Hurunui Rangers FC

Codes of Conduct for Players, Coaches, Officials & Specators


Players Code of Conduct

In order to be enjoyed universally, football has to be played to a standard code of conduct. To avoid bringing the game into disrepute players are expected to observe the following code of conduct. Failure to abide by these rules may result in suspension, exclusion from a team or dismissal from the club.

Decisions: Accept match official's decision without question. Referees/ Umpires decision is always final. 

Respect: Be punctual to all practices and games. Treat your coach, officials and opponents with the respect you would wish them give to you. If you are not able to make a practice or a game, let your coach/manager know- give as much notice as possible. 

Appeals: Avoid appealing to the referee/ umpire for decisions to be given in your favour e.g. throw ins, corner kicks, apparent infringements by opponents. 

Discipline: Keep your temper under control in all circumstances. Physical violence will not be tolerated. 

Fair Play: Display good sportsmanship. Play fairly without danger to opponents or your own team mates. 

Sportsmanship: Do not indulge in practices of cheating under the guise of 'gamesmanship'. 

Language: Foul language, belittling or bullying behaviour, hand signals or gestures, will not be tolerated. 

Equipment & Clothing: Take pride in your appearance. Wear the correct club uniform unless otherwise stated. Jewellery must not be worn- earrings, watches, rings etc.Shirts should be tucked in and socks up at all times. Boots and shin-pads are compulsory. Shin-pads must be entirely covered by socks at all times.

Players will be allowed one warning. If a player breaches again they will be stood down for two weeks. If a player is red carded then the stand down period will be two weeks.


Coaches/Officials Code of Conduct

  • Be a positive role model for all players. It is the responsibility of all coaches & officials to ensure that all matches are conducted within the spirit and the laws of the sport.
  • Where there is a conflict between advantage for his/her own team and the good of the game, coaches shall place the good of the game above all else.
  • Ensure players time spent with you is positive. They are deserving of equal attention and opportunities. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of everybody regardless of age, sex, race, religion or sexual orientation. Respect the talent, developmental stage & goals of each individual player. Help each player reach their full potential.
  • Team officials wishing to question, as distinct from disputing an umpires/referees decision shall do so privately and well after the end of the game. Under no circumstances shall team officials remonstrate with umpires/referees on or adjacent to the field of play.
  • Be professional in and accept responsibility for your actions. Be punctual to games & practices. Ensure that children under the age of 18 years are not left unsupervised at any time.
  • Language, manner, preparation and presentation should reflect high standards.
  • Display control, respect, dignity and professionalism to all involved with the sport - this includes opponents, coaches, officials, administrators, parents & spectators.
  • Avoid any situation where you might be accused of inappropriate behaviour. Avoid unaccompanied and unobserved activities with persons under the age of 18 years wherever possible.
  • Show concern and caution towards sick and injured players. Seek medical advice when required.
  • Team officials shall ensure that all players and spectators are aware of the Players Code of Conduct and all Laws, Regulations, and Playing Conditions pertaining to the conduct of players, including Codes of Conduct for affiliated bodies. 

In the first instance of a serious breach of conduct, the coach will be spoken to by the Director of Coaching. If the behaviour continues, they will be stood down and the matter brought to a committee meeting.


Spectators Code of Conduct

 Good sport is about positive attitude. Together we can set the right tone and help make the game a success.

  • Respect that people are involved in sport for fun and enjoyment
  • Support good play and applaud good performance from all competitors
  • Attempt to understand the rules of the game
  • Learn the difference between supportive and abusive comments
  • Accept the decisions of officials and coaches
  • Display self-control on the sideline. Always be positive. Never shout at or ridicule players.
  • Show your appreciation of the people who volunteer their time to make sport happen
  • Remember that we are all capable of making mistakes. 
  • Spectators should stand 1m from sideline and give way to linesman who needs clear view of the entire line. 
  • At no time should spectators stand beside or behind the goal
  • Premier games require spectators to be on the opposite side of the pitch to coaches (technical boxes are marked) allowing players to hear directions of coach from one side of pitch only.

In the first instance of a serious breach of conduct, the spectator will be contacted by the Club Captain. If the misconduct is of a serious nature, then the Police may need to get involved.