The following is designed to be of some assistance to Club Secretaries in particular, and everyone in general, to make life easier for Club management. It appears in alphabetical order and contains some personal opinions and anecdotes. It should not be taken as a whole but used in reference to all the relative Rules and By Laws of the BDSFA Inc and all the other bodies to whom we must obey.
Please note that not all the Rules and By Laws are referred to in this document.
I hope you gain something from the information. Should you have positive comments, or input for a re-issue, please feel free to write.
ACCOUNTS
The Association bills Clubs for all outstanding amounts each month and are payable 21 days from the date issued. 21 days means 21 days from the invoice date. Not 21 days from the time someone ambled down to the post office box and found a mouldy envelope, or when the person who lost the raffle and had to deliver the team sheets remembers they also were given the account.
Late payment will incur a fine of $50.00 per week or part thereof, which means eight days late will cost you $100.00. A fine may be avoided by contacting the Association Treasurer if you are having genuine difficulties.
If you have reason to dispute the account, either pay it within the prescribed time and request a credit to your account, or contact the Association Treasurer immediately. Such requests must be in writing with evidence supplied. If you wait until the 21 days has expired and then call for help, you will accrue late fines until the problem has been solved. At $50.00 per week or part thereof, it's sometimes cheaper to pay the incorrect account.
Please note that player registration fees are payable immediately your data is transferred to the Association. If the Treasurer has to send you an account for player registration, chances are, you are already within the fineable period.
The Association Rules state that a Club cannot take part in official competitions unless it is fully financial. This Rule will be adhered to.
ACCOUNTS - CLUB
The Treasurer is probably the most important person on your committee. Not to denigrate the work by others, but the financial future of your Club is in their hands. Do not take your Treasurer's word that the Bank Balance is very healthy, table monthly statements, monthly. Pick your Treasurer as if you were asking them to hold your wallet. Try to ensure that the person who looks after Club funds are financially secure. It sounds bad, but over the years, many Clubs have experienced difficulties because of the Treasurer or the Treasurer's family. Lets face it, if the electricity is about to get cut off and Club funds are sitting on the kitchen table, what would you do?
Ensure at all times that your balance is enough to pay your Club accounts. Don't spend more than you earn and, most importantly, try not to finish the season with a nil balance. Also ensure that those who owe you pay their accounts to you on time.
There is a tendency with a few Clubs to allow players to play before they have paid their registration fees etc. Each year I receive requests to make players unfinancial because of their non-payment of registration. At times the unfinancial players owe Club thousands of dollars. We are not-for-profit organisations, not charities. the user must pay. The BDSFA Inc allows players to be declared unfinancial and placed on the Soccer NSW Suspended Players List. However, your player registration form must have signify a "money amount" that the player, by signing the form, agrees to pay the Club. Once the player has failed to respond to a letter of demand from the Club, he may be submitted to the Association for inclusion on the Suspended Players List.
The other monetary trap for Clubs is the canteen. There are two major rules for canteens, staff them with extremely trustworthy ADULTS and check them regularly. Please note: Persons under the age of 16 years are not allowed inside canteens. Take Note: NOT ALLOWED INSIDE.
More Clubs have lost money in canteen takings (or lack thereof) then in any other area.
Instigate checks and balances and hold regular stock takes. There is wastage in any food area and wastage costs money. So do freebies. A can of soft drink may only cost you 70c, but given away deprives you of $2.00. $2.00 + 70c is $2.70, which is the profit from three cans of soft drink. Three soft drinks net $6.00, therefore each "free" drink has an opportunity cost of $6.00.
Remember an honest person does not mind being checked. Install good programmes for both Treasury and canteen. Table books and accounts at least monthly and use a budget to keep your aims in sight.
ADVERTISING AND SPONSORSHIPS
All requests for advertising or sponsorships on team strips MUST be in writing accompanied by the actual advertisement if possible. A drawing will suffice if the original is not available. Sponsorship signs cannot interfere with the numbers on the players shirts.
CIGARETTE SPONSORSHIP OF ANY KIND IS NOT ALLOWED.
If one or more of your teams gain sponsorship on its own behalf, permission is still required. Your Club should formulate rules as to what teams are allowed to do for themselves by way of sponsorship. Some teams, particularly All Age gain sponsorship from Hotels and wish to keep the money for their own use. If the Club has rules in concert that everyone is aware of, problems will not arise.
Remember, it is your Club that is carrying the final responsibility.
Council have restrictions and charges for field advertising. Currently these rules have not been policed and it seems that as long as discretion is used, anything goes. The safety at your park is your responsibility so make sure that any signs are erected safely.
AFFILIATION
As an Incorporation, we must have a membership. Affiliation is the way in which our membership is formed. A club must become affiliated before taking part in any official function, game or have a vote at meetings.
The affiliation fee is set by the Management Committee each year. A form will be forwarded to the Club Secretary each season for you to complete and return accompanied by a cheque. Failure to affiliate on time may deprive your Club of voting rites and further delays may mean expulsion from the Association.
ALTERATION TO THE RULES
The Annual General Meeting is the usual time to change Rules, however, Rules can be changed any time should it be required. To alter a Rule, 21 days written notice must be given to all members. A 2/3 majority vote is required for a change.
The written notice MUST be precise in its form, indicating the original Rule Number and/or Clause and what the recommended changes will read, and what Number/Clause they will become.
By Laws may be changed at any time without notice. A simple majority vote is required. The M.C. may also change a By Law without notice. A By Law changed by the M.C. becomes law on the publication of the Minutes of the meeting at which the change occurred. Such changes must be ratified by the Membership at the next General Meeting. Should any change to a By Law moved by the M.C. not be accepted by the Membership, the changed By Law will stand until successfully voted against.
In all cases, a By Law cannot "cancel a Rule" and a Rule or By Law cannot be altered or added to within 12 months of a change or alteration. In other words, if a Rule of By Law is changed at an A.G.M. and is found to be lacking, we are stuck with it until the next A.G.M. So take care in formulating changes.
ALTERATIONS TO CLUB RULES
As all Clubs are Incorporated, the above should apply as these Rules are taken from the Model Rules. Your Rules may be slightly different, but when changing Rules it is important to stick to the Rules for changing Rules. An incorrect procedure could make your new rule invalid.
APPEALS BOARD
The Appeals Board is the only, and final avenue, of appeal within the BDSFA.
The Chairman of the Appeals Board is elected at the A.G.M. At the beginning of each Season, the Appeals Board will publish a Format. It is up to the Clubs to read the format and accept or reject it at the first General Meeting of the Year. Once agreed upon, any Appeal MUST comply with both the Rules and the Format. Any deviation from the above will see an Appeal dismissed and your cheque retained.
The Appeals Board Chair may issue a roster of clubs to send a delegate to the Appeals Board Meetings. With the exception of the Chairman, no two persons from the one Club may sit on the Appeals Board, and at times the chairman may inform a club that because of such a conflict, their delegate may not be required.
All Appeals MUST be in writing, on a Club letterhead, signed by the Secretary and accompanied by a cheque for the correct amount, and received by the association secretary within the prescribed time.
A facsimile (FAX) of the Appeal AND THE CHEQUE will be accepted providing all is received within the prescribed time and the originals are presented prior to the Appeal commencing.
Be careful when writing an Appeal that you do not defeat your Appeal in the way in which you write. Should you need help with an Appeal, ring the Association Secretary, even if it is against him whom you are appealing.
The Association Secretary has the right to modify or defer payment of the Appeal Fee in certain circumstances, should you feel such a modification is in order, contact the Secretary before the time for Appeal has lapsed.
The BDSFA Appeals Board will give appellants the right for further Appeals to Soccer Sydney and thence to Soccer NSW. In both cases the Appeal must be sent through the Association Secretary who will send on your Appeal to the proper body with ALL the relevant information. Failure to include the Association Secretary may delay your Appeal and should you fail to inform the Association of your Appeal to the higher body, it will be dismissed.
Check the cost before you send an appeal to a higher body should there be an increase. Remember too, that most, or part, of the Appeal fee to Sydney Branch and Soccer NSW is non-refundable.
Please be aware that the BDSFA Appeals Board and the higher body may increase any findings as it may see fit.
APPEALS BOARD - CLUB
Members who have been properly cited to appear before their own Club have the right to appeal the findings of that hearing. Clubs may either have their own internal Appeals Board mechanism or have within their rules a persons' right to Appeal direct to the Association. Ensure that no-one who has had anything to do with a case sits on your Club Appeal Board. If this is impossible to achieve, or you would prefer anyway, give your member the right to appeal direct to the BDSFA. Appeals Board. The Secretary of the BDSFA. will discuss the method of payment etc with the Appellant.
Failure to give the correct rights of Appeal may make your sentence invalid.
BONDS
A Club may be placed on a Bond for any breech of Association Rules. Bonds commence at $200.00 and are usually set for a period of 12 months. Should a Club currently on a Bond be found guilty of further breeches, then that Bond will be forfeited and a new Bond of double the amount be set.
Bonds applied by the State must be paid to this Association as per our Rules.
When a Bond is issued, the Club must send a Club cheque for that amount to the Association Treasurer immediately. 21 days do not apply.
CHAMPIONS OF CHAMPIONS
The Champion of Champions competition is held by Soccer NSW after the end of each season. This tournament consists of knock out matches against all other NSW Associations' teams. Currently it is open to nominees from all age groups from U/10 to All Age, and O35's men, Ladies All Age and some nominated ages for girls.
The Association usually nominates for all age groups, and allows the winner of the First Division Grand Final to enter. The winners of Premier Division are usually nominated as the representative for All Age Men. There is a precedent set some years ago when a team had caused so many problems during the regular season that the then M.C. elected not to allow them to represent the Association in this Competition. The second placed team was nominated. There is no appeal for such decisions, so ensure your teams behave themselves at all times.
Players must have been members of the team in three matches to qualify. Teams are allowed to nominate 18 players, although only 16 are allowed to be used in any one game. As this campaign will last for nearly two months, it is a good idea to avail yourselves of as many players as possible. Players receiving two yellow cards will be stood down from their next match and there will be injuries, as it is difficult to get match practice at this time of year. Coaches should be encouraged to qualify lower division or younger players to make up the team during the Finals or the latter games of the Competition. School holidays fall during this competition and the younger teams are often effected by missing team members.
DON'T LOOSE BECAUSE OF LACK OF TEAM MEMBERS - PLAN AHEAD!
Clubs having teams entered into this competition MUST make themselves aware of ALL rules. Copies of the Rules are usually available through the Association Office or at Soccer NSW. in Meurants Lane Glenwood. Teams MUST comply with all the nomination and player registration form requisites. They must also inform the Association Secretary of the score of their match PRIOR to 5.30pm ON THE DAY OF THE MATCH. Team sheets are retained by the winning team and are to be posted to the Soccer NSW Registrar to be received no later than seven days after the match. Do not post team sheets to the Association Post Office Box.
There are huge fines for not complying.
FORFEIT FINES ARE MASSIVE AND ANY FORFEIT MAY RESULT IN YOUR CLUB BEING RULED INELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SOCCER NSW. COMPETITIONS.
The playing conditions for this and all other State Competitions can be found in the Soccer NSW Handbook which is handed out each year. Make sure those that are entering these competitions have a copy.
BE AWARE THAT SOME ROUNDS ARE PLAYED IN THE COUNTRY . CURRENTLY, THE BDSFA Inc HAS A FUND FOR TRAVEL FOR CHAMPIONS OF CHAMPIONS MATCHES BUT WILL ONLY ASSIST TRAVELING TEAMS IN WHATSOEVER THE M.C. DECIDES WILL BE THE "OFFICIAL" MEANS. CLUBS WISHING NOT TO PARTICIPATE IN THE "OFFICIAL TRAVEL" MAY DO SO, BUT WILL NOT RECEIVE ANY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FROM THE ASSOCIATION.
CITATION
From time to time, there is a need to cite a person/s to appear before a Committee. The BDSFA. Rules are such that a person must be charged with a specific offense in the letter of citation. In this way, a person knows that with which they are cited and are able to prepare a defence. Many Appeals have been successful because an incorrect procedure was followed.
Should your P & D C or M.C. cite a person to a hearing for information only, that person cannot be found guilty of an offence for which he was not charged. If the hearing finds that a case should be answered, have the person cited and charged for a specific breech and ask him to return to another meeting.
If you are citing a person before your Club P & D C or M.C., ensure that they have received all correct paperwork within the prescribed time. When the hearing is finished, give the person the right of Appeal whether they have won or lost their case. When informing of Appeals, tell the person to whom they may Appeal and how much it will cost. Failure to do so may result in the case being dismissed at a future Appeal.
COACHES
The Coach is a very important part of a soccer club. If you have good coaches that develop the young players well, whilst keeping their parents happy, you will enjoy growth. However, Clubs must be aware of the dangers inherent in the "coach".
You must remember that these are the persons with whom the majority of your membership have their direct contact. To your players and their parents the coach is the Club. Problems can arise if a coach becomes unhappy with the Club. An unhappy coach moves to another Club, taking along "his" team. The Club must ensure that the players loyalties are to the Club first and the coach second. This, and many other, Association has nomad coaches who move from club to club decimating teams as they go. They should be identified and avoided at all costs. It may seem a great idea to accept a full team from elsewhere at the beginning of the season, after all, it does make those numbers look good. By the end of the season, this bloke has done to you that which he did to someone else last year and you are incredibly surprised. Beware.
All coaches MUST be accredited with the ACC. Only those holding a current Junior License, or better, will be accredited.
Once accepted, the ACC. will send each coach a Log Book. Over a period of four years the coach needs to acquire a certain number of points to keep his accreditation. Being a coach may not allow enough point accrual to retain his certificate. You must be aware of the point requirements of all your coaches in order for them to keep their status current. The coach's log book must be signed off by the Club Secretary each season.
In essence, the coach is employed by the Club to perform a function. The Club must set goals for coaches and players. A Club policy or guideline is the best way of achieving results. Your policy should include guidelines for the minimal amount of time junior players should spend on the field of play. (See BDSFA Inc Policies)
All coaches like to win, even in Roo Ball. Some coaches will keep their poorer players as substitutes and play them a minimal amount of time either at the end of game, against teams considered easy beats, or when the score is so big he can't effect the result. This means that a player with less skill then others has to take the field "cold" and attempt to catch up with the other members of the team who have already been on for the whole match. Surely this is a job for the MOST skilled players.
Lesser players need more time on the field and coaches should be encouraged to begin the game with the less skilled players and leave them on the field until they become a liability. At times this may only be a few minutes, but at least the coach is seen as giving the player the chance to improve. This will give coaches the opportunity to substitute better players if the need arises and sooner or later the player will improve because of the time allowed on the field of play.
Interchange has taken the pressure off coaches of younger teams to ensure player performance. Encourage your coaches to use interchange well. A good coach should be able to "spot" a position in which a "lesser" player can contribute. If you allow a player to move positions, sooner or later he/she will find a spot.
You cannot employ a coach who has not been accredited.
Persons who refuse to sign a Prohibited Employment Declaration cannot remain as an official of a club.
See "Working With Children"
ELECTION OF OFFICIALS
The Election of Officials is held at the Annual General Meeting.
Rules are in concert governing the way in which Incorporated bodies elect their officials. The following outlines the Model Rules as used by this Association. Your Rules may differ slightly so be aware of your constraints when organising the annual elections.
Nominations for positions are received on the form provided. The person nominated MUST sign the form and write his/her name as should the nominator and the Seconder, both of whom MUST be members of the Association. The forms are to be in the hands of the Secretary of the Association no later that 7 days prior to the date and time of the A.G.M. A secret ballot is used to elect persons to a position for which there is more than one nominee.
In this Association, a person may apply for ONE POSITION ONLY. If unsuccessful, he may be nominated from the floor for a position for which there is NO nominee.
THE MODEL RULE APPLIES IF NO OTHER RULE COUNTERMANDS. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A RULE THAT IS SPECIFICALLY DIFFERENT, THEN THIS RULE APPLIES TO YOUR ELECTIONS TOO !!!!
It is important that some members of your Committee receive Honorarium. A Honoraria is not a payment, it is a fee that legally binds those recipients to be responsible to manage the business of the Club. If your Treasurer goes bush with your money and he does not receive a Honoraria, then it is just bad business. A person absconding with your money who does receive a Honoraria is a criminal and police can intervene.
The Officials of the Association are the Management Committee.
It is worth noting that many people abuse the above committees on the way out of meetings to which they have been cited. As Officials of the Association, all the above Committees can further cite any persons for such behaviour.
ELECTRONIC MAIL
The Association may deliver mail by electronic means. This will be sent to an address or fax number provided by Clubs as their "official" electronic address. Once sent, the correspondence is deemed "delivered"
FEES
All fees are set by the Management Committee each Year.
The BDSFA Inc tries to include all relevant fees in it's fee structure.
Clubs are encouraged to use the Association fees as a basis when deciding what fees your Club should set for player registration. Do not become a charity when deciding fees. No-one expects anything for free. If your Club charges a "one up front fee" then referees fees should also be taken into account. Remember also, field hire, electricity, shirts, balls and ground marking etc must be paid eventually.
FINES
A Club can be fined for any breech of any Rule and/or By Law. This includes team, team sheet, forfeits, player, registration and non-attendance fines. The P & D C may also install fines for breeches of Rules and By Laws.
Fines are invoiced and are payable within 21 days of the date the invoice was raised.
FORFEITS
A team that does not attend a match, or a team with an insufficient number of players to take the field, or a team that is left with insufficient numbers to continue a match, will be deemed to have forfeited.
Unless the Competition Secretary has been notified that the match will not be played by 6.00pm on the Thursday prior to a weekend game, or within 48 hours of the kick off time of a mid week game, a fine will be imposed. The opposing team will receive the points and a two goal to nil score, unless the match has commenced and then stopped through lack of players, then the non-offending team will keep their score if it is higher than two.
Having to pay a fine is not the worst scenario with forfeits. Over the past seven years, at least one competition per year has been lost by a team that was given incorrect information by their own Club. The Association Competition Secretary issues changes to the draw on almost a weekly basis, ensure the person designated by your Club to do the job of Competition Secretary is always aware of changes.
GRADING - TEAMS
Team nomination forms will be sent to your Club in February. At a date set by the M.C. those forms MUST be returned. Team Grading is the Clubs responsibility, but there are Rules. Usually the team winning or running up a division will be promoted into the next highest division and the last and second last will be demoted into the next lowest.
At times clubs may wish the M.C. to consider re-grading a team. The Club must show, in writing, and attached to the Clubs' Team Nomination Form, that there is a significant change to player personnel to warrant a different grade.
If a down grade is allowed, then it shall be to the next lowest division to that in which the team played the previous season. Do not attempt to place last years second division into fourth division, it only causes work for the M.C. and annoys the hell out of them.
It is the duty of the club to inform the M.C. of any proposed re-grade, in writing with reasons, prior to the grading meeting. There is no appeal on grading, so be sure.
GRADING - PLAYERS
Many Clubs grade players annually. This allows players who have developed to make their way through the ranks and those who have not find a level suitable to their ability. Clubs are encouraged to have an active grading policy of which all members are aware. The BDSFA will assist in any way possible should a club need help in grading.
There is a tendency to place all good players in one team then all others elsewhere. This works well in older age groups, but is definitely detrimental to younger sides. Players will develop at different times. A player that may not look so hot now may be the worlds best in two or three years. Good teams usually end up with better coaches, whilst the lower grades may end up with a dedicated parent whose knowledge of soccer is little or nothing.
GRADE YOUR ROO BALL PLAYERS EVENLY. For example, if you have enough players for 3 teams in an age group then grade the players into three groups. Ohwow, OK and Ohgee, place two or three players of each category into each team. In this way you will find that the difference in player skill will even out over a period. By the time your young players development period is over, IE time to play the full field, you will have a better idea of who can do what, and you will invariably still have all your players with which to grade. Placing all poor players in one group does not help anyone.
It has been proved that player "drop out" starts at the Under 10 age group. Many of the players who drop out do so because they felt they could not contribute to their team and were made to feel inadequate. Good grading policies can avoid player drop out.
The grading of players is a Club prerogative. However, once a player is deemed to be a member of a particular team there are Rules that MUST be obeyed should the player play in another team. Players may only be upgraded at any time, never down-graded without the express permission of the Association MC.
It is imperative that Clubs inform all managers and coaches of the entire section of Rules and By Laws regarding grading. Points are forfeited and fines levied for breeches of these Rules.
See also "Upgrading players during the season".
GROUNDS AND APPURTENANCES
It is the Clubs responsibility to ensure that the fields on which you play is in good order and correctly marked. Should a referee deem that your field is unsafe, he may only close the field for the current match. If the reason for the referee closing the fields can be rectified, games may continue once the problem is solved.
A field may be closed by Council, The Association MC or the leasing Club. If "all fields are closed" this includes grounds not owned by Blacktown Council.
Grounds may not be closed because of small fixable problems. If a problem is brought to your attention, and it can be rectified, do so, do not allow the fields to be closed. Should your fields be closed by an official because they are deemed unsafe, make sure that NO-ONE uses the field until it is fixed.
If someone is injured because of an unsafe field that has been closed, tacit approval for use, EG training, may leave the Club liable for legal action and the insurance policy may be nullified. In certain circumstances, the opposing team may claim a forfeit should the problem be caused by your Club.
Clubs should keep an amount of sawdust in store to fix small problems and to dry wet areas. Soil or sand should never be used as your underground watering systems can be damaged using soil but never by using sawdust.
The Council will usually mark your field correctly at the commencement of each season, after which it is your responsibility to maintain the field. The Rules Of The Game (the referees hand book) gives the dimensions of fields, goal and corner posts and even the thickness of markings. On council grounds there are wooden pegs driven into the ground at cardinal marks IE corners, 18 and 6 yard lines etc, if you loose your lines through bad weather etc, look for the pegs and use string lines to mark the field properly.
How to mark a field.
To mark a field correctly you will need a line marking machine, line marking paint or oxide, tent pegs, a hammer and at least 100 metres of good string. Line markers come in various types and sizes, the best is the battery operation continuous spray variety. Use only good paint or oxide and mix use enough to mark the field/s. Cheap oxide clogs the nozzles and in the long term the damage done make the less expensive oxide a costly item. Black or red oxide is readily available, and if using paint, white may be used.
Strain the mixture into the marker to avoid lumps that will clog the jets.
Drive a tent peg into the ground next to each of the wooden marker pegs in the corners of the field. Tie the string line to one and stretch it to the other peg and tie it off after making sure the line is tight and straight. Pump up the marker (or turn on the electric pump if you are lucky) and simply follow the string for a good straight line. Mark all lines thus. The ten yard arc at the penalty box it a bit trickier. Mark the penalty spot first. (12 yards from the goal line and in the centre) Place a peg in the penalty spot and tie ten yards of string line to the peg. If you are marking the field yourself, tie the end of the 10 yard piece of string to your marker, (there is a bracket for holding the pump that is perfect for this) and keeping the string taught, make an arc on the eighteen yard line. If you have help, the helper can hold the end of the string and walk the arc using the string as a guide and the marker simply follows the end of the string. The centre circle can be marked using the same method and the same piece of string.
When you have finished marking the field, rinse out your marker and store it with the nozzle in the air. This will prevent oxide thickening and clogging the spray holes. If you have oxide remaining in the marker, tip it up so that the nozzle is in the air, (but not at anyone) and safely release the pressure. This will blow any excess oxide from the nozzle and help keep it clean. Again store it pointing up. Marking fields is a messy business and I recommend that you supply overalls, rubber boots and rubber gloves for the person doing the job.
The goals posts are provided by council for their grounds and of course by the owners of the private grounds. If posts become unsafe on council grounds, inform Blacktown Council immediately and they will rectify the problem. Private grounds are urged to keep their posts in good order at all times. The posts used for Mini Soccer (Roo Ball) must be fixed to the ground either by pegs or permanently. The BDSFA Inc has outlawed the use of hooks on posts to hold nets in place. Should the Council re-erect your posts with hooks present, have them removed immediately
Please be aware of Soccer NSW Goal Post Safety Policy.
GROUND OFFICIALS
Every match played must have a Ground Official clearly marked on the team sheet. The person nominated must be over 18 years old and must be introduced to the referee prior to the match.
The duty of the Ground Official is to control the spectators and assist the referee in any way. We do not expect Ground Officials to get into fights with thugs or forcibly remove persons from the park. Ring the Police if you experience difficulties with uncontrollable people and always present a report to the Association on any matter on which you are called upon to act.
Remember, the control of spectators is everyone's responsibility.
HOST CLUBS
At times the Competition Secretary may set a match at a "Host Club". This will mean that two teams from different Clubs will be playing on your ground.
It is the Host Club's responsibility to ensure that the ground/s is correctly marked and that the facilities are open for use. One Host Club official MUST be at host games to collect team sheets etc and ensure that they are delivered to the Association Recorder on time.
Visiting teams are expected to lend all assistance to Host Clubs in setting and undressing the fields. Clubs who disregard Host Club facilities may be cited. Host Clubs who experience theft of match balls or damage to facilities should inform the Association Secretary in writing.
IDENTITY CARDS
At all times the Identity Cards remain the property of the Association.
To take part in a match, all players MUST have their I.D. Card at the ground prior to the match taking place. Players are to show their ID Cards to the opposition during the FIFA Handshake that precedes all matches. No ID Cards, NO MATCH.
The I.D. Cards must be made available to any official of the opposing Club or the Association at all times.
If a players ID Card is lost, a replacement must be requested from the Association Registrar. The player is ineligible to play until such time as the replacement card is present at matches.
Clubs will be charged for replacement ID Cards.
For more information regarding the Rules governing I.D. Cards, see REGISTRATION - PLAYER
INJURIES
Surprisingly, soccer is a contact sport and not one for the faint hearted. Injuries will occur on the soccer field. All injuries should be reported to the Association and if necessary, the Insurer.
It is imperative that unqualified persons do not treat an injured player. Legal ramifications may follow if a well meaning person, even an "off-duty" nurse or medical person, treats a person incorrectly. If in doubt, leave the player where he is and call an ambulance. It is illegal to use a bucket and sponge to treat, or even slake the thirsts of players from a bucket. Many diseases can be transferred by this method, and whilst you may feel confident that your 10 year old winger does not have AIDS, he may have glandular fever, hepatitis or a number of other transferable diseases that may prove fatal. I know of a team that could not field enough players to finish a season after glandular fever went through it's ranks.
All players MUST have their own water bottle, preferably marked with their name, and must only use their own bottle.
INSURANCE (now called Player Injury Assistance)
To play in any match, a player must be first Insured. YES!! THIS MEANS PRE-SEASON GAMES.
Each player must receive a copy of the Players Injury Assistance form, which is distributed to all clubs, when the player registers.
It is required by Law that all players be Insured. It is unfortunate that current Federal Law makes it illegal to insure a person for the "gap" in medical expense bills. The Insurance on offer from Soccer NSW. leaves a lot to be desired, but one must remember that it only costs each player a few dollars per season and at this rate, is not that bad.
It is better for players to inform the "first contact" medical person that they are not insured when seeking medical treatment unless that person is in fact insured privately.
By doing this, the "gap" is usually small and more often than not nothing at all. It is also amazing how many players have found that the operation is suddenly no longer required when the doctor finds the patient is not insured. Inform the Insurance Agent by correctly filling in all forms and returning them within 30 days.
The player may need physiotherapy or rehabilitation as he recovers, this is usually fully covered by the insurance.
I WOULD STRONGLY RECOMMEND A PHONE CALL TO THE INSURANCE COMPANY FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION ON WHICH INJURIES ARE COVERED.
Working players pay extra to cover themselves for loss of earnings. A player must be off work for a specified period before qualifying, and the forms must be filled in by the players employer before being sent to the Insurance Agent.
The current amount paid by the insurer for loss of wages is only $200.00. Extra wage cover can be bought by individual teams. All information can be sought through the Insurer direct.
Obviously it is better for all if the team is insured for the extra cover. The Clever Club could include the fee in registration fees and look after their working players.
We also subscribe to a Directors and Officials Policy which covers officials of the Club for all Public Liabilities. This cost is currently included in the Affiliation Fee. This insurance is most important as it covers the management of Clubs against legal proceedings.
Copies of both insurance policies can be obtained through Soccer NSW.
MEETINGS
There are various meetings held by the Association and Clubs throughout the season. All have rules binding their calling, and the business allowed. All Association meetings must be attended by at least one Club Delegate or a fine will be levied. The importance of the meeting is the reason for the non-attendance fine. It has become apparent that few actually read the Minutes of Association Meetings, a cursory glance to see if your Club has a mention and in some cases, to read only that which is underlined or in bold type. The bi-monthly meetings are at times the only way the Association M.C. gets face to face contact with our affiliates.
It is important that Clubs have Rules binding both the calling of meetings and the agenda at same.
MEETINGS - A.G.M.
The single most important meeting of the year.
The Secretary/Public Officer MUST inform ALL members of the calling of an A.G.M.
Under the Rules of Incorporation, the Secretary must keep a register of members. With the Association, the nominated Clubs' Delegates are our members. With a Club, it is as per the Clubs Rules. Some Clubs have a membership fee which parents must pay to belong to the Club and receive a vote. Most Clubs allow full membership to any registered player over 18 years old. Either way ALL MEMBERS MUST RECEIVE NOTIFICATION OF AN A.G.M. AT LEAST 21 DAYS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.
Along with the notification of the meeting, you must present a complete agenda of proceedings. The Association agenda is part of our Rules, and it is best that Clubs instigate Rules that do the same. All members should also receive a nomination form for election as an Official. The usual due time for nominations is 7 days prior to the meeting.
Many Clubs have problems attaining a quorum at the A.G.M. This is because the meeting is usually held long after the competition is finished and any thoughts of soccer are long gone as most sports persons play summer sports as well as soccer. Some Clubs have their A.G.M. on presentation day. Whilst this at least guarantees a quorum, it does not guarantee that all persons attending are interested. Sending notification at the correct time is of paramount importance, because in most Rules, a meeting at which there is no quorum must be re-set for the following week at the same time and place with a quorum being whomever attends.
Should it get to the stage where your Clubs future depends on a meeting of whomever attends, then it must be because not enough members care, not because the Secretary cannot follow Rules.
MEETINGS - GENERAL
The Association holds four General Meetings a year. They are held at times which are pertinent. The first being February, where we can all meet the new faces and distribute information necessary for the season. April, June and August are all months when meetings are held during the actual season. Under our Rules, the A.G.M. has to be held in November.
Clubs should hold meetings at least once per month during the season. Rules and agendas MUST be prepared to ensure that meetings are informative and as brief as possible. Pick a night that is easy for most members to attend, but remember you are competing for the time of your members whose spouses think that they already give too much time to soccer. Many Clubs meet on Tuesdays, most teams train on Tuesdays. Few coaches and managers attend Club meetings but are the direct contact for most members and generate most of the Club's fines. Strange, isn't it.
MEETINGS - SPECIAL GENERAL
This is the meeting at which most Clubs get themselves into trouble.
The S.G.M. is usually held in an emergency situation when the M.C. have found a need for urgent business, or when called by the membership.
A S.G.M. can only be called to discuss ONE item. When the discussion has finished, so has the meeting.
The Club/Association membership can request a S.G.M. if they feel they have a problem with the committee or a Rule. Such requests by members MUST be attended to as per the Rules. When calling such meetings it is important that you adhere to those Rules. If you need help, or even a Chairperson for a S.G.M., please inform the Association.
MEMBER PROTECTION OFFICERS
Each club must have a Member Protection Officer.(MPO)
The MPO will be the person to whom any matter relating to children is reported and a person who is know to all junior players as the person to whom they may discuss any problem relating to the Working With Children Act. The MPO is not empowered to take any action on a WWC matter but is legally responsible for referring all cases to the Association WWC Officer.
The MPO will ensure that all persons who may have a "one on one" with a child will sign the Prohibited Employment Declaration and deliver same to the Association WWC Officer.
MEMBERSHIP
As we are all Incorporated Clubs, there are Model Rules for Membership. Should you apply to have different Membership Rules to the Model Rules, and those changed Rules are accepted by the Department of Fair Trading, then your own Rules will apply. If you don't request different Rules, then the Model Rules apply. Either way we must keep a register of members names and their addresses. Usually all adult players are full members and it is up to the Club Rules whether or not parents receive full membership on behalf of their under-age children. Ensure your Rules are specific as to what constitutes a member, and make sure that your membership is aware of those Rules.
The BDSFA. has its Officials and affiliate Clubs' delegates as its membership. The Rules allow two delegates to attend meeting with voting rights, anyone can visit our meetings without voting rights. IT IS THOSE OFFICIALS AND THE DELEGATES OF CLUBS WHO MAKE UP OUR OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP.
MEMBERSHIP - FEES
The Affiliation Fee for Clubs is set by the Management Committee each season, and is the membership fee of the Association.
MEMBERSHIP- FEES - CLUBS
It is the prerogative of the Club to decide whether or not, or how much, a membership fee is set.
MODEL RULES
The Model Rules are set out by NSW Department of Fair Trading and are those Rules they would prefer all Incorporated bodies to accept.
IF you are new to the business of Committees, I would recommend that you procure a set of "Model Rules" and read and understand them. As Incorporations, we must have our Rules accepted by the NSW Department of Fair Trading before we can be Incorporated. The Rules for Rules are such that you are invited to either make your own based on the "Headings in the Model Rules", or use the "Model Rules". If your own version is accepted then those are your Rules. If your version omits a particular Model Rule, then the Model Rule still applies.
By way of explanation. The Model Rules for "Election Of Officials" state that a person may only stand for one position only at an election. If your Rules do not state categorically that a person may nominate for as many positions as he wishes, then the Model Rule applies; that is a person may only nominate for one position in an election. Many Clubs get into trouble because of this little known factor. Ensure that the Rules your Club accepts as it's own do not leave you short. Understand the Model Rules and know which of them applies to your situation.
NOMINATION - DELEGATES
At the commencement of each season Clubs must nominate their delegates to the Association. Alternative delegates are allowed to attend meetings and vote should a delegate not be available. Nominations for Alternate Delegates can be made either on the original nomination form or on Club letter head when necessary.
It is important that your delegates are informed persons able to make a decision on your Club's behalf, not someone press-ganged to do the job. At times decisions that will effect your Club are made at general meetings. A look around the room at some General Meetings is enough to know that some of the people at the meeting have not been informed by their Club of the agenda.
NOMINATION - LIFE MEMBERSHIP
Any person who has served the Association for an uninterrupted period of EIGHT years may be nominated for Life Membership. Nominations must be received in time to give 28 days clear notice for the Annual General Meeting. Election is by secret ballot and requires a 2/3 majority vote. The Model Rules will take precedent if your Club does not have its own version of this Rule.
NOMINATION - OFFICIALS - CLUB TO ASSOCIATION
As and when your Committee changes, you must inform the Association. The Affiliation form distributed at the beginning of each season usually asks for the names and contact numbers of the President, Secretary, Treasurer, Registrar and Competition Secretary. We ask for these as they are the people with whom we need the most contact.
The Clubs postal address is also required. Most Clubs have a post office box, but some prefer to have any information mailed to the Secretary's Home Address. We do not care where you nominate as a postal address, but we do ask that should it be a post office box, that it be cleared regularly, even in the off-season.
NOMINATION - OFFICIALS OF ASSOCIATION FOR ELECTION AT A.G.M.
Nominations for election as an Official of the Association are open only to members of the Association. (IE. Delegates) To be valid, nominations must be Moved by a member of and Seconded by another member and the nominee MUST sign the nomination. ( For the purpose of nominating, a member is a person who is either the Clubs' nominated delegate, or an Official of the Association.) Any nomination that does not comply with the above, or is received less that seven days prior to the commencement of the A.G.M. will be declared invalid by the Secretary of the Association.
NOMINATION - SERVICE AWARD
Any person who has served the Association for an uninterrupted period of FIVE years may be nominated for a Service Award. Nominations must be received in time to give 28 days clear notice for the Annual General Meeting. Election is by secret ballot and requires a 2/3 majority vote. The Model Rules will take precedent if your Club does not have its own version of this Rule.
NOMINATION - TEAM
Team Nominations must be received on a date set by the Management Committee each season. The Rules give the Clubs the criteria for nominations and usually follow the idea of two up two down. The last two teams from each division except the lowest are relegated into the next lowest division. Except for the winners and runners up of first division, the first two teams are promoted into the next highest division. The Association may send out suggested gradings, but it is the job of the Clubs to nominate their teams into the correct division.
Some Clubs will attempt to nominate a team into a lower than necessary division merely to win a competition, but most do nominate teams into divisions where they will play at their optimum. The Rules allow for a team to be considered for down grading if more than five of the original last seasons players do not return. For this to happen, the Club MUST write to the Association Secretary and give reasons why the team should not be graded into that division for which the Rules allow. If a down grade is allowed, it will be to the next lowest division.
A few seasons ago I have the displeasure of attending a Clubs' presentation day. Whilst on the dais to present awards, the Teams' Coach announced to all that this team would have gone a lot better if the "bastards" at the Association had down-graded them. I bit my tongue and presented the team with their Club awards. I later, privately, pointed out to the coach that his club had not informed the Association that a re-grading was necessary and that the nomination of teams was the Clubs job, not the "bastards" at the Association. He had no idea of the Rules, nor apparently did his Club. In reflection, the net gain was one informed Coach and 500 people who think the "Association" are bastards. I will not bite my tongue again.
NOTICE
1 Service of notices
(1) For the purpose of these rules, a notice may be served on or given to a person:
(a) by delivering it to the person personally, or
(b) by sending it by pre-paid post to the address of the person, or
(c) by sending it by facsimile transmission or some other form of electronic transmission to an address specified by the person for giving or serving the notice.
(2) for the purpose of these rules, a notice is taken, unless the contrary is proved, to have been given or served:
(a) in the case of a notice given or served personally, on the date on which it is received by the addressee, and
(b) in the case of a notice sent by pre-paid post, on the date when it would have been delivered in the ordinary course of post, and
(c) in the case of a notice sent by facsimile transmission or some other form of electronic transmission, on the date it was sent, or if the machine from which the transmission was sent produces a report indicating that the notice was sent on a later date, on that date.
2. Times for Notification,
(a) For service of notice, other than A.G.Ms, G.Ms and S.G.Ms, 7 clear days notice must be given.
(b) For A.G.Ms and S.G.Ms 28 days clear notice must be given.
(c) For General Meetings a 14 day notice, unless the nature of business requires a Special
Resolution when 21 days notice is required.
(d) Notices for amendments to Rules need 28 days clear notice.
PLEASE NOTE: THERE IS NO REQUIRED NOTICE GIVEN FOR APPELLANTS TO ATTEND THE APPEALS BOARD . THE RULES STATE THAT SHOULD AN APPEAL BE RECEIVED FOR A SUSPENDED PERSON THEN THE APPEAL WILL BE HEARD THE FIRST FRIDAY FOLLOWING THE RECEIPT OF THE APPEAL.
OTHER APPELLANTS SHOULD CONTACT THE SECRETARY OR THE APPEALS BOARD CHAIRPERSON TO DISCUSS THEIR APPOINTMENT.
Clubs have the right to waive notice in special cases, and at time the M.C. may request Clubs to waive their right of notice to have an urgent matter dealt with immediately. It is the prerogative of the Club to waive or demand their right of notice..
OFFICE OF FAIR TRADING
As Associations Incorporated, (Clubs) we all come under the auspices of the Department Of Fair Trading "Associations" Section.
This Law allows us much protection not normally afforded under the Companies Act. However, we have some responsibilities in keeping the Department informed of our business. There are various forms to be completed and lodged annually and some which need only be lodged if there is a change in personnel or Rules.
Failure to lodge forms can result in your clubs being struck off the list of Incorporated Clubs and should this occur, you will not be allowed to participate in the Association.
The Department has a very informative web site and all information required can be found there.
PROHIBITED EMPLOYMENT DECLARATION
Any person wishing to coach, manage or work with children must first sign a Prohibited Employment Declaration. This form is to be supplied by the Clubs' MPO and delivered to the Association WWC Officer.
Persons who refuse to sign a Prohibited Employment Declaration cannot remain as an official of a club.
PROTESTS & DISPUTES COMMITTEE
The P & D C Chairman is elected at the A.G.M.
At the commencement of each season the P & D C will distribute a format for the year. The Clubs must accept, reject or amend that format at the first General Meeting of the Season. Once accepted, the P & D C Format becomes part of the Rules governing that body. Clubs must make themselves aware of both the Association Rules and the P & D C Format when attending the P & D C.
The P & D C's jurisdiction is virtually everything that occurs on, or at, the field of play. It also has the right to hear complaints and protests from anyone concerning incidents that occur on the field of play, including player dismissals and Special Reports from referees.
ALL COMPLAINTS , DISPUTES AND PROTESTS MUST BE ON CLUB LETTERHEAD, SIGNED BY AN EXECUTIVE OF THE CLUB AND ATTACHED TO A CHEQUE FOR THE DESIGNATED AMOUNT AND MUST BE RECEIVED WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS OF THE INCIDENT. ALL ELSE WILL BE DISMISSED.
The P & D C may, if is sees fit, refer any case to the M.C. for their deliberation or clarification. The decisions of the P & D C are final and are subject to further appeal as per the Rules. ( See Appeals.)
PLAYER EQUIPMENT
Players equipment is a FIFA Rule and referees will interpret the Rules "In Their Opinion".
For this and all other playing Rules, it is best to provide your coaches with a copy of the yearly "Rules Of The Game Handbook". It is available for down load on the FIFA web site or it can be purchased for a few dollars and is invaluable. If in doubt ask the referee for his opinion, but remember that it is "his opinion", and that his opinions are those under which the game will be played. Don't ask his opinion and then argue with him.
The Association Rules call for players to wear Club Strip as nominated to the Association and must consist of shirt, shorts, socks, shin pads and suitable footwear. "Bike pants", or thermal pants, will be allowed only if they are in the same colours as are designated by the club. All shirts MUST be numbered to coincide with the numbers the players are entered as on the team sheet. Players will not be permitted to take the field of play in like numbered shirts. IE you cannot have two number 3's etc.
At no time will a player be allowed to take part in a match if he is wearing a cast, or anything considered a danger to himself or others.
POINTS
At present, this Association uses the following points system:-
4 points for a win,
2 points for a scored draw,
1 point for a scoreless draw,
0 points for a loss.
Teams subsequently penalised for offences that call for a loss of points will have their points deducted and a 4 points win given to their opposition + a score of at least two nil or their own score which ever is the higher. For example, if the non-offending team has won the game 3 - 2, then they will keep their three goals and the offending team will loose their two.
PUBLIC OFFICER
The Public Officer is a most important person with the Club and Association. It is often the Club Secretary, but should always be a person who is aware of their legal responsibilities to the Law and the Club.
An incorporated association is required to have a public officer who has attained the age of 18 years and is a resident of New South Wales (section 23).
The public officer is the official contact point for an incorporated association. The public officer can be a committee member, a member of the association, or an outsider. The public officer's address may be used as an official address for the service of documents on the association.
Unless the rules of an incorporated association provide otherwise the public officer of an incorporated association may hold any other office of the association.
A full resume of the duties and functions of the Public Officer can be found on the Department of Fair Trading Web Site.
QUORUMS
A quorum is the minimum amount of people required to make a meeting, of any kind, legal.
Your Rules should include quorums for each of the meeting you have to hold. Remember when deciding upon a figure that not everyone is as interested as you and your committee in the running of the Club. Use a number that is obtainable.
For the purposes of the BDSFA., we need 1/3 of members entitled to be present, (that is entitled to vote at such meetings) before we can commence a G.M., S.G.M. or an A.G.M. If you consider that two delegates from 25 Clubs is 50, plus 13 Management Committee, those entitle to be present are 63 One third is 21. It would be difficult not to obtain 21 people at any of our meetings. Life Members have the right to attend and vote at all meetings and their number is included in the quorum.
The Management Committee needs one half plus one, to hold a Management Committee Meeting.
The P & D C must have 3 members present, this includes the Chairperson.
The Appeals Board requires the Chairperson, (who does not have a vote) plus three (3) others.
The Rules allow that should a quorum not be achieved within a half hour of the scheduled commencement time of the meeting then the meeting shall lapse and shall re-convene at the same place and time the following week. Whomever turns up at the re-convened meeting will constitute a quorum.
NOTE: BOTH THE P & D C AND THE APPEALS BOARD HAVE ELIGIBILITY RULES, THE CHAIRPERSONS MAY CO-OPT A TEMPORARY MEMBER TO SIT ON A CASE WHEN A MEMBER IS INELIGIBLE.
REFEREES
The referees are usually members of the Blacktown City Soccer Referees Branch and are controlled and appointed by that body. The BDSFA. has no jurisdiction over a B.C.S.R.B. Member.
The match fees are set at the beginning of each season and are to be paid by the Home team IN A MANNER SET DOWN BY THE M.C. REFEREES ARE TO BE PAID IN CASH. THE HOME TEAM MANAGER MUST ENSURE THAT THE VISITING TEAM PAY HALF THE FEES. Teams refusing to pay a referee may be cited to appear before the Management Committee and may be fined.
All BDSFA Inc matches must be played as set down by the Competition Secretary. If an Official Referee is not present, all steps must be taken to provide a referee. If the Association Competition Secretary is aware that an official referee will not attend, he may appoint an Unofficial Referee provided by the Clubs. If not, then the teams should make every effort to agree on an unofficial referee. Once appointed, either by the Competition Secretary or by the teams, the referee becomes an official referee and must be made aware of all the Rules pertaining to reporting dismissals or incidents. An unofficial referee is entitled to receive payment.
At times a Club may have reason to complain about a referee. Such complaints must be in writing and received by the Association Secretary within seven (7) day of the incident. Letters pertaining to official referees are passed on to the B.C.S.R.B. Exam Board for consideration. Complaints against unofficial referees will be dealt with by the Competition Secretary. Most will receive a reply.
Should you have occasion to protest a match you must have a point of law on which to protest. You must understand the Referees hand book and all rules pertaining to the game to have a chance of winning a protest. ALL protests MUST be received within 48 hours of the incident and attached to a cheque for the prescribed amount. Remember when thinking of a protest that the Rules of our games are subject to the referees opinion. You MAY think he has erred, he WILL think he has not. The rules do not allow for your opinion.
REGISTRATION - PLAYERS
Player registration must be complete before the player takes the field on behalf of your Club. THIS INCLUDES ALL PRE-SEASON AND ANY NON-COMPETITION MATCH. The Association asks clubs to have their players sign membership forms for the club prior to being registered with the Association. Once signed, this form constitutes the player being registered.
From time to time, the Association Registrar may use a slightly different format but it will always include the players name, address, date of birth.
It is the Clubs responsibility to ensure the validity of a persons date of birth. Age criteria is determined by the players age at the 31st of December in the year in which he registers. All Age players are not required to present proof of birth, but should they be eligible to play for a lower age group, EG U/21 etc then they will be required to provide proof of date of birth before playing in that younger age group.
Many players are registered without their Club first sighting a birth certificate. Sometimes it works out OK but at times, the later sighting of the certificate proves to be different to that date the player was registered under. Fines of $500.00 may be imposed should a Club be proved to have deliberately misled the Association Registrar, and of course your team will loose all its accrued points if its proved that the player/s were ineligible.
It is important to remember that the Association Registrar will register in excess of 7500 players within a matter of weeks. The registration format is designed to make life easier for the Association Registrar, please adhere to the format and check all your work before submitting your registrations.
At no time may a player who is registered for one club play for another club, nor may a player register for more than one club.
Although this Rule is relaxed for Roo Ball players, the general Rule applies throughout the World.
REGISTRATION - COACHES
All coaches must be registered with the Association and MUST BE ACCREDITED WITH THE AUSTRALIAN COACHING COUNCIL. To become accredited, a coach must first hold a coaching certificate and must apply to the ACC. in Canberra for accreditation. The accreditation is for a four year period and a coach MUST attain a given number of points within the four years to maintain his accreditation. Coaching a team for four years will not be enough to keep a certificate and a coach will have to take extra courses over that period.
Coaches will receive a log book upon acceptance to the ACC. This book must be kept up to date and signed by the Club Secretary each year to assign points to the coach. Whilst the scheme is awkward and does give us all more work, it is important that our players get the best coaching we can supply. The Insurance criteria may change to annul any claim by a player when coached by an coach who is not accredited. The player may then sue the Club. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE OF THIS SECTION. I WOULD HATE FOR YOUR CLUB TO BE THE TEST CASE.
Coaches must also sign the Prohibited Employment Declaration form, persons who refuse to sign a Prohibited Employment Declaration cannot remain as a coach
NOTE: ALL REGISTRATION CEASES 30TH JUNE EACH SEASON - This includes players, team officials and requests for transfer, either between clubs or teams within clubs.
REGISTRATION - FEES
Registration fees are set by the M.C. each year. The ASA., Soccer NSW. and the BDSFA. all have fees which are included in the registration fees. Ensure that you have taken all into consideration when setting your Club fees.
RESULTS
The results (team sheets) for all matches played in a given week must be delivered to the Association Recorder by the club on whose grounds the matches were played. At present the team sheets are delivered to the Association Office each Sunday evening before 6.30pm. The Recorder correlates all scores into competition tables which are distributed monthly. The Publicity Officer then sends the results to the local papers for publication.
There are fines for late and/or undelivered team sheets. The reason for the fine is obvious. There are some clubs that would rather pay a small fine than to put themselves out on Sunday evenings. This puts the recorder and everyone else at a disadvantage. Without the team sheets, not only do we not know the score, but we do not know whether a match was played or not.
If results are missing, the competition table will be wrong and competitions may not be able to be declared. Teams sometimes loose their team sheets. Once a game is over and the team sheet is put inadvertently into the gear bag, it sometimes never comes back. Ensure that all your personnel know the importance of having the results in on time.
ROO BALL
Roo Ball is the modified game of soccer. It was developed to give young players time to develop their skills whilst on a smaller field with less players. Fewer players means more touches of the ball per player. FFA have further developed the game and it is now compulsory for all players under the age of 8 to play Roo Ball.
Parents and coaches have the most difficulty with Roo Ball. They like to win and receive trophies. It has been proven that young players do not know whether they have won or lost, it is an introduced concept. Clubs must spend time with new parents and coaches selling the concept of Roo Ball as non-competitive, non-cumulative sport.
At times a Club may not have enough players to make up a full team of Roo Ball Players. To send a few players up to full field soccer because the club has nowhere for them to play is fine.
There are those clubs who send an entire team of Under 8 players into Under 9 to enable them to play competitive soccer and perhaps win trophies. This is done because they think their players are too good for Roo Ball and are ready for the "Big Game". I wonder if the same people would chose to place their children into high school before preschool. Missing a year of a players development on purpose is not good for them. Sooner or later the child will pay for the adult interference.
We have had many Clubs cited because of a newspaper article in regards to a "Super Roo Ball" team that has beaten everyone, is undefeated, and scored millions of goals. It is one thing to be proud of your teams achievements, but the M.C. will automatically fine any Club $500.00 that allows a newspaper article to denigrate the Roo Ball principle. This is not appealable, so inform your people.
ROUND ROBIN
A Round Robin is a separate competition to the main Competition, and may be set down at the discretion of the M.C.. It is graded by the M.C. and takes the following course. Divisions, ( of eight where possible) are broken into two groups, Blue and Red. Each team in each colour group will play against all others in that group until a winner of the colour is decided. The winner of Blue Group then plays the winner of Red Group in final.
There are eligibility Rules for the Round Robin and it is recommended that Clubs take special care in reading and understanding them.
SERVICE AWARDS - SEE NOMINATION - SERVICE AWARDS
SPECTATORS
Spectators are the responsibility of their Club. A Club can be fined and/or placed on a bond if it is proved that their spectators have behaved badly. Field Officials may ask spectators to behave or even leave the park. Referees may also make Special Reports on spectator problems. Remember that it is an offence to drink alcohol on any field where BDSFA. games are in progress. Ensure that your people know they are accountable at all times.
SPECIAL RESOLUTIONS
A Special Resolution is described by the Corporate Affairs as being that which is passed by a 75% majority of those persons in attendance, and who are entitled under the Rules to be present and have a vote. A Special Resolution must have 21 days clear notice given to all members prior to the meeting at which the vote is taken.
A change to the Rules requires a Special Resolution, as does the bestowing of a Life Membership or a Service Award.
SUB-COMMITTEES
The use of Sub-Committees in any organisation is important. At times an M.C. cannot be expected to perform all duties so a sub-committee is formed. They can run canteens, raise extra revenue as fund raising committees or perform specialised functions such as the BDSFA.'s P & D C, Appeals Board or The Rules Committee. It is important when forming any sub-committee that Rules are specific, and that the Sub-committee is answerable to the M.C.. Think about what you need and aim carefully. Don't make the mistake of forming a Sub-committee and leaving it to its own devices. The Management Committee will bear all the responsibilities for the actions of the sub-committees.
SUBSTITUTES
In all soccer games, substitution is allowed. There are now two different ways to substitute players:-
1. SUBSTITUTION
Substitution of players is allowed by FIFA for up to 5 players as long as the number of substitutes is decided before kick off and both managers are in agreement. The BDSFA. takes away the necessity to haggle with the opposition and the referee by including the amount of substitutes allowed in the Rules for playing conditions. The BDSFA allows a maximum of 5 substitutes in any junior and senior match. (ROO BALL HAS DIFFERENT RULES)
Once substituted, a player may not resume the field of play. Substitution is usually made at the half way point of that side of the field designated by the referee. (sometimes a team may try to substitute from the side of the field on which they have set up, the referee has the right to refuse substitution and make the players swap over at the designated side.)
2. INTERCHANGE
Soccer NSW now allows for interchange for all Association players.
During a stoppage in play, a designated interchange player may swap with an on field player. This may happen as many times as the coach wishes. Players may come onto the field again after being exchanged any number of times. The referee does have the right to disallow an interchange if in his opinion the team is seeking to gain an unfair advantage or is trying to waste time by interchanging. Interchange players must remain in the designated area for interchange or they may be disqualified from taking further part in the match.
Coaches must be encouraged to use the interchange Rule to the benefit of the players, not as a time wasting tool. Player who need more field time to develop their skill can be taken on an doff the field as many times as is necessary. Using interchange well will make your
lesser lights a more integral part of the team.
In both substitution and interchange, players must be on the Team sheet prior to the match commencing. Interchange players must be introduced to the referee as such and the referee must be informed that you are making an interchange. If you do not, the referee has the right to deem it a substitution. Substitutes, once substituted cannot take any further part in the game.
TEAM NOMINATION - See Nominations- Team
TRANSFERS AND CLEARANCES
Once a player is registered for one particular Club, he may transfer to another Club ONLY with the express permission of the Association M.C. There are specific papers to be completed before the player can play with another Club. Such transfers will only be granted on two occasions within any one playing season.
Any player who has played for another Club must have a clearance before he applies for transfer. A player who has played in another Association has to be cleared from that Association at all times. He should present his clearance from his former Club and/or Association before registering with his new Club/Association. A playing who takes the field of play before being cleared is ineligible under the Rules.
Once given a clearance, the players ID Card must be presented to the Association Registrar within 48 hours. The Association Secretary may intervene if a club deliberately slows a players transfer.
TRANSFERS AND CLEARANCES CEASE ON 30TH JUNE IN EACH YEAR. This includes all requests for player movement including permanent re-grading.
TROPHIES
The Association will present trophies to the Winners and Runners Up of all competitive divisions thus:-
A trophy presented to, and kept by, the Club.
An individual medal or keepsake, as designated by the MC., to each player participating in the team.
When deciding upon what to present to your Club players, it is important to bear in mind any precedent you may be setting. There may be a time when every team in the Club could win a competition. Could your club afford to buy prizes for everyone based on the precedents set.
I have witnessed clubs where the children of Committee members have won competitions and suddenly jackets or huge trophies are awarded. Be aware of the full picture.
The presentation of trophies for "winning" Roo Ball teams is not allowed.
UPGRADING FOR PLAYERS DURING THE SEASON.
Using players not registered for a specific team is called upgrading. As the name suggests, you can only ever move a player up, never down. Fines and loss of points apply for incorrect use of player upgrades, if you are unsure, ask. If there is no-one to ask, don't!
64.4 After being graded to a Junior team (U6 to U14) a player may be upgraded into a higher division or age group/division for a given match thus:-
a/ A player may never play in a team graded lower than that to which they are registered.
b/ A player may play for a team in their own age group but a higher division.
c/ A player may play for a higher age group in a similar or higher division.
d/ Each player may be upgraded a maximum of four (4) time in total. Further upgrades will render the player ineligible in any team to which he is upgraded
e/ A maximum of five (5) players may be upgraded to any team at any time.
f/ Upgrades will only be counted for competition matches during the season proper and not during Finals Series. (see rules for eligibility for finals)
g/ A junior player cannot play more than two years above their physical (actual) age.
64.5 After being graded to a Senior team (U15 to AA) a player may be upgraded into a higher division or age group/division for a given match thus:-
a/ A player may never play in a team graded lower than that to which they are registered.
b/ A player may play for a team in their own age group but a higher division.
c/ A player may play for a higher age group in a similar or higher division.
d/ A maximum of five (5) players may be upgraded to any team at any time.
e/ Upgrades will only be counted for competition matches during the season proper and not during Finals Series. (see rules for eligibility for finals)
Without specific permission from the M.C. no player may play in an age group younger than that to which his age decrees. Special permission may be sought from the M.C. should a players physical or mental age be lower than that of his real age.
Prior to the 30th June, applications may be made to the MC to permanently alter a players grading. Applications must be in writing citing the reasons for consideration. Until approved, the player must remain in their correct grade.
VOTING
Voting is the way in which we exercise our democracy. The ideal situation at an Association vote would be for the information which has been sent to Clubs to be discussed and the Members of the Club vote on their preferences. The Club Delegates then attend the meeting
armed with their Clubs wishes and vote on behalf of their membership. In this way, all decisions would be made by 7000 people.
This of course rarely happens. Many delegates attend meetings totally unaware of the agenda and with no prior knowledge that a vote will be taken. This also happens at Club meetings.
An informed membership is an integral part of a Clubs growth. Treating members like mushrooms will ruin your Club.
Please remember when counting or casting your votes, that an abstention is in effect a "no" vote. In a simple majority decision for a meeting with 30 eligible voters, if ten voters abstain the number of "yes" votes required is still 51% of the eligible vote. IE 16 votes, not 11 of the 20 with their hands up.
WORKING WITH CHILDREN
Legislation has been introduced by the NSW Government to ensure Child Protection at all times. Whilst a full knowledge of the Act is impractical, Clubs Secretaries and Public Officers should make themselves aware of their obligations. The Soccer NSW web site contains full information on the way in which child protection works in soccer and I strongly recommend a visit. See also "Member Protection Officers".
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