Code of Conduct Agreement

Participant Agreement & Expectations

Rundle FC is a community football club based in the Bow Valley. We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all participants. This Code of Conduct Agreement sets out the standards of behaviour expected of every individual who participates in Rundle FC activities, whether as a Full Member, Drop-In Participant, or guest.

By participating in Rundle FC activities, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by the standards set out below. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, up to and including permanent removal from the club.

Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to all individuals involved in Rundle FC activities, including but not limited to:

• Full Members and Drop-In Participants
• Guests, trialists, and spectators attending club activities
• Any individual representing Rundle FC at matches, tournaments, or events

It applies at all times during club-related activities, including training sessions, matches, social events, travel to and from venues, and any online or digital communication conducted on behalf of or in connection with the club.

Expected Conduct

All participants are expected to uphold the following standards at all times:

Respect

• Treat all players, opponents, match officials, spectators, and facility staff with respect and dignity
• Accept decisions made by match officials, even when you disagree with them
• Respect the property and rules of any facilities used by the club

Inclusion

• Welcome and support players of all skill levels, backgrounds, and experience
• Do not engage in or tolerate discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or any other characteristic
• Actively contribute to a team culture where every participant feels they belong

Fair Play & Safety

• Play competitively but within the rules of the game — prioritise safety at all times
• Avoid reckless, dangerous, or intentionally aggressive challenges
• If a player is injured, stop play immediately and assist where possible
• Report any injuries or unsafe conditions to the Club Organisers

Reliability & Communication

• Attend training sessions and matches that you have committed to, or communicate your absence in advance
• Arrive on time and prepared to participate
• Assist with the setup and takedown of equipment when possible
• Respond to club communications in a reasonable timeframe

Representing the Club

• Conduct yourself in a manner that reflects positively on Rundle FC, both on and off the pitch
• Behave responsibly at social events and when travelling to and from club activities
• Do not make public statements or post on social media in a way that could bring the club into disrepute

Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviours are strictly prohibited and may result in immediate disciplinary action:

• Violence or dangerous play — Any act of physical violence, deliberate intent to injure, or reckless disregard for the safety of others
• Verbal abuse or intimidation — Threatening, abusive, or hostile language directed at any participant, official, or spectator
• Harassment or discrimination — Any conduct that targets an individual or group based on a protected characteristic, including slurs, jokes, gestures, or exclusionary behaviour
• Bullying — Repeated behaviour intended to intimidate, humiliate, or undermine another individual
• Substance misuse — Attending any club activity under the influence of drugs or excessive alcohol, to the extent that it impairs judgement, safety, or conduct
• Theft or property damage — Stealing from or deliberately damaging club equipment, personal property, or rented facilities
• Dishonesty or fraud — Providing false information to the club, misrepresenting eligibility, or misusing club funds or resources
• Bringing the club into disrepute — Any conduct, whether at a club event or otherwise, that damages the reputation of Rundle FC or its members

Reporting Concerns

If you experience, witness, or become aware of any behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, you are encouraged to report it to a Club Organiser as soon as reasonably possible.

• Reports can be made verbally or in writing
• All reports will be treated seriously and handled with discretion
• No individual will face retaliation for making a good-faith report
• Anonymous reports will be accepted, although they may limit the club’s ability to investigate or take action

Disciplinary Process

Where a participant’s behaviour is found to be in violation of this Code of Conduct, the Club Organisers (or Board, if established) may take disciplinary action. The severity of the response will be proportional to the nature of the violation.

Stages of Disciplinary Action

1. Informal Discussion — A private conversation with the individual to address the concern, clarify expectations, and seek resolution. This is appropriate for minor or first-time issues.
2. Formal Written Warning — A written notice issued to the individual outlining the specific violation, the expected change in behaviour, and the consequences of further violations. A copy will be retained by the club.
3. Temporary Suspension — The individual is suspended from all club activities for a defined period. The length of the suspension will depend on the severity of the violation.
4. Permanent Removal — The individual’s membership or participation is terminated and they are no longer welcome at any Rundle FC activities. Membership fees will not be refunded.

Right to Respond

Before any formal warning, suspension, or removal takes effect, the individual will be given a reasonable opportunity to respond to the allegation and present their account of events.

Appeals

Any individual subject to a formal warning, suspension, or removal may appeal the decision by submitting a written request to the Club Organisers within 14 days of the decision being communicated. The appeal will be reviewed and a final decision issued within a further 14 days.

Amendments

Rundle FC reserves the right to amend this Code of Conduct at any time. Participants will be notified of any material changes and may be asked to re-sign an updated version. Continued participation in club activities following notification of changes constitutes acceptance of the amended terms.