November, 2019 – Revisions
JOE MACDONALD YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE CONSTITUTION
PROGRAM RATIONALE:
To recognize Joe MacDonald’s contribution to the community, this league will provide for the
development of football skills in youth 5 to 14 years of age.
STATEMENT OF GOALS:
Sudbury.
1.1. NAME:
Joe MacDonald Youth Football League (JMYFL)
1.2. AFFILIATION:
1.2.1 The JMYFL will be affiliated with the City of Greater Sudbury.
1.2.2 The JMYFL shall not have the name of any sponsors in it’s name or logo in order to preserve the League’s identity.
1.2.3 The Joe MacDonald Youth Football League name, team names, or logo(s) may not be used, recreated, or referenced without the express written consent of the Joe MacDonald Youth Football League executive members.
2.1 OFFICERS OF THE LEAGUE:
2.1.1 President
Vice-President
Secretary
Treasurer
Director of Football Development and Safety
Director of Player Registration
Directors at Large
Director of Equipment
Game Day Co-ordinator
2.2. TERMS OF OFFICE:
2.2.1 Officers shall be elected to serve for the period of one year.
2.2.2 Election of officers shall take place at the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
2.2.3 In the event positions cannot be filled at the AGM a by-election will be held later to fill the positions.
2.2.4 If an officer leaves in midterm, said officer’s position will be filled internally.
2.2.5 All Officers of the League must undergo a “Criminal Record Check” in accordance with the League’s discretion. Officers of the League will be required to adhere to the process following their election, which takes place at the Annual General Meeting. The League will bear the cost of the “Criminal Record Check” for League Executives, coaches, and volunteers.
2.2.6 At the AGM, during the election of officers, no more than one-third (1/3) of the existing positions in the League may be filled by new members. In the event that there are more than one-third positions vacant, the president may post pone the election of officers.
2.3. PRESIDENT:
2.3.1 To preside at Executive, League and Annual General Meetings and to present dates and agendas for such meetings.
2.3.2 To act as the spokesperson for the League.
2.3.3 To have the authority to inquire into any matters pertaining to the affairs of the League and ask any representative to attend any meeting.
2.3.4 To exercise powers of the Executive in emergency situations.
2.3.5 To act as signing officer for the League.
2.4. VICE-PRESIDENT:
2.4.2 To exercise the powers of the president in that person’s absence.
2.4.3 To act as the liaison between League sponsors and the executive.
2.4.5 To work with the treasurer to develop a League budget.
2.5. SECRETARY:
2.5.1 For all Executive, League and Annual General Meetings:
2.5.2 To receive notices of motion to members at least one week before the annual meeting.
2.5.3 To retain records of team and player registration
2.5.4 To keep a League record.
2.6. TREASURER:
2.6.1 To report all monies received by the League in a bank account for this sole purpose.
2.6.2 To disburse any debts of the League upon receipt of official voucher, invoice or receipt.
2.6.3 To present a financial statement of income and disbursements to the regular meetings of the Executive and the League.
2.6.4 To receive committee estimates of costs from the pre-season meetings and to pay these costs upon approval of the Executive.
2.6.5 To present a statement of League finances upon the request of the executive at a time determined by said body.
2.6.6 To present a statement of League finances at the AGM.
2.6.7 To act as a signing officer for the League.
2.6.8 To develop a League budget in conjunction with the vice-president.
2.7. DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT AND SAFETY:
2.7.1 To organize coaching clinics as deemed appropriate and to seek participants for such clinics.
2.7.2 To organize trainers clinics as deemed appropriate.
2.7.3 To assist League coaches as a resource person.
2.7.4 To develop player safety standards and guidelines.
2.7.5 To organize annual pre-season skills camps.
2.7.6 To develop League coaching manuals.
2.7.7 To recruit coaches.
2.7.8 To act as the liaison between coaches and Executives with regards to administrative matters.
2.10.1 To facilitate the liaison between the League and the referees.
2.10.2 To help develop playing rules.
2.10.3 To serve on the discipline committee.
2.8. DIRECTOR OF PLAYER REGISTRATION:
2.8.1 To develop guidelines for and organize the registration of players.
2.9. DIRECTORS AT LARGE:
2.9.1 There is no set number of Directors at Large. That number will be determined by the number of nominees who successfully receive a majority vote at the AGM.
2.9.2 To attend League meetings.
2.9.3 To be available to assume other Executive positions.
2.9.4 To assist League operations as requested.
2.9.5 To develop and implement an advertising campaign for the player registration, banquet, Executive and coaching positions in the JMYFL organization.
2.9.6 To act as a contact during the season with the local media for the distribution of League scores and highlights.
2.9.7 To notify the community of events related to JMYFL as seen fit and approved by the Executive through radio, TV, mail outs or print media.
2.9.8 To implement fund raising activities for the JMYFL organization.
2.9.9 To be responsible for player recognition in the form of awards, banquets, pictures and BBQ.
2.9.10 To organize and administer recognition program for players.
2.12. DIRECTOR OF EQUIPMENT:
2.12.1 To be responsible for ordering equipment.
2.12.2 To be responsible for the storage of equipment.
2.12.3 To be in charge of equipment replacement and re-certification program.
2.12.4 To be responsible for the distribution and collection of equipment.
2.12.5 To make equipment recommendations.
2.13. GAME DAY CO-ORDINATOR:
2.13.1 To be responsible for running day to day games.
2.13.2 To recruit people to be timers, scorers and stick people, etc.
2.11.1 To create and distribute the playing schedules.
2.11.2 To keep a record of standings and statistics.
2.11.3 To help in interpreting the rules and regulations.
2.11.4 To arrange and book fields for practice and games.
3.1. COMPOSITION OF EXECUTIVE:
3.1.1 The Executive shall consist of the President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Director of Football Development and Safety, Director of Player Registration, Directors At Large, Referee-in-Chief, League Convener, Director of Equipment and Game Day Co-Ordinator.
3.2. EXECUTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES:
3.2.1 To have charge of the business of the League and the supervision of all committees.
3.2.2 To administer the policies laid down by the resolution passed at the annual and regular meetings of the League.
3.2.3 To rule on situations not specifically covered by the Constitution.
3.2.4 To approve all purchases and payments on behalf of the League.
3.2.5 To a maximum of two persons or up to 25% of the Executive, (whichever is less), members of the Executive can act as a coach or team representative in the League.
3.2.6 To request a statement of League finances when deemed appropriate.
3.2.7 To manage the distribution and collection of all “Criminal Records Checks” for League Executives, Coaches, and other volunteers as deemed necessary, as outlined in the JMYFL Policy “Criminal Records Checks – League Executives, Coaches and Volunteers”. In addition, the League Executive will determine which persons will be accorded the privilege of participating in League activities on an annual basis, and will be responsible for communicating these decisions to those persons.
4.1. MEETINGS:
4.1.1 Roberts Rules of Order shall be followed.
4.1.2 An Executive Meeting will involve only the executive as defined in Article 3 (1.1).
4.1.3 A League Meeting involving the executive, coaches and volunteers shall take place twice annually; once before the season commences and once upon completion of the season.
4.1.4 The Annual General Meeting shall involve all members of the executive, League and the general public.
4.2. VOTING:
4.2.1 A straight majority shall pass or defeat any motion.
4.2.2 No proxy votes shall be allowed.
4.2.3 Only Executive and Honorary Lifetime members will have full voting privileges.
4.2.4 The President shall vote only in the event of a tie, in a secret ballot or in Executive elections.
4.2.5 All nominations and motions must be made through an Executive or Honorary Lifetime member.
4.3. QUORUM:
4.3.1 Executive, League and Annual General meeting – 50% plus one member.
4.4. ORDER OF BUSINESS:
4.4.1 The agenda for Executive meetings shall proceed as follows:
– review minutes
– business arising from minutes
– reading of communications
– bills and accounts
– notices of motion
– report of committees
– unfinished business
– new business
– adjournment
4.4.2 The agenda for the Annual General Meeting shall proceed as follows:
– role call of Executive members
– President’s report
– adoption of AGM minutes at the next Executive meeting
– Executive reports
– budget for the following season and future league initiatives
– new business
– constitutional amendments
– nomination and election of officers
– adjournment
4.5. AMENDMENTS:
4.5.1 All motions to amend the Constitution shall be submitted through the Executive.
4.5.2 Motions which are received in time for distribution to members will require a two- thirds majority vote of members present.
4.6. CHANGES TO PLAYING REGULATIONS:
4.6.1 Changes to playing regulations for the following season shall be presented at the League meeting at the conclusion of the playing season.
4.6.2 Copies of changes will be distributed to Executive members.
4.6.3 Changes to playing regulations shall be voted on at Executive meetings only.
5.1. LEAGUE FEES:
5.1.1 League fees will be determined annually by the Executive.
5.2. YEAR END REPORT:
5.2.1 The Treasurer shall submit a financial statement of costs including League debits and credits to the AGM or to the first League meeting of the following year. In addition, the Treasurer will also submit recommendations of any surplus distribution as it pertains to the following years budget or future league initiatives including, but no exclusive to; league events, charitable donations, capital purchases, field and/or equipment investments, bursaries and/or scholarships, marketing campaigns, coaching development programs/courses.
5.3. SIGNING OFFICERS:
5.3.1 All disbursements shall be made over the signatures of the following persons:
5.3.2 All disbursements over $100 must have approval of the League Executive.
5.3.3 The President and Treasurer are authorized to make disbursements of less than $100 to
a total of $500 per season.
5.4. DISSOLUTION CLAUSE:
5.4.1 If the JMYFL is dissolved, all assets will be distributed to the Kinsmen Club of Sudbury in accordance with Section 4.3.2 of the Lottery Licensing Policy Manual.
6.1. ELIGIBILITY:
6.1.0 Micro Mac players must be no younger than 5 years old, and in the 6 to 7 year old range in the season for which they are registering.
6.1.1 Mini Mac players must be no younger than 8 years old, and in the 9 to 10 year old range and skill level, in the season for which they are registering.
6.1.2 Tyke players must at least 11 years old and no older than 12 years of age in the season for which they are registering.
6.1.3 Bantam players must be at least 13 years old and no older than 14 years of age in the season for which they are registering, if they aren’t playing high school football
6.1.4 The above age restrictions are meant to serve as a guideline only, and Executive members of the League reserve the right to move players up or down between divisions.
6.1.5 There shall be no weight restrictions.
6.2. ELIGIBILITY FOR PLAYOFFS:
6.2.1 A player must register prior to the second last regular season game in order to be eligible for the playoffs.
6.2.2 Players must meet regular season eligibility requirements.
7.1. DUTIES:
7.1.1 A committee shall be struck to:
7.2. PROTEST COMMITTEE:
7.2.1 The protest committee shall consist of the President, Vice-President, the Director of Football Development and Safety, Referee-in-Chief and the League Convener or their designates.
7.3. PROCEDURE:
7.3.1 A protest must be registered, in writing to the President, within 48 hours of the game in question.
7.3.2 Once notified of the protest, the President shall immediately call a meeting of the protest committee.
7.3.3 The protest committee will review the protest and make a ruling within 48 hours.
8.1. SCHEDULING REQUIREMENTS:
8.1.1 A schedule of games shall be drafted at a pre-season meeting of the League.
8.2. CHANGES TO SCHEDULE:
8.2.1 Changes to the schedule shall be voted on by the League Executive.
9.1. QUALIFICATIONS:
9.1.1 All coaches shall read, understand, and accept the Constitution.
9.1.2 All coaches must be approved by the League Executive.
9.1.3 All head coaches must attend a pre-season coaching clinic to be organized by the Director of Football Development and Safety.
9.1.4 All coaches, and other volunteers as directed by the League Executive, must undergo a "Criminal Record Check” in accordance with the League’s discretion. League will bear the cost of the “Criminal Record Check” for League Executives, coaches, and volunteers.
9.1.5 All coaches shall uphold the statement of goals and the philosophy of the JMYFL.
10.1. NUMBER OF TEAMS AND NAMES:
10.1.1 The number of teams and their names will be determined at an annual pre-season meeting of the league executive.
10.2. NUMBER OF PLAYERS:
10.2.1 The number of players per team shall be determined annually at a pre-season meeting of the League Executive.
10.2.2 All players shall be given an equal opportunity to participate in games.
10.3. RULEBOOK:
10.3.1 Canadian Amateur Football Association (CAFA) rules shall be followed in addition to the JMYFL rule book.
10.4. OFFICIALS:
10.4.1 The Tyke Division shall use at least two on-field officials.
10.4.2 The Bantam Division shall use at least four on-field officials.
ARTICLE 11: JMYFL SCHOLARSHIP
11.1. JMYFL SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS:
11.1.1. The Joe MacDonald Youth Football League was established in 1994 to honour Constable Joe MacDonald’s contribution to the Greater City of Sudbury as a police officer and as an advocate for the youth. Joe believed that children that participate in sports gain valuable skills that prepare them for life and that the community was better served from their involvement. Joe volunteered in many sports, however, his passion was football. The Joe MacDonald Youth Football League has developed thousands of boys and girls over the years and the League would like to be able to continue their support of these individuals by creating a Scholarship in his name. The Joe MacDonald Youth Football League Scholarships will be available on an annual basis to individuals that represent and exemplify the values and ethics instilled by the League. The goal of the Scholarships is to financially assist individuals who are pursuing post-secondary education, with special consideration given to those individuals that are participating in both football and scholastics.
11.2. DISBURSEMENTS
11.2.1. Every year, up to $5,000 will be made available for consideration to those who apply for the Scholarships. In addition to providing proof of enrollment in a post- secondary institution, applicants must complete a 500-word essay discussing how their involvement in Joe MacDonald Youth Football has affected their life. Individuals will only be able to receive the Scholarship once.
11.3 APPLICANTS
11.3.1 Successful applicants should provide evidence and examples of:
11.4 DEADLINE
11.4.1 The deadline for applications are July 31st with any potential recipients being awarded their Scholarship on Sept 1st. A Scholarship committee, consisting of 2 members of the current executive, a member of the Greater Sudbury Police Services and a community member, will be in place prior to the July 31st deadline for application. If an applicant has a non-arm’s length relationship with an executive or committee member, that member will be excused from the committee for said applicant.
12.1 JMYFL MEMBERSHIP
12.1.1 There shall be two (2) classes of Membership in the Joe MacDonald Youth Football League:
Active Membership
Honorary Lifetime Membership
12.2 Eligibility and Terms of Membership
12.2.1 Active Membership: shall include all elected or appointed Directors.
12.2.2 Honorary Lifetime Membership: may be bestowed upon an individual who has performed exceptional service to the JMYFL or to the betterment of youth football in the community. The Board shall nominate such individuals at the Annual General Meeting and the membership present shall vote to award such membership. Such a membership may be suspended or rescinded by the Board (and to be confirmed at the next Annual General Meeting) where the holder of an Honorary Lifetime Membership is charged and/or convicted of a criminal offence or takes an action that might bring the JMYFL into disrepute by virtue of affiliation.
12.2.3 Membership List – The Secretary of the JMYFL shall maintain a list of current Active Members and Honorary Lifetime Members, and such list of Members shall be used to determine eligibility to attend and vote at the Annual General Meeting and any other meetings of the members as dutifully scheduled or called by the Executive.
12.2.4 Right to Vote – All Active Members and Honorary Lifetime Members shall be entitled to notice of and to vote at all annual general meetings of the JMYFL. All Executive and Honorary Lifetime Members shall be notified of all JMYFL meetings and have a right to vote on any League matters.
13.1 Resignation – Any Member may resign in writing to the JMYFL at any time and such resignation shall be effective upon acceptance by the Executive.
13.2 Suspension/Termination – The Executive may, by resolution, carried by two thirds (2/3) majority of legal votes cast, resolve to suspend or terminate any membership and shall give notice of suspension or termination in writing. Suspension or termination of membership may be imposed upon a member for:
Failing to govern conduct in accordance with the JMYFL membership requirements,
Constitution of the JMYFL or any policies or regulations as may exist from time to time;
or
Any other reason as determined by resolution of the Executive.
13.3 Suspension of Membership – Shall mean a temporary condition that could be extended to the end of the current membership year. Privileges of membership are suspended for whatever period prescribed by the Executive but may be reinstated at any time during the same membership year with such probationary requirements as the Executive sees fit.
13.4 Termination of Membership – Shall mean the cessation of all membership privileges for the balance of the current membership year, without possibility of reinstatement in the same year. Any application for membership in future years may contain probationary conditions or other requirements.
14.1 Any Member or registrant of the JMYFL directly affected by a decision of the League may appeal such decision.
14.2 An individual shall not appeal a decision made by the Board of Directors regarding the appointment, non-appointment, re-appointment or revocation of an appointment of an individual to any coach or administrator position within the League’s operations.
COACHES MUST SIGN AND RETURN FORM TO THE DIRECOR OF FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT AND SAFETY UPON RECEIPT
Coaches Acknowledgement Form
I, ____________________(Coach) hereby acknowledge that I have
received from Joe MacDonald Youth Football a copy of the Safe Management Policy, Player Information Form, Fair Play Agreement Form and JMYFL Coach’s Code of Ethic Form.
Dated this _______day of __________ 20___.
_______________________________
Name (Please Print Clearly)
_______________________________
Signature
Table of Contents
1.1 Parents, Coaches, Team Personnel, Officials…………………………………………………
1.2 Your Feedback is Important……………………………………………………………………….
1.3 It Does Happen………………………………………………………………………………………..
1.4 It Does Happen Here………………………………………………………………………………..
4.1 Risk Management Being Implemented…………………………………………………………
4.2 Codes of Conduct…………………………………………………………………………………….
4.3 Disciplinary Processes………………………………………………………………………………
4.4 Disciplinary Process / Players, Coaches, Assistants, Managers, Trainers,
Officials………………………………………………………………………………………………….
4.5 Disciplinary Process for Parents………………………………………………………………….
4.6 Complaints / Concern, Parents / Player………………………………………………………..
4.7 Allegations / Disclosures of Harassment / Abuse……………………………………………
4.8 Screening Coaches, Team Personnel, Other Team Personnel and Officials………
5.1 Locked Dressing Room……………………………………………………………………………
5.2 Leader Not Alone with Single Child…………………………………………………………..
5.3 Dressing Room………………………………………………………………………………………
5.4 Transportation of Players………………………………………………………………………….
5.5 Parents Pick-Up – Players After Activities……………………………………………………
5.6 Team Meetings………………………………………………………………………………………
5.7 JMYFL Representation at Games………………………………………………………………..
6.1 Judgment Call, Even When It’s Difficult……………………………………………………..
7.1 Code of Conduct for JMYFL Directors………………………………………………………..
7.2 Code of Conduct for the Organization……………………………………………………….
7.3 Code of Conduct for Players…………………………………………………………………….
7.4 Code of Conduct for Parents / Spectators……………………………………………………
7.5 Code of Conduct for Coaches and Team Personnel………………………………………
7.6 Code of Conduct for Officials…………………………………………………………………..
Appendicies
Appendix A Player Information Form
Appendix B Fair Play Agreement
Appendix C Coach’s Code of Ethic’s
JMYFL Safe Management Policy – to help create a safer organization in which people respect one another with fun and enjoyment for the sport. This Policy outlines safety measures that JMYFL has put in place. To reduce the risks of verbal, psychological, emotional, physical, or sexual harassment or abuse in JMYFL activities; and to create measures that will allow JMYFL to move quickly and decisively if harassment or abuse happens.
1.1 Parents, Coaches, Team Personnel, Officials
JMYFL’s goal is to eliminate all forms of harassment and abuse, including physical and sexual abuse. However, JMYFL recognizes that verbal and emotional harassment and abuse are more common than physical and sexual harassment and abuse, and JMYFL will enforce zero tolerance. JMYFL’s first priority is to protect its players and at the same time, Coaches, Parents, and Officials can also be the targets of harassment and abuse. THEREFORE, every individual who participates in JMYFL activities, including the parents, guardians, or caregivers of players, will be expected to learn, know, and abide by the rules, guidelines, and Codes of Conduct being introduced. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, including potential expulsion.
1.2 Your Feedback is Important
JMYFL is proactive in their effort to actively and aggressively respond to the problems of harassment and abuse. All measures being taken will be reviewed throughout the year and at the end of each season so that they can be improved for the next year. Your feedback is vital to this process. Let us know what you think: mail or e-mail comments at any time, or talk to the Directors.
1.3 It Does Happen
JMYFL is not overreacting to the dangers of harassment and abuse? Following the introduction of anti-harassment and abuse efforts, reports were made about incidents such as hazing rituals, underage drinking encouraged by team officials, verbal and emotional abuse following bad plays, racial discrimination, abusive physical punishment, and sexual harassment and abuse.
1.4 It Does Happen Here
No allegations of sexual misconduct have ever been made in JMYFL and we intend to keep it that way. Likewise, the majority of JMYFL activities are incident-free; however, in the past there have been situations where parents and other spectators verbally abused Officials and team personnel.
Following are the definition guides to our anti-harassment and abuse efforts. Respect all participants, striving to be a responsible (Coach, Assistant) and Abuse: Maltreatment or lack of care that causes harm to another: Harassment: Comments, conduct, or gestures that are insulting, intimidating, humiliating, malicious, degrading, offensive, or discriminatory, directed toward an individual or group of individuals. Unwanted, unsolicited, unwelcome attention or actions, which annoy another person. Harassment can include: condescending, patronizing, threatening or punishing actions, which undermine self-esteem; jokes which cause awkwardness or embarrassment, or which may endanger a person’s safety. Hazing: Unwanted physical contact; discriminatory conduct; retaliation for having raised a concern, filed a complaint, etc. Assault: An assault is the intentional application of force by one person against another, without the consent of that person. Sexual Assault: An assault committed in circumstances of a sexual nature such that the sexual integrity of the victim is violated. Child Abuse: Any form of physical, emotional and/or sexual mistreatment or lack of care, which causes physical injury or emotional damage to a child. A common characteristic of all forms of abuse against children and youth is an abuse of power or authority and/or breach of trust. Neglect: Chronic inattention to the basic necessities of life, such as food, shelter, and clothing. In JMYFL’s context, neglect could mean inattention to or ignoring of safety issues (such as not observing the water bottle rule). Sexual Harassment: Acts of sexual harassment are unwanted, uninvited remarks, gestures, sounds, or actions of a sexual nature that make someone feel unsafe, degraded or uncomfortable, creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive sport/recreation environment. Examples include: unwanted or unwelcome physical contact like touching, grabbing, or patting linking skills with gender, body shape or size, or sexual orientation: rude jokes or suggestive remarks of a sexual nature, demeaning nicknames, catcalls, rating, or embarrassing whistles, writing names on washroom or change room walls, insults about sexual orientation, insulting remarks about race, gender, class, or ability, stalking, unwanted physical contact or sexual flirtation or advances. Verbal Abuse: Screaming, yelling, name-calling, especially when repeated or consistent. Emotional Abuse: Attacks, especially prolonged or chronic, on an individual’s self- esteem. This is psychologically destructive behaviour, especially when it is exhibited by a person in a position of power, authority, or trust. This takes many forms, including but not limited to, name-calling, threatening, ridiculing, berating, intimidating, isolating, hazing, ignoring someone’s needs, or discriminating against that person. Physical Abuse: Takes place when a person in a position of power or trust purposely injures or threatens to physically harm someone; can include slapping, hitting, shaking, kicking, pulling hair or ears, throwing, shoving, grabbing, hazing, or requiring excessive exercise as a form of punishment. When such things are done by one adult to another, they are usually termed assault. Sexual Abuse: “The misuse of power by someone who is in authority over a child, for the purposes of exploiting a child for sexual gratification.” Sexual abuse can be of two kinds, contact or non-contact, and includes incest, sexual molestation, sexual assault and the exploitation of the child for pornography or prostitution, forcing a child to watch someone else remove clothing or perform sexual acts, fondling or touching a child in private places, forcing a child to take part in sexual activities.
Sexual harassment is NOT:
However, Coaches and other team personnel will be meeting with parents and players about this issue in order to establish ground rules for their teams. If an individual is uncomfortable with these rules, it is up to him or her or his or her parents or guardians to discuss it with the Coach.
Rather than creating a large number of hard and fast rules and regulations, our risk management measures focus on people taking responsibility and being held accountable for their actions; exercising discretion and judgment in trying to prevent harassment and abuse – whoever the harasser/abuser is and whoever the target is.
4.1 Risk Management Being Implemented
The major risk management measures being implemented are outlined below.
4.2 Codes of Conduct
JMYFL Executive has approved Codes of Conduct. Codes of Conduct establishes standards for behaviour and action that all participants will be expected to meet. This will be enforced, and behaviour and action contrary to them may lead to disciplinary measures and possibly expulsion. All participants are responsible for learning and abiding by them.
4.3 Disciplinary Processes
The following disciplinary processes will be used to deal with breaches of the Code of Conduct or the Bylaws. Players, Team Personnel, Officials and Parents are subject to a disciplinary process that conforms to JMYFL regulations. NOTE: All games are reviewed each week by the designated JMYFL Official. Incidents warranting review are flagged for follow-up by the appropriate Executive Member and the President. A single incident will usually not result in a disciplinary hearing, unless it is required by the Organizations guidelines, or unless violence or abuse are alleged. All complaints MUST be put in writing.
4.4 Disciplinary Process / Players, Coaches, Assistants, Managers, Trainers, Officials
4.5 Disciplinary Process for Parents
If the behaviour of a Parent causes concern, the Coaches, Parent Reps, and Member of the Executive must use common sense and good judgment. The process set out below would be used in most circumstances; however, if a parent’s behaviour is reckless, violent, or otherwise immediately threatening, then action should be taken right away to have the individual removed from the field, and the matter should be referred immediately to the Executive of JMYFL.
4.6 Complaints / Concern, Parents / Player
A process has been created to provide parents and players with a specific process they can use to raise concerns and complaints. It is important that people become familiar with the definitions of harassment and abuse that JMYFL has adopted as complaints and allegations of this type can be very serious matters, and must not be made lightly or maliciously. If they can be, issues should be resolved at the team level. Therefore, individuals should follow the process and not send complaints to the Executive, unless the situation involves allegations of abuse or serious harassment. In such cases, the individual should contact the President, or an Executive Member. The complaint will have to be put in writing.
Resolving Complaints or Concerns:
4.7 Allegations / Disclosures of Harassment / Abuse
Wherever possible, JMYFL will deal with breaches of the Codes of Conduct through internal mechanisms. However, if an individual’s actions or behaviour constitute an imminent or immediate threat, the organization must and will involve outside authorities, including the police. In addition, if and when a child or youth alleges, reports, or discloses abuse, or if abuse or neglect is suspected, the individual who learns of it and the organization are morally and legally bound to report the matter to the authorities. The process that will be followed in both cases is set out below:
4.8 Screening Coaches, Team Personnel, Other Team Personnel and Officials
JMYFL has implemented a pre-screening process for Coaches and Team Officials. Currently, pre-screening processes for Coaches and Team Officials include the following:
JMYFL’s risk management measures are primarily focused on standards set out in the Codes of Conduct, and on encouraging people to use common sense, discretion, and good judgment in preventing or eliminating harassment and abuse. Following are ten (10) specific rules/guidelines, which will be monitored during the season to ensure compliance.
5.1 Locked Dressing Room
Doors to locker and dressing rooms must be kept unlocked at all times (except when the team is on the field and the door is locked for security reasons).
5.2 Leader Not Alone with Single Child
No youth or adult leader should be in a room alone with a single child at any time.
5.3 Dressing Room
The following guidelines will govern who should be in the dressing rooms before and after games. At the discretion of the Coach, team personnel (including the Coach, Parent Rep,Assistant Coach, Manager, and Trainer) may meet privately with the players for a brief period. At that time, all other people must leave the room. The door may be closed, but not locked. After the game, again at the discretion of the Coach, Team Personnel may meet briefly in private with the players. All other people must leave the room. The door may be closed, but not locked. Coaches will not be expected to help dress any player.
5.4 Transportation of Players
Regarding transportation of players, parents are reminded that it is their responsibility to provide transportation for their children to and from JMYFL activities. In exceptional circumstances, Coaches may drive children other than their own, but they will not drive alone with a child who is not their own. Parents and Coaches who drive other children should check with their insurance companies to make sure they are covered while doing so. Members are reminded that children under 12 should not be placed in the front seat if there is a passenger side airbag.
5.5 Parents Pick-Up – Players After Activities
Parents must be on time to pick up their children after JMYFL activities. When they are not, JMYFL representatives, usually Coaches are placed in a very awkward position and saddled with an unfair burden of responsibility. JMYFL may take action if a parent is consistently late.
5.6 Team Meetings
All teams will have at least one meeting during the season. All parents, players (as appropriate), and Team Personnel are to be invited by the Coach. The meeting should be held within the first two-three weeks of the start of the season. At that time, this Handbook will be distributed to all families, and Coaches will review it with parents and players.
5.7 JMYFL Representation at Games
It is impossible to guarantee that a JMYFL rep will be able to go to absolutely every game. However, JMYFL will make every reasonable effort to have an Executive Member or Parent Rep, at every game, in case there are difficulties which require his or her intervention.
JMYFL’s intention is to prevent and eliminate harassment and abuse, not to forbid people from touching each other (e.g. Coaches patting players, etc.), nor to make people paranoid about their every move. At the same time, this is a very sensitive topic, and Team Personnel, Parents, and Players (where age-appropriate) are encouraged to talk to one another about this issue and to set ground rules that people feel comfortable with.
6.1 Judgment Call, Even When It’s Difficult
Safety of all who participate in JMYFL activities especially, children and youth, is JMYFL’s prime concern. Parents, Coaches, Assistant Coaches, Managers, Trainers, Convenors, Board Members, and Officials are required and expected to take action in the face of breaches of the Codes of Conduct. In addition, all adults are required by law to report to the authorities if they “have reasonable grounds to suspect that a child is or may be in need of protection”. That legal obligation cannot be delegated to another person.
7.1 Code of Conduct for JMYFL Directors
JMYFL Directors will adhere to all areas of the Code of Conduct in the Safe Management Policy.
7.2 Code of Conduct for the Organization
The JMYFL Executive and its designates will:
7.3 Code of Conduct for Players
All players and parents must sign the player agreement form.
7.4 Code of Conduct for Parents / Spectators
As the parent of a player, or as a spectator, I will:
7.5 Code of Conduct for Coaches and Team Personnel
I understand that as a Coach (or Assistant, Manager, Trainer, Team Parent, etc.), I am in a position of trust and authority. I will:
7.6 Code of Conduct for Officials
As a JMYFL Official, I will:
Your privacy is important to us. Together with the Board of Directors, Coaches, and Volunteers, Joe MacDonald Youth Football stands firm and committed to maintaining our membership’s privacy. We undertake all reasonable measures to protect the privacy, accuracy and reliability of our membership’s personal information and to protect such information from misuse, unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, destruction and solicitation. JMYFL may request personal information from our membership such as name and e-mail address. This information is for the sole purpose of meeting JMYFL requirements, opinion polls, registration etc. We do not provide this information to other organizations (except as required for registration in league or provincial bodies) or to marketing organizations.
We require our membership to maintain the confidentiality of such information and not to use it for other than JMYFL purposes. Willful breach of this confidentiality requirement will result in members being declared “not in good standing” and in the withdrawal of services. Any misuse of membership personal information will be brought to a review Board for further action.
Appendix A
Player Information Form
(Confidential – Submit to Head Coach)
Name:__________________________________ Age: __________________
Years of Tackle Football Experience: ________________
Home Phone: ___________________
Mothers Name: ________________________ Phone #: ________________
(If different from home #)
Fathers Name: _________________________ Phone #: ________________
(If different from home #)
Emergency Contact Name: ________________________ Phone #: ________________
Doctor’s Name: _________________________ Phone #: ________________
Medical Information:
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Comments:
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Appendix -A-
APPENDIX B
Fair Play Agreement
Athlete Parents/Guardians
I agree to: I/we agree to:
disputed, I will let the coach or team 2. Teach my children that honest effort is as
captain handle it. Important as winning.
enjoy the sport. Winning is fun, but so are because that’s the best way to help them
many other things about the sport. Learn.
not get discouraged if it’s not the best. Important part of the game and to never
plays/performances, even by opponents. 5. Encourage my children to be good sports
coaches and officials.
we teach them and that fair play starts at
home.
Use of drugs, profanity and alcohol will not be tolerated, as per JMYFL / City of Greater Sudbury.
Signatures
Player Parent/Guardian
________________________________ ______________________________________
_______________________________ ______________________________
Coach Date
APPENDIX C
JMYFL – Coach’s Code of Ethics
Sportsmanship
On The Field Behaviour
Off The Field Behaviour
JMYFL and it’s Board of Directors.
Any coach who is found by the Board of Directors to be in contravention of the aforementioned Coach’s code of Ethics will be subject to a minimum one game suspension and possible expulsion as a coach. A second infraction will result in immediate expulsion.
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