THOMASTOWN UNITED
(1) MISSION STATEMENT
(2) CLUB RULES
(3) CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PLAYERS
(4) CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COACHES
(5) ADVICE FOR PARENTS & GUARDIANS
(6) ADVICE FOR SPECTATORS

(1) MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Thomastown United Football Club is to promote the best development of our players. We aim to accomplish this mission by providing quality coaching, encouragement, and support for our players and providing quality pitches and training facilities.

  The core values of Thomastown United A.F.C. are:-

·         A commitment to excellence.

·         A commitment to respect other sports played in our community.

·         A commitment to uphold a sense of family and acknowledge past contributions.

·         A commitment to maintain the highest standard of ethical conduct and sportsmanship.

·         A commitment to uphold the FIFA code of conduct.

What we expect from ourselves:-

·         We/I will play fair.

·         We/I will be on time for every practice and match.

·         We/I will give 100% in every practice and match.

·         We/I will respect the authority of the club and its coaches.

·         We/I will respect the authority of match officials.

·         We/I will do my best to achieve the goals of my team.

Thomastown United A.F.C is open to players of both sexes, all abilities and backgrounds.

(2) CLUB RULES

·         All members and representative are required to abide by the club’s code of conduct.

·         All incidents involving players or representatives of the club should be reported to the club secretary within 24 hours. In particular incidents involving red cards, serious incidents that require medical treatment, or any incident concerning the well being and safety of individuals should be reported to the club secretary immediately.

·         Team managers are responsible for the safe keeping of all club gear and equipment.

·         Any person would wilfully damages or neglects club property will be liable for its replacement.

·         When dealing with underage players, The F.A.I. Code of Ethics, which has been adapted by this club, must be followed.

·         A minimum of 2 adults must be in charge of an underage team at all times.

·         When representing the club, teams must wear the club gear and have it in good order. Without proper Thomastown United shorts and socks players will not be allowed to play for their team. Shin guards are compulsory for both matches and training and players are not allowed to wear jewellery while playing or training.

·         School boy/girl players must play in their own age group unless no team exists in that age group. In certain circumstances the club may waive application of this rule.

·         Teams must train and play on pitches as allocated by the club.

·         The club membership fee must be paid in accordance with the rates and arrangements as agreed by the club’s committee. Team Managers are responsible for ensuring that all players are properly registered and have paid their membership.

·         Where the club membership is not paid it will be deemed that the said player has made himself/herself ineligible to play for the club.

·         The club’s committee has the right to rule on any issues that are not covered in the rules. Any disputes regarding the interpretation of club rules shall be determined by an EGM or AGM.

·         All initial medical expenses incurred as a result of a club approved activity will be dealt with by the club on receipt of the relevant fees. Futher expenses are at the club’s discretion.

·         All players, coaches and managers are expected to compete fairly. Those who are found guilty of violent behavior, foul or abusive language or deliberate dangerous play will face disciplinary action by the club and or the league.

·         Those found responsible by the club, the Kilkenny and District League or the F.A.I. of bringing the game or club into disrepute will be liable for whatever fines imposed by the above mentioned.

 (3) CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PLAYERS

·         Always show respect for team-mates, managers/coaches, opponents, officials and spectators.

·         Always have commitment to your club and pride in your performance.

·         Always turn up on time for matches and training.

·         Let your manager know, if you cannot attend a match or training session.

·         Be willing to learn and improve. Listen to advice and ask questions if you don’t understand.

·         Play to win but accept defeat graciously.

·         Have full and proper gear for matches and training. Clean your boots regularly.

·         Help out with equipment before and after matches.

·         If you feel you are being bullied feel safe to tell your manager, another adult or the club’s child protection officer.

(4) CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COACHES

·         Remember that young people play for fun – winning is not the only objective.

·         Always lead by example and show respect for all players, referees and officials that you come into contact with in the course of club activities.

·         Be fully prepared for coaching sessions and matches.

·         Liaise with parents and guardians on a regular basis.

·         Provide all necessary information to parents/guardians i.e. match dates, times, venues. Don’t forget to advise them of any changes in arrangements.

·         Beware of and keep up to date with club rules, policies and developments.

·         Encourage self-discipline, good behavior, and punctuality amongst players.

·         All incidents involving an injury to players during training or matches should be filled in, in the incident report book in the dressing room.

·         Be generous with your praise when it is deserved.

·         Ensure that all administrative work is completed e.g. registration of players.

·         Team managers and coaches are responsible for the behavior of the team in their charge. You are not allowed to incite or encourage players to use abusive language, violent conduct or deliberate dangerous play. Be prepared to take off an offending player.

·         Lead by example – children need a coach they can respect.

(5) ADVICE FOR PARENTS & GUARDIANS

·         Never force a child to play soccer. Have realistic expectation of their skills and don’t put your child under undue pressure.

·         Remember the game is for the child and not for the adult.

·         Inform the Manager/Coach of any problem or ailment that may effect the safety of the child, and of others.

·         Ensure your child attends training and matches on time, and that safe arrangements are in place for your child traveling to and from home.

·         Always show respect for all players, opponents, managers, coaches and officials.

·         Show good example, don’t taunt, boo or use profane language.

·         Give praise for playing fairly and making good effort.

·         Help coaches when you see the need. Offers of help are alway appreciated.

·         Accept disappointment and don’t criticise your child or others for any mistake.

·         Respect the decisions of managers and coaches. Leave the tactics and coaching to them. Never question, confront or question managers/coaches or officials. If you wish to discuss an issue arrange a time and venue for a discussion.

 (6) ADVICE TO SPECTATORS

·         All individuals should be conscious of their own good behavior and should not act in such a way as to bring the club’s good name into disrepute.

·         Applaud good play by the visiting team as well as your own.

·         Show respect for your team’s opponents. Without them there would not be a match.

·         Condemn the use of violence in all forms at every opportunity.

·         Verbal abuse of players and referees cannot be accepted in any shape or form. Players or referees are not fair targets for ignorant behavior.

·         Be on your best behavior and lead by example.