Christchurch Football Club

Code of Conduct

The Club has a Code of Conduct for its members and this code sets outs the club’s policies and expectations around behaviour. As a club we are committed to promoting and strengthening the positive image of rugby and its participants in New Zealand. The Christchurch Football Club seeks to establish standards of performance and behaviour to ensure that its members act in a proper manner to ensure that the game is played and conducted with disciplined and sporting behaviour both on and off the field.

We are a rugby club committed to the ethics of

- Inclusion- Fair and safe play on the field

- Mutual respect and consideration

- Providing a harassment free sporting and social environment

These principals are embedded in our Club Code of Conduct and we have a moral responsibility to address such behaviours that commonly offend reasonable community standards, or which is against the law by way of racial vilification, sexual harassment, criminal or common assault.

Your support in ensuring the Club’s standing in our community remains strong is appreciated.

Mark Arneil

Board Chairman

Codes of Conduct

COACHES

I will:
• remember that players participate for enjoyment and winning is only part of the fun
• never ridicule or yell at players for making a mistake or not winning
• be reasonable in my demands on players’ time, energy, and enthusiasm
• operate within the rules and spirit of the game and teach my players to do the same
• ensure that the time players spend with me is a positive experience. All players are deserving of
equal attention and opportunities.
• ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age and
ability of all players
• display control, respect and professionalism to all involved with the sport including opponents, referees, coaches, officials,
administrators, the media, parents, and spectators. I will encourage my players to do the same.
• show concern and caution toward sick and injured players and follow the advice of a physician when determining
whether an injured player is ready to recommence training or competition
• obtain appropriate qualifications and keep up to date with the latest coaching practices
• respect the rights, dignity and worth of all people involved in the game, regardless of their gender, ability or cultural background
• promote adherence to anti-doping policies
• use appropriate language with players, coaches, officials and spectators.
• present myself in an appropriate way with all stakeholders.

FOR PARENTS/CAREGIVERS AND SPECTATORS

I will:
• respect officials’ and coaches’ decisions
• respect the efforts of their opponents
• applaud good plays and performances by both my team and their opponents
• give positive comments that motivate and encourage continued effort
• support my team’s efforts and performance
• thank the coaches, officials and other volunteers who give their time to conduct the
event
• assist when asked by a coach or official
• respect the rights, dignity and worth of all people involved in the game, regardless of their gender, ability or cultural
background.
• acknowledge that the game is the player’s game not mine.
• use appropriate language with players, coaches, officials and other spectators.
• present myself and act in an appropriate way at pre-game and after-match functions.

FOR PLAYERS

I will:
• not argue with an official. If I disagree with a decision I will inform the captain, coach or manager during a break or after the competition.
• control my temper. I understand that verbal abuse of officials and other players, or deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent is not acceptable or permitted behaviour
in rugby.
• work equally hard for myself and my team.
• treat all players in my sport as I like to be treated. I will not bully or take unfair advantage of another player.
• co-operate with my coach, team mates and opponents.
• display modesty in victory and graciousness in defeat.
• participate for my own enjoyment and benefit, not just to please parents and coaches.
• respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
• thank the opposition and officials at the end of the game.
• comply with anti-doping policies.
• use appropriate language with players, coaches, officials and other spectators.
• present myself and act in an appropriate way at pre-game and after-match functions.

Drug and Alcohol Policy

1. Purpose

1.1 The purpose of this Policy is to ensure a safe, healthy, and respectful environment for all Members, players, officials, employees, volunteers, and visitors of Christchurch Football Club (“the Club”).

1.2 This Policy supports the Objects of the Club under Rule 2 and aligns with Sport NZ principles and New Zealand sporting best practice.

2. Application

2.1 This Policy applies to all Members (as defined in Rule 3), Officers, team officials, employees, volunteers, and visitors where they are:

a) Participating in training, matches, tours, tournaments, or Club‑sanctioned events;

b) Representing the Club in any capacity;

c) Using or present in Club facilities, including clubrooms, changing rooms, and surrounding grounds.

3. Illegal and Prohibited Drugs

3.1 The use, possession, supply, or distribution of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited at any Club activity or within any Club facility.

3.2 No person may participate in any training session, match, or Club activity while under the influence of illegal drugs.

3.3 Prescription or over‑the‑counter medication must be used only as prescribed or directed by a qualified medical professional.

4. Alcohol

4.1 Alcohol consumption at the Club must be responsible, lawful, and consistent with maintaining the Club’s reputation and values.

4.2 Players and team officials must not consume alcohol:

a) While participating in training or matches;

b) In changing rooms or on sidelines during fixtures.

4.3 Alcohol may be sold or supplied in Clubrooms only in accordance with applicable licensing laws and host responsibility requirements.

4.4 Under‑18 Members and visitors are not permitted to consume alcohol at any Club activity or on Club premises.

5. Clubrooms and Facilities

5.1 The Clubrooms are a shared community facility and must be used respectfully at all times.

5.2 Intoxicated, unsafe, abusive, or disorderly behaviour will not be tolerated.

5.3 The Club reserves the right to refuse service, restrict access, or require any person to leave Club premises if their behaviour breaches this Policy.

6. Breaches and Disciplinary Action

6.1 Any breach of this Policy may be treated as misconduct under:

a) The Club’s Constitution;

b) The Club Code of Conduct; and

c) Applicable Rugby Union rules and regulations.

6.2 The Board, or its authorised nominee, may take disciplinary action consistent with Rules 8, 13, and Schedule 1 of the Constitution, including but not limited to:

a) Warnings;

b) Suspension from participation or membership;

c) Removal from Club premises;

d) Termination of membership in serious cases.

7. Responsibility and Culture

7.1 All Members and participants are expected to:

a) Act responsibly and lawfully;

b) Look after their own wellbeing and that of others;

c) Promote a safe, inclusive, and family‑friendly Club culture.

8. Review

8.1 This Policy will be reviewed periodically by the Board and may be amended in accordance with Club governance processes.