The VAFA aims to provide young males with the opportunity to play an enjoyable and competitive game Australian Rules football in a safe environment. This code of conduct has been developed to give participants an understanding of their responsibilities to ensure these objectives are met.
VAFA Expectations of Players:
- Understand and play by the rules. The rules exist for the safety, proper order and enjoyment of all people involved in VAFA football. It is the players’ responsibility to understand and play by them. Do not ignore or deliberately break any rules.
- Respect umpires and officials. Umpires and officials have a difficult task to perform and you could not play the game without them. They are there to enforce the rules of play but they cannot always be right. Accept bad calls graciously. Abuse of umpires is unacceptable behaviour and if the umpire takes offence he will report you immediately.
- Control your temper. Verbally abusing other players or deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent not acceptable or permitted in the VAFA. Loss of temper is not only unpleasant for other participants in the game; it can also distract you and have an adverse effect on your concentration and effectiveness.
- Be a team player. You owe it to yourself and others involved in your team to train and play to the best of your abilities. Your team’s performance will benefit - so will you. Always consider others when making decisions.
- Do not interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of another player. Do not abuse or ridicule another player when a mistake is made. Constructive guidance and encouragement when a player does well will assist a player to improve their game.
- Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person. Regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, religion or other factor irrelevant to the game, all persons connected with the VAFA are entitled to equal treatment and respect. Avoid any remarks that could be construed as offensive or discriminatory. Using discretion is imperative and it is better to err on the side of caution.
- Listen to the advice of your coach. Your coach has been appointed to coach your team because they have certain abilities and experience. They have also undergone training to ensure that you get the best coach that you can commensurate with your skill levels.
- Respect the use of facilities and the equipment provided. These cost money and will only function properly if kept in good order. Ensure that you do not abuse anything provided for use.