At Grimsargh Village FC, we believe that football is far more than a game—it is a tool for personal development, resilience, and community building. To ensure every child can grow in a safe, positive, and inclusive environment, we fully support and enforce The FA’s Respect Programme.

Note to all Members: Our full range of Codes of Conduct and Club Policies—including Safeguarding, Equality, and Health & Safety—can be found on our Club Website at: https://www.grimsarghvillagefc.co.uk/information. We encourage all families to familiarise themselves with these documents.

Our Codes of Conduct aren't just administrative rules; they are a shared promise between Players, Parents, Coaches, and Club Officials. By adhering to these standards, we protect the "beautiful game" from the pressures that often lead to dropout and burnout, keeping the experience fun, fair, and focused on long-term progress rather than short-term results. Below is a detailed breakdown of what we expect from every member of the GVFC family.

1. For the Parents & Spectators: Supporting the Dream

The Side line Standard. Children play football for FUN. As a parent or carer, you are the most influential person in your child’s sporting life. Your role is to be their biggest cheerleader, not their second coach. Conflicting instructions from the touchline only cause confusion and anxiety for the players.

Your Commitment:

• ✅Applaud effort, creativity, and good sportsmanship for both teams, recognising that every child on the pitch is learning.
• ✅Always respect the decisions of coaches and referees. Remember that many officials are volunteers or young people learning their trade—abuse is never acceptable.
• ✅Remain outside the field of play and within the Designated Spectators’ Area. This physical boundary helps players focus on the game and their teammates.
• ✅Let the coach do their job. Avoid shouting tactical instructions; your child needs to learn to make their own decisions on the pitch.
• ✅Never engage in, or tolerate, offensive, insulting, or abusive language. We strive for a family-friendly atmosphere at every venue.
• ✅Encourage players to respect the opposition. Without an opponent, there is no game.
• ✅Avoid criticising a player for making a mistake. Mistakes are the primary way children learn and develop their skills.

Accountability: We take the sideline environment seriously. Failure to follow this code can result in verbal warnings, mandatory attendance at FA education courses, or, in serious cases, being requested to leave the venue or having club membership revoked for the family.

2. For the Players: Playing with Pride

The Heart of the Game. As a GVFC player, you represent our village every time you pull on the shirt. Your behaviour on the pitch, in the dugout, and after the game is just as important as your skill with the ball.

Your Commitment:

• ✅Always play to the best of your ability, focusing on your own development and helping your teammates.
• ✅Play fairly and honestly. We do not tolerate cheating, complaining, or time-wasting.
• ✅Respect your teammates, the opposition, the referee, and your coach. Treat others how you would like to be treated.
• ✅Play by the rules and follow the instructions given by your coach and the referee without argument.
• ✅Shake hands with the other team and the referee at the end of every game, regardless of the score line or any frustrations during play.
• ✅Listen and respond positively to what your coach tells you; they are there to help you improve.
• ✅Speak up for yourself. Talk to a trusted adult or the Club Welfare Officer if you are ever unhappy or feel unsafe at the club.

Accountability: Being part of a team requires discipline. Infringements may lead to being asked to sit out of training, being required to issue a formal apology, or, for repeated issues, suspension from matches and potentially leaving the club.

3. For the Coaches & Officials: Leading by Example

The Architects of Culture. Behaviour is often cited as the biggest concern in grassroots football. Our coaches are the primary role models for our players, and they are committed to placing player well-being and enjoyment above the scoreboard.

Our Commitment:

• ✅Show consistent respect to match officials and opposition staff, even when you disagree with a decision.
• ✅Adhere to the laws and the spirit of the game, promoting Fair Play at all times.
• ✅Develop mutual trust and respect with every player to build their self-esteem and confidence.
• ✅Ensure all training and match-day activities are appropriate for the age, ability, and maturity level of the players.
• ✅Clearly explain expectations to players and parents so everyone is aligned on the season's goals.
• ✅Zero tolerance for any form of bullying or public criticism of match officials.
• ✅Cooperate fully with other officials (referees, league staff, welfare officers) to act in the best interests of the players.

Accountability: As leaders, coaches are held to the highest standard. Breaches of conduct may lead to peer monitoring, mandatory FA education, suspension from matches, or removal from the coaching position by the committee.

We all have a collective responsibility to promote high standards of behaviour. When parents, players, and coaches work together, we ensure that Grimsargh Village FC remains a place where children love to play, parents love to watch, and visitors feel welcomed.

By signing up to play for or support GVFC, you are agreeing to uphold these values. For more information, please visit our official Information Hub at https://www.grimsarghvillagefc.co.uk/information. Let's make sure the memories our children take from football are filled with positivity and pride.

Thank you for playing your part in keeping football respect-focused at GVFC!

For full details on the FA Respect Programme or to report a concern, please speak with our Club Welfare Officer in confidence.