
decision-making process;
(x) ensuring you remain up to date with any changes and/or interpretation of Laws and By-Laws; and
(xi) using common sense to ensure the ‘spirit of the Match’ for Players is not lost by being too pedantic when
applying the By-Laws and Laws of the Game.
12Notes for Officials
(i) Involve others in planning, leadership, evaluation and decision making related to Australian Football.
(ii) Create pathways for people to participate and develop through the sport, not just as Players but also as
Coaches, Umpires and administrators.
(iii) Ensure equipment and facilities are safe and appropriate to the ability level of the participants.
(iv) Appoint, train and develop qualified and competent Coaches and Officials.
(v) Help Coaches and Officials highlight appropriate behaviour and skill development and help improve the
standards of Coaching and officiating.
(vi) Assist all participants in Australian Football to know and understand the Laws and the By-Laws.
(vii) Set a conduct example for others to follow.
(viii) Make it clear that abusing people in any way is unacceptable and will result in disciplinary action.
(ix) Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person.
(x) Make no detrimental statements in public (radio, television, print or electronic or social media) in respect of
the performance of any Match Officials, Umpires, Players, or any policy decisions of the Club, AFL Sydney
Juniors or the AFL.
(xi) Do not engage in physical and/or verbal intimidation, abuse or conduct toward any Player, Official, Umpire
or spectator. Such actions are totally unacceptable.
(xii) Always respect the use of facilities and equipment provided.
(xiii) Ensure on and off the field behaviour is consistent with the principles of good sportsmanship.
(xiv) Ensure all Parents, Coaches, sponsors, Officials, First Aid Officials and Players understand their
responsibilities regarding fair play in sport.
(xv) Abide by the By-Laws (including any requirements or restraints applying to any official role such as a
Boundary or Goal Umpire).
(xvi) Display fairness and uniformity in applying the By-Laws.
(xvii) Be honest in your assessment of situations.
(xviii) Be consistent and courteous in calling all infractions.
(xix) Condemn deliberate fouls as being unsporting and promote fair play and appropriate sports behaviour.
(xx) The health and safety of the Players must be the most important reason to be weighed during the
decision-making process.
(xxi) Use common sense to ensure the ‘spirit of the Match’ for Players is not lost by being too pedantic when
applying the By-Laws and Laws.
(xxii) Be a positive role model in behaviour and personal appearance.
(xxiii) Ensure you remain up to date with any Law changes and/or interpretation of Laws.
(xxiv) Seek continual self-improvement through study, performance appraisal and regular updating of
competencies.
(xxv) Where acting as a Boundary or Goal Umpire, act at all times in a professional manner, do not barrack or
give support to a Team, give advice or make comment to the Players, other Officials or spectators, and
under no circumstances approach the Field Umpire, except in relation to your Umpiring duties.
Coaches Code of Conduct and Role of the Coach
The Coach is in a unique position wielding significant influence. The Coach interfaces with all groups involved within a
Club, and assumes certain obligations and responsibilities to protect the image and profile of the Match, both today, and
in particular with Coaches of junior Teams, in the future. It is essential that every Coach be aware of this unique position
and so conduct themselves in such a manner as to maintain the respect and dignity of the position.
All Coaches, whether accredited or not, are bound by the AFL Coaches Code of Conduct, as well as the By-Laws,
including the specific By-Laws governing Reporting and Disciplinary Procedures.
Coaches Code of Conduct
Coaches are bound by the Official’s Code of Conduct. In addition, Coaches are bound by the following Coaches’ Code of
Conduct on Match day and during training or other Club activities:
(a) Coach in accordance with the Laws and By-Laws including by (but not limited to):
(i) ensuring Players Coached conduct themselves within the limits and the spirit of the Laws and By-Laws;
(ii) removing from play (by send-off direction or otherwise) immediately any Player Coached who
participates in conduct which breaches the Laws or By-Laws;
(iii) anticipating conduct that warrants, and exercising appropriately, the power to direct a Player Coached to
come off the field during a Match or training;
(iv) dealing with Players Coached honestly, uniformly and fairly;
13(v) restricting Match day Coaching communications to runners (or otherwise in accordance with the age group
By-Laws) and otherwise refraining from active Coaching from the sidelines;
(vi) refraining from open and audible commentary on the effort or performance of the other Team’s Players,
Coach and other Officials;
(vii) abstaining from abusive, insulting, threatening, inappropriate or obscene language, communication or
behaviour; and
(viii) ensuring injured Players are protected and given prompt and competent first aid and medical attention
and health policies (such as for concussion) are strictly applied.
(b) Respect the Umpires, Ground Managers, opposing Coaches and other Officials including by (but not limited to):
(i) requiring Team and supporter acceptance of decisions of the Umpire without dispute;
(ii) supporting the role of the Ground Manager including by providing appropriate directions to any Player,
parent, supporter or Team Official;
(iii) encouraging parents, supporters and Team Officials to behave in a like manner.
(c) Encourage a beneficial environment for all Players, Officials, parents and spectators including by (but not limited
to):
(i) taking the lead in promoting fair play, good sportsmanship and the encouraging recognition for of good role
models;
(ii) keeping up to date with practical training methods and good Coaching theory;
(iii) developing your Players’ skills, fitness and good character in equal measure with Team development;
(iv) encouraging others to recognise and applaud good play and the achievements of all Players including
from the opposition;
(v) setting reasonable and attainable demands, goals and expectations;
(vi) avoiding voicing criticism of or ridiculing Players and those assisting or playing against you;
(vii) ensuring Players and parents appreciate that regular attendance at training and on Match day, together
with private practice, is an essential part of Player development;
(viii) co-opting assistance from and supporting the efforts of the Ground Manager and other Match day Officials;
and
(ix) fostering respect for self and others including for Umpires, opponents, Coaches, Officials, parents,
volunteers and spectators.
Notes for Coaches
(i) Set a good example and display utmost honesty and integrity in all dealings.
(ii) Teach fair play and good sportsmanship.
(iii) Never place the value of winning above that of instilling the highest possible ideals and character.
(iv) Be reasonable in setting demands, goals and expectations.
(v) Maintain a current knowledge of the Laws, the By-Laws, of training methods, both theory and
practical, and abide by those Laws and By-Laws.
(vi) Teach and interpret the Laws and By-Laws to the Players.
(vii) Never ridicule Players.
(viii) Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all individuals within the context of your involvement in
Australian Football, including refraining from any discriminatory practices on the basis of race, religion,
ethnic background, or special ability/disability.
(ix) Encourage and create opportunities to develop individual as well as Team skill.
(x) Ensure that all Players understand the importance of regular attendance at training and positive
attitude at training and that Team selection throughout the season, including the finals, may be
influenced by their training attendance and attitude.
(xi) Ensure that injured Players are given prompt and competent First Aid attention and that any doctor’s
orders are strictly adhered to.
(xii) Endeavour to keep informed regarding sound principles of Coaching and skill development and of factors
relating to the welfare of your Players.
(xiii) Display and foster respect for Umpires, opponents, Coaches, Officials, parents, volunteers and
spectators.
(xiv) Do not engage in physical and/or verbal intimidation, abuse or conduct towards any Player, Official and
Umpire, volunteer or spectator. Such actions are totally unacceptable.
(xv) Never use obscene or other inappropriate language to, or in relation to another person
(xvi) Respect the facilities and equipment of your own and opposing Clubs.
(xvii) Make no detrimental statements in public (radio, television, print or electronic or social media) in
respect to the performance of any Match Officials, Umpires, Players, volunteer or any policy decisions of
the Club, the Region, AFL Sydney Juniors or the AFL.
14Coach and Administrators
(i) Remember the Coach is a representative of the Club’s administration and therefore it is important that
Coaches conduct themselves so as to maintain the principles, the integrity and dignity of the position.
(ii) Support the administration policies and regulations that may from time to time be initiated. Any differences
should be resolved privately in a composed manner.
(iii) Adhere to Club policy in both letter and spirit.
(iv) Advise the administration of any deficiency in training aids or facilities to redress the situation.
Coach and Umpires
(i) Treat the Umpire with the utmost good faith and respect.
(ii) Introduce the Umpire to the Players prior to the commencement of the Match and encourage Players and
Officials to courteously acknowledge the efforts of the Umpires.
(iii) Instruct Officials, Players and spectators that there is an appropriate manner and time to address any
problems that they have with an Umpire or with any decisions and that time is not during the Match, nor
the intervals within a Match, and certainly not when tempers are a bit frayed.
(iv) Restrain any Official, Player or spectator from any inappropriate action, verbal or physical, toward an
Umpire.
(v) Back up/support an Umpire’s disciplinary action should the need arise.
(vi) Never criticise the Umpire to Players or spectators.
(vii) Never incite Players or spectators to act against the Umpire.
Coach and Supporters/Spectators
(i) Encourage spectators to act in a sportsmanlike manner, congratulating either Team for good, fair play.
(ii) Ensure that spectators do not interfere with the Match, or encourage Players to act in an unsportsmanlike
manner.
(iii) Quickly address any problems that may be brewing with spectator’s behaviour and request the Club
administration to act in a manner to diffuse any possible problems.
Coach and Parents
(i) At the commencement of the season, inform parents of the Coach’s plan for training of the Players, the
social characteristics the Coach expects Players to possess and to display and what disciplinary action
he/she would administer should a Player step outside the Coaches guidelines.
(ii) Request parents support the Coach in any disciplinary action the Coach is required to undertake.
(iii) Request parents act in an honest and sportsmanlike manner in their dealings with the Coach, the Club’s
Officials, the Umpires, volunteers and the opposition Officials, Players and spectators.
(iv) Request that if a parent has a problem with the Coach, or in the treatment of their child, that they firstly
raise that problem with the Coach in question and then if dissatisfied by either the outcome of that meeting
or subsequent actions taken/not taken, the matter be escalated to Club administration.
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