Team Management Procedures

These rules should be read alongside the Club’s Constitution, Financial Rules, Code of Conduct, and Safeguarding Policy.

1. Player Eligibility - Managers must ensure that only eligible players are registered with the relevant leagues. Non-league teams must still comply with FA rules regarding small-sided football.
2. Team Selection & Conduct - Managers have full responsibility for team selection. They are also responsible for the behaviour of players on and off the pitch. Spectators should be encouraged to maintain respectful, sportsmanlike conduct.
3. Subscriptions & Financial Records - Registration and subscription fees must be collected promptly. Managers must maintain accurate records of all money collected and owed. If this task is delegated, the manager must regularly review the records to ensure proper oversight.
4. Equipment & Facility Responsibility - Managers must set up and return match equipment in good order. Changing rooms must be left clean and locked after use.
5. Disciplinary Action - Managers may take initial disciplinary action (e.g. suspension) for behaviour contrary to club values. All incidents must be reported to the Chairperson or Secretary, and the player has the right to appeal to the Management Committee.
6. Damage Reporting - Accidental damage to club property or facilities should be reported to the Chairperson or Secretary immediately to facilitate any insurance claims.
7. Matchday Logistics - Managers must provide directions for away matches and ensure that adequate transport is arranged for players.
8. Kit Inventory - Managers should maintain an up-to-date kit inventory. The Club will replace items worn out through normal use. Lost items may need to be replaced at the team’s expense, at the discretion of the Management Committee.
9. Minor Purchases - Managers may spend up to £20 per month on essential replacement items (with receipts). Any purchases over this amount must be approved in advance by the Management Committee.
10. Team Expenses - Cleaning of kit and provision of team refreshments are the responsibility of each individual team.
11. Football Ordering - All footballs must be ordered through the Club unless prior permission is given by the Management Committee.
12. Meeting Attendance - Each age group must be represented at monthly Management Committee meetings.
13. Player Supervision - Managers and representatives are responsible for ensuring players remain within the designated match or training areas.
14. Club Representation - Only registered players may represent the Club in matches.
15. Playing Kit Sponsorship - Where possible, kit costs should be covered through sponsorship. If sponsorship is not secured, managers must seek permission from the Management Committee before purchasing any kit, in line with Team Management Procedures.
16. Sponsorship Funds - Sponsorship money must be paid to the Club. The Club will then issue payment for kit to ensure the Club retains ownership of all items.
17. Club Code of Conduct - Managers and teams must follow the Club’s Code of Conduct at all times.
18. Team Funds - Team Funds need to be recorded by the Team Manager and transferred to the Club Treasurer. Funds will be held by the Club on behalf of the team.
19. Concerns & Complaints - Any concerns should be raised using the Club’s Complaints & Disciplinary Procedures.
20. Data Protection - By participating with the Club, players and managers (or their parents/guardians for under 18s) consent to their data being used in line with the Club’s Data Protection Policy and GDPR compliance.
21. First Aid Requirements - Every team must have someone with an in-date First Aid qualification present. Training is available through the FA or, at times, through the Club.
22. DBS Certification - All managers and team representatives working with under-18s must hold a valid, up-to-date FA-approved DBS certificate.
23. Safeguarding Children Certificate - All coaches and volunteers working with under-18s must complete the FA’s online Safeguarding Children (SG) course.
24. Familiarity with Safeguarding Policy - Managers must be familiar with and adhere to the Club’s Safeguarding Policy & Procedures.

SAFEGUARDING RESPONSIBILITIES

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. At GCFC, we aim to create a safe and supportive environment where children and young people can thrive.

1. Role of the Welfare Officer - Managers must inform players and parents that the Club has a Welfare Officer and explain the support this role provides.
2. Awareness & Observation - Managers and team representatives must remain aware of any issues affecting players, even if not directly related to football activity.
3. Openness & Listening - Managers should be approachable and willing to listen to any safeguarding concerns raised by players or parents.
4. Reporting Concerns - Any safeguarding concern must be reported to the Club Welfare Officer as soon as possible.
5. Conduct & Boundaries - Managers and volunteers should always act in a way that is beyond reproach. Avoid any situation that could be misinterpreted or raise concerns.
6. Duty of Care - Managers are expected to act in the best interest of all players while under their supervision, both on and off the field.
7. Immediate Action - If a safeguarding issue is identified or even suspected, it must be reported to the Club Welfare Officer without delay.