Codes of Conduct

Player Code of Conduct

A player code of conduct will apply to Aussie Rules.
All players must play by the rules.
The code of conduct refers to the behaviour of a person, persons and/or team involved in any way with Aussie Rules, including spectators of any particular team.
Never argue with an official. If you disagree, have your captain, coach or manager approach the official during a break or after the game in an appropriate manner.
Control your temper. Verbal and physical abuse of officials or other players, deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent is not acceptable or permitted in Aussie Rules.
Work equally hard for yourself and for your team. Your teams performance will benefit, so will you.
Be a good sport. Acknowledge all good players whether they are by your team or the other team.
Treat all players as you would like to be treated. Do not interfere with, bully or take unfair advantage of another player.
Cooperate with your coach, team mates and opponents. Without them there would be no competition.
Play for the 'fun of it' and not just to win or to please spectators or team mates.
Avoid use of derogatory language based on gender, race or impairment.
Be prepared to lose sometimes. Everyone wins and loses at some time. Be a fair winner and good loser.

Remember that individuals participate for fun. They are not playing for the entertainment of spectators. They are not professionals.
Applaud good performances from each team. Congratulate all players regardless of the outcome.
Respect the official's decision. If there is a disagreement, follow the appropriate procedure in order to query the decision.
Never ridicule or abuse a participant for making a mistake during competition. Be positive.
Condemn the use of violence in any form, be it by spectators, coaches or players.
Show respect for your team's opponents, without them, there would be no game.
Encourage participants to obey rules and decisions of officials.
Demonstrate appropriate social behaviour by not using foul language, harassing players, coaches or officials.
Avoid use of derogatory language based on gender, race or impairment.

Interpret rules and regulations to match the skill level and the needs of the participants.
Compliment both teams on their efforts.
Be consistent, objective and courteous in calling all infractions.
Condemn the deliberate foul as being unsportsmanlike, and promote fair play and appropriate sporting behaviour.
Use common sense to ensure that the 'spirit of the game' is not lost by overcalling violations.
Publicly encourage rule changes, which will reinforce the principles of participation for fun and enjoyment.
Actions speak louder than words. Ensure that both on and off the field your behaviour is consistent with the principles of good sportsmanship.
Make personal commitment to keep yourself informed of sound officiating principles and the principles of growth and development of participants.
Help the education process of the game. Officials can help players learn to play the game well by ensuring rule infractions are understood, and by encouraging fair play.

Be responsible in your demands on participants' time, energy and enthusiasm.
Teach your participants that rules of the game are mutual agreements, which no one should evade or break.
Avoid over playing the talented participants. The 'just average' players need, and deserve, equal time.
Remember that individuals play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only part of their motivation. Never ridicule individuals for making mistakes or losing a competition.
Develop team respect for the ability of opponents as well as for the judgment of officials and opposing coaches/team captain.
Follow the advice of a physician/sport supervisor when determining when an injured player is ready to recommence play.
Be aware of the role of the coach as an educator. As well as imparting knowledge and skills, promote desirable personal and social behaviours.
Seek to keep abreast of changes in the activities; ensure that the information used is kept up to date, appropriate to the needs of players.