PLAYER BEHAVIOUR POLICY & THREE-STRIKE DISCIPLINARY SYSTEM

This policy establishes clear standards for player behaviour across all age groups at Kendal United FC, implementing a structured three-strike disciplinary system that escalates appropriately while maintaining our commitment to player development and welfare. This policy is designed to support players in meeting the minimum standards outlined in our code of conduct.

 

POLICY FOUNDATION

Alignment with Current Club Standards

This policy builds upon Kendal United’s existing Code of Conduct, which requires all participants to:

• Adhere to the Laws and spirit of the game
• Promote Fair Play and respect match officials’ decisions
• Never engage in offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour
• Speak respectfully to teammates, opposition, coaches and officials
• Win or lose with dignity

 

FA GUIDANCE INTEGRATION

This policy incorporates The FA’s guidance on player behaviour, including:

• Misconduct provisions covering all behavioural issues, including swearing and abusive behaviour
• Enhanced sanctions for serious misconduct as outlined in the FA’s grassroots disciplinary framework
• Repeat offender protocols to address persistent poor behaviour

• Welfare-focused approach for youth players emphasising education over punishment

 

AGE GROUP DEFINITIONS

JUNIOR (U7-U11): Ages 6-10 years

• Primary focus on fun, learning and development
• Emphasis on education and positive reinforcement
• Reduced competitive pressure

 

YOUTH (U12-U16): Ages 11-15 years

• Introduction of more structured competition
• Increased personal responsibility expectations
• Balanced approach between education and accountability

 

ADOLESCENT (U17-U18): Ages 16-17 years

• Preparation for adult football standards
• Higher behavioural expectations
• Adult-level consequences with youth welfare considerations

 

ADULT

Senior Players (18+): All adult team members

• Full accountability under FA regulations
• Expected to model exemplary behaviour for younger players
• Zero tolerance for serious misconduct

 

THREE-STRIKE DISCIPLINARY SYSTEM

STRIKE CLASSIFICATION

STRIKE 1 – MINOR INFRACTIONS

Behaviours Include:

• Occasional use of inappropriate language (not directed at officials)
• Minor dissent towards teammates or coaching staff
• Lack of respect during team activities
• Minor unsporting behaviour

Consequences:

• Immediate verbal warning from the coach/team official
• Written record in player file
• Discussion with player about behaviour expectations
• Parent/guardian notification (youth players only)

 

STRIKE 2 – SERIOUS MISCONDUCT

Behaviours Include:

• Abusive language directed at referees, opponents, or officials
• Persistent dissent or challenging of match officials
• Aggressive behaviour towards any participant
• Discriminatory language or behaviour
• Repeated Strike 1 offences

Consequences:

• Mandatory involvement of Senior Club Officials
• Welfare Officer consultation (all ages)
• Formal meeting with player and parent/guardian (youth players)
• Written behaviour contract
• Possible 1-2 match suspension
• Mandatory completion of the FA Respect education module
• Escalation to the Club Committee review

 

STRIKE 3 – SEVERE MISCONDUCT

Behaviours Include:

• Physical aggression or violence

• Serious abusive language with threatening behaviour
• Discriminatory abuse
• Conduct that brings the club into disrepute
• Persistent Strike 2 level behaviour

Consequences:

• Immediate involvement of the Chairman and the Club Welfare Officer

• Formal disciplinary hearing with the Club Committee
• Minimum 4-match suspension (pending hearing outcome)
• Mandatory anger management/behaviour modification program
• Possible season-long or permanent ban from club activities
• Referral to County FA for additional sanctions

• Support plan developed with the welfare team

 

APPEAL PROCESS

Right of Appeal

All players and families have the right to appeal any disciplinary decision through:

• Internal Club Appeals Panel (independent of original decision makers)
• County FA Appeals Process for Serious Sanctions
• External mediation for complex cases (independent community experts)

Appeal Timeline

• Notice of appeal: Within 7 days of the decision
• Appeal hearing: Within 14 days of notice
• Decision communication: Within 3 days of hearing