At Gomersal & Cleckheaton FC, we believe football should be fun, respectful, and
accessible to all. Our Code of Conduct is based on The FA’s Respect Campaign and reflects our values of teamwork, inclusion, development, and community spirit.

YOUNG PLAYERS

When playing football, I will:

Always play to the best of my ability and for the benefit of my team
Play fairly – I won’t cheat, dive, complain or waste time
Respect my team-mates, the other team, the referee or my coach/manager
Play by the rules, as directed by the referee
Be gracious in victory and defeat – I will shake hands with the other team and the referee at the end of the game
Listen and respond to what my coach/team manager tells me
Understand that a coach has to do what is best for the team and not one individual player
Talk to someone I trust or the club welfare officer if I’m unhappy about anything at my club.

If I do not follow the code, I may:

Be asked to apologise to my team-mates, the other team, the referee or my coach
Receive a formal warning
Be dropped or substituted
Be suspended from training
In serious cases, the club may discuss whether continued membership is appropriate

Additionally:

My parent or carer may be informed
The FA/County FA may impose a fine or suspension on the club.

SPECTATORS & PARENTS/CARERS

We all bear a collective responsibility to create a positive environment for players to learn and enjoy the game. Please play your part.

I will:

Remember that children play for FUN
Applaud effort and good play, regardless of the result
Respect the referee’s decisions
Appreciate good football from both teams
Stay behind the touchline within the designated spectators' area
Let the coach do their job and not shout conflicting instructions
Encourage respect for the opposition and match officials
Support players with positive encouragement, not criticism
Never engage in or tolerate offensive, insulting or abusive behaviour

If I do not follow the code, I may:

Receive a verbal warning
Be asked to meet with the club or County FA
Be required to attend an FA education course
Be asked to leave the match venue or not attend future games
Be suspended or removed from club membership (with dependents where relevant)

Additionally:

The FA/County FA may fine or sanction the club

COACHES, TEAM MANAGERS AND CLUB OFFICIALS

As a coach or official, you are a role model. Your conduct helps shape the experience of every player and parent.

On and off the field, I will:

Lead by example in attitude and behaviour
Show respect to everyone involved, including referees, players, coaches, and spectators
Follow the laws and spirit of the game
Promote Fair Play and high standards
Never enter the field without permission
Never engage in or tolerate abusive or discriminatory behaviour
Be gracious in victory and defeat.

When working with players, I will:

Prioritise each player’s safety, wellbeing, and enjoyment
Never engage in or tolerate bullying of any kind
Encourage responsibility and ownership of behaviour
Plan appropriate activities based on players’ age and ability
Work collaboratively with officials, welfare officers, and other coaches

If I do not follow the code, I may:

Be required to meet with the club or County FA
Be suspended from matches
Be suspended or fined by the County FA
Be removed from my role within the club

Additionally:

My FA Coaching Licence may be withdrawn.

.
ADULT PLAYERS

You represent the club on and off the pitch. Conduct yourself with respect and integrity at all times

On and off the field, I will:

Follow the Laws of the Game
Uphold high standards of behaviour
Promote Fair Play
Respect referees and avoid public criticisms
Avoid offensive, abusive or insulting behaviour
Avoid bullying, intimidation or harassment
Communicate respectfully with team-mates and coaches
Accept mistakes and respond with maturity
Win or lose with dignity

If I do not follow the code, I may:

Be asked to apologise
Receive verbal or written warnings
Be dropped, substituted, or suspended from training or matches
Be required to attend an FA education course
Be fined or suspended
Be asked to leave the club

Additionally:

The FA/County FA may impose fines or suspensions on the club.