updated 17th June 2016
PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE
OPERATING RULES
These operations rules are designed to allow a club Secretary/General Manager easy access to the procedures for the normal day to day activities and to the responsibilities involved in running of the club, from the League perspective.
These rules do not replace either the Picola League Constitution, or the Handbook issued by the Victorian Country Football League in any way, however is to be read in conjunction with both.
It is also an attempt to ensure that the Rules & Regulations are adhered to and that operations are made as simple and time saving as possible.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE FOLLOWING RULES AND DUTIES MAY INCUR A FINE OR FINES AS THE CASE MAY BE
Updated March 31st 2013
ITEM TITLE PAGE
1 GENERAL 3
2.0 CLEARANCES & REGISTRATIONS 6
3.0 MATCH DAY 8
4.0 INDEPENDANT TRIBUNAL 14
5.0 REPORT PROCEDURE 15
6.0 UNDER 14 SPECIAL RULES 16
7.0 UNDER 17 & UNDER 14 AGE LIMITS 16
7.1 OVERAGE PLAYERS 16
8.0 LOSS OF POINTS 17
9.0 FINALS ELIGIBILITY 17
10.0 FINES 19
11.0 MATCHES 20
11.1 RESERVES & UNDER 17 SPECIAL CONDITIONS 20
11.2 SUBSTITUTION RULE 21
12.0 FINAL 5 21
13.1 FINALS 22
14.0 ADMISSION AND GATE PRICES 23
15.0 PLAYERS AS UMPIRES 23
16.0 EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES 23
17.0 CLUB JUMPERS & SHORTS 24
18.0 INTERLEAGUE 24
19.0 JUNIOR DEVELOPMENT OFFICER 24
20.0 AREA AGREEMENTS 25
21.0 INVESTIGATIONS OFFICER 25
22.0 CONTAGIOUS DISEASE 25
23.0 CODES OF CONDUCT UNDER 14 & 17 25
24.0 RACIAL & RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE POLICY 25
25.0 RISING STAR 26
26.0 FINANCE 26
27.0 FUNCTIONS 26
28.0 TRANSFERS 27
29.0 REPRESENTATIVE FOOTBALL 27
30.0 MONEY AWARDS 27
31.0 GLASS POLICY 27
32.0 BAR OPENING HOURS 27
APPENDIX 1 MATCH DAY DUTIES 28
APPENDIX 2 TRIBUNAL PROCEDURE 29
APPENDIX 3 JUNIOR CODE OF CONDUCT 32
APPENDIX 4 CODES OF CONDUCT 33
AREA OVENS & MURRAY 34
AGREEMENTS GVFL 36
MURRAY FL 37
SHEPP PRIMARY SCHOOLS FL 38
SHEPP & DISTRICT JUNIOR FL 39
GOULBURN CAMPASPE 41
ALBURY WODONGA JUNIORS 42
1.0 GENERAL
1.1 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Annual General Meeting of the League is held prior to December. All clubs shall hold their Annual General Meetings prior to the league Annual General Meeting.
All items of agenda to this meeting are required to be in the hands of the League Secretary at least twenty eight (28) days prior to the meeting.
Items should include nominations for executive positions and other Committees of the Board, as well as proposed alterations and/or amendments to the Picola & District Football Netball League Constitution.
In the event of insufficient nominations for executive positions a club that is not already represented on the board will be asked to nominate. If this does not occur it will be decided by ballot.
There will be a Pre AGM and AGM Meeting scheduledeach year, to discuss Constitutional Matters. The Pre AGM is a workshop/ discussion type meeting to discuss strategic planning and debate motions. The AGM to move motions and elect the members of the Board.
Election of Officer Bearers in the Board – in the absence of nomination prior to the AGM, nominations can be received from the floor.
Also required at the Annual General Meeting is a list of club officials, namely President, Secretary and two (2) Directors of the League, together with their addresses, phone, facsimile numbers, and, if applicable, an email address.
This information is essential for the production of League Directories.
The annual PDFNL affiliation fee of $20 & GST is due at or before this meeting.
1.2 ORDINARY MEETINGS
Each Division shall have a minimum of 4 meetings per year to be held in February, April, June and August. Meetings may be scheduled ay any nominated venue.
Meetings may be held in other months or at other times, depending on necessity.
The Secretary shall provide information to nominated club representatives and agenda for the ordinary meetings. This may be done electronically.
Proxy votes must be posted or emailed to the Secretary prior to 4 o’clock on the day of the meeting or handed directly to Secretary prior to the start of the meeting . Otherwise those present have only ONE vote
Matters deemed by the chairperson to be relative to only one division , shall be only voted on by the division which it relates, on a majority basis.
Naming of Picola & District Football Netball League
Naming of the divisions will be:
Picola South East Division
Picola North West Division
The Board are to make decisions on all operational matters with consultation with the relevant divisions.
There is no relegation or promotion system
There is a Tribunal Panel for each division
The league shall annually host a practice match series between sides from each division based upon the ladder position from the previous season. A gold coin donation shall be collected at the gate.
1.3 MATCH OFFICIALS
It is compulsory for all clubs to supply the following on match day.
Interchange steward
(Home Club to supply folder, red/yellow cards, pen, stop-watch or watch)
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Home club for each grade
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Scoreboard attendant
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Home club for each grade
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Time keeper
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Both clubs for each grade
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Goal umpire
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Both clubs for each grade
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Boundary umpire
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Both clubs for Seniors, Reserves & U/17
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Central umpire
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Both clubs for U/14, U/17 & Reserves when one hasn’t been appointed by the GVFUA
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If for unexpected reasons an umpire from the Goulburn Valley Umpires Association or recognised umpires association is not supplied or does not arrive then each club shall provide one official to officiate as central umpires.
All Club Central Umpires are able to report players in the course of matches and should be made fully aware of the relevant rules prior to officiating at a match.
Refer 1
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2009 VCFL Handbook – Laws of the Game.
Yellow pages. Law 19.1-19.4
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(Club central umpires have a responsibility to report any reportable incident)
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Note: from year to year the VCFL law numbers may change however the intent is the same.
1.4 PUBLICITY
1.4.1 PUBLICITY OFFICER
The League has a Publicity Officer/s who is appointed for the benefit of individual clubs as well as the Picola League. The name and contact details of the publicity officer shall be provided to each club and relevant media
Information is required from clubs for inclusion in the “Spectator” each week as well as other media outlets. Notes need to be kept to one page.
The publicity officer requires from clubs information relating to the previous game as well as upcoming events, significant milestones for the club, club officials or players as well as digital photos to enable the league to provide publicity to papers circulating in the league region of influence.
Each club shall provide a contact for the publicity officer.
1.4.2 MEDIA
There is no better way of attracting people through the gate, and to a lesser extent, players to your club, than by positive use of the media.
Media outlets are constantly looking for information about clubs’ pre-season activities, often through the League Secretary or the Publicity Officer/s of the League, whether in the area of coaching appointments, player recruiting, administrative appointments or other activities.
It is important that clubs respond to this in a constant, positive and co-operative manner to ensure a high profile in the district which will be beneficial both in securing sponsorships as well as increasing numbers through the gates.
1.4.3 FOOTBALL RECORD “PDFNL RECORD”
Player names and their jumper numbers must be submitted (in numerical order) to Shepparton Printers or nominated firm prior to the commencement of the season for inclusion in the “PDFNL RECORD”.
For the initial list, it must be submitted by the Monday 12 noon prior to the first game.
Senior and Reserve Grades should be on one list Finals to be separated, with Under 17 and Under 14 each on a separate list.
For the benefit of supporters and umpires (who have been known to refer to the “PDFNL RECORD” rather than the Team Sheets), it is essential that these team lists are maintained correctly throughout the season, with changes to Nathalia Printers by 12 noon Monday.
SHEPPARTON PRINTERS
Phone: 5821 4707
Email: sps@shepprint.com.au
SHEPPARTON NEWS
Phone: 5831 2312
Fax: 5831 2059
Email: sport@mcmedia.com.au
BEFORE 8.00PM THURSDAY
Breaches of Rule 1.4.3 shall be dealt with as per Rule 10.0 FINES
1.4.4 CLUB NOTES
Club Notes MUST be submitted for the “Spectator” each week except when a team has a bye.
These need to be with Shepparton Printers by 12 noon Tuesday
2.0 CLEARANCES/REREGISTRATIONS/NEW REGISTRATIONS
2.1.1 NORMAL CLEARANCES
Normal clearances open on February 1st each year. The only permits that can be dealt with prior to that date are those for interstate summer competitions (e.g. Darwin).
Clearances close each year on June 30th. It is important that the VCFL RULES, REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES FOR APPEALS AND CLEARANCES are understood. Please refer to and read the VCFL Handbook.
It is essential that all sections of clearance application forms be PRINTED CLEARLY AND LEGIBLY, ensuring all the following sections are completed:
NAME
DATE OF BIRTH
PLAYING HISTORY
CORPORATE LISTING AUTHORISATION
IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CLUB TO ENSURE PLAYERS SIGNING REGISTRATION OR CLEARANCE DOCUMENTS PAY ATTENTION TO THE “CONDITIONS OF REGISTRATION” ON THE BACK OF THE FORMS.
Please be aware and make all club officials aware, that clearance and registration forms are now “LEGAL DOCUMENTS” and persons signing or counter signing can be held responsible for any misinformation contained on these papers.
Due to the additional work involved with player registrations etc, clearances will close in accordance with the VCFL Regulations at 6.00pm on the day preceding the match. Discretion may apply
It is clubs responsibility to fax/post clearance & registration of all players & officials to League Secretary prior to the player/official taking to the field.
It is also a Legal requirement that the documents be kept by clubs for seven (7) years.
2.1.2 TIME LIMIT (VCFL Handbook (white pages)
Clubs should hold a clearance book in which all clearances are recorded, both in and out of the club.
Details of all PDFNL clearances and NEW registration details are accessible through the Picola & District Football Netball League website at:
www.picoladfl.vcfl.com.au – left hand menu – transfers list
Following SIX clear working days from when a clearance is forwarded by a League to the League from which the player is seeking a clearance, A TIME LIMIT WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY INVOKED and the player will be registered to his new club. The player’s previous club then has three (3) clear working days to appeal the imposed “time limit” clearance.
2.1.3 INTERSTATE CLEARANCES
The Regulations for interstate clearances, as well as permits for the AFL and VFL vary, and also use different documents to the normal VCFL forms. Time frame may differ as it may be more than 10 days.
Please refer to the appropriate Rules in the VCFL Handbook to ensure the eligibility of players.
To assist clubs the following procedure should be followed by the club to obtain a VFL permit player.
- The player must ask his VFL club for permission to play for his home club in the VCFL.
- The VFL club then notifies the VFL that permission has been granted to the player.
- The VFL email a list of players on permit for the weekend to all relevant leagues.
- The league then emails the list to the club/clubs who have a player named on the list.
It is the clubs’ responsibility to ensure a permit is in place to allow a player to represent a club. Do not allow a player without a permit to take the field.
If you have not received notification that a player has a permit, you can organise a Late Release Form by contacting the VFL club involved who should either email or fax it to you. A copy of the late notification form is shown in Appendix 2.
2.2 RE-REGISTRATIONS/REGISTRATIONS
Under the VCFL “Player Registration” requirements, a player must be registered through the VCFL IT system prior to taking the ground in a League competition match. This also includes any match day officials including coach, team manager and trainers, other team volunteers being;
Interchange steward
Water Persons
Team runner
Team manager
All club umpires
Trainers
Scoreboard attendant and timekeeper;
Extra’s may be hand written on the team sheet (write on original and then make copies) before distributing.
Clubs are now asked to re register your players on the IT program . Clubs must maintain the registration for 12 months.
Clubs to ensure that all club officials, players and parents of junior players, are fully aware that they are signing a “LEGAL DOCUMENT” and as such, may be held responsible for any misinformation contained in the Registration document.
It should be noted that details on all registration forms MUST:
BE PRINTED IN A CLEAR, LEGIBLE MANNER
INCLUDE PLAYER’S DATE OF BIRTH
HAVE THE SIGNATURE OF THE PLAYER’S, THE CLUB SECRETARY, AND IF THE PLAYER IS UNDER EIGHTEEN (18) YEARS OF AGE AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION, THE SIGNATURE OF A PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN.
AGAIN, PLAYERS’ ATTENTION SHOULD BE BROUGHT TO THE
“CONDITIONS OF REGISTRATION” ON THE BACK OF THE FORM.
3.0 MATCH DAY
3.1 PACKAGED ALCOHOL
Signs must be erected at all entrance gates to notify patrons that “packaged alcohol” is not permitted. This is done in the interest of patrons, players, umpires and clubs in general. It is the responsibility of the clubs to ensure this is policed.
3.1 SCOREBOARD
It is required that a scoreboard attendant from the home club be on duty for all grades.
3.3 MATCH TIMES
If there is an alteration to match times/days, the Secretary must be advised in writing. It is the responsibility of the HOME CLUB SECRETARY to notify the Goulburn Valley Umpires Association of alteration to match times/days for all matches other than the U/14 & 17 (as club umpires will officiate at these grades).
Match starting times are:
U/14’s
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At or before 9.45am
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U/17’s
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At or before 11.05am
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Reserves
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At or before 12.30pm
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Seniors
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At or before 2.20pm
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Seniors must start on time. Reserves grade match to be shortened to allow this to occur.
3.4 PLAYING TIMES
Under 14
1. Both teams shall be on the ground ready to start play at 9:45am or at a time agreed upon by both clubs and with the General Manager’s approval.
2. All matches shall be four 15 minute quarters with no time on added, except where a stretcher is required for an injured player/official
3. The time allowed between the first and second quarters shall be not more than three minutes.
4. At half time the players must be ready to re-commence play after an interval of not more than 5 minutes.
5. The time allowed between the third and fourth quarters shall not be more than 5 minutes.
Under 17
1. Both teams to be on the ground by 11:00am and ready to start by 11:05am. Clubs not on the ground by 11:10am shall be fined, and if not ready to start by 11:15am shall forfeit the match if a claim is made by a registered official of the opposing club.
2. All matches shall be four 18 minute quarters with no time-on added, except where a stretcher is required for an injured player/official
3. The time allowed between the 1st and 2nd quarters shall not be more than 3 minutes.
4. At half time the players must be ready to re-commence play after an interval of not more than 5 minutes.
5. The time allowed between the 3rd and 4th quarters shall not be more than 5 minutes.
Reserves
1. Both teams must be on the ground by 12:30pm and ready to start by 12:30pm. Clubs not on the ground by 12:45pm shall be fined and if not ready to start by 12:45pm must forfeit the match if a claim is made by a registered official of the opposing club.
2. All matches shall be four 18 minute quarters. The Timekeepers must, in an emergency, reduce such time to allow the Seniors match to commence at the correct time.
3. The time allowed between the 1st and 2nd quarter shall be no more than 3 minutes.
4. At halftime the players must be ready to re-commence play after an interval of not more than 5 minutes.
5. The time allowed between the 3rd and 4th quarters shall not be more than 5 minutes.
Seniors
1. Both teams must be on the ground by 2:10pm and ready to start by 2:20pm. Clubs not on the ground by 2:10pm shall be fined, and if not ready to start by 2:25pm shall forfeit the match if a claim is made by a registered official of the opposing club.
2. All matches shall be four 20 minute quarters with time-on added to each quarter. Time between 1st and 2nd quarters shall be no more than 5 minutes.
3. At halftime the players must be ready to re-commence play after an interval of not more than 15 minutes.
4. Time between 3rd and 4th quarters, no longer than 5 minutes.
3.5 MATCH RESPONSIBILITIES
Please ensure that copies of the instructions for officials are passed to the appropriate people so that everyone is aware of the duties, requirements and Regulations.
(b)
Runners :
Up to 2 runners per club may be used. If 2 runners are being used by a club they must enter and exit the playing field via the interchange area. Only 1 runner is permitted upon the playing field at any time. If a club chooses to only use 1 runner, that runner is not required to enter and exit the playing field via the interchange area.
3.6 MATCH CLOTHING REQUIREMENTS
Interchange Steward
Responsibility of the home Club – ALL GRADES
Must wear orange vest & have the words ‘Interchange’ & be visible to umpires - carry a red & yellow card
Fill out & sign order off card even if not used, Umpire/s also needs to sign
Confer with umpire at the end of game if a report has been made
Clubs responsibility to show steward what is expected
Fine $100 if not wearing the correct uniform
Trainers
Black or white pants/shorts
White top with Club name on the back
Suppliers trainers apparel permitted
Fine $100 if not wearing the correct uniform
Runner
Fluro yellow t–shirt (Club lettering in black on the back)
Navy Blue jacket (Club lettering in white on the back)
Fluro yellow shorts
Black pants if required
Fine $100 if not wearing the correct uniform
Water person
Waterperson to wear club colored shorts and socks - not black shorts
Yellow shirt (Club lettering in black on the back)
Fine $100 if not wearing the correct uniform
Club Boundary Umpires
White top
Club boundaries to wear club coloured shorts and socks
Fine $100 if not wearing the correct uniform
Club Goal Umpire
White coat
Fine $100 if not wearing the correct uniform
3.6(h)
Identification of officials :
Officials listed upon the team sheet and therefore only ones permitted within the playing arena and not required to wear uniform as per another operating rule, must be identifiable by means of arm band
Bike Shorts
Must be beige or bone
Fine $100 if not wearing the correct uniform
NOTE:
Home Club must ensure that all spectators including match personnel are in designated area throughout the game. Spectators must be behind the fence at all times. FINE $100
Home Club must ensure the safety of all umpires
3.7 FINALS CLOTHING REQUIREMENT
In finals, all club officials must wear required clothing in all grades. If not fines are doubled
3.8 MATCH STATIONERY
All stationery for the season is distributed to club secretaries at a meeting prior to the commencement of the season.
To save work on match day, it is advantageous to complete as many details as possible on all stationery early in the season, thereby allowing more time on match day to complete other more important duties.
This method also identifies if any stationery has been short supplied.
Match stationery, for the most part, is designated by grade/colour, i.e.
SENIORS
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WHITE
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RESERVES
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PINK
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U17
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BLUE
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U14
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YELLOW
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Match stationery must be completed accurately and correctly. Prior to a match, the signed match day checklist, team sheets, best and fairest voting slips, match envelopes, and score cards should be handed into the Umpires’ Room. (Will be provided).
3.9 MATCH DAY CHECKLIST
Prior to the commencement of any match, the persons responsible from each club must sign off the ground and surround checklist as shown in Appendix 3. If either club official is not willing to sign, the match MUST NOT PROCEED. It is vital that such inspection take place due to the insurance requirements.
It is essential that, together with the checklist, a detailed written explanation of the reason/s for not signing off on the checklist be faxed immediately to the League Secretary, with the original copy to be forwarded in the match envelope. This explanation may be written by one or both club officials, but again, must be signed by both clubs.
If one of the club officials will not sign the checklist the home club should immediately contact the President/ League Secretary who shall arrange for an independent inspection of the ground. The President/League Secretary or his representative may, after inspection, order works to be carried out to make the ground and surrounds safe, or determine that the complaint is not warranted.
If the dispute is settled and/or the issue associated with the safety of the ground and/or surrounds is satisfactorily repaired, to both clubs satisfaction, the check list shall be signed.
The next scheduled game (as detailed in starting times) shall then go ahead. It may be necessary to cancel one or more of the games.
In such an event, where both officials have not signed the checklist and a game is not played, the points shall be shared ie. two points each.
In an event where one official will not sign the checklist, and a game is not played, and the President/League Secretary or his representative, believes the complaint is not warranted, the points shall be awarded to the club who were prepared to play.
If a Club risk management officer won’t sign the form prior to the start of the Under 14’s then a $1000 bond must be put up by the club that did not sign the form and you must contact the League Secretary/President or Board Member immediately by telephone.
If on inspection the ground and facilities are found to be satisfactory the Club will lose the $1000 and/or the match points
3.10 TEAM SHEETS
These are probably the most important documents that have to be completed on a match day by a Club Secretary or a Team Manager.
They are the only record of players and other officials on match day.
From the team sheet, the recording of the Best & Fairest voting, Umpire’s Reports and player game and match statistics is verified therefore it is essential that details recorded are complete.
A completed team sheet printed off the IT System shall be handed to the umpires prior to the commencement of a match, a copy to the opposing team and a copy to the interchange steward.
Once the team sheets have been lodged with the umpires, NO CHANGES are permitted to be made without the consent of the umpires and the opposing club Team Manager or Club Secretary.
It is the sole duty of the Inter Change Steward to record jumper changes caused by the Blood Rule etc. on the Interchange form
Failure to hand in the team sheet to the umpire/s prior to official starting times, in all grades, the penalty will be:
a) The executive and/or the Board may penalize by fine or loss of points or both any team in any grade who deliberately fail to exchange team sheets in the prescribed manner
b) The first fine in any grade during the season will be $100. With any subsequent fine in the same grade during the same season being $500
3.11 MATCH RESULTS (on computer)
Ensure that these are completed as required. This is most important as the details put on to the system is what ends up in the media. Remember to enter goals kicked per quarter, NOT the progressive score.
There is a very tight schedule to meet all media requirements each match day, particularly with TV scoreboard and the national press.
It is therefore requested that result sheets (on the IT system) for ALL grades to be entered at the completion of each grade. Seniors final scores to be entered before 5.30pm PLEASE.
At the completion of the home round, all stationery should be checked and placed in the appropriate large envelope, using the check list on the face of the envelope to ensure all required documents are enclosed.
The envelope should then be posted to the League Secretary unless other arrangements have been made.
3.12 MEDIA
There are several requirements of the home club on match days. Seniors quarter by quarter scores (goals scored per quarter not running total) entered onto the IT system so the League Secretary/Publicity Officer can ring them through to the media at the various quarter time breaks.
Again a reminder of the benefits to be gained from co-operation with the media outlets and the strict time frames they enforce, so please endeavour to meet the media reporting schedules of both the League Secretary and the media outlets.
3.13 UMPIRES
Clubs supply a central umpire for U14, U17, reserves & senior (reserves & seniors only when one has not been appointed).
If a club cannot supply an umpire, clubs may contact the opposing club who may provide an additional umpire at a cost of Under 14 - $30, Under 17 - $40, Reserves - $50 & Seniors - $150
It is the responsibility of home clubs to provide an escort for senior and reserve grade umpires leaving the ground at half time and after matches. (U/17 and U/14 now should have umpire from each club).
Escorts should also be wary of quarter time and three quarter time breaks, should attention be required.
It is also a club responsibility to attend the umpires’ room at the conclusion of the match and ascertain if there any reports. If a report has been made it MUST be detailed on the bottom of the MATCH RESULT on the IT in Match Report (refer to 5.2).
FOR FINALS:
From 2012 onwards that wherever possible GVFUA goal & boundary umpires are used for all final matches in all grades and in particular for all grades in the grand finals.
Independent Timekeepers to be provided by the league to oversee club timekeepers in the finals. Rules in regard to times to be clearly displayed in the timekeepers box.
Goal Umpires:
Club shall supply a goal umpire appropriately attired as per dress code for all grades of football. Goal umpires must carry out their duties as per rule 8.2.4 as printed in VCFL handbook.
Goal Umpires to change ends after each half.
In all grades when umpires swap ends they must check their scorecards to ensure they have the same score and also check if the scoreboard is correct. At the end of the game they must check each other’s scorecards to see if they are correct and sign both cards. The scorecards are to be handed to the home club official.
Failure to comply will incur a fine to be issued as per Rule10.0
3.14 FACILITIES
3.14.1Interchange stewards are to be provided with a box adjacent to the interchange area on the ground for their sole use.
3.14.2A stretcher must be provided and placed at the interchange box for use by both teams.
3.14.3Interchange clipboard must contain the red/yellow board for the interchange steward to return the umpire’s signals when there is a “send off” and a stopwatch or watch.
Grounds are required to be marked as per the NATIONAL AUSTRALIAN FOOTBALL COUNCIL – LAWS OF THE GAME (found in the Yellow Pages of the VCFL Handbook).
This is included in the VCFL Constitution.
3.15 FORFEIT
Any club not notifying the League secretary of its intention to forfeit a match before the commencement appointed time in any grade on the day of the match, shall be liable to meet expenses incurred for such a match. Such expenses to be under the jurisdiction of the Board.
3.16 PLAYER NUMBERS
To commence the game a team must have a minimum of 14 players and borrow no more that eight players from the opposing team.
Each team must have equal numbers on the ground at the start & during the match excepting when an injury or order off applies
A match permit to be filled out when a player/s are used to assist the opposing team to field a side and to be forwarded to League Secretary with Match results
4.0 INDEPENDENT TRIBUNAL
TRIBUNAL WILL BE HELD WHERE POSSIBLE ON WEDNESDAY NIGHTS at venues to be determined by the Tribunal Co-ordinator.
Whether a player or official has been reported, or is named in the report of a player or official from an opposing club, that person MUST attend any Tribunal Hearing when requested to do so unless approval is provided by the Secretary.
A witness (offended player) may give evidence by phone, if, they have work commitments (written confirmation from his employer is required) or reside out of the Goulburn Murray Region (proof may be required), the phone must be a landline and time made available to the tribunal. The witness must also supply a detailed letter regarding the alleged incident. An advocate from the witnesses club must still attend the tribunal.
A U17 and U14 player must take a parent, club official or guardian to be present at the tribunal.
Failure to comply may result in a fine of $250.
In all cases, it is the responsibility of the club to provide an advocate to attend with that person.
The VCFL Constitution has a section titled VICTORIAN COUNTRY FOOTBALL LEAGUE TRIBUNAL AND APPEALS BOARD - GUIDELINES FOR TRIBUNAL AND APPEAL BOARD MEMBERS.
It is imperative that those acting as advocates read and become familiar with this section of the Handbook as it is the procedure that the Tribunal will always follow when hearing cases.
The Picola & District Football Netball League has produced a “running sheet” for on-field offences which details the procedural format the Tribunal follows. This is attached in Appendix 4.
If your club is going to rely on video evidence, the film MUST be authenticated by the person recording the film. The club must also provide the video or DVD player to enable the evidence to be provided.
A suspended player MUST serve the suspension in the grade in which the offence occurred and shall not be permitted to play with any team during the suspension (VCFL Handbook)
A suspended player may go onto the playing area during breaks, but must be behind the fence during the game.
If an Under 14s or Under 17s player is sent off the ground twice throughout the home & away or final series the club will receive a letter. The third time the player will face the tribunal & answer to the third charge with the prior send offs being taken into consideration
An Under 14 or Under 17 player cannot take a Set Penalty for any offence.
Players found guilty are to pay tribunal costs per hearing – Cost of tribunal & GST
5.0 REPORT PROCEDURE
5.1 It is a requirement under the Constitution for a club representative to attend the umpires’ room at the conclusion of the match to ascertain if there have been any reports made. The “home” club must include details of all reports on the match result on the IT system in the section (match report) provided.
5.2 Please include the player, jumper number, club, name and detail the charge:
e.g. No 26 J. Brown Picola United for striking No 32 R. Smith Tungamah
5.3 Player/players/umpire or club official NOT WILLING to accept set penalty:
e.g. Any umpire who lodges a report
A reported player not wanting to accept the set penalty
The player offended against
The President/Secretary of either club under the provisions provided in Tribunal Guidelines:
MUST NOTIFY IN WRITING, delivered to, emailed or faxed to the League Secretary no later than 12 noon on the first working day following the match, notice that the set penalty is NOT ACCEPTED.
Failure to comply will result in set penalty being imposed.
5.4 Investigation witnesses
That if a person/s who has been asked to attend the tribunal does not attend that the club/s be fined $250 per person not in attendance
6.0 UNDER 14 SPECIAL RULES
The Picola & District Football Netball League has developed a series of special rules for its U14 players. These have been developed to assist with player skill development.
- Each side may have eighteen players (equal number of players) on the ground, with unlimited interchange players during the home and away seaon only . If all parties agree then equal numbers can be added to the field. Clubs may use up to 25 players during finals.
All players to be registered with the Picola & District Football Netball League.
- Tony Smith Medal awarded to the best & fairest player/s
- Leading goal kicker award
- Percentage
- Pennants & medallions to be awarded to winning grand final team
- All players to be under the age of 14 by midnight of the 31st December in the preceding year
- A player in possession of the ball may not chop with hand or arm the opposition player who is tackling him
- Umpire may award a 25 metre penalty
- Kicking in danger rules to be enforced stringently
- A player is allowed to bounce the ball twice only
Ø A special size 4 synthetic ball will be used
- Clubs must share players to even up player numbers.
- The umpire has the discretion to order off any player for a period of time or the entire match. The umpire must state the reason why on the order off card
- In all games the ball will be thrown up by the central umpires when the ball goes out of bounds.
- Club umpires have the right to report
- No set penalties allowed
- No over age players will be allowed excepting in exceptional circumstance – this must be done in writing through the League Secretary. Then an appointed panel will make a decision prior to Round 1. This decision will be final.
- No permit players to be allowed
7.0 UNDER 17 AND UNDER 14 AGE LIMITS
The age limit of Under 17 and Under 14 is by Midnight on December 31st in the preceding season. Therefore if a player turns 17 or 14 in the current football season he/she is eligible to play.
Any player applying to play in the Under 17’s and Under 14’s grade competition shall have his application for registration endorsed by a parent or guardian.
7.1 OVERAGE PLAYER - UNDER 17 & UNDER 14
Clubs can apply in writing to the League Secretary up to 2 weeks prior to the start of the season for permission to have an over age player/s.
No over age players will be allowed excepting in exceptional circumstance.
The League will appoint a committee of 3 persons to oversee if a player is eligible. This appointed committee will have the final say if a person/s can be used as an over age player.
Overage players will not be eligible for any league award.
Any player who has been granted permission to play overage may only play finals, if the club has requested written permission, to play overage during finals, prior to round 14.
The board may withdraw the right to play overage at any time and at the board’s sole discretion.
Overage players will be ineligible to poll League Best & Fairest Votes or win League Goal Kicking Award.
8.0 LOSS OF POINTS
- Any Club playing a player contrary to these Rules and/or the Rules of the Victorian Country Football Leagues shall, in addition to other penalties imposed by the Board, be deemed to have lost the match subject to protest and the match shall be recorded as a win to the opposing Club.
9.0 FINALS ELIGIBILITY
1. 1. To be eligible to play in Under 14, Under 17, Reserves & Senior finals, a player must play at least (4) Club games with their current club , during the home and away period.
2.A player to be eligible to play in the RESERVES finals must not play more than nine senior games in the home & away season , within any league which has commenced in the same calendar year. A player can play 9 games but not 10. This includes junior footballers
- Day permits to a major league counts as a senior game played.
2. (a) Where both Club Senior and Reserve teams are participating in finals
matches on the one weekend, there be no restrictions on selection in
the Reserves team.
(b) Player on the weekend can play up but cannot play down, the exception being when a double header is played.
(c) Should the age of any person representing a Club in its Under 14 & Under 17 team be challenged, that person shall be obliged to complete and verify a Statutory Declaration as to his age and to exhibit his birth certificate thereto. The same shall be admissible in any hearing by way of protest or dispute before the Tribunal.
If a player has not qualified for finals due to illness or injury, the club may write to the Executive Members for special permission to play due to unforeseen circumstances.
(d) The eligibility criteria to play in finals is four matches which means 4 match days not reserves & firsts in only 2 weekends.
Any player can record one (1) game in each PDFNL match round. If a player competes in both seniors & reserves on the same weekend, the higher grade in which he plays will count for the purposes of league finals eligibility records.
9.1 FINALS ELIGIBILITY – VCFL UNDER 18 PLAYERS,
(TAC CUP)
Provides for the purpose of finals qualification and player eligibility, the VFL Under 18 competition, shall be considered the equal of VCFL senior competition and VFL Under 18, matches shall be considered matches of the player’s senior VCFL team for the purpose of eligibility to play in VCFL finals. In the Picola & District Football Netball League Competition one game with the Murray Bushrangers is one senior game for that player’s senior team.
1. VCFL Handbook Page 40 Permits – Students Living Away from Home
2.11 (i) Rule applies to players who have been cleared to another club from their previous club. Please read to confirm.
2.11 (ii) In order for a student playing under such permit to participate in a final series in that season a student must have played in a minimum of 5 GAMES in the team in the grade in which he is selected to play in the finals.
This overrules the Picola & District Football Netball League rules for eligibility.
2. Students playing in a School Base competition but registered with VCFL club may play without permit for that club.
Subject to Picola & District Football Netball League finals eligibility rules.
10.0 FINES
During the home and away season, the PDFNL operations manager will supply a written notice on the first breach of any of the matters listed in clause 10.1.
2nd breach shall see a fine of $100, the penalty for any further breach shall be as determined by the PDNFL Board.
During finals, a $200 fine will be applicable for the first breach of any matter listed in clause 10.1. The penalty for any further breach shall be determined by the PDFNL Board.
10.1
Match Results , scores, best players & goalkickers must be upon the IT system prior to 5.30 pm on the day of the game .
Uniforms:-
(i) Runners must wear correct uniform
(ii) Water Carriers must wear correct uniform
SUPPLYING OF THE FOLLOWING OFFICIALS:
Inter-change Steward - Home club (Supply folder, red/yellow
cards, stopwatch or watch, pen.)
1 Scoreboard Attendant - Home club for each grade
1 Time-keeper - from each Club for each grade
1 Goal Umpire - from each club…..
1 Boundary Umpire - from each club … Seniors, Reserves,
U/17
1 Central Umpire - from each club…. U/14, U/17 & Reserves
if not appointed by MRU)
Umpires Escorts must be available from home clubs for Seniors, Reserves & U/17’s at ½ time, end of the game and also other breaks if required.
A stretcher MUST be placed at the Inter-change box.
Late start - match starting times:- U/14 - 9:40am U/17 - 10:50am Reserves - 12:20pm Seniors - 2.10pm
Match day envelopes must be sent no later than the Monday following the game.
10.2
Any club found to have not included an eligible and registered player, upon the official team sheet shall receive a fine determined by the board, which shall be not less than $250 .
11.0 MATCHES
- The season shall commence and terminate on dates determined by the Board.
- No member Club shall, during the season, participate in a match not scheduled in the draw without the permission of the Board.
- Prior to the Annual general meeting a draft draw will be prepared and provided to each club for comment.
The league will endeavour to accommodate all requests for clubs for preferential games within the draw. This however will not always be possible.
The draw should be approved at the last delegates meeting of the year to allow play for the upcoming season. The Board have discretion to consider individual circumstances and needs of each division in regards to starting dates, scheduled byes and fixturing between clubs.
- Home and Away Matches:
(a) In all matches four points shall be awarded to the wining team and two points for a draw.
(b) Placing in the Finals shall be decided on these points.
(c) Where match points are equal the Club with the highest percentage of scores for and against shall be placed ahead of the others.
11.1 Special playing conditions for reserves and under17’s
(1) If one team only has sixteen players, both competing teams must play
sixteen players, the second team having the right to use up to six
interchange players. Maximum of 22 players
(2) If one team has only seventeen players, both competing teams must
play sixteen players, the teams with seventeen players being allowed one interchange players, the other team having the right to use up to five interchange players Maximum of 22 players
(3) If one team has only eighteen players, both competing teams must
play eighteen players, the team with eighteen players having no inter-change players, the other team having the right to use up to four interchange players Maximum of 22 players
(4) Under 17’s teams can only play three (3) permits players per Club on one weekend. These players can only play ONE game per weekend
(5) During the home and away season only, clubs may agree to have more than 4 interchange players - this to be agreed upon on match day between the two sides and without going to the league executive.
11.2 Substitution Rule( senior games only)
a)
a) Each team is permitted three (3) interchange players and one (1) Under 17 substitute player within senior game only.
b) The fourth player ( under 17 player ), known as the substitute , shall begin the game wearing a green vest over his playing guernsey. He may not be interchanged while wearing the green vest. At any time during the first two quarters, he may be substituted for one of the other players in the team - either on the ground or on the bench. He shall take off his green vest, and the player he substitutes shall put on a red vest. The player in the red vest will take no further part in the game. Teams are limited to a single substitution per game. A player may be substituted for tactical reasons or to replace an injured player.
c) The substitute player shall be noted as substitute upon team sheet.
d) At half time, the fourth player ( under 17 player), known as the substitute, shall remove his green vest and is no longer subjected to clause 11.2 b).
12.0 FINAL FIVE
Week 1
Elimination Final 4 x 5
Qualification Final 2 x 3
Bye 1
Week 2
2nd Semi Final 1st vs Winners of Qualification final
1st Semi final Winners of Elimination final Vs Losers of Qualification final
Week 3
Preliminary Final Winners of 1st semi final Vs Losers of 2nd semi final
Bye Winners of 2nd semi final
Week 4
Grand Final Winners of 2nd Semi final Vs winners of Preliminary final
12.1 FINALS STARTING TIMES
Finals times will be notified prior to the finals series.
Reserves & Under 17’s Finals ONLY
That in the Reserves and Under 17’s that there is Time ON and OFF in the second half of the game for the finals series only . . . not the home and away games.
12.2 FINALS – TIED MATCHES
In all matches where a result is tied the following procedure shall be followed:
(a) After the umpire signals the conclusion of play, a break of five minutes shall be provided (from end of game to commencement).
(b) Two five minute halves will be played with TIME ON
(c) After the first 5 minutes the teams will change ends without a break.
(d) If no result is achieved after the 10 minutes, a break of 5 minutes shall take place.
(e) A further two five minute halves PLUS TIME ON will be played and the procedure will be repeated until a result is achieved.
13.0 FINALS
Week 4
Grand Final
Week 3
Preliminary Final
Week 2
2nd Semi Final
1st Semi Final
Week 1
1st and 2nd and elimination finals
13.1 VENUES
a) Finals shall be hosted amongst all venues on a rotating system .
Every club side rises up 1 place per season until they host the grand final.
For the purpose of a 8 side competition (8) and then commence the rotation again in place 1(none) as per below.
8 side competition. 8= Grand , 7=None , 6= Preliminary , 5= 2nd Semi , 4=1st Semi , 3=Qualifying , 2=Elimination, 1= None
For 9 side 9=Grand, 8=None, 7=Prelim, 6=None, 5=2nd semi , 4=1st Semi, 3=Qualifying, 2=Elimination, 1=None
b) The board shall inspect all grounds in February or March and advise clubs of any issue’s . These issues shall be rectified and re-inspected by May 15th.
Failing to rectify issues to the boards expectation by the 15th May ,
making alternative arrangements in line with clause 13.1(c) and with the board’s approval , shall see the board remove that clubs right to stage the proposed final for that year.
c) All finals including the Grand Final in each Division of Picola & District Football netball League shall be played at venues within the Picola & District Football Netball League
d) Under extreme circumstances the board may alter finals venues.
FINALS CATERING
All clubs hosting a final shall be allocated all the catering at that final. If they feel it will be too much for them to cope with, it is up to them to tender out duties or ask for help from other clubs.
The league shall recieve all proceeds from gate takings at all finals.
The Board will still monitor & make decision in relation to the catering if it is felt necessary
Clubs doing hot food & bar MUST have the appropriate food handling & Responsible Service of Alcohol training
Finals – Supply of food & drink for Umpires
That it’s the hosting club’s responsibility to supply sandwiches, tea or coffee & soft drinks to all umpires for finals.
13.2 GRAND FINALS PRESENTATION
All presentations of medals and trophies be made on the ground after the completion of each grade’s game, the premiers allowed to do a lap of the oval.
Runners Up medallions shall be awarded in U14s only
Premiership Pennants to be in club colours
13.3 GRAND FINALS
All Grand Finals are to be played on a Saturday and wherever possible both divisions will be staggered
13.4 ALL FINALS MATCH RESULTS
All Paperwork and entering of results on IT system shall be performed by League Secretary or nominated Board member.
13.5 CHECK SCORER
Each competing club to provide a check scorer to assist appointed goal umpires in case of disputed score cards.
14.0 ADMISSION AND PROGRAM PRICES
Admission and program prices for home and away games will be determined by the Board at its first meeting of the calendar year.
Admission and program prices for finals will be determined by the Board prior to the finals series.
15.0 PLAYERS AS UMPIRES
The league will allow club players to both play and officiate as registered GVFUA umpires on match day.
Such umpires will have the power to report and send off players & officials
16.0 EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES
Exceptional circumstances may be applied in the case of an official or player, or a serious injury to a player or official on the playing arena that results in the player or official not being able to be moved.
In such an event, when the game has not gone past half time, the clubs shall share the points awarded, ie. two points each.
If the event occurs after half time, the game shall be awarded to the Club (ie four points) which is in front at that time. If scores are level of this time, the game shall be tied.
17.0 JUMPERS AND SHORTS
Berrigan Red, Black & White BLACK
Blighty Red & White RED
Deniliquin Rovers Blue & White BLUE
Dookie United Teal. Black & White BLACK
Jerilderie Green, red & Purple PURPLE
Katamatite Black & Gold BLACK
Katandra Navy Blue with white KFC monogram BLUE
Katunga White with Red Vee RED
Mathoura Blue with Red Sash BLUE
Picola United Royal Blue with White Sash BLUE
Rennie Bottle green & white GREEN
Shepparton East Navy Blue, Yellow & White BLUE
Strathmerton Red, White & Blue BLUE
Tungamah White and gold "feathering" on
maroon body/back with TFNC MAROON
Waaia Black with Red Sash BLACK
Wunghnu Black & White BLACK
Yarroweyah Green & Gold GREEN
In the event of jumper clashes the clubs may agree to wear an alternative jumper and / or shorts. The North West home club shall wear coloured shorts and the away club shall wear white shorts. South East division White shorts to be worn by visiting teams during the home & away series.
18.0 INTER LEAGUE COACH
The executive shall, if required appoint an Inter-league coach and selectors for any inter-league games. The Clubs shall be notified as soon as the appointment is made. The Executive shall be empowered to negotiate an honorarium for this position.
- Appointment
- Selectors
19.0 JUNIOR DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
The executive shall, if required appoint a Junior Development Officer and Assistant Junior Development Officers. The Clubs shall be notified as soon as the appointment is made. The Executive shall be empowered to negotiate an honorarium for this position.
- Appointment
- Allowance
- Assistant JD officer
20.0 AREA AGREEMENTS
The executive will be panelled to enter into area agreements with the following leagues.
- - Murray Football League.
- - Goulburn Valley Football League
- - Cobram Junior Football League
- - Shepparton Juniors
- - Albury /Wodonga juniors
- - Yarrawonga juniors
21.0 INVESTIGATIONS OFFICER
The League Secretary, on receipt of advice of a request for an investigation and all required paperwork and appropriate fee, appoint any approved VCFL investigations officers to undertake the investigations. The Tribunal Chairman and clubs involved in the investigations will be advised as soon as practicable of the appointment.
The cost of any inquiry conducted by the board or its committees maybe charged to the losing or offending parties
22.0 CONTAGIOUS DISEASE
Players who have a contagious disease, must produce a doctor’s certificate which is to be delivered to the league secretary on the Friday prior to the game to state the player had a contagious disease and is now clear of infection and no longer contagious.
23.0 CODE OF CONDUCT – U14 AND U17
Unless otherwise amended by the Picola & District Football Netball League and adopted by resolution of the League, all Clubs shall abide by the following codes of conduct:
- Junior Coaches Code of Conduct (Appendix 3)
- Code of Conduct for Coaches, Players, Parents, Supports and Officials (Appendix 4).
24.0 RACIAL AND RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE POLICY
Unless otherwise amended by the League and adopted by resolution.
The Club is committed to an environment which promotes racial and religious tolerance by prohibiting certain conduct and providing a means of redress for victims of racial and religious vilification and/or racial discrimination.
25.0 RISING STAR (per division)
The Picola & District Football Netball Leagues will award a “Rising Star of the Year” award for each Best Under 18 player in Picola District Football Netball League competition.
Player must be 18 & Under as at the 1st January in the current playing year
A player can play 15 senior games in any previous season in any League
The PDFNL Executive, judging only on those nominations submitted, will decide quarterly award winners
The Rising Star of the Year will be the player from the four quarterly winners
In the event of a tie the award will be shared
Nominations must be submitted by 6pm on the Sunday following ROUNDS 5,9,14 & 18 by fax or email
A Club may have an U18 who is still eligible for U17 who the Club rate as the Clubs best player and as such may be nominated.
A Club can nominate more than one player.
Nominations are kept each month so once a player is nominated he can be considered each month
26.0 FINANCE
An administration fee will be charged each year – April, May & June. It will be invoiced out in three installments, the amount to be decided by the executive
In the event there is a surplus at the end of the operating year a
Dividend could be paid to all financial clubs, the amount decided by the
Executive. The League are looking into having a fund for future of the league
Providing $1.000 per clubs is retained by the League
27.0 FUNCTIONS
All functions conducted by the Picola & District Football Netball League Shall be smoke free.
27.1 BEST & FAIREST PRESENTATION
Each division shall hold their own senior vote count on a suitable night or other selected time to be announced prior to the end of the season, the compulsory number of persons attending per club be 20 people. Clubs can request more seating if required
Junior football & netball will be held at a selected venue to be announced during the season with both division’s and usually held the Sunday after the completion of the home & away.
27.2 League Best & Fairest (per division)
Senior Pearce Medal
Runner Up David Wilson Memorial Trophy
Reserves McKenzie Medal
Runner UP
Under 17’s Payne Medal
Runner Up Lawless Trophy
Under 14’s Smith Medal
Runner Up Henderson Trophy
BEST & FAIREST Procedure
1. League Secretary to open & record the votes
2. To be checked by another person prior to the count in all grades
3. Votes to be kept until that year’s Annual Meeting then they can be destroyed
4. A vote card is valid with only 1 umpire signature
5. A vote card is invalid if there is no Umpires signatures
6. A vote is not valid when a player’s name is not correct as per team sheet.
7. Any alterations to a Vote Card must be initialed by both umpires.
8. Players in the top 10 list of vote getters in each grade at Round 15 shall receive a written invitation to League Best & Fairest Vote Count presentations.
28.0 TRANSFERS
Consultation is to be held with Club Delegates of each Division when there is a submission from a club or a requirement of a club to move from Division to Division, prior to a vote being held at Board level.
29.0 REPRESENTATIVE FOOTBALL
Any player chosen to representative the VCFL, AFL & NWS in football squads can apply in writing to the League for a donation of $100 to help towards the costs
30.0 MONEY AWARDS
If a player is not in attendance at vote count where they are the recipient of money awards & it is known who has won the award then the money award will not be handed out. Any exceptional circumstances requests must be received in writing by League Secretary prior to the night
31.0 GLASS POLICY
The following proposal is designed to clarify and strengthen the Picola Leagues rules and attitude regarding the sale and dispensing of alcohol at home and away matches, finals and practice matches.
- No Club or individual is permitted to sell or dispense alcohol in glass containers on match days before the completion of the senior game or the last match.
- Any club ignoring this rule stall be fined $500 for each match day infringement
- Special exemptions may be granted by the League upon written application under circumstances deemed extraordinary
- This rules shall apply to Netball and Football at home matches, practice matches and finals
32.0 BAR OPENING HOURS
That no BAR sell any alcohol until the Under 17’s match have finished in the Home & Away & 12 noon during the finals.
APPENDIX 1
PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
MATCH DAY DUTIES
A member from each club to inspect the ground and fill in the match day checklist form
IT IS COMPULSORY TO SUPPLY THEFOLLOWING OFFICIALS:
Inter-change steward – home club
(home club to supply folder, red/yellow cards, stopwatch or watch, pen)
1 scoreboard attendant - home club for each grade
1 time-keeper – from each club for each grade
1 goal umpire – from each club
1 boundary umpire – from each club – Senior, Reserves, U/17
1 central umpire - from each club - U/14 U/17 & reserves (when none appointed)
Escorts from home clubs should be available for seniors and reserves umpires at half time, end of the game and also other breaks if required
(U/14 & U/17 should have umpires from both clubs, so hopefully no need)
A stretcher MUST be placed at the Inter-change box
MATCH STARTING TIMES:
U/14 - 9:45am U/17 - 11:05am
Reserves - 12:30pm Seniors - 2.20pm
TEAM SHEETS: Players and officials (runner, coach, club umpires, trainers and
water-carriers) to be entered onto the VCFL IT system prior to each game, copies to be printed off and signed by the secretary/team manager. One copy each to the Umpires & opposing team.
IT IS ESSENTIAL ON MATCH DAY FOR YOUR CLUB (home team) TO EITHER MAKE CHANGES FOR THE OPPOSING TEAM OR GIVE THEM ACCESS TO YOUR COMPUTER.
MATCH RESULTS: Please enter on the computer immediately each grade ends (remember to enter GOALS KICKED per quarter not progressive score).
Seniors finals scores to be entered no later than 5:15pm PLEASE (media schedule).
Sort paperwork (best done at end of each grade) Clip grade paperwork together & put in a large envelope and post or hand to General Manager/Secretary ASAP.
Please read the Operation Manual - it contains further info relevant to match day.
APPENDIX 2
PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL
NETBALL LEAGUE INC.
Tribunal Procedure for “on-field” Offences.
- All parties summoned and Tribunal Secretary opens session of the Picola & District Football Netball League Independent Tribunal and makes introductions and advises that the proceedings will be recorded.
- Tribunal Secretary announces:
(i) Chairman..........................................................................
(ii) Panel Members.................................................................
(iii) Report Player and his club..................................................
(iv) Players Advocate..............................................................
(v) Offended player and his club..............................................
(vi) Offended players advocate................................................
(vii) The Reporting Umpire........................................................
(viii) The Umpires Advocate......................................................
(ix) All Witnesses.....................................................................
(x) Observers.........................................................................
- Chairman asks: Are you player………………………….. of the ………………………………. Football Club?
- Are you Umpire…………………………. the officiating and reporting umpire?
- Chairman: Would all witnesses and player …………………….. please vacate the room until called.
- To Reported Players Advocate:
(i) Do you object to any member of the Tribunal hearing and determining this matter?
(ii) Chairman reads and tables report and asks if there are any objections or submissions in respect of the report.
(iii) Asks the Umpire or the Umpires Advocate if he now seeks to amend the report.
(iv) If an objection is raised on any of the above issues, it should be appropriately dealt with by the Tribunal at this time.
- Charged player …………………………… you have heard the charge. How do you plead; Guilty or Not Guilty?
- Players response: ……………………………
- Chairman asks Reporting Umpire ………………………………. to amplify the report.
- Umpire questioned by:
(i) Tribunal Members
(ii) Umpire’s Advocate
(iii) Charged Player
(iv) Charged Player’s Advocate
(v) Offended Player
(vi) Offended Player’s Advocate
- Umpire may call witnesses. Questioned as above.
- Offended Player then called to room.
Would you give your version of why you think the Umpire reported Player ………………………….., of ……………………………… Club?
- Questioned by:
(i) Tribunal Members
(ii) His Advocate
(iii) The Umpire
(iv) Umpire’s Advocate
(v) Charged Player
(vi) His Advocate.
- Charged Player ……………………………….asked to give his account of the Incident.
- Questioned by:
(i) Tribunal Members
(ii) His Advocate
(iii) The Umpire
(iv) Umpire’s Advocate
(v) Offended Player
(vi) Offended Player’s Advocate.
- Charged Player may call witnesses.
Questioned as above.
- Chairman asks all parties if there are any further questions of anyone.
- To ensure Natural Justice to all parties concerned, you are reminded of Rule 8.6 of the VCFL Handbook.
- Chairman then reads VCFL Rule 8.3 Right of Appeal:
(i) “An aggrieved person subject to the decision of the League Independent Tribunal or Regional Appeal Board under Rule 7.6.11, may appeal to the VCFL Appeal board provided the appeal is brought no later than 2.00pm on the second day after which the decision of the relevant body was made.”
(ii) “The right of the person to appeal to the VCFL Appeal Board does not apply to a decision of a League Independent Tribunal in respect of an appeal by a Player under Regulation 7.5.”
- Are all parties satisfied that all available evidence has been presented to the Tribunal?
- Advocates are then asked to summarise the evidence.
(i) Umpire
(ii) Offended Player
(iii) Charged Player
- Charged player …………………………….. “Do you consider you have had a fair hearing? (Any objections raised, Tribunal Secretary MUST minute all reasons submitted).
- All leave room whilst Tribunal considers verdict.
- Tribunal having reached a finding, all reassemble when called and finding announced by Tribunal Chairman.
- If found guilty, Charged Player’s Advocate is asked if he wishes to enter a plea on behalf of his player.
- Tribunal Secretary is asked for VCFL printout of guilty player’s Tribunal Record.
- Chairman asks all to leave room while penalty is considered.
- Reassemble when requested and penalty handed down
APPENDIX 3
PICOLA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE INC.
Junior Coaches Code of Conduct
- Be familiar with the Laws of Australian football and abide by the rules and conditions of your league and club.
- Teach your players that rules of the game are mutual agreements which no player should evade or break.
- Group players according to age, height, skill and physical maturity whenever possible in any competitive practice session.
- Avoid over-playing the talented players. The “just average” players need and deserve equal time, if not more.
- Remember that the players involved play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only part of it. Emphasise the importance of the learning and development of skills and positive attitudes. Never ridicule or yell at your players for making mistakes or losing a competition.
- Ensure that equipment and facilities meets safety standards and are appropriate for the age and ability of the players.
- The scheduling and length of practice times and competitions should take into consideration the maturity level of the player.
- Develop team respect for the ability of opponents, as well as for the judgment of umpires and opposing coaches.
- Follow the advice of a qualified person when determining when an injured player is ready to play or train again.
- Make a personal commitment to keep yourself informed of sound junior coaching principles and developments. Endeavour to attain coaching accreditation and to become an active member of the local branch of the Australian Football Coaches Association.
- Avoid use of derogatory language based on gender or race.
APPENDIX 4
………………………….. FOOTBALL CLUB (SAMPLE POLICY)
(FV Regulation 5.1.4 (b))
|
MANDATORY & ENFORCEABLE CODES OF CONDUCT FOR COACHES, PLAYERS, PARENTS, SUPPORTERS AND OFFICIALS
The ………………………….. Football Club fully supports the codes of conduct as introduced by the AFL and Football Victoria.
Coache’s are required to sign the AFL Code of Conduct as part of the Level 1 Accreditation requirement. All coaches must be accredited to coach in our League.
- Play by the rules – the rules of your club and the law of the game.
- Never argue with an umpire or other official – without these people, you can’t play football.
- Control your temper – verbal abuse of officials and sledging other players doesn’t help you enjoy or win any games.
- Be a team player – It’s a team game, treat it that way.
- Treat all players as you would like to be treated – fairly.
- Co-operate with your coach, the umpires and team-mates.
- Play for your own enjoyment and to improve your skills.
- Don’t use ugly remarks based on race, religion, gender or ability – you’ll let down your coach, team-mates and family if you do – and many such comments are actually now illegal.
PARENTS & SUPPORTERS CODE OF CONDUCT
- Remember that you are there for the participants to enjoy the game.
- Encourage participation, but don’t force it.
- Teach that enjoyment is more important than winning.
- Never ridicule mistakes or losses – supporter’s are there to support not downgrade.
- Lead by example and respect all players, coaches, umpires and spectators – physical or verbal abuse will not be tolerated.
- Recognise all volunteers who are giving up their valuable time.
- Never publicly criticise umpires – raise personal concerns with club officials in private.
- Don’t use ugly remarks based on race, religion, gender or ability – you’ll let down your coach, team-mates and family if you do – and many such comments are actually now illegal.
By registering our child with the …………………FC we agree to abide by these principles. We support the Club in it’s undertakings and encourage the Club to take any necessary disciplinary actions including the suspension and banning where warranted of any players, parents and spectators for repeated or serious breaches of these Codes of Conduct.
PLAYERS NAME:
(Print name) (Signature)
PARENT/ GUARDIAN’S NAME:
(Print name) (Signature)
DATE: ……/………/20….