CYL Handbook 2017_Layout 1

The home Club is also responsible for advising Participants of footwear
requirements when confirming match arrangements in accordance with Rule
10(C).

All matches shall have duration as set out below unless a shorter time is mutually
arranged by the two Clubs in consultation with the referee prior to the
commencement of the match, and in any event shall be of equal halves.

Matches should be played in accordance with the Laws appropriate to the
relevant age group, as laid down by The FA, as detailed below.

Under 7 and Under 8:

Duration of play per half: 10-20 minutes

Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 40 minutes

Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 60 minutes

Structure: Development focussed with a maximum of 3 trophy events per season
over 2 week periods (6 weeks)

In this Competition the duration of play shall be 15 minutes each half.

Under 9 and Under 10:

Duration of play per half: 20-25 minutes

Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 60 minutes

Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 90 minutes

Structure: Development focussed with a maximum of 3 trophy events per season
over 4 week periods (12 weeks)

In this Competition the duration of play shall be 20 minutes each half.

Under 11:

Duration of play per half: 20-30 minutes

Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 80 minutes

Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 120 minutes
Structure: Development focussed with a maximum of 3 trophy events per season
over 6 week periods (18 weeks)

Under 12:
Duration of play per half: 20-30 minutes
Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 80 minutes (if
applicable)
Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 120 minutes
Structure: Any varieties including one season long league table
Under 13 and Under 14:
Duration of play per half: 25-35 minutes
Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 100 minutes
Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 150 minutes
Structure: Any varieties including one season long league table
Under 15 and Under 16:
Duration of play per half: 25-40 minutes
Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 100 minutes
Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 150 minutes
Structure: Any varieties including one season long league table
Under 17 and Under 18:
Duration of play per half: 25-45 minutes
Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 120 minutes
Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 180 minutes
Structure: Any varieties including one season long league table
For round robin/trophy events, the maximum duration of play per half cannot be
exceeded, but the minimum duration of play per half may be adjusted.
For trophy events, the Competition may award mementos.

The times of kick-off shall be fixed by the Management Committee. Any Club
failing to commence at the appointed time shall be fined (in accordance with the
Fines Tariff).

Referees must order matches to commence at the appointed time and must
report all late starts to the Secretary.

The home Team must provide goal nets, corner flags and at least two footballs fit
for play and the referee shall make a report to the Secretary if the footballs are
unsuitable. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine (in accordance
with the Fines Tariff).

(B) Except by permission of the Management Committee all Competition
Matches must be played on the dates originally fixed but priority shall be given to
The FA and parent County Association Cup Competitions. All other matches must
be considered secondary. Clubs may mutually agree to bring forward a match
with the consent of the Fixtures Secretary. Failure to comply with this Rule will
result in a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff).

In the case of a revised fixture date, the Clubs must be given by the Competition
5 clear days’ notice of the match (unless otherwise mutually agreed).

(C) An Officer of the home Club must give notice of full particulars of the location
of, and access to, the ground and time of kick-off to the Match Officials and the
secretary of the opposing Club at least five clear days prior to the playing of the
match. If not so provided, the away Club and Match Officials shall seek such
details and report the circumstances to the Competition. Failure to comply with
this Rule will result in a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff).

(D) The minimum number of Players that will constitute a Team for a
Competition Match is as

follows:

5v5 format: 4 players

7v7 format: 5 players

9v9 format: 6 players

11v11 format: 7 players

Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine (in accordance with the Fines
Tariff).

(E) (i) In Competitions where points are awarded home and away matches shall
be played. In the event of a Club failing to keep its engagement the Management
Committee shall have the power to impose a fine (in accordance with the Fines
Tariff), deduct points from the defaulting Club, award the points from the match
in question to the opponents, order the defaulting Club to pay any expenses
incurred by the opponents or otherwise deal with them except the award of
goals. Notwithstanding the foregoing home and away provision, the
Management Committee shall have power to order a match to be played on a
neutral ground or on the opponent’s Ground if they are satisfied that such action
is warranted by the circumstances.

(ii) Any Club unable to fulfil a fixture or where a fixture has been
postponed for any reason must, without delay, give notice to the (Fixtures)
Secretary, the Competition Referees Appointments Secretary, the secretary of
the opposing Club and the Match Officials.

(iii) In the event of a match not being played or abandoned owing
to causes over which neither Club has control, it should be played in its entirety
on a date to be mutually agreed by the two Clubs and approved by the
Management Committee. Failing such agreement and notification to the
(Fixtures) Secretary within 2 days the Management Committee shall have the
power to order the match to be played on a named date or on or before a given
date. Where it is to the advantage of the Competition and the Clubs involved
agree, the Management Committee shall also be empowered to order the score
at the time of an abandonment to stand.

(iv) The Management Committee shall review all matches abandoned
in cases where it is consequent upon the conduct of either or both Teams. Where
it is to the advantage of the Competition and does no injustice to either Club, the
Management Committee shall be empowered to order the score at the time of
the abandonment to stand. In all cases where the Management Committee are
satisfied that a match was abandoned owing to the conduct of one Team or its
Club member(s) they shall be empowered to award the points for the match to
the opponent. No fine(s) can be applied by the Management Committee for an
abandoned match.

(v) The Management Committee shall review any match that has taken
place where either or both Teams were under a suspension imposed upon them
by The FA or Affiliated Association. In each case the Team that was under
suspension would be dealt with in the same manner as if they had participated
with ineligible players in accordance with Rule 8(M)(i) above. Where both Teams

were under suspension the match must be declared null and void and shall not
be replayed.

(F) A Club may at its discretion and in accordance with the Laws of the Game use
substitute players in any match in this Competition.

For Under 11 to Under 18 - up to 5 may be selected from 5 substitute Players. A
Player who has been substituted becomes a substitute and may replace any
Player at any time subject to the substitution being carried out in accordance
with Law 3 of the Laws of Association Football. For Mini-Soccer – any number of
substitutions may be used at any time with the permission of the Match Official.
Entry onto the field of play will only be allowed during a stoppage in play. A
Player who has been replaced may return to the play as a substitute for another
Player. A Team must not have a match day squad greater than double the size of
its Team in an age group.

In this competition a Team may register a maximum of fourteen players and de-
registration is permitted as per Rule 8(S).

For Youth Football only, the referee shall be informed of the names of the
substitutes not later than ten minutes before the start of the match and a Player
not so named may not take part in the match.

A Player who has been selected, appointed or named as a substitute before the
start of the match but does not actually play in the game shall not be considered
to have been a Player in that game within the meaning of Rule 8 of this
Competition.

(H) The Teams taking part in Under 7s to Under 11 or Youth Football shall
identify a Team captain who may/shall wear an armband and shall have a
responsibility to offer support in the management of the on-field discipline of
his/her teammates. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine (in
accordance with the Fines Tariff)..

(G) The half time interval shall be of five minutes duration, but it shall not exceed
15 minutes.,The half time interval may only be altered with the consent of the
Match Officials.

Each home club shall make arrangements for the provision of designated areas
for spectators. This area can be marked by an additional painted line, the use of
cones, a roped off area or use of a temporary spectator barrier. The area for

spectators should start two metres from the touchline on both sides of the pitch.
Each area should run the full length of the pitch. It is recognised, however, that
the alignment of some public pitches does not allow for this arrangement in
which case other appropriate arrangements should be made.

REPORTING RESULTS

11. (A) The Registration/Fixtures Secretary must receive within two days of the
date played, the result of each Competition Match in the prescribed manner. This
must include the forename(s) and surname of the Team Players (in block letters)
and also the referee markings required by Rule 13, or any other information
required by the Competition. Failure to do so will incur a fine (in accordance with
the Fines Tariff).

The prescribed manner shall be by email or fulltime.

(B) The home Club shall SMS the result of each match to the Full Time website by
the end of the day when the match took place. Clubs in default shall be fined (in
accordance with the Fines Tariff).

(C) The match result notification, correctly completed, shall be signed by an
Officer of the Club, or as prescribed by the Competition. Failure to do so will
result in a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff).

(D) The Competition and Clubs are permitted to collect but NOT publish results or
any grading tables for fixtures involving Under 7s, Under 8s, Under 9s, Under 10s,
and Under11s. Any Competition failing to abide by this Rule will be dealt with by
the Sanctioning Authority, and any Club failing to abide by this Rule will be fined
(in accordance with the Fines Tariff).

The Competition and Clubs are permitted to collect and publish results for trophy
events.

(E) The Competition may require a Club to confirm that a set fixture has been
played. A fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff) may be imposed for a breach
of this Rule.

(F) Where a team plays in an external Competition they shall complete an
External Result Card and forward this to the Fixture Secretary to arrive within 2
days of the conclusion of the match. Clubs in default shall be fined (in accordance
with the Fines Tariff).

DETERMINING CHAMPIONSHIP

12. (A) In Competitions where points are awarded, Team rankings within the
Competition will be decided by points with three points to be awarded for a win
and one point for a drawn match.

The Teams gaining the highest number of points in their respective divisions at
the conclusion shall be adjudged the winners. Matches must not be played for
double points.

In the event of two or more Teams being equal on points team rankings may be
decided by deciding match(es) played under conditions determined by the
Management Committee, or the position shared.

Note: For deciding matches, in the event of the scores in a Special Championship
match played under conditions determined by the Management Committee,
being level at the end of the game, extra time of 10 minutes (5 minutes each
way) for U10 age groups; U11 to U16 inclusive, 20 minutes (10 minutes each
way) and for U17 and U18 age groups 30 minutes (15 minutes each way) shall be
played. If still equal after extra time the winners will be determined by the taking
of kicks from the penalty mark in accordance with the International Board
Decision contained in the Laws of Association Football.

12 (B) Automatic promotion shall be applied for the first two Teams and
automatic relegation shall be applied for the last two Teams in each division
except as provided for hereunder, subject to the provisions of Rule 2(B).

(i) Should one or more Teams withdraw from any one division after the fixtures
have commenced an equal number of Teams to those withdrawing in that
division shall not be automatically relegated.

(ii) Vacancies occurring after the conclusion of the Playing Season may be
filled in any of the following ways:

(a) retention of otherwise relegated Team(s);

(b) additional promotion of the next ranked Team(s) from the division below; or

(c) election

(iii) Not in use.

(iv) Not in use.

(v) Not in use.

(C) In addition to the team(s) automatically promoted under Rule 12(B), a
maximum of one further team shall be promoted by virtue of being the winner of
a play-off match or series of matches (the “Play-Offs). The eligibility criteria and
format of the Play-Offs are as follows (assume we set criteria)

(D) In the event of a team withdrawing from the Competition before completing
75% of its fixtures for the Playing Season all points obtained by or recorded
against such defaulting team shall be expunged from the Competition table. For
the purposes of this Rule 12(D) a completed fixture shall include any Competition
Match(es) which has been awarded by the Management Committee.

Where a Team withdraws having completed 75% of its fixtures the points for any
unplayed games shall be awarded to the defaulting Team’s opponents.

REFEREES

13. (A) Registered referees (and assistant referees where approved by The FA or
County FA) for all Competition Matches shall be appointed in a manner approved
by the Management Committee and by the Sanctioning Association.

(B) In cases where there are no officially appointed Match Officials in attendance
the Clubs shall agree upon a referee. An individual thus agreed upon shall, for
that game, have the full powers, status and authority of a registered referee.
Individuals under the age of 16 must not participate either as a Referee or
Assistant Referee in any open age competition and individuals under the age of
14 must not participate either as a Referee or Assistant Referee in any
competition. Referees between the ages of 14 and 16 are only eligible to officiate
in competitions where the players’ age band is at least one year younger than the
age of the Referee, for example, a 15 year old Referee may only officiate in
competitions where the age banding is 14 or younger.

(C) Where assistant referees are not appointed each Team shall provide a Club
assistant referee. Failure to do so, will result in a fine (in accordance with the
Fines Tariff) being imposed on the defaulting Club.

(D) The appointed referee shall have power to decide as to the fitness of the
Ground in all matches and the decision shall be final subject to either in the case
of a ground of a Local Authority or the owners of a Ground, the representative of
that body is the sole arbiter and whose decision must be accepted.

(E) Subject to any limits/provisions laid down by the Sanctioning Association,
Match Officials appointed under this Rule shall be paid their fees and expenses in
accordance with the Fees Tariff.

Match Officials will be paid their fees and/or expenses by the home Club unless
otherwise ordered by the Management Committee. Failure to comply with this
Rule will result in a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff).

(F) In the event of a match not being played because of circumstances over which
the Clubs have no control, the Match Officials, if present, shall be entitled to full
fee plus expenses.

Where a match is not played owing to one Club being in default, that Club shall
be ordered to pay the Match Officials, if they attend the Ground, their full fee
and expenses. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine (in accordance
with the Fines Tariff).

(G) A referee not keeping his or her engagement, and failing to give a satisfactory
explanation as to their non-appearance, may be reported to the Association with
which he or she is registered.

(H) Each Club shall, in a manner prescribed from time to time by The FA, award
marks to the referee for each match and the name of the referee and the marks
awarded shall be submitted to the Competition on the prescribed form provided.
Clubs failing to comply with this Rule shall be liable to be fined (in accordance
with the Fines Tariff) or dealt with as the Management Committee shall
determine.

A Club awarding a mark of 50 or less and/or any area on the form is ticked as
“disappointing” must provide a written explanation to the League or
Competition. It must include comments which could help improve the referee’s
future performance.

(I) The Competition shall keep a record of the markings and, on the form
provided by the prescribed date each Playing Season, shall submit a summary to
The FA/County FA.

(J) Not in use.

(K) Match Officials shall be supplied, each Playing Season, with a copy of the
Competition Rules free of charge.

(L) Match Officials shall have undertaken a RESPECT briefing offered by The
FA/County FA or the League

CONTINUATION OF MEMBERSHIP OR WITHDRAWAL OF A CLUB

14. (A) Any Club wishing to resign from the Competition must do so at least 30
days before the AGM. Failure to do so will result in a fine (in accordance with the
Fines Tariff).

(B) The Management Committee shall have the discretion to deal with a Team
being unable to start or complete its fixtures for a Playing Season, including but
not limited to, issuing a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff).

(C) In addition to the powers of the Management Committee pursuant to Rule
5(I), in the event of a member Club failing to discharge all its financial obligations
to the Competition in excess of £50, the Management Committee are
empowered to refer the debt under The FA Football Debt Recovery provisions.

PROTESTS AND COMPLAINTS

15. (A)(i) All questions of eligibility, qualifications of Players or interpretations of
the Rules shall be referred to the Management Committee or a sub-committee
duly appointed by the Management Committee.

(ii) Objections relevant to the dimensions of the pitch, goals, flag posts or other
facilities of the venue will not be entertained by the Management Committee
unless a protest is lodged with the referee before the commencement of the
match.

(B) Except in cases where the Management Committee decide that there are
special circumstances, protests and complaints (as set out more fully at Rule
15(A) above) (which must contain full particulars of the grounds upon which they
are founded) must be lodged in duplicate with the Secretary within seven days
(excluding Sundays) of the match or occurrence to which they refer. A protest or
complaint shall not be withdrawn except by permission of the Management
Committee. A member of the Management Committee who is a member of any
Club involved shall not be present (except as a witness or representative of his
Club) when such protest or complaint is being determined.

(C) No protest of whatever kind shall be considered by the Management
Committee unless the complaining Club shall have deposited with the Secretary a
sum in accordance with the Fees Tariff. This may be forfeited in whole or in part
in the event of the complaining or protesting Club losing its case.

The Competition shall have power to order the defaulting Club or the Club
making a losing or frivolous protest or complaint to pay the expenses of the
inquiry or to order that the costs to be shared by the parties.

(D) All parties to a protest or complaint must receive a copy of the submission
and must be afforded an opportunity to make a statement at least 7 days prior to
the protest or complaint being heard.

(i) All parties must have received seven days’ notice of the hearing should they be
instructed to attend.

(ii) Should a Club elect to state its case in person then they should forward a
deposit of £35.00 and indicate such when forwarding the written response.

(E) If so requested by all parties concerned, the Management Committee may
determine any disputes, protests, appeals, claims or complaints between two
Clubs in which event both Clubs shall send a non-returnable fee. Such
determination shall be final and binding upon the parties concerned. The
procedure for such determination shall be determined by the Management
Committee.

APPEALS

16. Any appeal against a decision of the Management Committee must be lodged
with the Sanctioning Authority within 14 days of the posting of the written
notification of the decision causing the appeal, accompanied by a fee of £35.00,
which may be forfeited in the event of the appeal not being upheld. A copy of the
appeal must also be sent to the Secretary. The procedure for the appeal shall be
determined by the Sanctioning Authority, in such respect the Sanctioning
Authority may (but is not obliged to):

(i) Invite submissions by the parties involved;

(ii) Convene a hearing to hear the appeal;

(iii) Permit new evidence; or

(iv) Impose deadlines as are appropriate.

Any appeal shall not involve a rehearing of the evidence considered by the
Management Committee.

No appeal can be lodged against a decision taken at an Annual or Special General
Meeting unless this is on the ground of unconstitutional conduct.

EXCLUSION OF CLUBS.OR TEAMS

MISCONDUCT, CLUBS, OFFICIALS, PLAYERS

17. (A) At the AGM, or Special General Meeting called for the purpose in
accordance with the provisions of Rule 19, notice of motion having been duly
circulated on the agenda, the accredited delegates present shall have the power
to exclude any Club or Team from further membership which must be supported
by (more than) two-thirds (2/3rds) of those present and voting. Voting on this
point shall be conducted by ballot.

(B) At the AGM, or at a Special General Meeting called for the purpose, in
accordance with the provisions of Rule 19, the accredited delegates present shall
have the power to exclude from further participation in the Competition any Club
or Team whose conduct has, in their opinion, been undesirable, which must be
supported by (more than) two-thirds (2/3rds) of those present and voting. Voting
on this point shall be conducted by ballot. A Club whose conduct is the subject of
the vote being taken shall be excluded from voting.

(C) Any Officer or member of a Club proved guilty of either a breach of Rule,
other than field offences, or of inducing or attempting to induce a Player or
Players of another Club in the Competition to join them shall be liable to
expulsion or such penalty as a General Meeting or Management Committee may
decide, and their Club shall also be liable to expulsion in accordance with the
provisions of Clauses (A) and (B) of this Rule.

TROPHY:- LEGAL OWNERS, CONDITIONS OF TAKING OVER,

AGREEMENT TO BE SIGNED. AWARDS.

18. (A) The following agreement shall be signed on behalf of the winners of the
Cup or Trophy:-

“We A _________________ and B______________________, the Chairman and
Secretary of

________________________ FC, members of and representing the Club, having
been declared

winners of _____________________Cup or Trophy, and it having been delivered
to us by the

Competition, do hereby on behalf of the Club jointly and severally agree to return
the Cup or Trophy to the Competition Secretary on or before the Half Year

Special General Meeting. If the Cup or Trophy is lost or damaged whilst under our
care we agree to refund to the Competition the amount of its current value or
the cost of its thorough repair.”

Failure to comply will result in a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff).

It is the responsibility of each Club winning a Cup or Trophy to secure the
engraving of the Cup or Trophy in a like manner to previous engravings. Cost of
the engraving to be paid for by the winning Club. Clubs in default shall be fined
(in accordance with the Fines Tariff).

(B) At the close of each Competition awards shall be made to the winners and
runners-up if the funds of the Competition permit.

SPECIAL GENERAL MEETINGS

19. Upon receiving a requisition signed by two-thirds (2/3) of the Clubs in
membership the Secretary shall call a Special General Meeting.

The Management Committee may call a Special General Meeting at any time.

At least 7 days' notice shall be given of a meeting under this Rule, together with
an agenda of the business to be transacted at such meeting.

Each member Club shall be empowered to send two delegates to all Special
General Meetings.

Each Club shall be entitled to one vote only. Officers and Management
Committee members shall be entitled to attend and vote at all Special General
Meetings.

Any continuing member Club failing to be represented at a Special General
Meeting without satisfactory reason being given shall be fined (in accordance
with the Fines Tariff).

ALTERATION TO RULES

20. Alterations, for which consent has been given by the Sanctioning Association,
shall be made to these Rules only at the AGM or at a Special General Meeting
specially convened for the purpose called in accordance with Rule 19. Any
alteration made during the Playing Season to the Rule relating to the qualification
of Players shall not take effect until the following Playing Season.

Notice of proposed alterations to be considered at the AGM shall be submitted
to the Secretary by 14th April in each year. The proposals, together with any
proposals by the Management Committee, shall be circulated to the Clubs by

30th April and any amendments thereto shall be submitted to the Secretary by
15th May. The proposals and proposed amendments thereto shall be circulated
to Clubs with the notice of the AGM. A proposal to change a Rule shall be carried
if a majority of those present, entitled to vote and voting are in favour.

A copy of the proposed alterations to Rules to be considered at the AGM or
Special General Meeting shall be submitted to the sanctioning Football
Association at least 28 days prior to the date of the meeting.

FINANCE

21. (A) The Management Committee shall determine with which bank or other
financial institution the funds of the Competition will be lodged.

(B) All expenditure in excess of £50.00 shall be approved by the Management
Committee.

Cheques shall be signed by at least two Officers nominated by the Management
Committee.

(C) The financial year of the Competition will end on 30th April.

(D) The books, or a certified balance sheet, of a Competition shall be prepared
and shall be verified annually by some suitably qualified person(s) who shall be
appointed at the AGM.

(E) Honoraria, if paid, must be agreed at the AGM and relate to the Playing
Season just concluded. The Management Committee shall recommend which
Officers may receive honoraria and the level of payment. All the above to be
detailed on the AGM paperwork under “Any other business” (Rule 6(A)(x)).

INSURANCE

22. All Clubs must have public liability insurance cover of at least ten million
pounds (£10,000,000).

DISSOLUTION

23. (A) Dissolution of the Competition shall be by resolution approved at a Special
General Meeting by a majority of three quarters (3/4) of the members present
and shall take effect from the date of the relevant Special General Meeting.

(B) In the event of the dissolution of the Competition, the members of the
Management Committee are responsible for the winding up of the assets and
liabilities of the Competition.

(C) The Management Committee shall deal with any surplus assets as follows:

(i) Any surplus assets, save for a Trophy or any other presentation, remaining
after the discharge of the debts and liabilities of the Competition shall be
transferred only to another Competition or Essex County Football Association or
The Essex County Football Association Benevolent Fund or to such other
charitable or benevolent object in the locality of the Competition as determined
by resolution at or before the time of winding up, and approved in writing by the
Essex County Football Association.

(ii) If a Competition is discontinued for any reason a Trophy or any other
presentation shall be returned to the Donor if the conditions attached to it so
provide or, if not, dealt with as the Essex County Football Association may decide.

Approved ECFA 1.8.2017 Including Competition amendments July 2017.

FEES TARIFF FEE
RULE DESCRIPTION £0.00
3 (A) Entry Fee
3 (B) Annual Subscription: £80.00
11 v 11 format £80.00
9 v 9 format £55.00
7 v 7 format £55.00
£100.00
5 v 5 format £1.00 /form
3 (C) Deposit £10.00
8 (D) Registration Form
£12.00
8 (H) Transfer Fee £20.00
13 (E) REFEREE FEES £25.00

Mini-soccer (max.£12 inclusive)
Under 11 & 12 (max.£20 inclusive)
Under 13 & 14 (max.£25 inclusive)

13 (E) Under 15 & 16 (max.£28 inclusive) £28.00
15 (C) Under 18 (max.£35 inclusive) £35.00
0p /mile
Travel expenses
ASSISTANT REFEREE FEES £10.00
Mini-soccer (max.£10 inclusive) £12.00
Under 11 & 12 (max.£12 inclusive) £15.00
Under 13 & 14 (max.£15 inclusive) £15.00
Under 15 & 16 (max.£15 inclusive) £20.00
Under 18 (max.£20 inclusive) 0p /mile
£35.00
Travel expenses

Protest Fee

FINES TARIFF

RULE DESCRIPTION FINE

2 (B) Failure to affiliate Discretionary

2 (D) Failure to comply with FA initiatives Discretionary

2 (E) Unauthorised entry of teams into competitions Discretionary

3 (C) Failure to pay deposit Discretionary

3 (E) Failure to provide affiliation number/details form £20

Communications conducted by persons other than nominated

4 (E) officers £25.00 max.

5 (H) Failure to comply with an instruction of the Management Committee Discretionary

5 (I) Failure to pay a fine within 21 days of notice fine doubled

max £100.00

6 (H) Failure to be represented at AGM £50.00

Failure to submit written agreement or to notify changes to

7 signatories £25.00 max.

8 (A) Failure to correctly register a player £20.00

8 (B)(iii) Failure to have the required number of registered players £30.00

8 (F) Signing or playing for multiple Clubs, or inaccurate completion of a £25.00 max.

registration form

8 (G)(ii) Registration irregularities Discretionary
8 (M)(i) Playing an ineligible player Discretionary
8 (N)(i) Failure to give priority to school activities Discretionary
9 (A) Delaying kick-off by not having a change of colours £20.00
9 (A) Failing to have numbered shirts £30.00 max.
9 (B) Failure to obtain consent for change of name/colours £30.00 max.
10 (A) Failing to provide nets/ corner flags £30.00 max.
10 (B) Failure to play matches on the date fixed Discretionary
10 (C) Failure to provide details of a fixture £20.00
10 (E)(i) Failure to play fixture Discretionary
10 (E)(ii) Failure to notify postponement Discretionary
10 (H) No captain's armband £10.00 max.
11 (A) Late result sheet £20.00
11 (B) Failure to provide result £20.00
11 (C) Incorrect result sheet £20.00
11 (D) Publishing results/tables £50.00 max.
11 (E) Failing to confirm match has been played £5.00
11 (F) Failing to return External Result Card £20.00

13 (C) Failure to provide Club assistant referee £20.00
13 (E) Failure to pay match officials' fees and expenses £25.00 max.
13 (F) Failure to pay match officials where a match is not played £25.00 max.
13 (H) Failure to provide referee mark £25.00 max.
14 (A) Withdrawal from League £25.00 max.
14 (B) Failure to commence or complete fixtures Discretionary
18 (A) Failure to submit the required trophy agreement £25.00 max.
18 (A) Failure to engrave trophy £25.00
19 Failure to be represented at a Special General Meeting £50.00

CHELMSFORD YOUTH LEAGUE CUP RULES

1. At the AGM the full council of clubs will decide whether the Age Group cup
will be a knock-out or league cup competition.

2. The competition shall be governed in accordance with the rules, regulations
and by-laws of the FA and the ECFA.

3. Where not otherwise stated the rules of the Chelmsford Youth League
will be applicable to the cup competition.

4. The draw will be made by the Management Committee who will also fix the
date on which the ties must be played. In all matches up to the final the
team drawn first shall be considered the home team.

5. In all knock-out cup matches, in the event of a draw, extra time shall be
played in two equal periods as follows:

U11 to U16 – 10 minutes each way.
U17 to U21 – 15 Minutes each way.
If the tie is still undecided after the period of extra time, the winners will
be determined by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark in
accordance with the International Board Decision contained in the Laws
of the game.

6. The Management Committee of the league shall have the power to
approve additional cup competitions and determine their format.

7. The format of League Cup competitions and the draw, will be made by the
Management Committee who will also fix the grounds and dates on which
the ties shall be played.

8. In all League Cup matches prior to the semi-finals (or quarter final if
applicable), League Rules will apply, i.e. three points for a win and one
point for a drawn game. Thereafter the Chelmsford Youth League knockout
cup rules will apply as determined by the Management Committee.

9. In the final tie of the competition, Cup Rule 5 shall apply.

10. The Management Committee will fix the venue and kick-off for the final tie.

11. Players not registered for at least 28 days with their club in the
Chelmsford Youth League are not eligible to play in the semi-finals or final

of the competition. Players may not play for more than one competing
team.
12. The Referees Secretary shall appoint referees for all games where possible. The
Referees fees will be as per the Chelmsford Youth League fees. Referee
Assistants fees shall be £15 inclusive of expenses. Fees up to the semi-finals will
be the responsibility of the home club. For semi-final ties both sides shall share
the expenses. In semi-finals, Referees Assistants will only be appointed where
there are sufficient Referees available.
13. All clubs that are members of the Chelmsford Youth League Football
League must enter the cup competitions.
14. In all Cup competition finals, in the event of both teams having the same or
similar colours, both teams shall change.
15. Only players who play or are named as substitutes will be awarded

16. trophies at the Cup Final, subject to Rule 17. Additional trophies may be
purchased.

17. Any player dismissed from the field of play shall not be awarded an individual
trophy. The Management Committee may, at a later time , present a trophy.

CHELMSFORD YOUTH LEAGUE POLICIES

1. When the Draft Constitution is sent to Clubs for the forthcoming
season, normally in early June each year, Clubs are required to make
their observations of any proposed changes to their club requirements
within the proposed constitution to the Chief Executive Officer in
writing 7 days prior to the AGM and return such amendments to the
Chief Executive Officer via E-mail to ensure safe arrival.

The Fixtures Secretaries will meet during the week prior to the AGM
and discuss any proposed changes put by clubs and to amend the
constitution if deemed appropriate. No changes will therefore be
accepted on the evening of the AGM.

2. Rule 4(E), nominated officers will mean Club Secretary

3. The home team for the U7 and U8’s age groups must E-mail the
relevant Fixture Secretary the result on the day of the match.

4. Rule 10(F)(iii) – Unable to fulfil a fixture. Clubs failing to comply with
this Rule including non-submission of the un-fulfilled Fixture Form will
be fined £20.00

5. Rule 10(F)(iv) – Abandoned Matches owing to causes over which
neither Club had control means the match was abandoned due to
adverse weather or serious injury to a player, and not misconduct. The
relevant Fixture Secretary will re-schedule the date of the match.

6. U7 ‘s this season will play 5v5 Football and development matches will

be arranged bi-weekly during the season. Wherever possible the
fixtures will be round robin matches for U7’s.
7. U8 ‘s this season will play 5v5 Football and development matches
will be arranged for the season.

8. U9’s & U10’s this season will continue to play 7v7 football of 2
periods of Development matches arranged for the season.

9. The U7’s, U8’s, U9’s & U10’s Age Groups will have Club Registrations
and not for a specific team.

10. If deemed appropriate the Management Committee may move a team
in U8’s U9’s, U10’s and U11’s to a different division to best suit their
standard of play during the season.

11. U7’s and U8’s will play Saturdays and U9 – U18 will play matchs on
Sundays. If fixture congestion occurs there may be a need to play
some evening fixtures and ‘double header’ matches.

CHELMSFORD YOUTH LEAGUE

Schedule for Discipline

It is important for The Discipline Committee to be consistent in their decision
making wherever possible, but must consider each case individually and
adjudicate as deemed appropriate.

Rule 5 (H) - Failing to comply with an order
£25 - £100 fine. Caution/Warning/Severally Cautioned/Final Warning

Rule 8 (O) - Playing an unregistered player
£25 fine and points awarded for first case then double for second case. Consider
deducting additional points.

Rule 8 (Q – Exchange of Registration Cards
Fined £20 and should forfeit the match.

Rule 10 (F) (i) – Failing to fulfil a match – (General)
£20 fine and game awarded to opposition for first breach. Second breach fine is
increased to £30 and so on for subsequent breaches up to a maximum of £50.
Repeated offenders to be called to before the Full Management Committee

Rule 10 (F) (i) Where match is cancelled/postponed due to sickness/illness
With supporting letters from parents/school £15 fine and game to be re-arranged.

Rule 10(F) (i) Where match is cancelled/postponed due to School Educational Trips
With supporting letters from school £15 and game to be re-arranged. Failure to
provide a letter from school £20 fine 3 Points awarded to opposition.

Games that are abandoned
Matches that are abandoned due to misconduct the defaulting Club to be charged
by the Fixture/Registration Secretary and ordered to appear at the Disciplinary
Committee after the ECFA have dealt with the case. If one team’s conduct or club

member(s) has caused the abandonment, the match will be awarded to their
opponents. Where both teams and their member(s) all points for the match are
declared void.

Laws of Mini-Soccer and Youth Football

Under 7 and Under 8

1. U7 and U8 are now 5v5. This is the maximum number of players

2. Pitch size will be 40yds x 30yds maximum and this is the preferred size.
Smaller pitches are permitted with 30yds x 20yds as the minimum.

3. A team needs a minimum of four players to start or continue a game.

4. All team members should receive equal playing time where possible with a
best practice recommendation of 50% per player for each game.

5. The duration of the game will be a maximum of 2 x 20 minutes.

6. Development matches may be split into quarters instead of just halves.

7. Children can roll the ball in underarm with one or both hands or take a
normal throw-in – the children have the option to choose.

8. The halfway line acts as a retreat line on goal kicks. The opponents must drop
off to the halfway line to help the goalkeeper learn to play out from the back.
However, if they want to play quickly they can do. The ball is in play as soon as it
leaves the goal area – this Law is mandatory.

9. U7 and U8 can play three trophy events per season (typically Sept-April),
lasting a maximum of two weeks each in season 2013/14.

10. As previously, the ethos of the ‘referee as educator’ remains strongly in place
with a key role being to help young children learn about playing football.

Pitch size for Under 9’s to Under 10’s

60 yards (55m)

10 yards
(9.15m)

40 yards 18 yards
(16.47m)
(36.6m)

8 yards 7 yards
(7.32m) (6.40m)

Under 9 and Under 10

1. U9 and U10 will be staying at a maximum of 7v7.

2. Pitch size will still be 60yds x 40yds maximum and this is the preferred
size. Smaller sizes are permitted with 50yds x 30ys as the minimum.

3. The ball for U9 is a size 3 and for U10 is a size 4.

4. A team needs a minimum of five players to start or continue a game.

5. All team members should receive equal playing time where possible
with a best practice recommendation of 50% per player for each game.

6. The duration of the game will be a maximum of 2 x 25 minutes.

7. Development matches may be split into quarters instead of just halves.

8. The halfway line acts as a retreat line on goal kicks. The opponents must
drop off to the halfway line to help the goalkeeper learn to play out from the
back. However, if they want to play quickly they can do. The ball is in play as
soon as it leaves the goal area – this Law is mandatory.

9. U9 can play three trophy events per season (typically Sept-April), lasting a
maximum of four weeks each.

10. As previously, the ethos of the ‘referee as educator’ remains strongly in
place with a key role being to help young children learn about playing football.

Chelmsford Youth Football League

Rules for 9 v 9 matches.

80 yards

13
yards

32 8
yards yards
Radius
50 yards

9 2
yards yards
Radius

Under 11 and Under 12
1. U11 and U12 will be 9v9.
2. U11 will play two periods of development matches during the season.
3. Pitch size will be 80yds x 50yds maximum.
4. Goal size is 16ft x 7ft preferably but 21ft x 7ft is acceptable.
5. A team needs a minimum of six players to start or continue a game.
6. All team members should receive equal playing time with a best practice
recommendation of 50% per player for each game.
7. Development matches may be split into quarters instead of just halves.
8. Offside is included within the Laws and is mandatory.
9. Distance from all free kicks is 10 yards.
10. In 2015/16 U11 can play in three trophy events per season (typically Sept-April),
lasting a maximum of six weeks each.

As previously, the ethos of the ‘referee as educator’ remains strongly in place with a
key role being to help young children learn about playing football.
All other Laws that aren’t highlighted above will be as they currently exist with no
changes.

Under 13 playing 9v9

11. Pitch size will be 80yds x 50yds maximum.
12. Goal size is 16ft x 7ft preferably but 21ft x 7ft is acceptable.
13. A team needs a minimum of six players to start or continue a game.
14. Offside is included within the Laws and is mandatory.
15. Distance from all free kicks is 10 yards.

THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION –
CODES OF CONDUCT

A CODE OF CONDUCT FOR FOOTBALL

Football is the national game. All those involved with the game at every level and whether
as a player, match official, coach, owner or administrator, have a responsibility, above and
beyond compliance with the law, to act according to the highest standards of integrity,and
to ensure that the reputation of the game is, and remains, high. This Code applies to all
those involved in football under the auspices of The Football Association.

Community
Football, at all levels, is a vital part of a community. Football will take into account
community feeling when making decisions.

Equality
Football is opposed to discrimination of any form and will promote measures to
prevent it, in whatever form, from being expressed.

Participants
Football recognises the sense of ownership felt by those who participate at all levels of
the game. This includes those who play, those who coach or help in any way,
and those who officiate, as well as administrators and supporters. Football is
committed to appropriate consultation.

Young People
Football acknowledges the extent of its influence over young people and pledges
to set a positive example.

Propriety
Football acknowledges that public confidence demands the highest standards of
financial and administrative behaviour within the game, and will not tolerate
corruption or improper practices.

Trust and Respect
Football will uphold a relationship of trust and respect between all involved in
the game, whether they are individuals, clubs or other organisations.

Violence
Football rejects the use of violence of any nature by anyone involved in the game.

Fairness
Football is committed to fairness in its dealings with all involved in the game.

Integrity and Fair Play
Football is committed to the principle of playing to win consistent with Fair Play.

By Order of the Council

Code of Conduct: Coaches

We all have a responsibility to promote high standards of behaviour in the game.

In The FA's survey of over 37,000 grassroots participants, behaviour was the biggest
concern in the game. This included both the abuse of match officials and the
unacceptable behaviour by over competitive parents, spectators and coaches
on the sidelines.

The FA's Respect programme is aimed at tackling unacceptable behaviour across
the whole game.

Play your part and observe The FA's Respect Code of Conduct for coaches,
team managers and club officials at all times.

I will:

* Show respect to others involved in the game including match officials,
opposition players, coaches, managers, officials and spectators

* Adhere to the Laws of the Game
* Display and promote high standards of behaviour
* Always respect the match officials' decisions
* Never enter the field of play without the referee's permission
* Never engage in public criticism of the match officials
* Never engage in, or tolerate, offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour.

When working with players, I will:

* Place the well-being, safety and enjoyment of each player above everything,
including winning

* Explain exactly what I expect of players and what they can expect from me
* Ensure the parents/carers of all players under the age of 18 understand

these expectations
* Refrain from, and refuse to tolerate any form of bullying
* Develop mutual trust and respect with every player to build their self-esteem
* Encourage each player to accept responsibility for their own behaviour

and performance
* Ensure all activities I organise are appropriate for the players' ability

level, experience, age and maturity
* Co-operate fully with others in football (e.g. officials, doctors,

physiotherapists, welfare officers) for each player's best interests

* I understand that breaches of the code may result in action being taken by my County

FA and /or The FA.

* We all have a responsibility to promote high standards of behaviour in the game.
* This club is supporting The FA's Respect programme to ensure football can be
* enjoyed by everyone in a safe and positive environment.

Play your part and observe The FA's Respect Code of Conduct for spectators and parents
carers at all time

I will:

* Remain outside the field of play and behind the Designated Spectator Area (where

provided)
* Never engage in, or tolerate, offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour
* Always respect the match officials' decisions
* Applaud effort and good play as well as success

In addition, when attending youth games I will:

* Remember that children play for FUN
* Let the coaches do their job and not confuse the players by telling them what to do
* Encourage the players to respect the opposition and match officials
* Never criticise a player for making a mistake -mistakes are part of learning

I understand that breaches of the code may result in action being taken by my County
FA and /or The FA

Code of Conduct: Young Players

It is important everyone behaves themselves when playing football.

As a player, you have a big part to play. That's why The FA is asking every player to
follow a Respect Code of Conduct.

When playing football, I will:

* Always do my best, even if we're losing or the other team is stronger
* Play fairly - I won't cheat, complain or waste time
* Never be rude to my team-mates, the other team, the referee, spectators or my

coach/team manager
* Do what the referee tells me
* Shake hands with the other team and referee at the end of the game
* Listen to my coach/team manager and respect what he/she says
* Talk to someone I trust, for example my parents or the club welfare officer if

I'm unhappy about anything at my club.

* I understand that if I do not follow the code, action may be taken.

Code of Conduct: Adult Players

We all have a responsibility to promote high standards of behaviour in the
game.

Players tell us they want a referee for every match, yet 7,000 match
officials drop out each season because of the abuse and intimidation they
receive on and off the pitch. Respect your referee today and you may just
get one for every match this season.

Play your part and observe The FA's Respect Code of Conduct for players
at all times.

On and off the field, I will:

* Adhere to the Laws of the Game
* Display and promote high standards of behaviour
* Promote fair play and behave within the spirit of the Laws of the

Game
* Always respect the match officials' decisions
* Never engage in public criticism of the match officials
* Never engage in offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour
* Avoid bullying, intimidation and poor behaviour
* Speak to my team-mates, the opposition and my coach/manager with

respect
* Ask my team captain to talk to the referee if I have a problem relating

to the game
* Remember we all make mistakes
* Shake hands with the opposing team and the match officials at the end of

every game

I understand that breaches of the code may result in action being taken
by my County FA and /or The FA.

Code of Conduct: Match Officials

We all have a responsibility to promote high standards of behaviour in the
game.

The behaviour of the match officials has an impact, directly and indirectly,
on the conduct of everyone involved in the game - both on the pitch and on
the sidelines.

Play your part and observe The FA's Respect Code of Conduct for Match
Officials at all time. When officiating I will:

* Be honest and completely impartial at all times, irrespective of
the teams, players or team officials involved in the match

* Apply the Laws of the Game and competition rules fairly and
consistently

* Manage the game in a positive, calm and confident manner
* Deal with all instances of violence, aggression, unsporting

behaviour, foul play and other misconduct
* Not tolerate offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour

from players and officials
* Support my match official colleagues at all times
* Set a positive personal example by promoting good behaviour

and showing respect to everyone involved in the game
* Communicate with the players and encourage fair play
* Respond in a clear, calm and confident manner to any appropriate

request for clarification by the team captains
* Prepare physically and mentally for every match
* Complete and submit, accurate and concise reports within

the time limit required for games which I officiate

I understand that breaches of the code may result in action being
taken by my County FA and /or The FA.

Chelmsford Youth League
Child Welfare and Safeguarding Policy

Chelmsford Youth Football League promotes the welfare of every child
and young personinvolved in all forms of football activity within this
league. It is committed to working with all Club Members toprovide a safe
environment for all children and young people. A child or young person is
anyone underthe age of 18 engagedin any club football activity.We

subscribe to The Football Association’s (The FA) Safeguarding
ChildrenPolicy and Procedures and endorse and adopt thePolicy
Statement contained in that document.

The key principles of The FA Safeguarding ChildrenPolicy are that:

•The child’s welfare is, and must always be,the paramount consideration.
•All children and young people have a right to beprotected from,abuse
regardless of their age, gender, disability, race, sexualorientation,faith
or belief.
• All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be takenseriously and
responded to swiftly and appropriately.
•It is noted and accepted that The Football Association’s Safeguarding
Children Regulations (see The FA Handbook) applies to everyone in
football whether in a paid or voluntary capacity. This means whether
you are a volunteer, match official, helper on clubtours, football coach,
football manager, club official, medical staff, parent/ carer child or
young person.
All participants in football should be able to take part in an enjoyable and
safe environment and be protected from poor practice and abuse.The
Chelmsford Youth Football League recognises that this is the
responsibility of every adult involved in our league. Furthermore we are
determined to ensure that those clubs providing footballing
opportunities for children and young people do so, to the highest
possible standards of care.
The Chelmsford Youth Football League has a role to play in promoting
the safeguarding and welfare of all children and young people.
Chelmsford Youth Football League acknowledges and endorses The FA’s
identification of bullying as a category of abuse. Bullying of any kind is
not acceptable within our league. If bullying does occur, all players or
parents/carers should know via their club Code of Conduct how to report
incidents, and to be assured that any incident will be dealt with promptly
and appropriately. Incidents need to be reported to Club Welfare Officer,
or if this is not appropriate due to a conflict of interests or level of
seriousness to the League or County FA Welfare Officer.
The Chelmsford Youth Football League support The FA’s Responsible
Recruitment guidelines for recruiting volunteers to Member Clubs.
These guidelines state:

• The role is to be specified and what tasks it involves.
• Request identification documents.
• As a minimum meet and chat with the applicant(s) and where
possible interview people before appointing them.
• Ask for and follow up with a reference before appointing someone.
• Requires League and Club Members who are regularly caring for,
supervising, training or being in sole charge of children and young
people to register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority
(ISA) under the Vetting and Barring Scheme
(VBS)when fully in operation. However until this registration
procedure is fully in operation members are to continue to complete a

Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) Enhanced Disclosure check via The FA
CRB Unit.

If there are concerns regarding the appropriateness of an individual who has
approached Member Clubs or the Chelmsford Youth Football League to be
involved in football in any capacity, guidance should be sought from The
Essex County Football Association. It is noted and accepted that The FA will
consider the relevance and significance of the information obtained via The
FA CRB Unit and ISA. All decisions will be made in the best interests of
children and young people. It is accepted that The FA aims to prevent people
with a history of relevant and significant offending from having contact with
children or young people or to be involved in the opportunity to influence
safeguarding policies or practice.

The Chelmsford Youth Football League has an appointed League Welfare
Officer and they will be the first point of contact for all Club Welfare Officers.
All youth football clubs are required to designate a person as their Club
Welfare Officer (CWO) in order to affiliate to the Essex County FA and join
the Chelmsford Youth Football League. All named Club Welfare Officers are
required to have a CRB check completed or CRB check ‘in progress’ of being
completed. When required to do so, and the government confirms the
timescales, CWO who are in regular contact with children will be required to
register with the ISA under the VBS. Club Welfare Officers are to attend The
Safeguarding Children Workshop (formerly known as the Child Protection
Workshop) and the Club Welfare Officer Workshop. This is a requirement to
be able to affiliate to the 2010/2011 season and each season thereafter. The
qualified Club Welfare Officer will then be able to verify club volunteer
CRB/ISA forms, thus eliminating the need for important documents of
volunteers to be sent to The FA CRB/ISA Unit in the post. In addition to this
role, the Club Welfare Officer is the first point of call for any concerns within
the club from parents, coaches, players or any other volunteers.

The Chelmsford Youth Football League supports the FA Respect campaign.
Each Member Club is expected to implement and adhere to a Child Welfare
& Safeguarding Policy. This is to include Codes of Conduct for Players,
Parents Carers, Spectators, Officials and Coaches. The league will take

necessary action as directed/instructed by the FA regarding repeated or
serious misconduct at league and club level. The league acknowledges and
supports the possibility of potential actions/sanctions which may be
implemented by the FA in more serious circumstances.

Reporting Your Concerns.
The following applies to all members of the Chelmsford Youth Football
League.

Safeguarding children is everyone’s responsibility. If you are worried

about a child it is important that you report your concerns -no action is not
an option.

1. If you are worried about a child then you need to report your concerns
to the Club Welfare Officer or League Welfare Officer.
2. If the issue is one of poor practice they will either:
3. Deal with the matter themselves or
4. Seek advice from the County FA Welfare Officer.

5. If the concern is more serious -possible child abuse - where
possible contact the County FA Welfare Officer first, then
immediately contact the Police or Children’s Services.
6. If the child needs immeadiate medical treatment take them to a
hospital or call an ambulance and tell them this is a child protection
concern. Let your Club Welfare Officer know what action you have
taken.
7. If at any time you are not able to contact your Club Welfare Officer or
the matter is serious then you can either:
8. Contact your Essex County FA Welfare Officer directly on 01245 393098

or
9. Call The FA/NSPCC 24 hour Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000 or
deaf users text phone 0800 056 0566 or
10. Contact the Police or Children’s Services.

The Chelmsford Youth Football League supports The FA’s Whistle
blowing Policy. ‘Whistle-blowing is an early warning system. It is about
revealing and raising concerns over misconduct or malpractice within an
organization or within an independent structure associated with it.’ Any
adult or young person with concerns about a colleague can also use
Whistle blowing by contacting the Essex County FA Welfare Officer or
The FA CaseManagement Team on 0207 745 4590. Alternatively you can
go direct the Police or Social Services and report your concerns there.

The FA’s Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures along with any
other documents referred to in this policy are available via:
www.TheFA.com/Footballsafe under the heading Policy and Procedures.
The policy outlines in detail what to do if you are concerned about the
welfare of a child. Further advice on Safeguarding Children matters can be

obtained by e-mailing [email protected] or contacting The FA
Safeguarding Children general enquiry line on 0845 210 8080.
Local Safeguarding information can be obtained via the Essex FA:
www.essexfa.com. The Essex FA WelfareOfficer Helen Hever can be
contacted on 01245 393098 or via e-mail: [email protected].

This policy document has been endorsed by the Management Committee
of the Chelmsford Youth Football League.

Any questions or comments regarding this policy can be forwarded to

Chelmsford Youth Football League Welfare Officer, Mr Andy
Durrance by telephone on 01708 453638, or via e-mail at
[email protected]

Chelmsford Youth League

Anti Bullying Policy

Statement of intent:

Chelmsford Youth Football League is committed to promoting a caring,
friendly and safe environment for all of our Club Members so they can
participate in football in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any
kind is unacceptable within our league/clubs. If bullying does occur, all
league/club members or parents are encouraged to tell and know that
incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. Anyone who knows
that bullying is happening is expected to tell the League or Club Welfare
Officer or any committee member. Direct contact can also be made with
the Essex County Football Association for the attention of the County
Welfare Officer Helen Hever by telephoning 01245 393098 or via e-mail:
[email protected].

What is bullying?
Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another
person. Bullying results in pain and distress to the victim.
Bullying can be:
• Emotional - being unfriendly, excluding (emotionally and
physically) sending hurtful text messages, tormenting, (e.g.
hiding football boots/shin guards, threatening gestures)
• Physical pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence
• Racist - racial taunts, graffiti, gestures
• Sexual - unwanted physical contact or sexually abusive comments
• Homophobic - because of, or focusing on the issue of sexuality
• Verbal - name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumors, teasing.

Why is it important to respond to bullying?
Bullying hurts. No one deserves to be a victim of bullying. Everybody has the
right to be treated with respect. Individuals who are bullying need to learn
different ways of behaving. The impact upon a child or young person can be
devastating. This league and member clubs are to respond
promptly and effectively to issues of bullying.

Objectives of this policy
• All league/club members, coaches, officials and parents/carers
should have an understanding of what bullying is.
• All league/club members, officials and coaching staff should know
what their league/club policy is on bullying, and follows it when

bullying is reported.
• All players and parents/carers should know what the league/club
policy is on bullying, and what they should do if bullying arises.

• As a league we take bullying seriously. Players and parents/carers
should be assured that they would be supported when bullying is
reported.
• Bullying will not be tolerated.

Signs and Indicators

A child may indicate by signs or behaviour that he or she is being
bullied. Adults should be aware of these possible signs and that they
should investigate if a child:
• says he or she is being bullied
• is unwilling to go to club sessions
• becomes withdrawn anxious, or lacking in confidence
• feels ill before training sessions
• comes home with clothes torn or training equipment damaged
• has possessions go ‘missing’
• asks for money or starts stealing money (to pay the bully)
• has unexplained cuts or bruises
• is frightened to say what’s wrong
• gives improbable excuses for any of the above.

In more extreme cases:
• starts stammering
• cries themselves to sleep at night or has nightmares
• becomes aggressive, disruptive or unreasonable
• is bullying other children or siblings
• stops eating
• attempts or threatens suicide or runs away.

These signs and behaviors may indicate other problems, but bullying
should be considered a possibility and should be investigated.

Procedures
1. Report bullying incidents to either the Club Welfare Officer or
contact the League WelfareOfficer.
2. In cases of serious bullying, the incidents will be referred to the County
FA Child Welfare Officer for advice and possibly to The FA
CaseManagement System.
3. Parents should be informed and asked to attend a meeting arranged
by their Member Club to discuss the problem at club level in the first
instance.
4. If necessary and appropriate, the Police will be consulted.
5. The bullying behavior or threats of bullying must be investigated

and the bullying stopped quickly in line with the club Code of
Conduct.

Recommended club action
If the club decides it is appropriate for them to deal with the
situation, they should follow their club procedures.
KIDSCAPE recommend the procedure outlined below. This is if
children are involved.
1. Reconciliation by getting the parties together. It may be that a

2. genuine apology solves the problem.
3. If this fails/is not appropriate, a small panel from the club (made up
from the chairman, Child Welfare Officer, secretary, committee
members) should meet with the parent/carer and child alleging
bullying to get details of the allegation.

Minutes should be taken for clarity, which should be agreed by all as a
true account.
3. The same three members should meet with the alleged bully and
parents/carer and put the incident raised to them to answer and give their
view of the allegation. Minutes should again be taken and agreed by all as
a true account.
4. If bullying has in their view taken place, the individual should be warned
and put on notice of further action i.e. temporary or permanent suspension
if the bullying continues. Consideration should be given as to whether a
reconciliation meeting between parties is appropriate at this time.
5. In some cases the parent of the bully or bullied player can be asked to
attend training sessions, if they are able to do so, and if appropriate. The
club committee should monitor the situation for a given period to ensure
the bullying is not being repeated.
6. All coaches involved with both individuals should be made aware
of the concerns and outcome of the process i.e. the warning.

In the case of adults reported to be bullying anyone within the
league/club under 18 years of age.
1. The County FA Child Welfare Officer and League Welfare Officer
should always be informed and will advise on action to be taken where
appropriate.
2. It is anticipated that in most cases where the allegation is made
regarding a team manager, official or coach, The FA’s Child Protection
and Best Practice awareness training may be recommended.
3.More serious cases may be referred to the Police and/or Social Services.

The FA supports this policy which is based on guidance provided by
KIDSCAPE which is a voluntary organization committed to help prevent
child bullying. KIDSCAPE can be contacted on 0207 730 3300 or you can
access their website via www.kidscape.org.uk.

This policy document has been endorsed by the Management
Committee of the Chelmsford Youth Football League.

Any questions or comments regarding this policy can be forwarded
to The Chelmsford Youth Football League Welfare Officer Mr. Andy
Durrance by telephone 01708 453638 or via e-mail at
[email protected]