Club Constitution
- CLUB CONSTITUTION
- CODE OF CONDUCT FOR FOOTBALL
- CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MANAGERS/COACHES
- CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PLAYERS
- CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS/ SPECTATORS
1. NAME
The Club shall be called Bridgnorth Spartans Junior Football Club.
2. CLUB OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Club shall be to arrange association football matches for its members thus providing them with the opportunities to develop their footballing skills and openly encourage team spirit.
3. STATUS OF THE RULES
These rules (the Club Rules) form a binding agreement between each member of the Club.
4. RULES AND REGULATIONS
a) The Club shall have the status of an Affiliated Member Club of The Football Association by virtue of its affiliation to/membership of The Football Association. The Rules and Regulations of The Football Association Limited and parent County Association and any League or Competition to which the Club is affiliated for the time being shall be deemed to be incorporated into the Club Rules.
b) No alteration to the Club Rules shall be effective without prior written approval by the parent Association.
c) The Club will also abide by The Football Association’s Child Protection Policies and Procedures, Codes of Conduct and the Equal Opportunities and Anti-Discrimination Policy.
5. MEMBERSHIP
a) The members of the Club shall be those persons listed in the register of members (the Membership Register), which shall be maintained by the Club Secretary. Membership of the Club shall consist of Playing Members and Non-Playing Members.
b) Membership of the Club shall be open to all persons who have completed a Membership Application Form and delivered it to the Club. Election to membership shall be at the sole discretion of the Club Committee. Membership shall become effective upon an applicant’s name being entered in the Membership Register and the member agreeing to abide by the Rules and Constitution of the Club
c) The General Committee shall have power to accept or to refuse an application for membership at any time, such power being exercised by simple majority vote.
d) The General Committee shall have power to remove from membership, any person who commits an offence that is considered serious enough to warrant such removal. Such action or other disciplinary action against members shall only be taken at a duly convened meeting of the General Committee before which the alleged offender shall be entitled to appear.
e) All members joining the Club shall be deeded to accept the terms of this Constitution and any byelaws from time to time adopted by the Club.
f) In the event of a member’s resignation or expulsion, his or her name shall be removed from the Membership register.
g) The Club will encourage the participation in a Vice Presidents scheme. Full details of the scheme will be subject to a separate agreement between VPs and the Club.
6. ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE
a) An annual fee payable by each member shall be determined from time to time by the Club Committee. Any fee shall be payable on a successful application for membership and annually by each member. Membership fees are non- refundable.
b) The Club Committee shall have the authority to levy further subscriptions from the members as are reasonably necessary to fulfil the objectives of the Club.
7. CLUB COMMITTEE
a) The affairs of the Club shall be managed by a Committee consisting of seven members elected at the Annual General Meeting. From this Committee shall be elected the Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Social Secretary, Managers Representative, P.R. Representative and a Schrobenhausen Representative
b) All Committee Members shall be members of the Club
c) Each Club Officer and Club Committee Member shall hold office from the date of the appointment until the next Annual General Meeting unless otherwise resolved at a Special General Meeting. One person may hold no more than two positions of Club Officer at any time.
d) The Committee shall have overall control of all Club activities, finance and of all matters pertaining to the general conduct and welfare of the Club. It shall have the power to appoint sub-committees when necessary and to delegate to any such sub-committee any powers except the election or rejection of members.
Decisions of the Club Committee shall be made by a simple majority of those attending the Club Committee meeting. The Chairperson of the Club Committee meeting shall have a casting vote in the event of a tie.
Meetings of the Club Committee shall be chaired by the Chairman or in their absence the Secretary. The quorum for the transaction of business of the Club Committee shall be three.
e) Any member of the Committee who fails to attend two consecutive monthly meetings shall be suspended from membership of the Committee until an explanation for such absence has been given and is accepted. In the event of a vacancy arising among the elected members, the other members may co-opt a successor.
f) Decisions of the Club Committee of meetings shall be entered into the Minute Book of the Club to be maintained by the Club Secretary.
g) Any member of the Club Committee may call a meeting of the Club Committee by giving not less than 7 days’ notice to all members of the Club Committee. The Club Committee shall hold not less than four meetings a year.
h) Any outgoing member of the Club Committee may be re-elected. Any vacancy on the Club Committee, which arises between Annual General Meetings, shall be filled by a member proposed by one and seconded by another of the remaining Club committee members and approved by a simple majority of the remaining Club Committee members.
8. ANNUAL AND SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
a) An Annual General Meeting [AGM] of the Club shall be held in each year to hear reports of Club activities from the Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer, and any other reports that the Committee considers appropriate.
b) The Annual General Meeting shall also:
i) Approve the Minutes of the previous year’s AGM
ii) Approve the annual Accounts
iii) Elect the Committee and its Officers (see Section 8a).
iv) Consider and if approved, sanction any duly made alteration in the Constitution.
v) Elect the Honorary Auditor for the coming year.
c) Nominations for election of members as Club Officers or as members of the Club Committee shall be made in writing by the proposer and seconder, both of whom must be existing members of the Club, to the Club Secretary not less than 21 days before the AGM. Notice of any resolution to be proposed at the AGM shall be given in writing to the Club Secretary not less than 21 days before the meeting.
d) A Special General Meeting [SGM] may be convened by the Committee and shall be called within 21 days of the receipt by the Club Secretary of a requisition in writing signed by not less than five members stating the purposes for which the meeting is required and the resolutions proposed. Business at an SGM may be any business that may be transacted at an AGM.
e) The Secretary shall send to each member at their known address, written notice of the date of the meeting together with the resolutions to be proposed at least 14 days before the Meeting.
f) The quorum for a General Meeting shall be five.
g) The Chairman, or in their absence a member selected by the Club Committee, shall take the chair. Each member present shall have one vote and resolutions shall be passed by a majority. In the event of an equality of votes, the Chairperson shall have a casting vote.
h) The Club Secretary, or in their absence a member of the Club Committee, shall enter Minutes of General Meetings into the Minute Book of the Club.
9. AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION
This Constitution may be added to, repealed or amended by resolution at any Annual or Special General Meeting, provided that no such resolution shall be deemed to have been passed unless it is carried by a majority of the members voting thereon.
A proposal to change the Constitution must be submitted in writing to the Secretary who shall circulate the proposal to all members and allow 14 days for submission of any amendments before calling a meeting in accordance with Rule 6 above.
All proposals for changes to the Constitution shall be signed by two members eligible to vote at a General Meeting.
10. CLUB TEAMS
At its first meeting following each AGM, the Club Committee shall appoint a Club member to be responsible for each of the Club’s football teams. The appointed members shall be responsible for managing the affairs of the team. The appointed members shall present to the Club Committee at its last meeting prior to an AGM a written report on the activities of the team.
11. CLUB FINANCES
a) Bank accounts shall be opened and maintained in the name of the Club. Designated account signatories shall be the Club Chairperson, the Club Secretary and the Treasurer. No sum shall be drawn from the Club Account except by cheque signed by two of the three designated signatories. All monies payable to the Club shall be received by the Treasurer and deposited in the Club Account. Currently there are three bank accounts, namely Current Account, Deposit Account and Tour Account (Schrobenhausen).
b) The income and assets of the Club shall be applied only in furtherance of the objects of the Club.
c) The Club Committee shall have power to authorise the payment of remuneration and expenses to any member of the Club and to any other person or persons for services rendered to the Club.
d) The Club shall prepare an annual Financial Statement in such form as shall be published by The Football Association from time to time.
The financial year shall run from 1st June to 31st May each year
The Treasurer shall be responsible for the preparation of Annual Accounts of the Club.
An independent person elected annually at the AGM shall audit the Accounts.
e) The Club Property, other than the Club Account, shall be vested in not less than two and no more than four custodians, one of whom shall be the Treasurer (the Custodians), who shall deal with the Club Property as directed by decisions of the Club Committee and entry in the Minute Book shall be conclusive evidence of such a decision.
f) The Custodians shall be appointed by the Club in a General Meeting and shall hold office until death or resignation, unless removed by a resolution passed at a General Meeting.
g) On their removal or resignation, a Custodian shall execute a Conveyance in such form as is published by The Football Association from time to time to a newly-elected Custodian or the existing Custodians as directed by the Club Committee. On the death of a Custodian, any Club Property bested in them shall vest automatically in the surviving Custodians. If there is only one surviving Custodian, a Special General Meeting shall be convened as soon as possible to appoint another Custodian.
h) The Custodian shall be entitled to an indemnity out of the Club Property for all expenses and other liabilities reasonably incurred by them in carrying out their duties.
i) All members of the Club shall be jointly responsible for the financial liabilities of the Club.
12. INSURANCE
The Club shall ensure that suitable public liability insurance cover is maintained. In addition, coaching staff will also be encouraged to obtain personal insurance cover.
13. BYE-LAWS
The Committee shall have the power to publish and enforce such byelaws, as the Committee feels necessary to govern the activities of the Club.
14. DISSOLUTION
a) A resolution to dissolve the Club shall only be proposed at a General Meeting and shall be carried by a majority of at least three-quarters of the members present.
b) The dissolution shall take effect from the date of the resolution and the members of the Club Committee shall be responsible for the winding up of the assets and liabilities of the Club.
c) In the event of dissolution, any surplus assets of Bridgnorth Spartans remaining after settling with creditors shall be disposed of to schools or like-minded clubs. All monies lodged in the Club bank shall go to a charity, of the Committees’ choice.
15. DECLARATION
It is hereby certified that this document represents a true and the most up-to-date version of the Constitution of Bridgnorth Spartans Football Club
Signed: K Marshall Chairman
Signed: N Dain Secretary
Date: 24th February 2006
A CODE OF CONDUCT FOR FOOTBALL
Football is the national game. All those involved with the game at every level and whether as a player, match official, coach, owner or administrator, have a responsibility above and beyond compliance with the law, to act according to the highest standards of integrity, and to ensure that the reputation of the game is, and remains, high. This code applies to all those involved in football under the auspices of The Football Association.
Community
Football, at all levels, is a vital part of a community. Football will take into account community feeling when making decision
Equality
Football is opposed to discrimination of any form and will promote measures to prevent it, in whatever form, from being expressed.
Participants
Football recognises the sense of ownership felt by those who participate at all levels of the game. This includes those who play, those who coach or help in any way and those who officiate, as well as administrators and supporters. Football is committed to appropriate consultation.
Young People
Football acknowledges the extent of its influence over your people and pledges to set a positive example.
Propriety
Football acknowledges that public confidence demands the highest standards of financial and administrative behaviour within the game and will not tolerate corruption or improper practices.
Trust and Respect
Football will uphold a relationship of trust and respect between all involved in the game, whether they are individuals, clubs or other organisations.
Violence
Football rejects the use of violence of any nature by anyone involved in the game.
Fairness
Football is committed to fairness in its dealings with all involved in the game.
Integrity and Fair Play
Football is committed to the principle of playing to win consistent with fair play.
A CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MANAGERS/COACHES
Managers/Coaches are central to establishing ethics in football. Their concept of ethics is their attitude, which directly affects the behaviour of players under their supervision. Managers/Coaches are, therefore, expected to pay particular care to the moral aspects of their conduct.
Managers/Coaches have to be aware that almost all of their everyday decisions and choice of actions have ethical implications.
It is natural that winning constitutes a basic theme for Managers/Coaches. This code is not intended to conflict with that. However, the Code calls for Managers/Coaches to disassociate themselves from a ‘win at all cost’ attitude and to bring into the game the element of ‘fair play.’
Set out below is the benchmark requirements for Managers/Coaches.
1. To arrange pre season training sessions and to present a minimum 7 / 11 players Registration Forms (with Birth Certificates if required) to the League at least two weeks prior to first match.
2. To collect current “sign on” fee with Registration Form.
3. To arrange “midweek” training sessions during the season.
4. To liase with Kit Rep to secure full kit requirements and to record all kit issued.
5. To recover all kit at the and of the season and return to Kit Rep.
6. To carry trainer balls, bibs and at least two “match balls”
7. To carry selection of “spare kit”.
8. To ensure the Team has a First Aid Kit and recognised First Aider, to be familiar with the current F.A. first aid requirements.
9. To collect Players subs as per Club Requirements.
10. To complete a register of “Number of Matches” each player plays.
11. To liase openly with Club Secretary re any team issues.
12. To play out fixtures as per League Fixture Sheet.
13. To present on home matchday either a Match Report Form or Cancellation Form to the secretary.
14. To attend monthly club meetings (or appoint a deputy to attend).
15. For Home Games, to contact the opposition Manager and give as much notice as reasonably possible of the kick off time and venue of the match.
16. To secure a Referee and one linesman for home matches.
17. In cases of “bad weather” to liase with Referee and carry out pitch inspection at 9.00 am on matchday, and to contact opposition to advise if the match is on.
18. For away matches, to contact all parents and give a minimum of two days notice of arrangements
19. To arrange suitable half time refreshments.
20. To ensure each player present (up to and including the age of 13) on matchday plays at least one third of the match.
21. To welcome opposition team.
22. Introduce home referee to the opposition.
23. To present team list to the referee prior to kick off.
24. To present players and registration forms to the opposition prior to kick off.
25. To encourage all players to carry out “end of game” handshake.
26. For home games to check all details on Match Report Form and deliver to Club Secretary same day.
27. For home games to telephone match result as per League Requirements.
28. For home games to ensure the playing facility and surrounding area is left free of debris or litter and all gates secured.
29. To attend annual “Presentation Evening” with team.
30. Too attend club A. G. M.
31. To offer positive words of instruction during the match
32. To respect the rights dignity and worth of each person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
33. To place the wellbeing and safety of each player above all other considerations within the team.
34. To show respect to the players when in the pursuit of development or the measurement of performance.
35. To adhere to all guidelines lay down by F.A., League or Club.
36. To develop an appropriate working relationship with each player based on mutual trust and respect.
37. Not to exert undue influence to obtain personal reward.
38. To encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour when representing the club.
39. To ensure that any activities they direct or expectations upon the field of play are appropriate for the age, experience and ability of players.
40. To encourage an open dialogue between themselves, players and parents.
41. Must show due respect for the health and safety of the players.
42. Must promote positive aspects of the sport and never condone violations of the Laws of the Game.
43. Must not condone the use of prohibited substances or techniques.
44. Must consistently be seen to display high standards of behaviour and appearance.
45. Must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
Bridgnorth Spartans J. F. C. offers equal opportunities in sport to all players.
A CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PLAYERS
Players are the most important people in the sport. Playing for the team, and for their team to win, is the most fundamental part of the game. Respect and fair play for all others in the game is equally as important.
Whilst involved in club activity, players must accept that they are representing their Club and their Town. Players are encouraged to wear their Club shirt with pride and demonstrate a commitment to their team.
OBLIGATIONS OF THE GAME
A player should
1. Make every effort to develop their own game and to improve their skill and fitness.
2. Give 100% for their team no matter what the score line is.
3. Set a positive example to other teammates.
4. Avoid the practice of gamesmanship and time wasting.
5. Not use inappropriate language.
6. Uphold the laws of the game and at all times maintain the use of ‘fair play.’
7. Accept victory and defeat, equally.
8. Resist any temptation to take banned substances or use banned techniques.
RESPECT TOWARDS OPPONENTS
A player should
1. Show due respect at all times to their opponents, irrespective or the result of the game.
2. Safeguard the well being of opponents; avoid violence and rough play.
RESPECT TOWARDS TO MATCH OFFICIALS
A player should
1. Show due respect towards all match officials, accept their decisions without protest and avoid words or actions during the match which may mislead them.
RESPECT TOWARDS TEAM OFFICIALS
A player should
1. Listen to and carry out the instructions of their manager and coach to be best of their ability.
2. Show respect towards the opposition officials.
OBLIGATION TOWARDS THE SUPPORTERS
A player should
1. Show due respect at all times to the interest of supporters of both teams.
A CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PARENTS / GUARDIANS / SPECTATORS
Parents/guardians/spectators have a great influence on a child’s enjoyment and success in football. Football at this level is for fun, the control and development of the level of fun starts upon the touchline. No matter how good an individual or team become, the signals, which radiate from the touchline, have to be regulated and controlled so as to meet the F.A. code of good practice, and promote fair play and sportsmanship. Bridgnorth Spartans J. F. C. believes it to be important to communicate this clear message to all spectators to ensure the future success at junior level of the game.
Parents/guardians/spectators are asked only to make positive contributions to help the child to:
• Enjoy their football
• Realise a sense of personal achievement
• Develop self esteem
• Improve skills and techniques
A parents/spectators/guardians expectation and attitude have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude towards:
• Other players
• Officials
• Managers
• Spectators
Bridgnorth Spartans remain committed at all time to encourage parents/guardian’s/ spectators to:
• Applaud the opposition as well as our own team
• Avoid coaching the players during the game
• Not to shout or scream from the touchline
• Respect the Referees decision
• Give attention to every team member
• Be aware of the requirements of the Child Protection Act
Bridgnorth Spartans are committed to ensure that parents/spectators agree and adhere to the Club’s Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy.