Gomersal & Cleckheaton FC is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all players.

These rules apply to all registered players and their parents or guardians and are designed to ensure the smooth and respectful running of our club.

They should be read in conjunction with the Club's Code of Conduct, Safeguarding Policy, Complaints & Disciplinary Procedures, and Data Protection Policy.

Participation & Attendance

• Regular attendance at training and matches is expected. If a player cannot attend, please inform your manager in advance.
• Players should arrive on time and be collected promptly.
• If there are any travel difficulties, the team manager should be informed as early as possible.
• If a player misses training without notice, they may be named as a substitute for the following match.
• Consistent lateness or absence may affect selection and development opportunities.
• Team selection is at the manager’s discretion, and their decision is final.

Registration & Club Administration

• Annual Registration fees are spread across 12 monthly payments to help families budget and reduce administration for volunteers. Payments must be kept up to date.
• All fees must be paid on time. Missed payments may affect the player's ability to participate in matches or training.
• By registering, parents/guardians agree to the Club’s Data Protection Policy and GDPR-compliant practices.
• In cases where a player is eligible for multiple teams, the Management Committee will decide which team holds primary registration in the event of a dispute.

Matchday & Training Expectations

• Players must arrive on time for both training and matches. Late arrivals may be asked to start as substitutes.
• Players must wear appropriate kit, including:
1. Shin pads (mandatory for all sessions)
2. Suitable footwear
3. No jewellery (must be removed or safely covered)
4. Weather-appropriate clothing, including base layers and coats in colder months
• Players must remain within the designated training and match areas unless given permission to leave.
• Club match shirts are for official fixtures only and should not be worn at training.
• Mobile phones must be kept away during training or matches unless permitted by a coach.

Behaviour, Conduct & Discipline

• Players should give 100% effort at all times and show respect for teammates, opponents, coaches, referees, and volunteers.
• Players must follow the Club’s Code of Conduct at all times.
• Parents, guardians, and spectators are expected to uphold the same standard of behaviour.
• Parents/guardians are expected to support their child’s participation in a positive, respectful manner and refrain from coaching from the sidelines.
• Misconduct by players or their parents/guardians that results in fines will require reimbursement to the Club.
• Referees’ decisions must be accepted without argument. Dissent will not be tolerated.
• Disciplinary action (except referee decisions) may be taken by the Club if rules are broken. A right of appeal is available and will be reviewed by the Management Committee.

Player Welfare & Communication

• Injuries or health conditions affecting participation must be shared with the team manager so appropriate support can be offered.
• Parents/guardians should inform coaches if players are feeling unwell before a session.
• Parents and players must be cautious with social media. Posts that bring the Club, teammates, or officials into disrepute may lead to disciplinary action.
• Spectator conduct should reflect the values of the Club - positive encouragement, not coaching from the sidelines or negative comments.

Complaints & Issues

• Any concerns should be raised using the Club’s Complaints & Disciplinary Procedures.
• Complaints should first go to the Team Manager. If unresolved, they can be escalated to the Age Group Manager or Club Secretary.
• If the concern involves a safeguarding matter, the Club Welfare Officer must be notified immediately.