BDSFA Discipline Policy

PLAYERS, PARENTS AND other adults are expected to behave in accordance with the BDSFA Code of Conduct, which is clearly displayed on the BDSFA website. Disciplinary action may be taken in cases of persistent or serious foul play, inappropriate behaviour, or disrespect towards teammates, opposition players, match officials, team officials, or spectators. Poor behaviour may occur either during matches or outside of them.

Procedures if a Player Does Not Follow the Code of Conduct

Teachers and other supervising adults must make decisions that are both appropriate and proportionate to the situation.

Possible actions include:

  • Informal discussion with the player regarding the situation.
  • Meeting with the player and their parent(s)/guardian(s).
  • Temporary or permanent suspension from matches or other squad activities.

While most offences in schools’ football are initially dealt with by removing the player from the field, referees may also issue formal cautions or dismissals. In such cases, the player will be subject to any sanctions imposed by the Essex County Schools’ Football Association.

Schools and Head Teachers are responsible for determining appropriate sanctions for poor behaviour that occurs during school matches or activities.

If a player’s behaviour is persistently problematic or considered serious while representing the district, the team manager will liaise with the child’s Head Teacher to agree on a course of action.

In the context of district football, potential actions include:

  1. Informal discussion with the individual(s) involved.
  2. Meeting with BDSFA Committee members and the individual(s) involved.
  3. Temporary or permanent suspension from matches or other squad activities.
  4. If parents or relatives do not comply with these procedures, the child may be removed from the squad either temporarily or permanently.

The BDSFA must consult the relevant Head Teacher before applying sanctions 3 and/or 4 listed above.

Procedures if an Adult Does Not Follow the Code of Conduct

In cases related to school matches or activities, it is expected that school staff and/or the Head Teacher will determine appropriate actions.

For serious or recurring incidents, the BDSFA Committee reserves the right to intervene and impose sanctions on the individual(s) or school(s) involved.