CLUB CONSTITUTION

Our Club Constitution is below and contains the following information:

Club Name
Objectives
Club Colours
Status of Rules
Membership
Rules and Regulations
Resignation and Expulsion
Complaints Procedures
Disciplinary Procedures
Roles and Responsibilities
Committee and Meeting Details
Codes of Conduct
Club Mission Statement

1. NAME

The Club shall be known as Madeley White Star Football Club and shall include the affiliated Clubs, Madeley White Star Juniors FC and Madeley White Star FC and shall be referred to hereafter as “the Club”. The Club shall be affiliated to the Staffordshire Football Association (Staffs FA) and shall abide by their rules and regulations.

2. OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the Club are to be open and accessible to the communities we serve and all supporters of the club, to provide a sustainable, safe, positive, all-inclusive and fun environment for everyone to enjoy and participate in Association football and arrange social activities for its members irrespective of their sex, age, income, disability, ethnicity (including nationality and race), gender re-assignment, sexual orientation, religion and belief, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership status. We believe that opportunities for all is a basic human right, and actively oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.

We will not tolerate harassment, bullying, abuse, discrimination, or victimisation of any individual/s, and if the club are aware that such behaviour takes place, we will ensure that such behaviour is met with the appropriate action and sanction in whatever context it occurs and will inform the County FA.

The Club will endeavour to create a family atmosphere within ‘’the Club’’ where children and young people want to participate and play as part of a team, whether for fun or as part of a competitive team.

The Club also aims to promote football and sport to the communities we serve, as a means of enhancing health education, learning opportunities and local community involvement, with young people acquiring sporting and personal skills from which they will derive lifelong benefits, self-respect, self-esteem, self-confidence, integrity, and respect for others.

The Club will ensure at all times, that it will work to England Football Accredited guidelines in terms of

Performing enhanced DBS checks on all volunteers prior to working with members who are under 18.
Ensuring all volunteers have completed Child Protection Training (FA Safeguarding Children course)
Adhering to the FA Respect Code of Conducts and FA Play Safe initiatives.
Ensuring all team managers have achieved a minimum of FA Introduction to Coaching Football qualification.
Ensuring all team assistant managers/coaches have achieved a minimum of EE Playmaker course.
Ensuring trained First Aiders are available at all training sessions and matches.
Maintaining a proper system of Club administration
Providing a full pathway from mini soccer through to open age association football
Fair Play
Management
Public Liability Insurance

3. CLUB COLOURS

the home Club colours for teams playing both junior, youth and open age association football on Saturday and Sunday shall be yellow and royal blue shirts, royal blue shorts, and yellow and royal blue socks with a fluorescent green goalkeeper kit.
the away Club colours for teams playing junior and youth association football on Saturday shall be sky blue and white shirts, sky blue shorts and sky blue socks with a fluorescent pink goalkeeper kit.
the away Club colours for teams playing open age association football on Saturday shall be red and white shirts, red shorts, and red socks with a turquoise goalkeeper kit (fluorescent pink goalkeeper kit as third choice)
the away Club colours for teams playing junior, youth and open age association football playing Sunday shall be red and white shirts, red shorts, and red socks with a turquoise goalkeeper kit.

4. STATUS OF RULES

The Club rules form a binding agreement between each member of the Club.

5. RULES AND REGULATIONS

The Football Association and any League or Competition rules to which ‘’the Club’’ is affiliated shall be deemed to be incorporated into ‘’the Club’’ rules and shall be adhered to by all persons associated with ‘’the Club’’, ‘’the Club’’ will also abide by the Football Associations Child Protection Policies and Procedures, Codes of Conduct and the Equal Opportunities and Anti-Discrimination Policy. These will be deemed to be incorporated into ‘’the Club’’ rules and shall be adhered to by all persons associated with ‘’the Club’’.

6. MEMBERSHIP

The members of the Club can exist in different forms.

The members of the club shall be those persons listed on the FA Club Portal. This will form the Membership Register and will include all members registered as players or training only, Parents/Guardians/Carers will automatically become members, for members who are under 18 years of age, Directors, Executive Management Committee, Team Managers/Coaches, Assistant Team Managers/Coaches, and persons co-opted on Sub Committees. This system will be maintained by the Club Secretary.

Membership is by application only via our on-line membership form, access to this can be obtained from the Club Secretary or from your team manager. The Executive Management Committee reserve the right to restrict numbers due to available resources and number of volunteer coaches.
Election to membership shall be at the sole discretion of the Club Management Committee and not less than 2 members of the Executive Management Committee shall interview any non-playing applicants. Membership shall become effective upon an applicant's name being entered in the Membership Register.
In the event of a member's resignation or expulsion, his or her name shall be removed from the Membership Register.
The Club shall not be held liable for any injuries to members whilst training or playing.
The Club recommends that all players should have their own personal accident insurance.
The Football Association and the Staffordshire County Football Association shall have access to the Membership Register on demand.

Fundamental to the club’s progress and philosophy is the opportunity for a player to be offered the option to re-register annually. This should be ahead of other non-registered players as a default option.

However, on occasions there may be a need to discuss options of remaining as a training squad player, leaving the club, or other alternatives with the Player/Parents. This should only be completed with guidance from the Club Welfare Officer and where appropriate evidence and information has been captured to support the case by the team manager/ coaches. For example, lack of adherence to respect codes throughout previous season, poor discipline record, lack of attendance, lack of commitment, or a large gap in ability levels/capability which fundamentally causes a concern to the players Safety and Welfare.

The club provides a recommendation on the number of players to register per team to ensure appropriate opportunity throughout the season is achieved. The FA and Leagues set a maximum limit on the number of players per squad up to U15s, but the club believes every player should have the opportunity to play and therefore will set a maximum limit on the number of players per squad for U16s, U17s and U18s where no more than 16 players can be registered.

There is no maximum limit on the number of players per squad from open age.

7. ANNUAL CLUB MEMBERSHIP FEES

Annual membership fees can be covered either by

the Players Parent/Guardian/Carer being responsible for payments as detailed further below,
by the team obtaining sponsorship to cover the fees of the team.

This could include either an amount which reduces the total fee payable by each Player or an amount which covers the fees due from the Team for a 12-month period.

If annual membership fees are not covered by sponsorship, then each player registered to play in a team competing in a league will be required to pay a registration fee and an annual membership fee. The first payment will become payable upon successful application for membership. Fees are non-refundable and for the avoidance of doubt are calculated per annum, i.e., a 12-month period not pro-rota.

At the discretion of the Executive Management Committee, concessionary membership may be offered in the following circumstances –

at the discretion of the Executive Management Committee, the registration fees may be discounted for Parents/ Guardians/Carers who have more than one player, playing for the Club in a season.
Should a Parent / Guardian / Carer find themselves experiencing financial difficulties, they should contact the Club Welfare Officer to discuss their circumstances to enable us to help. At the discretion of the Executive Management Committee, concessionary membership may be offered.
At the discretion of the Executive Management Committee, fees may be discounted due to personal circumstances or when it is in the interest of Madeley White Star FC Limited.

In circumstances where fees have not been paid and there has been no contact with the Team Manager or the Club Welfare Officer to discuss concessionary membership with Executive Management Committee, unfortunately players will be suspended from training sessions and matches until the monies owed have been paid.

Madeley White Star Football Club Limited is keen for all players to have the opportunity to play football, so please speak to us regarding your payment if you are experiencing financial difficulties, to enable us to help you. The Parent/Guardian or Carer will be both responsible and the representative for all members who are under 18 years of age.

Annual Club Membership Fees will be reviewed by the Executive Management Committee on an annual basis and agreed at the AGM, during June, to ensure the running costs and objectives of the Club are continually met for the following financial year.

***The Executive Management Committee shall have the authority to levy further fees from its members as are reasonably necessary to fulfil the running costs and objectives of the Club***

Annual Club Membership Fees for Madeley White Star FC have been set for the next two seasons (2023-25), and will be £300, plus a £25 registration fee payable as follows -

£25 payable upon joining
First instalment of £75 due by 31st July 2023
Second instalment £75 30th September 2023
Third instalment due £75 30th November 2023
Final instalment due £75 31st January 2024

We offer sibling discount of £30.

In instances where a player is registered to play for a Madeley White Star FC team on both a Saturday and Sunday, the combined annual subscription fee will be £400, and has been heavily discounted to reflect their commitment to the Club payable as follows: -

First instalment of £100 due by 31st July 2023
Second instalment of £100 due by 30th September 2023
Third instalment of £100 due by 30th November 2023
Final instalment of £100 due by 31st January 2024

Players who train only must complete our training registration form and pay £5 per session they attend – this is a requirement for insurance purposes etc, and should be submitted to the Club Treasurer with each instalment of fees.

It is the responsibility of each team manager to collect membership fees from their team members and ensure that they are paid to Madeley White Star FC Limited on the due dates, as stated above.

Any team who fails to pay their Annual Club Membership Fees by the due date, will be suspended from training and this will result in fixtures being withdrawn until the outstanding fees have been paid.

The Executive Management Committee reserves the right to request the payment of Club Annual Membership Fees in full, from any team or individual who repeatedly fails to pay their Fees by the due date, or is at risk of folding.

Our Annual Membership Fees cover, but are not limited to -

Club and Team Affiliation with the County FA
Team Registration Fees with the appropriate League
Player Registration Fees with the appropriate League
Public Liability Insurance
Player Insurance (in addition, the Club also recommends that players have personal player accident insurance)
Manager/Coaches and Assistant Manager/Coaches qualifications to maintain 2-star England Football Accredited award -
- FA Enhanced DBS for all Club Volunteers
- FA Safeguarding Children Workshop for all Club Volunteers
- FA EE Playmaker – a requirement for all Team Managers/Coaches and Assistant Managers/Coaches)
- FA Introduction to Coaching Football (requirement for all team Managers)
- FA Introduction to First Aid in Football
Club and Team Training Equipment (team training equipment limited to ball bag, training balls, cones, bibs)
subsidised bespoke home kit
Coach kit bundle
Access to The Coaching Manual and Top Tekkers
Match Balls
First Aid Kit
Continued provision of Covid-19 Training/Matchday kit available (includes digital temperature scanner, hand sanitizer, disinfectant etc.)
Winter Training fees (limited to 1 hour from September through to March weekly, for each team)
Referee Fees
Contribution to cover Club overheads, maintenance of Clubhouse and site
Insurance for clubhouse and machinery

8. DISCIPLINE FINES

Where a player is issued with a discipline fine as a result of committing a booking or sending off offence, in youth football (under 18 years of age), whilst it is the responsibility of the Club to pay fines issued for anyone in youth football, this means that the club is unable to claim the cost back directly from those who are under 18 years of age. However, the club can claim the cost back from the parent, as the parent is the representative and responsible for the child. In instances where a player is aged 18+, the club can claim the cost back directly from the player.

We are required by the FA to provide notification in writing of a caution/charge to all individuals. This will involve a letter being sent to the player, or parent/guardian or carer if the player is under 18 years of age, which will include the name of the player, details of the nature of the fine, amount of the fine, any suspension if applicable, the date payment is due and notice that if payment is not received by the due date, this will result in suspension until payment has been received, and in addition a club fine will be issued with a further 7 days to pay.

Should a further letter be required, this will provide a final opportunity to pay the amount due, and if this is not received by the due date, the following action will be taken as a last resort

Youth Football – the debt will be passed to our solicitors to recover, resulting in additional cost.
Open Age Football - this will result in the debt being passed to FA Debt Collection, incurring additional costs and a Sine Die (an indefinite suspension) from all football activities.

The letters are not threatening, they are a means of communicating the steps that we have to take when claiming back the cost of fines.

Notification has to be given in writing so that the Club has an audit trail in the event evidence is required to show that we have tried to obtain payment, should an individual fail to pay, resulting in their debt being passed either to our solicitors or to FA Debt Collection to recover costs. Madeley White Star Football Club Limited is keen for all players to have the opportunity to play football, so please speak to us regarding your payment if you are experiencing financial difficulties, to enable us to help you.

The Parent/Guardian or Carer will be both the representative and responsible for all members who are under 18 years of age.

9. FUNDRAISING

Prior to the start of the new football season, all teams will be required to assist Madeley White Star FC with Club fundraising by donating £100 per team. Each team is free to choose a method to enable them to do this which is both legal and effective, and any amount they raise over and above £100, they will be able to keep in their team funds or donate to a charity of their choice.

10. RESIGNATION AND EXPULSION

A member shall cease to be a member the Club from the date which they give notice to ‘’the Club’’ of their resignation. Madeley White Star Football Club reserves the right to charge any outstanding subscriptions due to ‘’the Club’’ up to the date of resignation.

A member whose annual membership fee is two payments in arrears shall be deemed to have resigned and shall cease to be a member of the Club.

The Executive Management Committee shall have the power to expel a member (including volunteers) when, in their opinion, it would not be in the interest of ‘’the Club’’ for them to remain a member (including volunteer) of ‘’the Club’’. If a member feels that the decision is unfair, then they have the right to appeal and in the first instance the appeal MUST be submitted in writing to the Club Secretary within 14 days of the expulsion decision.

A member who resigns or is expelled shall not be entitled to any claim or share of ‘’the Clubs’’ equipment or property and is reminded of our Club Policies and Codes of Conduct, and must not use social media to make disparaging or defamatory statements about Madeley White Star FC Limited, our Directors, Executive Management Committee, Sub- Committee, Officers, Managers, Coaches, Volunteers, Members and Players or harass, bully or unlawfully discriminate in any way.

In cases where Officers of the Club have access to data, this must not be used in any way which breaches the provisions of the Data Protection Act 1998, disclose any intellectual property, confidential or commercially sensitive information relating to our Club.

Please be aware that regardless of the fact that privacy settings may be in place when posting on social media, one tribunal commented “When a Claimant put comments on his Facebook page, to which members of the public could have access, he abandons any right to consider his comments private”. Furthermore, in the case of Teggart v Teletech UK Ltd, the claimant was not entitled to rely on the right to privacy under Article 8 of the European Convention of Human Rights.

11. DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES

In the event that any member feels that they have suffered discrimination in any way or that the Club polices, rules, or codes of conduct have not been adhered to, should follow the procedures outlined below. The matter should be reported to the Club Secretary, in writing within 7 days of the occurrence. The report should include the following information –

Details of what, when, and where the occurrence took place.
Any witness statements and names.
Names of any others who have been treated in a similar way.
Details of any former complaints made about the incident – date, when and to whom made.
A preference for a solution to the incident.
The Club Discipline Committee will sit for any hearings that are requested. The quorum for a disciplinary hearing shall be three.

Any Discipline Committee member(s) having a complaint made against them will not sit on the committee for that hearing. If, in this situation, the remaining Discipline Committee Members cannot meet the quorum, Club volunteers may be seconded to the Discipline Committee for the purposes of hearing that complaint only.

If a complaint is upheld the Discipline Committee will impose a penalty as per the Club disciplinary procedure and/or in line with the FA disciplinary procedure.

The Discipline Committee’s decision shall be final.

The Executive Management Committee shall have the powers to warn as to future conduct, suspend from membership either temporarily or permanently or remove from membership any person found to have broken the Clubs’ policies, Rules or Codes of Conduct or actions that are not in the spirit of the wider aspirations of the Club.

12.COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES

In the event that any member feels that they have suffered discrimination in any way or that the Club polices, rules, or codes of conduct have not been adhered to, should follow the Club Complaints Policy, by completing the Madeley White Star FC Complaints form by clicking here or contacting the Club Secretary for a copy. This must be done within 7 days of the occurrence. Please be as detailed as possible when completing the form so we can follow up and investigate the matter thoroughly.

To seek clarity on the Complaints Procedure you can email charlotte.baileymws@gmail.com

Madeley White Star FC will not acknowledge or accept a formal complaint via any form of social media, and we will only accept official complaints submitted via our complaint form.

After you submit your complaint using the Madeley White Star FC Complaint Form the following will happen -

Immediately: You will receive by message:
- Acknowledgement of receipt of your submission into the Madeley White Star FC Complaints System and confirmation that this matter is being dealt with in accordance with our Complaints Procedure

Within 5 working days: You will receive by email:
- Confirmation of the name of the person at Madeley White Star FC who is dealing with your complaint.
- A request for any additional information needed for Madeley White Star FC to thoroughly investigate this situation.
- A request for your written agreement for us to contact any third party if we require additional information from them.
- Indication of the timescales involved and next steps to resolve your complaint.

Within 30 working days, unless there are extenuating circumstances: You will receive by email:
- Our response to your complaint and any next steps.
- Note: Should it not be reasonably possible to resolve the complaint within 30 working days this will be communicated to the complainant with an estimated date of resolution and the reason for this delay. If any additional information, or your written agreement to contacting a third party, has been requested our response will be within 30 working days of receiving these items from you.

How Will Madeley White Star FC Resolve Complaints?

Stage 1 – Fact-finding

The Secretary will, in the first instance, liaise with all parties to establish the facts in order to seek a swift resolution. Specifically, if the complaint relates to a third person and or entity, they will be informed and given a fair opportunity to respond in writing with their account. Any witnesses will also be asked to respond in writing with their account and a thorough investigation will be undertaken. This will be done before progressing to Stage 2. Should the complaint be about a member of the Executive Management Committee itself, then Stages 1-3 of the complaints process will be dealt with by a member of the Sub Committee or Discipline Committee.

Stage 2 – Complaint Working Group

Upon conclusion of the fact-finding exercise investigating the complaint, including receipt of all information from both parties and any witnesses, a ’Complaint Working Group’ (CWG) is established with a minimum of three members, one of whom the CWG appoint to act as Chair. This group may comprise of members from the Executive Management Committee, Sub Committee and Discipline Committee.

The CWG discuss the circumstances surrounding the complaint, draw conclusions and determine the next steps to remedy the situation.

In certain situations, the CWG may also request further specific information before reaching a conclusion. Stage 3 – Communicating the results of the investigation

On conclusion of the investigation the appointed Madeley White Star FC representative responsible for the complaint,

emails the Complainant advising:

Details of the investigation that has been undertaken
The findings of the investigations
The conclusion of the CWG
Any action taken as a result of the complaint together with the options to appeal or progress to a further stage

In the event of the CWG requesting additional information, the Madeley White Star FC representative responsible for the complaint emails the Complainant with an update on the progress made, and an indication as to when a full reply will be given. The Madeley White Star FC representative returns to Stage 1 of the process to obtain the additional information, prior to progressing to Stage 2.

The CWG’s decision shall be final.

13. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following roles have been defined and shall form the Executive Management Committee in accordance with the requirements by Staffordshire Football Association.

Directors Company Secretary

Rob Woodward John Bailey

John Bailey

Mark Dunn

The Directors shall be responsible for the management of ALL the affairs of Madeley White Star Football Club Limited and as such delegate the day to day running of the Club to the Executive Management Committee.

Madeley White Star Football Centenary Limited is registered as a Community Amateur Sports Club and any surplus cash balances it generates will be reinvested to either equipment or improvements at Manor Road.

The Executive Management Committee shall consist of the following roles -

Club Chairperson – Rob Woodward
Club Secretary – Charlotte Bailey
Club Treasurer – John Bailey
Club Welfare Officer – Charlotte Bailey

The duties of the Executive Management Committee will include the following –

The Club Officers sitting as The Executive Management Committee shall be responsible for the day-to-day management of all the affairs of the Club. Decisions of the Executive Management Committee shall be made by a simple majority of those attending the Executive Management Committee meeting. In the event of a tie, the Chairperson of the Club shall have a casting vote.
To maintain an accurate system of administrative records of “the Club” through the Secretary.
To keep accurate accounts of the finances of ‘’the Club’’ as a limited company, reported in line with the requirements of HMRC, through the Treasurer
In the absence of the Chairperson, the Treasurer shall chair meetings of the Executive Management Committee, Sub-Committee Meetings, Club Manager Meetings, and any other meetings that may have been arranged by the Chairperson.

The following further Club roles have been defined for Sub-Committee Members/Officers of the Club -

Vice Chairperson (Mark Dunn)
Groundsman (John Bailey)
Assistant Club Welfare Officer - vacant
Inclusion Officer (James Hardacre)
Discipline Secretary (Charlotte Bailey)
England Accreditation Co-ordinator (Charlotte Bailey)
Respect and Fair Play Co-ordinator (Charlotte Bailey)
Discipline Officer (x3) (Simon Williams, Mark Dunn)
Mini Football Development Officer (Dean Neale)
Youth Football Development Officer (Nick Ridgway)
Female Football Development Officer (Mark Dunn)
Junior and Youth Player Representative - vacant
Adult Player Representative (Connor Clarke)
Junior and Youth Forum Co-ordinator – (Rob Woodward, John Bailey and Charlotte Bailey)
PR and Communications Officer (John Bailey)
Web Master (Lucy Bailey)
Commercial and Sponsorship Officer - vacant
Event and Fundraising Co-Ordinator - vacant
Photographer (Kevin Clarke)

Any vacancies on the Committee shall be filled by a member, only if they have been proposed by one (1) and seconded by another one (1) of the remaining Committee members and then approved by a simple majority of the remaining members.

The Executive Management Committee shall have the powers to co-opt additional Club members to the Sub Committee in an active role as and when the Executive Management Committee determines is necessary.

Nominations for election of members as Officers or as members of the Committee must be made in writing by the proposer and the seconder, both of whom must be existing members of Madeley White Star FC. This must be received by the Club Secretary no later than 12 noon on the day of the AGM.

In the event that no nominations are received for any of the committee roles, the need for an election will not arise. All officers are elected for the period of 1 year but may be re-elected to the same office or another office the following year.

The Executive Management Committee shall control the affairs of the ''the Club'' and shall meet at agreed intervals, not less than 4 times per year.

14.ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of ‘’the Club’’ will be held not later than the end of June each year. Twenty-one days written notice will be given to Committee Members who will circulate time, date, and venue of the meeting to their team members. Representatives must advise the Secretary in writing of any business to be discussed at the AGM or give notice of the agenda for the meeting at least 14 days before the meeting.

The Secretary shall circulate or give notice of the agenda for the meeting to members not later than 7 days before the meeting.

The purpose of the AGM shall be;

Confirm the minutes of the previous AGM
Receive report from the Chairperson
Receive report from the Secretary
Receive accounts for the year from the Treasurer
Elect the officers of ‘’the Club’’
Transact such business received in writing by the Secretary from members 14 days prior to the meeting and included on the agenda.
Nomination of candidates for election of Officers shall be made in writing to the Secretary no later than 14 days prior to the AGM.

Nominations can only be made by members and seconded by another member. At all General Meetings the Chair will be taken by The Chairperson or by the Treasurer in the absence of the Chairperson.

Decisions made at a General Meeting shall be a simple majority vote from Officers attending that meeting. In the event of equal votes, the Chairperson has the additional casting vote.

A quorum for a General Meeting shall be 4 members and 2 Officers of the Club. Each member of ‘’the Club’’ shall be entitled to one vote at General Meetings Alterations to the Constitution Any proposed alterations to ‘’the Club’’ Constitution may only be considered at an Annual or Special General Meeting convened with the written notice of the proposal.

Any alteration or amendment must be proposed by a member of ‘’’the Club’’ and seconded by another member. Such alterations shall be passed if supported by at least two thirds of the members present at the meeting, and where necessary approved by the Football Association and the Club Legal Representatives.

15. DISSOLUTION

If at any General Meeting of ‘’the Club’’ a resolution was passed calling for the dissolution of the Club, the Secretary shall immediately convene an Extraordinary General Meeting of ‘’the Club’’ to be held not less than one month thereafter to discuss and vote on the resolution.

If at that Extraordinary meeting the resolution is carried by at least two thirds of the members present the committee shall thereupon or at such a date that shall have been specified in the resolution proceed to realise the assets of ‘’the Club’’ and discharge all debts and liabilities of ‘’the Club’’. After discharging all debts and liabilities of ‘’the Club’’ the remaining assets shall not be paid or distributed amongst the members of ‘’the Club’’ but shall be given or transferred to some other organisation having objectives similar of those of ‘’the Club’’.

16. OUR MISSION – MADELEY WHITE STAR FC

Madeley White Star Football Club’s aim is to provide a safe, secure, positive environment and endeavours to give the highest standard of football coaching that helps children to develop life skills as well as learn the sport, improve, enjoy and continuing playing football into their adult life.

We aspire to offer family friendly football with the very best footballing opportunities for each individual, and as a club we take great pride in providing our players with a playing pathway from mini soccer into adult football for our Reserve Team and First Team. This will be done in an all-inclusive, non-discriminatory, friendly, enjoyable, and supportive environment where all abilities will feel valued and part of our fantastic club. We endeavour to develop the confidence, courage, and pride in every player.

We have the following specific objectives:

To offer football for all as per the FA and encourage participation and enjoyment of football in our local and wider communities.
Create a safe, positive, and fun learning environment.
Provide football for those who want to be competitive or just want to play with their friends.
Enhance personal development beyond football.
Develop understanding of and within the game
Help build confidence, self-esteem and promote personal development.
Improve individual performance.
Promote good discipline, respect, sportsmanship, and fair play.
Create and maintain stronger links between our local community and our football club, and our wider community and our football club.
Use football as a vehicle to educate about our values.
Support volunteering
Increase participation in football and active recreation.
Provide wider community usage of the club.
Support the development of individuals and groups regardless of their race, culture, religion, gender, ability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or social status.
To provide a duty of care and protection to all club members

17. STATEMENT OF CONFIDENTIALITY

If any parent/guardian feel that they have an issue which they do not feel it appropriate to discuss with individual team management they should in the first instance contact the Club Chairperson via email and in the event of no email access then contact must be made with local management and request the phone contact details for the Chairperson.

18. CODES OF CONDUCT

‘’The Club’’ recognises the need for high levels of good behaviour from everyone associated with ‘’the Club’’ both on and off the pitch. ‘’The Club’’ aspires to be a model of good behaviour not only in football matters but representatives of the wider community of Madeley and surrounding areas.

Any disciplinary complaints from internal or external sources will be fully investigated by the Club “Welfare Officer” and Sub Committee firstly, every attempt will be made to reach a conclusion by negotiation, any “discipline” type fine charged to the Club and found to be unacceptable to our standards officer and subsequent committee members may in turn be passed on to the individual responsible for breaking our Clubs code of conduct. ‘’The Club’’ is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all its members and opponents alike.

Adherence to the Codes of Conduct is a prerequisite of membership of ‘’the Club’’ and any breach of these Codes will not be tolerated and could lead to expulsion from ‘’the Club’’. It is important as we progress as a Club that we are perceived as an attractive Club to potential future players and members.

Club Code of Conduct for Parents/Guardians/Carers

You are the most important people in your child’s life. Therefore, the relationship that you have with coaches and other members at Madeley White Star FC is central to the vision that the club holds. Working together, with the interests of the young children at heart is only going to make their experience richer and more fulfilling.

Players are the most important people in the sport. Playing for the team, and for the team to win, is the most fundamental part of the game, but not winning at any cost, Fair Play, and respect for all others in the game is equally important.

For age groups U7s to U12s it is essential that either you or a responsible adult are present at both training and matches. For U13s and over it is desirable and valued by the club and the players to have you attend training and matches.

Please offer to help coaches set up and pack away equipment, put up goals at training or for matches - offers to help the coaches with administrative tasks, events or fundraising makes a real difference.

As a parent/guardian, I will

ensure we are present at least five minutes before the start of training and thirty minutes before the kick-off of a match.
inform the manager or coach well in advance if we are going to be on holiday, absent or late, for both training sessions and/or matches.
ensure that my child is appropriately dressed and equipped for the weather and the playing environment, have the correct football boots, football kit, shin pads and that they have a filled water bottle. During hot weather, I will ensure that I apply sunscreen to my child prior to the training session or match.
if my child requires medication or an inhaler or EpiPen, I understand that I am responsible for ensuring that this is available at all training sessions and matches, and I understand that if this is not available that my child will be unable to participate.
be courteous and polite at all times towards all players, coaches and managers, referees, officials, and other spectators.
never become involved in an argument, or dispute, with match officials, players, coaches, club officials or other spectators, and will not use or tolerate offensive, insulting, or abusive language.
report any injury or illness which your child may have to the team manager or coach as early as possible.
support the managers and coaches working with my child, in order to encourage a positive experience for ALL parties.
encourage my child and his teammates from the touchline but will NOT criticise them, or shout instructions
leave the managing of the side and the tactics to the Manager or his assistants.
set a good example to my child and his teammates by not criticising or arguing with the referee from the touchline.

show that you appreciate sportsmanship and good football displayed by either team.
let the players play, coaches coach, referees ref and the manager pick the team.
will contact the Club Welfare Officer if I ever have any concerns about the welfare of any young person associated with Madeley White Star FC.
The FA prohibit the publication of results and league tables for teams playing from Under-7s through to Under- 11s therefore please refrain from posting scores, pictures and video messages on social media following matches.

Parents/Spectators have a great influence on children’s enjoyment and success in football. All children play football because they first and foremost love the game – it’s fun. It is important to remember that positive encouragement will contribute to:

Children enjoying football
A sense of personal achievement
Self-esteem
Assist to develop the child’s skills and techniques

We all have a responsibility to promote high standards of behaviour in the game.

Madeley White Star FC is supporting The FA’s Respect and Fair Play initiative to ensure football can be enjoyed in an all-inclusive safe, positive, and fun environment. Remember children’s football is a time for them to develop their technical, physical, tactical, and social skills. Winning isn’t everything.

FA Respect Code of Conduct for Spectators and Parents/Carers

As a parent/ guardian at all times. I will:

Remember that children play for FUN
Applaud effort and good play as well as success
Always respect the match officials’ decisions
Remain outside the field of play and within the Designated Spectators’ Area (where provided)
Let the coach do their job and not confuse the players by telling them what to do
Encourage the players to respect the opposition, referee, and match officials.
Avoid criticising a player for making a mistake – mistakes are part of learning
Never engage in, or tolerate, offensive, insulting, or abusive language or behaviour.

I understand that if I do not follow the Code, any/all of the following actions may be taken by my Club, County FA, league or The FA. I may be:

Issued with a verbal warning from a Club or league official
Required to meet with the Club, League, or CFA Welfare Officer
Required to meet with the Club Committee
Obliged to undertake an FA Respect Education Course and/or FA Safeguarding Course
Obliged to leave the match venue by the Club
Requested by the Club not to attend future games
Suspended or have my Club membership removed
Required to leave the Club along with any dependents.

In addition:

The FA/County FA could impose a fine and/or suspension on the Club.

If you are unhappy in any way, please contact your team manager privately, we remind you of our Club Policies and Codes of conduct, when using social media (including, but not limited to Facebook, twitter, Instagram, tik Tok, WhatsApp etc) to make disparaging or defamatory statements about Madeley White Star FC Limited, our Directors, Executive Management Committee, Sub-Committee, Officers, Managers, Coaches, Volunteers, Members and Players or harass, bully or unlawfully discriminate in any way.

Club Code of Conduct for Players

Players are the most important people in the sport. Playing for the team, and for the team to win, is the most fundamental part of the game, BUT not winning at any cost, Fair Play, and respect for all others in the game is equally important.

As a player, I will -

be well-mannered and polite at all times towards teammates, opponents, coaches and managers, referees, officials, and spectators.
not swear, use abusive language, spit, or behave badly towards other players, officials, or anyone else.
display a positive attitude, play to the best of my ability,
encourage my teammates and enjoy playing football.
play fairly and honestly at all times; be modest when we win, be dignified when we lose.
try to be a team player and put the interests of my team before myself;
accept the instructions of my Manager or Coach.
after a game, when possible, shake hands with the opposition, whatever the result.
show respect for the football kit and training equipment I use.
help my manager/coach set up and clear away training equipment.
learn and observe the Laws of the Game and will accept the decisions of the officials without protest.
keep my self-control at all times, show no retaliation, and will avoid all forms of gamesmanship and time- wasting.

We all have a responsibility to promote high standards of behaviour in the game.

As a player, you have a big part to play. That’s why The FA is asking every player to follow a Respect Code of Conduct.

FA Respect Code of Conduct for Players

When playing football, I will:

Always play to the best of my ability• Play fairly – I won’t cheat, complain, or waste time.
Respect my team-mates, the other team, the referee, or my coach/manager.
Play by the rules, as directed by the referee
Shake hands with the other team and referee at the end of the game
Listen and respond to what my coach/team manager tells me
Talk to someone I trust or the Club welfare officer if I’m unhappy about anything at my Club.

I understand that if I do not follow the Code, any/all of the following actions may be taken by my Club, County FA, or the FA. I may:

Be required to apologise to my team-mates, the other team, referee, or team manager
Receive a formal warning from the coach or the Club committee
Be dropped or substituted
Be suspended from training
Be required to leave the Club.

In addition:

My Club, County FA or The FA may make my parent or carer aware of any infringements of the Code of Conduct
The FA/County FA could impose a fine and suspension against my Club.

To encourage high standards of discipline and respect, any player who receives 5 or more cautions throughout the season will be issued with a club fine of £10, which will double for each subsequent offence.

Any player who is dismissed from the field of play on 3 or more occasions, will be issued with a club fine of £20, which will double for each subsequent offence.

Club Code of Conduct for Officials, Managers and Coaches

It is natural that winning constitutes a basic concern for all our coaches. This code is not intended to conflict with that. However, our code calls for you as coaches to disassociate yourself from a ‘win at all costs’ attitude.

As a Club Official, Manager or Coach I will -

be courteous and polite at all times towards all players, other coaches and managers, referees, officials, and spectators. Not to use or tolerate inappropriate language.
Ensure the safety of all children by providing effective supervision, proper pre-planning of coaching sessions, using safe methods at all times.
Ensure that the training activities undertaken are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience, and ability of players.
Undertake an FA Enhanced DBS check every 3 years, or as required.
Complete the FA Safeguarding Children qualification every 3 years, or as required.
Team Managers and Assistant Managers/Coaches hold appropriate and valid qualifications required for your role.
Consider the wellbeing and safety of participants before the development of performance. Child welfare must always be the paramount consideration.
Show exemplary behaviour by respecting match officials, opposition players, coaches, managers, and spectators.
Encourage and guide participants to accept responsibility for their own performance and behaviour.
Endeavour to achieve consistency and fairness in the selection of teams, but NOT to win at any cost.
Treat all players equally by supporting and motivating all players. Have no favourites.
Give all players, whatever their ability, the chance to play.
Encourage good sportsmanship, discourage gamesmanship, always promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g., fair play) and never condone violations of the Laws of the Game or behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game.
Encourage all children not to discriminate on the grounds of religious beliefs, race, gender, social classes, or lack of ability.
Not allow any rough or dangerous play, bullying, or the use of bad language or inappropriate behaviour.
Appreciate the efforts of all players and not over-train them or over play them.
Accept that striving to win is more important than winning itself, do not adopt a “win at all costs” mentality.
Always pursue fair play – adhere to the laws and the spirit of the game.
Be positive, approachable and offer praise to promote the objectives of the club at all times.
Display high standards, behave responsibly and never engage in or tolerate the use of foul, abusive, insulting, or inappropriate words, behaviour, or gestures.
Stay behind the line and not enter the field of play without prior permission from the referee.
Not let any allegations of abuse of any kind or poor practice to go unchallenged or unrecorded. Incidents and accidents to be recorded in the line with the club’s procedures and parents to be informed.
Never use sanctions that humiliate or harm players.
Organise activities appropriate to the player’s ability level, age, and maturity.
Respect and listen to the opinions of players.
Not to post anything inappropriate, or negative on social media which may bring the club into disrepute. Social media includes any digital technology that allows users to instantly generate and share information with another by using a wide variety of websites and apps, including, but not limited to WhatsApp, Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tik-Tok etc.
Refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol during club activities or training sessions.
Be aware of the FA Safeguarding Policy, Procedures and Practices and observe the responsibilities involved, including the FA Communication guidelines.
Not abuse members physically, emotionally, or sexually.
Not engage in a sexual relationship with a young person for whom they are responsible.
Maintain confidentiality about sensitive information.
Not spending excessive amounts of time alone with children unless there are exceptional circumstances.
Not administering First Aid involving the removing of children’s clothing unless in the presence of others.

We all have a responsibility to promote high standards of behaviour in the game. Play your part and follow the Respect Code of Conduct.

FA Respect Code of Conduct for Managers and Coaches

On and off the field, I will:

Always show respect to everyone involved in the game.
Stick to the rules and celebrate the spirit of the game.
Encourage fair play and high standards of behaviour.
Always respect the Referee and encourage players to do the same.
Never enter the field of play without the referee’s permission
Never engage in, or tolerate offensive, insulting, or abusive behaviour
Be aware of the potential impact of bad language on others.
Be gracious in victory and defeat.
Respect the facilities home and away.

When working with players, I will:

Place the well-being, safety, and enjoyment of each player above everything.
Never tolerate any form of bullying
Ensure all activities are suited for the players’ ability and age.
Work with others (e.g., officials, doctors, welfare officers, physiotherapists) for each player’s best interests

I understand that if I do not follow the Code, I may be:

Required to meet with the Club or league Welfare officer or your CFA Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO).
Suspended by the Club from attending matches.
Suspended or fined by the County FA
Required to leave, lose my position and/or have my license withdrawn

Madeley White Star FC Club Code of Conduct

Football, at all levels, is a vital part of a community. Madeley White Star FC will consider community feeling when making decisions.

Football is the national game. All those involved with the game at every level and whether as a player, match official, owner, or administrator, have a responsibility, above and beyond compliance with the law, to act according to the highest standards of integrity, and to ensure that the reputation of the game is and remains high. This code applies to all those involved in football under the auspices of the Football Association.

Community

Football at all levels is a vital part of a community. Football will take into account community feelings when making decisions.

Equality

Football is opposed to discrimination of any form and will promote measures to prevent it in whatever form from being expressed.

Participants

Football recognises the sense of ownership felt by those who participate at all levels of the game. This includes those who play, those who coach or help in any way and those who officiate, as well as administrators and supporters. Football is committed to appropriate consultation.

Young People

Football acknowledges the extent of its influence over young people and pledges to set a positive example.

Propriety

Football acknowledges that public confidence demands the highest standards of financial and administrative behaviour with the game and will not tolerate corruption or improper practices.

Trust and Respect

Football will uphold a relationship of trust and respect between all involved in the game whether they are individuals, clubs, or other organisations.

Violence

Football rejects the use of violence of any nature by anyone involved in the game.

Fairness

Football is committed to fairness in its dealings with all involved in the game.

Integrity and Fair Play

Football is committed to the principle of playing to win consistent with Fair Play

19. CONCLUSION

This Constitution and its contents enable ‘’the Club’’ to continue to achieve a 2-star England Football Accreditation award (out of a possible 3) – something we should all be proud of.

Additionally, it sets out exactly what ‘’the Club’’ expects from its members: and what the members can expect from ‘’the Club’’.