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VICTORIAN CHURCHES
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION INC
MATCH RULES
MARCH 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.
PARTICIPATION ....................................................................................................... 1
2.
HOME GROUNDS ..................................................................................................... 1
3.
GROUND MARKINGS AND EQUIPMENT ........................................................... 1
3.1. Ground Markings..................................................................................................................... 1
3.2. Passageway and Technical Areas ........................................................................................... 1
3.3. Goal Nets .................................................................................................................................. 2
3.4. Match Ball ................................................................................................................................. 2
3.5. Association Issued Match Ball ............................................................................................... 2
3.6. Replacement of Association issued Match Ball ................................................................... 2
3.7. First Aid Kit .............................................................................................................................. 2
4.
MATCH PLAY ............................................................................................................. 2
4.1. Match Duration ........................................................................................................................ 2
4.2. Match Commencement........................................................................................................... 3
4.3. Concessions for Junior Teams ............................................................................................... 4
4.4. Forfeit ........................................................................................................................................ 4
4.5. Extreme Weather and Ground Conditions.......................................................................... 4
4.6. No Referee ................................................................................................................................ 5
4.7. Abandonment of matches ...................................................................................................... 6
4.8. Match Official........................................................................................................................... 6
4.9. Fixturing .................................................................................................................................... 7
4.10. Postponed and Catch-Up Games .......................................................................................... 7
5.
PLAYERS ..................................................................................................................... 7
5.1. Number of Players ................................................................................................................... 7
5.2. Player Transfer ......................................................................................................................... 7
5.3. Team Registration .................................................................................................................... 8
5.4. Player Registration ................................................................................................................... 8
5.5. Match Cards and Team Lists.................................................................................................. 8
5.6. Player Attire and Equipment.................................................................................................. 9
5.7. Junior Players .......................................................................................................................... 10
5.8. Seniors and Ladies Players................................................................................................... 11
6.
SHIELD/CUP COMPETITIONS ........................................................................... 13
6.1. Match Cards or Team Lists .................................................................................................... 13
6.2. Prohibition on Player Transfers ........................................................................................... 13
7.
INTERCHANGE ...................................................................................................... 13
8.
REFEREES and ASSISTANT REFEREES ............................................................. 14
9.
REFEREE EVALUATION FORMS ........................................................................ 14
10.
MATCH RESULT REPORTING ............................................................................ 14
11.
DISCIPLINE ............................................................................................................. 15
11.1. Suspension of Players ............................................................................................................ 15
11.2. Behaviour of Players and Spectators ................................................................................... 17
11.3. Racist Remarks at Matches ................................................................................................... 18
11.4. Blasphemy, Foul or Abusive Language .............................................................................. 19
12.
JUDICIAL TRIBUNAL............................................................................................. 20
12.1. The Role of the Judicial Tribunal ........................................................................................ 20
12.2. Judicial Tribunal Membership .............................................................................................. 20
12.3. Judicial Tribunal Meeting Procedure .................................................................................. 21
12.4. Powers of the Judicial Tribunal ........................................................................................... 21
12.5. Appearance at the Judicial Tribunal .................................................................................... 21
13.
UNDER 8 & 9 COMPETITIONS ............................................................................ 22
14.
MATCH RULES ........................................................................................................ 23
15.
PROMOTION AND RELEGATION ...................................................................... 23
ADDENDUM A - PENALTIES ........................................................................................ 24
ADDENDUM B – VCFA DISCIPLINE TABLE.............................................................. 25
Version History
Date of Approved
Amendment
Summary of amendment
1 March 2012
Match Rules reviewed and amendment to match all approved changes
from 2010.
19 March 2012
Ladies division amendments - nine players division.
29 March 2012
Participation wording correction.
29 March 2012
4.1 Preamble and Match duration times added nine and ten player
conditions.
Amendments to clauses: 2.3; 2.6; 4.1.1; 4.2.1; delete 4.2.5; 4.4.1; 4.4.2;
4.5.3;4.5.11;4.8.1; 4.10.2; 4.10.5; 5.3;5.4.4; 5.5.2; 5.6.2 f); 5.6.2 h); 8.3;
8.5; 11.4.
4 April 2013
12 April 2013
Title page inserted; Change to page numbering.
16 April 2013
Addition to clauses – Not applicable to Junior competition (4.2.1)
amendment to clauses 5.4.4; 5.5.1
31 March 2014
Amendment to clauses: 3.5, 4.5, 4.6, 4.9, 4.10, 5.4, 5.5, 5.7, 5.8, 7.3, 7.7,
12.2, 13.2, 15
23 March 2015
Amendment to clauses 2.3, 4.3, 4.5.2, 5.4.2, 5.5.2, 5.5.3, 5.5.4, 5.5.5,
5.6.1, 5.6.2 c), 5.6.2 e), 5.6.2 f), 5.6.2 g), 5.6.4, 5.6.5, 5.8.1, 5.8.1.3,
5.8.1.4, 5.8.2.2, 5.8.2.3, 5.8.2.6, 6.2, 11.4, 12.4 f), 13, 15, Penalties and
VCFA Discipline Table items 2, 4, 7, 9 & 13
Addition of clause 4.8.2(d)
Clause 5.6.2 d) deleted
Clauses 5.3.3, 5.6.2 d) to g), & 5.6.5 renumbered
Change to page numbering.
1. PARTICIPATION
All participants in matches organised by the Victorian Churches Football Association Inc.
(hereafter referred to as the “Association” or “VCFA”) shall conduct themselves in a
manner that reflects the Associations stated purpose of “For God through Sport”. All
participants shall observe the spirit and intent of the Laws of Association Football and the
VCFA Match Rules. All matches should be played in the spirit of Christian sportsmanship
and mutual respect. The VCFA expects the Leadership group within each team to
proactively manage players, coaches and club officials to ensure the Associations standards
of behaviour are maintained at all times.
2. HOME GROUNDS
2.1.
Each Club is expected to secure the use of a suitable ground for play in the
competition, unless satisfactory arrangements can be made to share a ground with
another Club. The Clubs are responsible for the payment of any fees associated with
their use of the ground.
2.2.
The VCFA will specify the minimum size for a senior (men’s/ladies) ground, which
may include variations for competition of less than 11- a-side.
2.3.
All Club grounds may be inspected by an authorized VCFA representative and
certified suitable/acceptable for the VCFA competition.
2.4.
Any problems identified at individual grounds will be rectified within a time frame to
be agreed between the VCFA and the club concerned.
2.5.
When a home ground is unavailable due to either condition or lack of access, it is the
responsibility of the Home Club to use its best endeavours to organize a replacement
ground, or to contact the involved Away Club to determine if a fixture can be
reversed.
2.6.
If there is a formal complaint about the ground condition from the referee or
authorized VCFA club rep (other than for a temporary weather affected matters) the
ground will be inspected by the VCFA and either approved for play or declared unfit
for the VCFA competition until rectified.
2.7.
In all circumstances where a ground becomes unfit for play the Home Club should
advise the VCFA Duty Officer (two VCFA officers will be rostered each weekend to
act as the central point of contact to co-ordinate changes to grounds or other changes
to fixtures) as well as the designated contact from the Away Club as soon as possible if
a ground becomes unfit for play and by no later than 5.00 pm on the Friday before the
fixture, unless the Home Club becomes aware of the problem after that time in which
case it is the Home Club’s responsibility to ensure all parties are advised of the
situation as soon as possible.
3. GROUND MARKINGS AND EQUIPMENT
3.1.
Ground Markings
The ground markings and goal-posts shall comply with the requirements of the Laws
of the Game. Portable goalposts must be firmly and safely fixed to the ground.
3.2.
Passageway and Technical Areas
3.2.1. All grounds must be marked with a two metre ‘passageway’ (from the
touchline). This line should be marked on any touchlines that spectators are
likely to use. Spectators are not allowed inside this passageway.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
Page 1 of 25
3.2.2. All grounds must be marked with a Technical Area, for each team, 2 metres
from the touchline and six metres by six metres in size. Coaching staff,
substitutes, medical staff and match officials are the only ones permitted inside
the Technical Area.
3.2.3. The 2 metres passageway between the Technical Area and the touchline can
only be crossed by coaches and substitutes during an interchange but only after
the Referee has stopped play for an interchange. They must return to the
Technical Area before play resumes.
3.2.4. Substitutes inside the Technical Area or standing along the touchline (behind
the 2 metres passageway) must cover their playing jersey to avoid confusion for
match officials and players.
3.3.
Goal Nets
All home teams competing in the VCFA must have suitable goal nets at their home
ground. Goal nets must be securely fixed to the goal posts and on the ground behind
the goals.
3.4.
Match Ball
Each team is to provide a suitable Match Ball:
3.5.
Under 8/9 grades size 3
Under 10/13 grades size 4
Older grades size 5
Association Issued Match Ball
If, prior to the commencement of the year’s competition, the Association issues match
balls to teams, each team (home and away) must provide the Association issued Match
Ball to the Match Referee before the commencement of every scheduled match for
that year. It is each team’s responsibility to retrieve their match ball at the end of each
scheduled match.
3.6.
Replacement of Association issued Match Ball
A team that loses or has a damaged Association issued Match Ball must replace the
match ball at its own cost. Such replacement must be as close as possible to the
Association issued Match Ball. If the Match Ball is damaged during a scheduled match
and deemed by the Match Referee as unsuitable for further use, the Association, at the
discretion of the VCFA, may replace the Match Ball at no cost to the team involved.
3.7.
First Aid Kit
Provision of first aid kits by any team is not mandatory. However, Clubs are reminded
that they have a duty of care to their players, to provide adequate first aid when
required. If requested by a member of an away team to treat injured players, a home
team may not unreasonably refuse or deny a request for use of their first aid kit, if
available.
4. MATCH PLAY
4.1.
Match Duration
Prior to the commencement of each year's competition, the Association will determine
the competition draw and the match playing times. Match durations for games on
Association approved pitches will be:
Seniors' games 45 minute halves x 2
Ladies games (eleven-a-side) 45 minute halves x 2
Ladies games (ten-a-side) 40 minute halves x 2
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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Ladies games (nine-a-side) Under 16/17 games (eleven a side)
Under 14/15 games Under 12/13 games Under 10/11 games Under 8/9 games (six a side) -
35 minute halves x 2
35 minute halves x 2
30 minute halves x 2
25 minute halves x 2
20 minute halves x 2
15 minute halves x 2
When a match scheduled for 1.00 pm, starts late, the Referee shall divide the
remaining time into two halves with a five minute break to enable the game to finish
by 2.45 pm, thus enabling a later scheduled match to start on time.
4.1.1. Ladies Division 2
The Ladies Division 2 competition will be an eleven-a-side competition,
however recognizing the importance of encouraging participation the VCFA
may designate certain teams in Ladies Division 2 who otherwise may not be
able to compete in an eleven-as-side competition as nine-a-side teams.
Matches played by the designated nine-a-side teams will be nine-a-side matches
and the duration will be 2 x 35 minute halves.
Teams designated as nine-a-side teams will not be eligible to compete in the
Ladies cup competition.
If both teams on the match day agree the fixture may be changed to a ten-aside or eleven-a-side match. In the event both teams agree to change a fixture
to a ten or eleven-a-side fixture then the playing times and number of players
per side for that match will be as specified in clauses 4.1 and 5.1.
Notwithstanding clause 4.1 the playing time of any nine-a-side match can by
mutual agreement of both teams be extended from 2 x 35 minute halves to 2 x
40 or 2 x 45 minute halves but only with the agreement of both teams prior to
the matches scheduled kick off time.
Any Ladies Division 2 nine-a-side match can be played on a smaller size pitch
that should not be less than 75% in size of a normal playing pitch.
4.2.
Match Commencement
4.2.1. Matches must begin at the scheduled times. However, in senior matches if
there are double-headers on one ground, the first match shall commence at
1.00 p.m. and the second one shall commence at 3.00 p.m. The earlier match
must finish by 2.45 p.m. at the latest, regardless of the time it commenced.
In the event that one team is not on the field and ready to play 10 minutes
after the scheduled kick off, the Referee will abandon the match, unless there is
mutual agreement between both teams for a further extension of time in which
case the Referee will delay the kick off for up to a further 10 minutes. The 10
minute extension does NOT apply to Junior games.
In the event a match is abandoned by the referee for any reason (including one
or more teams not being on the field and ready to play at kick off after
allowing for grace periods) then the matter will be referred to the VCFA
Judicial Tribunal who will determine the outcome as per clause 4.4.1.
However, if the delayed match is the first of two matches on the same ground,
then the Referee will shorten the two halves of play to 40 minutes each so that
the match finishes by 2:45 pm after ensuring a half time break of no less than 5
minutes.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
Page 3 of 25
For the avoidance of doubt a team is entitled to a 10 minute delay to the start
of any match. This is a 10 minute grace period and is at the sole discretion of
the team concerned. The 10 minute extension does NOT apply to Junior
games.
4.2.2. Referee inspection of players’ equipment should be carried out before the
prayer.
4.2.3. Immediately prior to the commencement of each match, both teams are to
gather in a semi-circle at the half way line adjacent to and facing the technical
areas with the Referee and Assistant referees standing between the two teams.
4.2.4. The captain (or representative) of the home team will pray and then the teams
will formally shake hands with each other and the match officials. This will
occur by the home team moving along the line shaking the hands of the match
officials and then the away team.
4.3.
Concessions for Junior Teams
4.3.1. Goal Kicks for Under 10, 11, 12 and Under 13 grades should be taken in front
of the goal area and level with the penalty spot. Opposing players shall stand a
minimum of 10 yards clear.
4.3.2. Corner Kicks for Under 10, 11, 12 and Under 13 grades shall be taken from
midway between the corner and the penalty area, on the goal line. Opposing
players shall stand a minimum of 10 yards (9.15 metres) clear.
4.3.3. In relation to throw-ins, NO concessions, ie second chance, will be given for
foul throws beyond the U/12 age group. For Under 8’s to 12’s competitions,
where a foul throw occurs, the referee will gently give clear instructions to the
offending player, and allow him/her to retake the throw. The throw will not
be taken by a different player.
Refer section 13 for U8 and U9 Competitions.
4.4.
Forfeit
4.4.1. In the event that a referee abandons a match as a result of one or more of the
teams failing to take to the field within the prescribed time frame as set out in
4.2.1, (or for any other reason) the referee shall forward a report to the Match
Secretary and the Referees' Coordinator. The Judicial Tribunal will then decide
the outcome, taking into account extenuating circumstances and the forfeiture
rule herein.
4.4.2. Teams that forfeit, without notice, any Association game (including catch up
games) may be fined. Any fine may be imposed at the discretion of the Judicial
Tribunal.
4.5.
Extreme Weather and Ground Conditions
Teams must go to the ground in anticipation of play, unless advised to the contrary.
The Referee and or the home club will then decide if play is possible. Rain in itself
does not necessarily constitute a hazard. Correct and proper inspection of pitches
MUST be made.
4.5.1. A home club will be entitled to declare their ground unfit for play. Clubs need
to be able to make the decision that their ground is unfit for play in line with
their responsibility under their lease arrangements.
4.5.2. The VCFA will undertake random inspections of grounds declared “unfit to
play” by home clubs. In the event the VCFA appointed official determines the
ground is clearly and beyond a reasonable doubt, suitable for play, then the
club will be required to explain their actions to the Judicial Tribunal.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
Page 4 of 25
The Judicial Tribunal will have the power to impose a suitable penalty on the
club including but not limited to a fine and/or the deduction of competition
points or in the event of a cup fixture, the awarding of the match to the away
team.
4.5.3. If the home club, VCFA or the owner of the facility declares the ground is
“unfit to play” then the Referee will be bound by that decision.
4.5.4. If the Referee strongly disagrees with a decision made by a home club (as
opposed to the owner of the facility), then the Referee should contact the
VCFA Duty Officer who will determine whether the ground should be
inspected for the purpose of requiring the home club to explain their actions.
4.5.5. The only time a Referee should make a decision in relation to the conditions of
a ground is if the home club is happy to play but the Referee or away club feels
it is unsafe.
4.5.6. In the case of a double header on the same ground unless in the Referee’s
reasonable opinion he/she feels the ground could recover sufficiently to allow
play within the next two hours and the ground lessee concurs then the Referee
will not need to wait for the second KO to declare a ground unfit for play.
4.5.7. In extreme weather conditions, the VCFA Duty Officer or, two VCFA Board
Members or the appointed Referee has the right to postpone, delay or abandon
any fixture.
4.5.8. If the temperature is 32 degrees centigrade or above, water bottles should be
made available and placed within the Technical Areas but at least 2 metres
from the touchline to enable any player to take a drink during the course of the
game.
4.5.9. If conditions are considered extreme by the Referee, he/she has the discretion
to allow a minimum of one additional two minute break each half and more if
the Referee deems necessary.
4.5.10. Referees are recommended to suspend play when the time between a lightning
flash and its thunder clap is less than 15 seconds. In such cases players are
encouraged to seek shelter as soon as possible, preferably in a nearby building.
4.5.11. Where the Referee has indicated that a match should be called off, even if both
team coaches/managers agree to play, then that match shall not be played, and
the appointed Referee shall inform the Match Secretary. Where the Referee
decides the match may proceed, but only one team is prepared to play, then the
referee will abandon the match and the matter will be referred to the VCFA
Judicial Tribunal who will determine the outcome, taking into account all the
circumstances.
4.5.12. If a match is cancelled or abandoned, the Match Secretary and General
Manager should be notified as soon as possible. Subject to a direction from the
VCFA Judicial Tribunal to replay a match the Association will endeavour to
reschedule matches.
4.6.
No Referee
4.6.1. When the Referee assigned to the Match has not arrived fifteen minutes prior
to the scheduled kick off time and no other qualified Referee is available at that
time, a substitute Referee acceptable to representatives of both teams shall be
chosen.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
Page 5 of 25
4.6.2. Should another qualified Referee be available in the absence of the Referee
assigned to the game, the qualified Referee available shall, if the Referee’s own
commitments permit, take charge of the game as substitute Referee to enable
the match to start on time, and continue to officiate until the assigned Referee
arrives, or for the full term of the game should the assigned Referee not arrive
before half-time.
4.6.3. Should the assigned Referee arrive within ten minutes of the game having been
started under control of the substitute Referee, changeover shall take place at a
suitable break in play.
4.6.4. The substitute Referee will complete the Match Report (including votes for
“best and fairest” and “team discipline points”) and submit it together with
Match Cards to the Match Secretary.
4.7.
Abandonment of matches
Matches which are abandoned must be reported by the Referee via the Match Report,
with relevant details attached in a more detailed report. The Judicial Tribunal will then
determine the appropriate action and will advise the clubs involved of any penalty.
Yellow and Red Cards issued during the match will remain, although they can be
appealed against under procedures already contained in these Rules.
As a guide: If a game is abandoned due to causes beyond the control of either team,
then the game will be replayed at a suitable time determined by the Association. If a
game is abandoned due to causes attributable to either or both clubs e.g. behaviour of
players, officials, spectators or any other influence at the time, then the result, points
allocation and whether the game is replayed will be at the discretion of the Judicial
Tribunal. A cause that is “attributable” to one or both clubs must in the opinion of
the Judicial Tribunal be “clearly or directly attributable” beyond a reasonable doubt.
4.8.
Match Official
4.8.1. At each Association match, the home team must provide a Match Official.
For the avoidance of doubt each home team must provide one Match Official
per game. This Match Official will wear a special Association vest and has the
authority to ensure that VCFA Match Rules are adhered to. Any players or
spectators who do not co-operate with the Match Official can be reported via
the Referee or directly to the Judicial Tribunal for further action. Refer to
Addendum A for penalties applied for non-compliance with the above
requirements.
4.8.2. A Match Official, wearing the special Association vest shall have the authority
to ensure that all VCFA Match Rules are adhered to. The duties of a Match
Official include, but are not limited to:
a)
ensuring that only substitute players, coaches and club officials of each
team are allowed inside their own Technical Area.
b) ensuring that spectators do not enter the 2 metres passageway.
c)
assisting the Referee should any communication be required with
spectators.
d) ensuring that spectators are not positioned behind the goal lines during
the game.
4.8.3. All spectators, substitute players, coaches and club officials should follow the
directions of a Match Official when he/she acts in accordance with his/her
duties. Any indiscretions can be reported by the Match Official to the Referee
or directly in writing to the Match Secretary or the Judicial Tribunal.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
Page 6 of 25
4.9.
Fixturing
4.9.1. Any fixture request must be submitted by the due date (determined by the
VCFA Board each season) before the start of the season. Fixture requests may
include requests for alignment of teams, ground availability and dates where it
is known teams are unavailable.
4.10. Postponed and Catch-Up Games
4.10.1. In the event that a team cannot play a fixtured match (other than for extreme
weather or ground condition), the match will be considered a forfeit against the
team unavailable to play. If a team is unable to play a match and the club
committee / board of that team believes there are exceptional circumstances,
the club may make application in writing to the VCFA within three days after
the scheduled match was due to be played. The full bench of the VCFA
Tribunal will review any application for exceptional circumstances. In the event
the full bench of the VCFA Tribunal decide that there were exceptional
circumstances, the VCFA will reschedule the match.
For the avoidance of doubt, Exceptional Circumstances for a match to be
rescheduled does not include player injury, players injuries, player shortages or
social events.
4.10.2. Decisions of the VCFA Tribunal full bench in regards to applications for
Exceptional Circumstances are final and not subject to appeal.
4.10.3. If the Judicial Tribunal considers the request for Exceptional Circumstances to
be frivolous, it may impose penalties or fines on the club making the
application for postponement.
5. PLAYERS
5.1.
Number of Players
The following are the minimum and maximum players permitted to participate in
VCFA matches. Any Team List that has total players in excess of the maximum as
stated will be considered as having played ineligible player(s).
Eleven-a-side match
The minimum number of players per team shall be seven. The maximum number of
players shall be sixteen (eleven on the field and five interchange).
Ten-a-side match
The minimum number of players per team shall be seven. The maximum number of
players shall be fourteen (ten on the field and four interchange).
Nine-a-side match
The minimum number of players per team shall be six. The maximum number of
players shall be thirteen (nine on the field and four interchange).
Eight-a-side match
The minimum number of players per team shall be five. The maximum number of
players shall be eleven (eight on the field and three interchange).
Six-a-side match
The minimum number of players per team shall be four. The maximum number of
players shall be nine (six on the field and three interchange).
5.2.
Player Transfer
Any player wishing to transfer from one club to another during the season must first
obtain the approval of both clubs and then obtain permission from the Association
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
Page 7 of 25
Secretary. If the original club with which the player registered refuses clearance, the
player may appeal to the Judicial Tribunal through the Association Secretary. The
Judicial Tribunal has the discretion to approve or not approve the clearance.
5.3.
Team Registration
5.3.1. The cut-off date for team registrations will be determined by the VCFA Board
prior to the commencement of each season
5.3.2. Prior to the commencement of each season, the VCFA Board will meet to
determine the competition structure (number of divisions and teams within a
division) for the Seniors, Ladies and Junior competition and the VCFA Board
will have the discretion to determine whether additional teams (either from
existing clubs or new club applications) will be accepted for that season’s
competition.
5.3.3. The VCFA Board has the right to impose conditions of registration on teams
that had a poor discipline record in the previous season or seasons, or in the
case of new teams, if the VCFA Board believes there are grounds for imposing
a conditional registration.
5.4.
Player Registration
5.4.1. All intending Players must be registered with the Association via the VCFA
Online Registration System (Sporting Pulse). Each Player must supply his/her
name, date of birth, address, an email contact, phone number details (and email
and telephone contact details for parents or guardians in the case of players
under 18 years of age).
5.4.2. Registrations of both senior (mens and ladies) and junior players must be
undertaken through the online VCFA registration system (Sporting Pulse) and
in doing so EACH player acknowledges and accepts the VCFA Terms and
Conditions.
5.4.3. During the season a player can be registered at any time so long as the on-line
registration process has been completed prior to kick off.
5.4.4. All players (including juniors) intending to play in Seniors matches must be
registered before playing any games. (Refer to Addendum A for penalty
applied to a team playing an unregistered or ineligible player.)
5.5.
Match Cards and Team Lists
5.5.1. All Match Rules apply to ALL VCFA competitions unless expressively stated
otherwise.
5.5.2. All teams must submit a correctly completed match card or team list for every
game - that is all Juniors, Men’s and Ladies matches.
5.5.3. All Match Cards and Team Lists will be issued via the VCFA Online system
(Sporting Pulse). It is the responsibility of the individual clubs to print-off the
Match Card or Team List. In every instance it is the latest Match Card or
Team List which must be used. The Match Card or Team List must be
completed correctly (game details, shirt numbers, cross off non-participating
players, players added on etc.).
5.5.4. Each team will present a correctly completed Match Card or Team List to the
Referee no later than 10 minutes before the start of each match. Refer to
Addendum A for penalty for non-compliance with this requirement.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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5.5.5. It is the responsibility of each individual team manager or representative to
seek and approach the Referee to present the Match Card or Team List. Refer
to Addendum A for penalties for late submission of Match cards or Team List,
irregularities or unauthorized modifications.
5.6.
Player Attire and Equipment
Each Club is responsible to ensure that their players are correctly attired within the
requirements of the Laws of the Game. Shirts and Shorts colours shall be consistent
within the one team. A player in one team shall not wear shirt colours that are the
same as or clashes with the opponents' shirt colours. In such cases of clash, all
players, including the Goal Keeper of the away team, whose shirt colours clash, shall
change or not play.
5.6.1. Team Shirt Numbers
Every player except for the goalkeeper shall have a distinguishing and exclusive
number upon the shirt which shall agree with the player's number on the
Match Card or Team List prepared for reference and for the Referee's use
during the Match.
In the event a team wishes to change its goalkeeper but does not have another
keepers jersey the Referee is to make a note of any change in shirt numbers.
5.6.2. Team Shirt Colours
a)
New shirt colours must have the prior approval of the Association. Shirts
that are predominantly black in colour shall not be permitted.
b) The Goalkeepers shall wear colours which distinguish them from the field
Players and the Referee.
c)
Clubs must provide digital images of their main shirts and alternate playing
shirts to the VCFA for inclusion on the VCFA website prior to the
commencement of each season (when paying Association affiliation fee).
d) It is the away team’s responsibility to provide an alternate strip where
required except when it is only the home team goalkeeper whose shirt
colour clashes with the away team.
e)
The VCFA will publish as part of the fixtures a small image of each Teams
Home Playing Strip for the purpose of identifying any clash of strips.
f)
In the event of a clash of strips then both teams and the Referee will
exercise common sense and every effort should be made to play the game
including where possible, delaying the kick-off subject to approval by the
VCFA Duty Officer. If no alternate strip is available the Referee will
abandon the fixture.
g)
In the event a fixture is abandoned due to a clash of strips, the match will
be forfeited 3-0 to the home team. If there are any exceptional
circumstances, the away team may be granted the right to make an appeal
against the forfeit by the Judicial Tribunal.
5.6.3. Shin Guards
As a general rule shin guards must provide coverage to more than half the total
shin area. For very tall players or players with unusually long shins the Referee
will use his/her discretion to ensure a reasonable area of the player’s shin area
is covered so as to encourage participation by all players where reasonably
possible.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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5.6.4. Jewellery
In the interest of players’ safety, players must remove all jewellery (including
necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, piercings, leather bands, rubber bands,
medical bracelets, bobby pins, metal clips, etc.) prior to entering the field of
play. Using tape to cover jewellery is not acceptable. If any player refuses to
do so, the Referee will exclude that player from participating in the match until
such jewellery is removed.
If a player is discovered to be wearing jewellery during play, the referee will
caution the player, order the player to leave the field of play and that the item
in question must be removed before the player is allowed to re-enter the field
of play.
5.6.5. Medical ID Bracelets
Where a player is required to wear a medical ID bracelet for the legitimate
purpose of providing information about the player's medical condition or
treatment, the player:
-
must inform the Referee of that fact prior to the commencement of play;
-
agrees to participate in the match on the basis that he/she shall comply
with this rule 5.6.5 and that he/she voluntarily assume the risk of so
doing;
-
must be accompanied to the match by a dedicated spectator who observes
the player throughout the full length of the match;
-
must leave the medical ID bracelet with that dedicated spectator, with
instructions to present the medical ID bracelet to any person seeking to
provide medical treatment to the player; and
-
must immediately re-affix, or have the dedicated spectator re-affix, the
medical ID bracelet to the player at the conclusion of the player's
involvement in the match.
If the Referee becomes aware that a player has not fully complied with this rule
5.6.5 the player will be ordered to leave the field of play and will be excluded
from the remainder of the match until the player complies with this rule.
5.6.6. Blood Rule
In the event that a player suffers an injury which results in the loss of blood,
the Referee will request that the player receive attention outside the field of
play. The injured player will only be permitted to rejoin the game when the
Referee is satisfied that the injury has been safely covered and contained. If
the player’s attire is splattered with blood, he/she will only be permitted to
rejoin the game when he/she has changed his/her attire.
5.7.
Junior Players
5.7.1. Team lists
5.7.1.1. Where there are sufficient teams in any junior age group to form two
or more divisions then grading will take place based on ability. Each
club having more than one team in a junior age group will nominate
on their team form which of their teams should be in the higher and
which should be in the lower division.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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5.7.1.2. Clubs with more than one team in a Junior age-group are expected to
maintain a fixed allotment of players to a team, rather than moving
players from team to team to benefit from the extra numbers of
players available. However, a player may be added to another team
list of the player’s club by having the player’s name written on to that
team’s list. Only two players can be added in this way at any time. A
player can only be added on to another list for a maximum of seven
times, and then it has to be decided whether the player is to be
transferred permanently on to that team list. Refer to Addendum A
for the penalty for playing an un-registered or over-age Juniors player
in a team.
5.7.2. Age Groups
Except with the permission of the Association, no Juniors player shall play in
an age group lower than their own age. Any player who has been granted this
dispensation must have ‘EX’ after his name. Such players are ineligible for best
and fairest votes. Excluding girls, no team shall have more than two such
players in their team. Referees are encouraged to notify the Association if they
feel that any such player should not continue to be granted this age
dispensation. This dispensation shall be rescinded if the player returns to
playing at his/her own age level or above. Each case will be dealt with on its
own merits. Players in Clubs which have more than one team in an age-group
shall play in the team in which they have been registered.
When determining which age group a girl qualifies to play in, one year may be
deducted from her age, thereby allowing her to play in a younger age group.
No further age exemption can be granted for that season. However if
exemption from this rule is required then a club must complete the exemption
form. The exemption will be rescinded if the player reverts in the future to
playing in her own age group or above.
5.8.
Seniors and Ladies Players
5.8.1. Registrations and Match Cards or Team Lists
5.8.1.1. Referees will conduct random checks of players identities and may
ask to see photo ID.
5.8.1.2. If a player is unable to provide photo ID the player concerned may be
asked by the referee to provide certain personal details or agree to his
or her photograph being taken which will be sent to the VCFA Match
Secretary.
5.8.1.3. In all Senior Men’s and Ladies’ games, the Match Card or Team Lists
will facilitate the movement of players between various teams within
the same Club without disciplinary penalty, but each intending player
(whether Men’s or Ladies) must have his/her name, shirt number and
registration number written on the match card or Team Lists before
eligible to play.
5.8.1.4. The Referee will check that the number of players named on the
Match Card or Team Lists matches to the number of players
(including interchange players) on the ground. The Referee will retain
and send-in to the Match Secretary the Match cards or Team Lists
and a Match Report with details of those players issued with
Yellow/Red Cards during the match. The Match Secretary will notify
the appropriate clubs of any suspensions applicable after the issue of
yellow cards.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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5.8.1.5. The Senior Match Secretary will publish weekly on the VCFA
website, a list of all players who are suspended and the date of their
eligibility to resume play.
5.8.2. Team Lists
5.8.2.1. Team Lists will be enforced for all Association competitions. A club
must register Team Lists for each of its teams. Any senior or ladies
player registered with a club must be assigned to a particular Team
List. Registered junior players are not required to be assigned to a
senior Team List. Any junior player added to a senior Team List on a
match day must have ‘JNR’ after his name.
5.8.2.2. A player can play with another team at his/her club by having his/her
name and registration ID number written on to that team’s list.
Subject to clause 5.8.2.3, 5.8.2.4, 5.8.2.5 and 5.8.2.6 there are no
restrictions on how many players can be moved each week between
teams in the same club however in the event of a postponement, bye,
mid-week catch up games, abandonment, or any other reason a match
cannot be played, only three players who have played a minimum of
four matches or 75% or more of their matches only (whichever is
higher) for the team not playing can play in a lower division on that
day.
5.8.2.3. For the last four rounds of the home and away season the lowest
Division a player will be able to play in will be determined by the
Division in which he/she had played at least four matches during the
season up to the round immediately preceding the last final four
rounds.
Example: If the lowest Division a player has qualified for at round 14 is Division 6,
then that player will be eligible to play in Division 6 or a higher Division during
the last four rounds of the season.
5.8.2.4. Where a player has played for more than one team in any round (in
different Divisions) the highest Division in which he/she played in on
that day will be recorded for eligibility.
Example:
• If a player plays in Div 6 and Div 2 on the same Match Day,
he/she will be deemed to have played in that round in Div 2 (for
calculating eligibility during the last four rounds of the season).
• If a player wishes to play in Division 6 during the last four rounds
of the season he/she must have had to have played at least four
matches on four weekends in which Division 6 (or lower) was the
highest division he/she played in during rounds 1 to 14 for Men’s
and 1 to 10 for Ladies.
• If a player played seven matches in Division 2, three matches in
Division 6 and one match in Division 7, he/she would be eligible
to play in Division 6 or higher during the last four rounds of the
season.
5.8.2.5. Exceptions to 5.8.2.3
• Players who have played less than a total of four matches by round
14 (Men’s) or round 10 (Ladies), will be eligible to play in the
division he/she played most matches in.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
Page 12 of 25
• If a player has played an equal number of matches in two or more
divisions, the highest of the divisions will be the only one he/she
will be eligible to play in.
5.8.2.6. In situations covered by 5.8.2.3, 5.8.2.4 and 5.8.2.5, a Club may also
play a maximum of two higher division listed players but only in the
next lower division in which that Club has a participating team.
Example: If a Club has teams in Divisions 1, 3 and 4, two Division 1 listed players
can only play in Division 3, two Division 3 listed players can only play in Division 4.
The two Division 1 listed players cannot play in Division 4.
5.8.3. Matches on Same Day
Subject to clause 5.8.2, a player may play in more than 1 game on the day
without restriction.
Refer to Addendum A for the penalty applying to a team breaching this rule.
6. SHIELD/CUP COMPETITIONS
6.1.
Match Cards or Team Lists
Match Cards or Team Lists in accordance with Rule 5.5 must be submitted to the
Referee before the commencement of each match.
6.2.
Prohibition on Player Transfers
A player named on a team’s Match Card or Team List in a previous match of the
Shield or Cup Competition is “cup-tied” to that team and is prohibited from being
named in another team in any subsequent match of the Shield or Cup Competitions.
For avoidance of doubt, a previous match includes a match played at an earlier time on
the same day or in a previous round on an earlier date. Refer to Addendum A for
penalty imposed for breach of prohibition.
7. INTERCHANGE
7.1. Interchange has been agreed at all levels of play in the Association.
7.2. There shall be no limit on the number of interchanges or when they occur.
7.3. Referees should not limit the number and timing of interchanges so long as they occur
during a break in play and with the approval of the Referee and the interchange player
is ready and waiting at the half way line.
7.4. Players boots and equipment will be checked before the start of match for all players.
The only exception is for players arriving after the start of the match, whose boots and
equipment will be checked upon entry into the field of play for the first time.
7.5. All interchange must occur at the half way line.
7.6. The Assistant Referee (closest to the Technical Area) should co-ordinate
“interchange” – that is the Assistant Referee should assist the Referee by ensuring;
 that the interchange players are ready for interchange;
 that interchange occurs at the correct time (only after the Referee has approved the
interchange);
 that interchange occurs at the half way line;
 that the correct numbers of players exit and enter the field of play during the
interchange;
 that the Referee is made aware when a team wishes to make an interchange; and
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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 that the Referee is notified when the interchange process has been completed
before the Referee restarts the match.
7.7. If an Interchange is made without the permission of the Referee, or if an interchange
player enters the field of play before the player being rested has left the field of play,
the offending player shall be cautioned and the Referee can ask a player to leave the
field of play.
8. REFEREES and ASSISTANT REFEREES
8.1. Referees within our Association are expected to qualify through completion of the
Association's Referees' Course, a FFV Referees' Course, or through a course of similar
standard.
8.2. Referees should only communicate with spectators via the Match Official and, if
deemed worthy, comments on spectator behaviour should be made in the Referee’s
Match Report or Incident Report.
8.3. Each team will provide a reasonably capable Assistant Referee for each match before
play can commence. The Assistant Referee will assist the Referee in control of the
Match, and must be prepared to accept direction from the Referee as to how the
Assistant Referee role is to be performed. An Assistant Referee is expected to
concentrate on the Game without favouring or coaching one side rather than the other
when the ball is in play.
8.4. For the avoidance of doubt if the Assistant Referee is the coach of one of the teams
they will be entitled to manage substitutions and communicate with players from their
team when the ball is dead or out of play.
8.5. Before the start of a Match, the Referee shall provide Assistant Referee's flags and
instruct Assistant Referees in the duties to be observed in assisting the Referee.
During the Match, the Referee shall watch for and acknowledge an Assistant Referee's
signals. At all times the Referee has the discretion to judge the game situation
irrespective of an Assistant Referee's signal, and this should be made clear in the
instructions given before the start of the Match. An Assistant Referee who proves
unsuitable to the Referee through lack of attention or other reason shall be replaced.
If a suitable Assistant Referee is not available the Referee may abandon the Match and
report the circumstances to the Match Secretary. Refer to Addendum A for penalty
imposed for non-compliance with this requirement.
8.6. If the Assistant Referee is a player, he/she must wear a tracksuit or other jacket that
clearly distinguish him/her from players.
8.7. Where an Assistant Referee has been provided by a team, he/she will run the
appropriate line with his/her team’s defence.
9. REFEREE EVALUATION FORMS
Following the compilation of each Senior and Ladies VCFA scheduled match, both teams
(home and away) must submit a Referee Evaluation Form via the VCFA’s online system, no
later than the Friday following the compilation of the VCFA scheduled match. Refer to
Addendum A for penalty imposed for non compliance with this requirement.
10. MATCH RESULT REPORTING
10.1. A Referee who has issued a red card must forward an Incident Report to the Match
Secretary by no later than 10.00 am on the following Monday (via email).
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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10.2. The Referee should advise the team managers of the official match result before
leaving the ground.
10.3. It is the responsibility of a home team to report the scores via the VCFA Online
System (Sporting Pulse) no later than 8 pm on Saturday for ALL Matches. A fine will
be imposed on non-compliance (refer Addendum A).
10.4. In the Men’s and Ladies Competitions, Referees are asked to pay particular attention
to posting to the Senior Match Secretary, the Match Cards, Match Report (as well as
the votes for 'Best and Fairest' and ‘Team Discipline’) as soon as possible after the
Match, preferably by email or latest by Sunday evening's Mail Clearance i.e. 6.00 pm.
10.5. In the Juniors Competition, the home team is responsible for sending to the Junior
Match Secretary the official Match Cards and Match Report, with the results on them,
as well as the votes for ‘Best and Fairest’.
10.6. Ground Markings / Equipment Reporting
Referees are required to note in the Match Report whether:
 Both teams (home and away) provide the Association issued Match Ball
 The Association Match Ball is damaged during a match.
 All Pitch facilities and markings correct (this requirement includes individually and
severally: whether Goal Posts are correctly set up, Corner Flags are provided, Goal
Nets are provided, and Ground / Line Markings including Technical and Clearance
areas are correct).
 Rule 5.6 (player attire) is being adhered to, with notation, if necessary, of any
individual breaches.
 The home team has provided a Match Official wearing the yellow VCFA vest.
Refer to Addendum A for penalties for non-compliance of the above
11. DISCIPLINE
The Association affirms that the following behaviour at matches will not be tolerated -Blatant foul play, blasphemy, swearing, or abuse of other players or of the Referee. Physical
violence and the consumption of alcoholic liquor are prohibited in the vicinity of the ground
during the conduct of a Match. Clubs should specifically advise their players to avoid undue
harassment of goal-keepers, deliberate tripping, jumping into other players, or tackling from
behind.
Spectators are not allowed behind the goals unless there is a fence at least 10 metres from the
goals and that they are outside the fence line.
11.1. Suspension of Players
a)
When a player is cautioned or sent-off during a match, the Referee will make a
note of the incident in the Match Record Booklet, and in an Incident Report,
notify the Match Secretary of the circumstances of the incident. A player who is
sent off must leave the vicinity of the field of play and the Technical Area
(defined as where the match officials, reserve players, coaches etc. are located).
b) Players sent off during a match should leave the playing areas and retreat to, the
changing rooms (if available), their car or at least 50 metres from the ground.
c)
Players who are sent off are, as a minimum, ineligible to play until after the next
official match sanctioned by the VCFA in which their team plays. (A bye,
cancelled or abandoned game is not considered a match week).
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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d) Following the receipt of the Incident Report from a Referee, the Match Secretary,
who following the Match Rules guidelines, will advise the club of the penalty
imposed on the offender. If the club has not received notification of the penalty
by Thursday then the club must contact the Match Secretary to confirm the status
of the player.
e)
If the Match Secretary feels a matter is not straight forward and needs further
review, the matter will be referred to the Judicial Tribunal who will consider and
determine the penalty or otherwise dismiss the matter (this will generally not
involve an appearance at the Judicial Tribunal).
f)
The other source of a disciplinary matter can be from a club who may wish to
submit its own report after a match to the Match Secretary or to the Judicial
Tribunal.
g)
If a club wants to appeal the Match Secretary’s decision or appeal a Referee’s
original decision, the matter should be appealed to the Judicial Tribunal which will
be known as a “first appeal”. Any notice of appeal must be sent to the Senior or
Junior Match Secretary by email. Only a Member of the VCFA (a Club) may
appeal a decision – individuals are not eligible to lodge an appeal.
h) If a club wishes to appeal a decision of the Judicial Tribunal (after either a “first
appeal” or a decision made by the Judicial Tribunal referred to it by the Match
Secretary) the club may appeal to the Full Bench of the Judicial Tribunal which
will be a hearing of three members of the Judicial Tribunal selected from the
Tribunal’s Chairman and Vice Chairman sitting together to consider the matter.
i)
The cost of an appeal does not have to be paid in advance of a hearing but will be
billed to the club subject to the outcome of the appeal hearing. If the appeal is
successful there will be no cost. If the appeal fails and the Judicial Tribunal
upholds the original ruling then a cost of $200 will be charged to the club.
j)
A club will be imposed with an additional fine (to be determined by the Judicial
Tribunal) if an appeal is withdrawn subsequent to plans being made for the
Judicial Tribunal to sit. Decisions of the Judicial Tribunal must be made and
conveyed to the club of the offender before the ensuing match.
k)
The Judicial Tribunal will sit each week during the season that there are matters to
be considered by it:
 An appeal against a red card or suspension resulting from a third yellow card
will if possible be heard by the Judicial Tribunal during the week following the
reported infringement.
 If the Judicial Tribunal is unable to schedule an appeal hearing during the week
following the reported infringement then the player will be eligible to play until
the Judicial Tribunal is able to schedule a hearing subject to written
confirmation from the Judicial Tribunal (such approval being at the absolute
discretion of the Chairman or one of the Vice Chairman of the Judicial
Tribunal).
l)
A suspended player shall not play in any Match within the Association's
competition during the period of the suspension. (A bye, cancelled or abandoned
game is not considered a match week). A forfeited match should be counted as a
match-week for the purposes of serving a suspension.
m) A suspended player who is reported for any misconduct at Association Matches
during the period of suspension, whether as a relieving Match Official, or as a
spectator, will have the suspension increased at the discretion of the Judicial
Tribunal, in the interest of players, Clubs, and the Association.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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n) Three notations of cautions having been given to the same player during the
season (or two during a game) shall be followed by suspension for a minimum
one match/week from the competition. Such player is, as a minimum, ineligible
to play until after the next official match sanctioned by the VCFA in which their
team plays. (A bye, cancelled or abandoned game is not considered a match
week)
o) Any suspension or compounded suspension imposed through the season for any
reason of misconduct (including Red Card, successive three notations of
Cautions, off-field incidents) will be doubled in the next instance.
p) The Judicial Tribunal has the authority to moderate or to increase suspension
penalties in the interest of players, Clubs, and the Association. The Judicial
Tribunal also has the authority to impose any different form of penalty including
(but not limited to) the reduction of competition points as it sees fit. The Judicial
Tribunal may require players suspended for certain offences to return to the
Tribunal after they have served a suspension (but before they return to the
competition) and show cause as to why they should be permitted to return to the
competition.
q) In straightforward cases in which the Referee substantiates a sending-off, the
player sent-off shall be suspended in accordance with the guidelines in Addendum
B - VCFA Discipline Table (this table is not an exhaustive list, and the Judicial
Tribunal has the authority to vary it as it sees fit)
r)
Outstanding suspensions at the end of the winter competition will be carried over
to the next winter competition and any from the summer competition shall be
carried over to the next summer competition. One day of knockout competition
(or any competition played on the same day) counts as one match/week of a
player’s suspension. Each week missed by a suspended player in a shield or cup
competition (which is played over a number of weeks) will count as one week of
their suspension. Yellow and Red Cards gained during the knockout, shields,
cups and representative competitions will be treated as if issued during the home
and away competition. Any Red Card or two Yellow Cards issued during the
knockout competition will make the offending player ineligible for the remainder
of the competition and the usual penalties, under other sections of the Match
Rules, will apply.
s)
Any Red Card or two Yellow Cards issued during the knockout competition or
any played on the same day will make the offending player ineligible for the
remainder of the competition and the usual penalties, under other sections of the
Match Rules, will apply.
11.2. Behaviour of Players and Spectators
11.2.1. The Judicial Tribunal shall decide what are considered to be appropriate
penalties dependent upon particular circumstances.
11.2.2. Referees or Assistant Referees are not expected to accept dissenting or abusive
remarks from players. Players who dissent from a Referee's decision during a
Match are entitled to be Cautioned. Players who address abusive remarks to
other players, to the Referee, or to Assistant Referees or spectators during a
Match are likely to be Sent-off. Refer to Addendum A for penalties imposed
on players who make disparaging or abusive remarks to Referees before,
during or after a Match.
11.2.3. Each Club is responsible for its own spectators' behaviour whether they are
playing at home or away. Referees, Assistant Referees, and visiting players and
supporters should be protected from undue harassment.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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11.2.4. Any participant guilty of misconduct towards the Referee or an Assistant
Referee must be requested to leave the ground immediately. Refer to
Addendum A for penalty imposed on spectators who are registered players or
officials of Affiliated Clubs and are reported by a Referee as being guilty of
misconduct towards the Referee or an Assistant Referee. Refer to Addendum
A for penalty imposed on spectators who are not registered players and are
reported by a Referee as being guilty of misconduct towards the Referee or an
Assistant Referee.
11.2.5. No person is allowed to enter the field of play during a match, without the
specific permission of the Referee. Should the Referee consider an injured
player requires assistance, the Referee will clearly signal for such assistance
from club or team officials. The Judicial Tribunal may impose penalties for
contravention of this requirement, taking into account the Referee's report of
the incident.
11.2.6. Any spectator or Club official who in the opinion of the Match Official or the
Referee is guilty of misconduct, must, if requested by the Match Official leave
the ground immediately which means leaving the field of play and remaining at
least 50 metres from the ground for the duration of the balance of the match
and any subsequent match.
11.3. Racist Remarks at Matches
11.3.1. Association Matches are held in public places. Members of the public are
generally free to attend and view Matches, whether casually or as supporters of
playing teams. Offensive racist remarks made and overheard in public are
unlawful under the provisions of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975. The
term “offensive racist remarks” includes remarks that are reasonably likely in
the circumstances to offend, insult, humiliate, or intimidate another person or
group of people on the basis of race, colour, or national or ethnic origin. Any
person aggrieved by racist remarks or racist acts may make official complaint
to the Race Discrimination Commissioner, or to the Equal Opportunity
Commission. The Association firmly states that offensive racist remarks are
not acceptable at Association Matches, and advises Clubs that every
opportunity should be taken to make all of their participants aware that
offensive racist remarks and racial vilification have no place in the
Association’s competition or its environs. The Association has therefore
adopted disciplinary procedures to make clear to all participants the
Association’s attitude towards offensive racist remarks or behaviour.
11.3.2. Racist remarks made by players and directed at another player, a Match
Official, a Team Official, or towards a spectator are addressed in Addendum B
- VCFA Discipline Table. A Referee may report such incident to the Match
Secretary, or a report may be made to the Board, Judicial Tribunal, Association
Secretary or Match Secretary by an aggrieved party, or a concerned Club
Official on behalf of a Club.
11.3.3. Racist remarks directed by spectators, Club Officials, Match Officials towards
other spectators, Club Officials, Match Officials and/or players, are considered
to be “Foul and Abusive Language”. A report may be made by the Referee to
the Match Secretary, or a report may be made to the Board, Judicial Tribunal,
Association Secretary or Match Secretary by an aggrieved party, or a concerned
Club Official on behalf of a Club.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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11.3.4. Racist remarks made by a Match Official, directed at a spectator, Club Official,
Match Official, or player, will be disciplined by a penalty (up to $500) imposed
on the offending Match Official, who will be expected to write a sincere letter
of apology to the offended person or persons (directed through the
Association Secretary) and pay the penalty, before being accepted to officiate at
any further Association Matches.
11.3.5. Racist remarks made by a Club Official, directed at a spectator, Club Official,
Match Official, or player, will be disciplined by a penalty (up to $500) imposed
on the offending Club Official (by email or letter to Club with which that
person is associated). The offending Club Official will be expected to write a
sincere letter of apology to the offended person or persons (directed through
the Club and the Association Secretary) and the Club must ensure the penalty
is paid, before the Club Official is accepted as a participant at any further
Association Matches.
11.3.6. Racist remarks made by a spectator, directed at a spectator, Club Official,
Match Official, or player, will be disciplined by a penalty (up to $500) imposed
on the Club with which the offending spectator is identified as a supporter.
The Offender will be expected to write a sincere letter of apology to the
offended person or persons (directed through the Club and the Association
Secretary) and the Club must ensure the penalty is paid, before the offender is
welcome as a spectator at any further Association Matches.
11.4. Blasphemy, Foul or Abusive Language
11.4.1. "Blasphemy" is the term given to the use of the Name of God or of His Son,
Our Lord Jesus Christ, in an irreverent way, or as an expletive or a profanity in
an expression of rage or hurt, or as a mannerism of speech to shock others, or
to insult, instead of being used as a means of worship, adoration, or prayer.
"Cursing" and "Swearing" are general terms for coarse language that may
include calling down misfortune on someone, or invoking a deity to carry out
the wish expressed; cursing and swearing may include blasphemy.
"Obscenity" refers to that element in coarse language that is lewd or
suggestive in reference to sexual matters.
"Vulgarity" has the connotation of reference to bodily processes not normally
mentioned in polite speech, and may include blunt, tasteless, or crude language.
11.4.2. Any form of blasphemy uttered by a Player and heard by the Referee or
reported to the Referee by an official assistant referee, should be expediently
disciplined by the offending Player being sent-off the field of play for
"blasphemy".
11.4.3. Any form of swearing, cursing, obscenity or vulgarity uttered by a Player and
directed towards another player, Referee, assistant referee, match officials or
spectators and heard by the Referee or reported to the Referee by an official
assistant referee, should be expediently disciplined by the offending Player
being sent-off the field of play for "foul and abusive language".
11.4.4. A player who swears without using blasphemy and not directing the player’s
remarks towards another person, but swears nonetheless, should be disciplined
by the Referee administering a Caution for “Unsporting Behaviour – language”
before the restart of play or when the ball next goes out of play.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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11.4.5. Interchange players not on the field of play directing any of the reprehensible
forms of speech towards another person, and heard by the Referee or reported
to the Referee by an official assistant referee, should be disciplined with a red
card and sent-off from the technical area, for “foul or abusive language", and
will not be entitled to participate any further in the match as an interchange
player.
11.4.6. For avoidance of doubt, an official assistant referee shall be an assistant referee
appointed to the match by the VCFA, and does not include an assistant referee
provided by a team pursuant to Match Rule 8.3.
12. JUDICIAL TRIBUNAL
12.1. The Role of the Judicial Tribunal
The Judicial Tribunal for the Men’s and Ladies competitions will:
a)
Hear any appeals relating to decisions of the Match Secretary;
b) Investigate any red card or other incidents that the Match Secretary decides
require further investigation;
c)
Investigate any reports from Referees or Match Officials regarding behaviour of
spectators, coaches or club officials;
d) Investigate any reports from Clubs and may impose penalties on clubs that in the
opinion of the Tribunal make vexatious or petty reports.
e)
Establish a “Full Bench” to hear any appeals made against an initial ruling by the
Tribunal.
f)
If it so chooses, establish a separate Judicial Tribunal to hear matters relating the
Junior Competition.
12.2. Judicial Tribunal Membership
12.2.1. The Judicial Tribunal will comprise a Chairman (selected from a panel of five)
and two Ordinary Tribunal members (selected from a panel of 10).
12.2.2. The panel of Chairman will comprise:
Chairman – Who will be the General Board Member with Responsibility for
Coordination of the Judicial Tribunal; and four Vice Chairman (4) who will be
rostered to share the chairing of weekly Tribunal hearings with the Chairman
will comprise the VCFA President, VCFA Vice President and two others
selected by the VCFA President, VCFA Vice President and the Tribunal
Chairman (“Judicial Selection Committee”). Such other Vice Chairman will be
selected from among other VCFA Board members, VCFA Club members or
other persons deemed suitable by the Judicial Selection Committee (“JSC”).
12.2.3. The panel of Ordinary Tribunal Members will be selected by the JSC from
members of VCFA clubs or other persons deemed suitable by the JSC.
12.2.4. A Tribunal Secretary will be appointed by the JSC. The Tribunal Secretary will
be responsible for coordinating the meetings of the Judicial Tribunal.
12.2.5. In the event that Ordinary Panel Members are unavailable or in circumstances
where the Tribunal Chairman decides that one or more of the matters to be
considered would benefit from the presence of one or more of the Tribunal
Vice Chairman then the Chairman of the Tribunal may elect to invite the Vice
Chairman required to be part of the Tribunal for that hearing.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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12.2.6. A full bench of the Tribunal which will convene to hear “appeals” of Tribunal
decisions and will comprise the Chairman and two of the four Vice Chairman.
In circumstances where the Chairman is unavailable or is conflicted in the
matter before the Full Bench the Full Bench will comprise the President and
two other Vice Chairman (or the Vice President and the other two Vice
Chairman if the President is also unavailable or conflicted in the matter to be
considered). The full bench must consist of members that have not sat on the
original Tribunal Hearing however any one of the original Tribunal members
may be asked to attend the full bench hearing for the purposes of providing a
briefing to the full bench but will have no voting rights as to the outcome.
12.3. Judicial Tribunal Meeting Procedure
12.3.1. A quorum of the Judicial Tribunal will be one member of the Chairman’s
Panel plus one other member of the Judicial Tribunal.
12.3.2. At the Chairman's discretion, meeting procedure shall generally conform to
recognised guidelines as published in reference publications such as "Guide for
meetings and organisations" by N.E. Renton, Law Book Company, to the
extent that they are not inconsistent with the provisions of the Association's
Constitution and other Association reference documents.
12.4. Powers of the Judicial Tribunal
a)
To impose fines on members, players, match officials, and member officials;
b) To impose suspensions from play or membership to the limit of twelve months or
a higher penalty on players or members registered with the Association;
c)
To hear appeals from players with respect to established Yellow Card and Red
Card match disciplines;
d) To impose the penalty of a fine and/or increased suspension in the event of what
is considered to be a frivolous appeal, and to moderate or to increase a penalty or
established Match Discipline in the interest of players, members, and the
Association;
e)
A frivolous appeal is one which is perceived by the Judicial Tribunal to have
presented no new worthwhile information to the Judicial Tribunal within its
objectives of seeking that ""justice should not only be done, but should manifestly
and undoubtedly be seen to be done" in the interest of players, members, and the
Association" but is perceived by the Judicial Tribunal to have been either a device
adopted to delay the effect of a Match Discipline or to have some motive other
than seeking to correct an unfortunate injustice; and
f)
To deduct competition points, suspension of a team or club or expulsion of a
team or club from the VCFA competition. Suspension of a team or club for five
or more weeks will require Board ratification and expulsion of a team or club will
require both Board and Association ratification. If any team is suspended or
expelled, the suspension or expulsion will apply to any player who has played four
or more matches and which represent 75% or more of their matches played in the
suspended or expelled team for that season.
12.5. Appearance at the Judicial Tribunal
12.5.1. The Judicial Tribunal will determine who needs to appear before it – but in
cases of serious misconduct, Referees may be required to attend in person or
give evidence by telephone or Skype.
12.5.2. Evidence will be dealt with in a structured and legally appropriate manner.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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12.5.3. The Full Bench of the Judicial Tribunal may be convened to consider any
serious complaints against the behaviour of a referee – this will be limited to
serious misconduct only (not poor performance).
12.5.4. Failure of a person to attend a Tribunal hearing when requested will not
provide grounds for a re-hearing of the matters decided upon at that Tribunal
hearing and will not annul the rulings made or the disciplines imposed at that
hearing
13. UNDER 8 & 9 COMPETITIONS
13.1. The following requirements are specifically applicable to the VCFA’s under 8 & 9
competitions:
a)
Pitch - 54 metres x 38 metres (180 feet x 125 feet)
b) Centre Circle - 5 metres radius (17 feet)
c)
Penalty/Goal Area - 6 metre radius semi-circle from centre of goal.
d) Goal kicks - taken from within the semi-circle.
e)
Goals - 1.83 metres high x 5 metres wide (6ft x 16ft 5") no goal nets necessary.
Portable goalposts should be firmly and safely fixed to the ground.
f)
Penalty Spot - 6 metres from goal line (26 feet). Only the goalkeeper and the
kick-taker to be within the semi-circle when a penalty kick is being taken.
g)
Ball - size 3. Each team is to provide a ball at the match.
h) Off-side - there is no off side rule.
i)
Players - 6 per side, one of who must be goal-keeper. 3 reserves, with Interchange
allowed. Minimum of 4 players.
j)
Clearance - 5 metres from all free kicks.
k)
Corner posts - minimum 1.52 metres high (5 feet).
l)
Duration of Play - 2 x 15 minute halves with 5 minute half-time break.
m) Referee - one Referee to each ground, who may Referee two or more games in
succession. No linesmen required.
n) Attire - Referee and players to be suitably attired for ease of identification.
Goalkeepers to wear colours distinct from those of the other players. Players to
wear shin-guards under their football socks.
o) Ground Markings - to be completed before match may start.
p) Playing schedule - 9 am to 9.35 am, 9.40 am to 10.15 am, etc.
q) Goal scoring – If a team is leading by 3 goals, it cannot score further goals from
shots taken inside the 12 metre semi-circle.
r)
Best & Fairest votes/results/ladders – no Best & Fairest votes, results or ladders
should be kept for the U8 and U9 competitions.
13.2. Where a junior match is to be played on a full size senior pitch, allowances will be
made so that distance for a corner kick is shortened. The kick will be taken from goal
line halfway between the junction of the corner arc and the junction of the penalty
area goal kicks. See laws of the Game page 12 “optional markings”
13.3. Where a junior match is to be played on a full size senior pitch, allowances will be
made so that distance for a goal kick is extended. The kick will be taken in line with
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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the penalty spot and not outside the width of the 6 yard box. See laws of the Game,
page 12 “optional markings”
13.4. In relation to throw-ins, NO concessions, ie a second chance, will be given for foul
throw beyond the U/10 age group. For under 9’s and 10’s competitions, where a foul
throw occurs, the referee will gently give clear instructions to the offending player, and
allow them to retake the throw. The throw will not be taken by a different player.
14. MATCH RULES
14.1. Match Rules that are not likely to (materially) impact on the outcome of matches can
be changed by the Board at any time.
14.2. Match Rules that are likely to (materially) impact the outcome of matches can only be
changed by the Board before the start of the season.
14.3. If the Match Rules do not cover a situation which arises then the Judicial Tribunal
shall determine the appropriate response and penalties in line with existing responses
and penalties for other offences, and can make recommendations to have the Match
Rules changed.
14.4. The concept of precedent will be incorporated into the Match Rules so a ruling in one
instance will apply to all future cases on the same matter.
14.5. Match Secretaries should not interpret match rules. If there is any doubt a matter
should be referred to the Judicial Tribunal or Board for a decision
15. PROMOTION AND RELEGATION
Promotions and relegations will be at the direction of the Board on an annual basis following
the principles of 2 up / 2 down unless smaller divisions apply.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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ADDENDUM A - PENALTIES
OFFENCE
PENALTY
Match Card or Team List completed incorrectly.
Unofficial or outdated Match Card or Team List
submitted.
No Match Official.
Match Ball provided by Home Team not suitable.
Goal posts not correctly set-up.
Corner Flags not provided or correct.
Goal Nets not provided.
Ground markings not correct or legible.
Incorrect player attire.
Late or non-submission of match results.
Late or non-submission of Referee’s Evaluation
Report.
Association issued Match Ball not provided for 2
successive match games.
Forfeiting of matches without prior notice.
Late submissions of Match Card or Team List to
referee (on match day).
Non attendance at Association Meetings.
Unauthorised modification of Match Cards or Team
Lists.
A team playing an unregistered or ineligible player.
$50
$50
A team not providing a suitable Assistant Referee.
Players abusing Referees or Assistant Referees.
Spectators who are registered Players or Officials of
Affiliated Clubs and are reported by a Referee as
being guilty of misconduct towards the Referee or an
Assistant Referee.
Spectators who are not registered Players and are
reported by a Referee as being guilty of misconduct
towards the Referee or an Assistant Referee.
Racist remarks.
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
$50
$25
$25
$25
$25
$25
$25
$25
$50
$25
$50
$50
$50
$50 and loss of 3 match points
To be determined by the Judicial
Tribunal and may include but not
limited to loss of match, loss of
additional competition points, monetary
fine etc…
$25
Subject to protracted suspension from
Play, and the imposition of a penalty up
to $500 being imposed by the
Association or the Judicial Tribunal
(whichever has the earlier opportunity
to meet and consider a matter).
Imposition of a penalty up to $500
payable by the club.
Imposition of a penalty up to $500,
payable by the club.
Refer heading 11.3
Page 24 of 25
ADDENDUM B – VCFA DISCIPLINE TABLE
In straightforward cases in which the Referee substantiates a sending-off, the player sent-off shall
be suspended in accordance with the guidelines in the VCFA Discipline Table (this table is not an
exhaustive list, and the Judicial Tribunal has the authority to vary it as it sees fit)
Item Red Card Offence
VCFA Discipline
1
Assaulting Referee (Verbal or Physical assault)
Discretion of Judicial Tribunal
2
Serious foul play
Minimum 3 matches/weeks
3
Offensive, insulting or abusive language or
gestures
Minimum 2 matches/weeks
4
Racist remarks exchanged between players
After a sincere apology is made,
Minimum 3 matches/weeks
suspension
5
Racist comments or remarks made by a Player,
and directed at another player, Match Official,
Team Official, or towards a spectator.
After a sincere apology is made,
Minimum 3 matches/weeks
suspension
6
Blasphemy
Minimum 3 matches/weeks
7
Active Retaliation (includes punching or
pushing or attempting to punch or push
beyond warding off blows)
Minimum 3 matches/weeks
8
Spitting at anyone ( or similar unseemly
behaviour = assault )
Minimum 3 matches/weeks
9
Violent conduct ( including punching or
attempting to punch, kicking or jumping into
contact with an opponent )
Minimum 3 matches/weeks
10
Denies the opposing team a goal or an obvious
goal-scoring opportunity by deliberately
handling the ball (this does not apply to the
goalkeeper within his own penalty area)
Minimum 1 match/week
11
Denies an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to
an opponent moving towards the player’s goal
by an offence punishable by a free kick or a
penalty kick
Minimum 1 match/week
12
Receiving a second caution in the same match
Minimum 1 match/week
13
Any offence not described above
Discretion of Judicial Tribunal
VCFA Match Rules, March 2015
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