The way we conduct ourselves, both on and off the field, is important as this reflects on ourselves, our club and our community. Given the importance of this, a code of conduct has been devised, for both players and those who come to watch you play. Treating your teammates and opposition players, support staff and spectators in a respectful manner is a vital part of playing for Leopold Lions.
Player Code of Conduct
1. Abide by the rules of the game and the rules set down by your coach, club and league.
2. Never argue with an official or an umpire. If you disagree, talk to your coach during the break or after the game.
3. Control your temper. Verbal or physical abuse of officials, umpires, spectators or other players, or deliberately
distracting or provoking an opponent is not acceptable behaviour.
4. Work equally hard for yourself and your team. Your teams performance will benefit and so will you.
5. Be a good sport. Applaud all good plays whether they be in your team, or the other team. Be proud to walk off the
ground after each game knowing that you have given your best effort. Never involve yourself in arguments with
players, umpires, officials or spectators.
6. Treat all players as you would like to be treated. Do not interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of another
player.
7. Co-operate with your coach and your team mates and respect the ability of your opponent. Without them there would
be no game.
8. Play for the fun of it, not to please parents or coaches.
9. Avoid use of derogatory language based on gender or race.
Parents and Spectator Code of Conduct
1. This code applies to the behaviour of parents and spectators attending games or supporting a registered player
involved at the Leopold Football Netball Club.
2. This code applies to behaviour in public or on social media.
3. Unacceptable behaviour and/or action may be referred to LFNC, GJFL, Football Geelong and/or VCFL for action.
4. Remember that children participate in sport for their enjoyment and benefit, not yours.
5. Encourage children to participate, do not force them.
6. Focus on the child’s efforts and performance rather than winning or losing.
7. Condemn the use of violence in any form, whether it is by spectators, coaches, officials or players.
8. Encourage children always to play according to the rules and settle disagreements without resorting to hostility or
violence.
9. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from all sporting activities.
10. Never ridicule or yell at a young child for making a mistake or losing a game. Positive comments are motivating.
11. Remember that children learn best by example. Appreciate all good performance and skilful plays by all participants.
12. Applaud good performance and efforts from all individuals and teams.
13. Congratulate all participants on their performance regardless of the game’s outcome.
14. Respect the decisions of officials and teach young people to do likewise.
15. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or
religion.
16. Show appreciation for volunteer coaches, officials and administrators. Without them your child could not participate.
17. Show respect for your team’s opponents. Without them there would be no game.
18. Encourage players to follow the rules and the officials’ decisions.
19. Remember, that comment you might make on the side of the field can carry and be heard by players.
