FootballXL Code of Conduct
FootballXL was launched on a foundation of inclusivity to all. Its fundamental objective is to provide a sociable and enjoyable environment in which eligible men can enjoy competitive football.
1. Player Eligibility
2. Code of Conduct
3. Disciplinary Process
1 | Player Eligibility
To be eligible to join FootballXL, players must meet the following criteria:
1.1 | They must want to focus on their mental and physical health and wellbeing.
1.2 | They must identify as male.
2 | Code of Conduct
FootballXL should be a fun environment. Naturally, things can be competitive on the pitch, but players should always act with integrity. Words of advice between players can and should be offered, but this should be done in a constructive and respectful manner.
2.1 | Players must treat opponents, teammates, officials and spectators with respect. Overt swearing, aggression or offensive language is not acceptable.
2.2 | Players must respect the decision of the match officials. Disagreement is fine, but this should be done in a respectful and balanced manner. If a player has considerable concern, this should be addressed with the Team Captain, who can share your concerns with the match officials on a player’s behalf.
2.3 | Players who receive a blue or red card will be subjected to the fine and ban sanctions which are laid out within the league guidelines.
2.4 | If anyone who appears to be under 16 is watching the match, or in the general vicinity of the pitch, then players should keep swearing to a minimum.
2.5 | We must always respect our teammates. Aggression or offensive language being used towards teammates will not be tolerated.
2.6 | We must always respect our opponents. There can be flash moments during a game of football, and we understand that emotions can sometimes overtake sensibility. If this happens, players should apologise and move on. If an opponent is not willing to accept an apology, then this will be addressed with the opposing team’s manager.
2.7 | Sexism, homophobia, racism or ableism will not be tolerated. This includes in messages, in person, at training or at social events, or in any other team environment.
2.8 | Players must respect teammates opinions and appreciate that – on occasion – they differ.
2.9 | Players should not engage in offensive or distasteful behaviour in any team environment, including (but not limited to) social events, training sessions or matches.
3 | Disciplinary Process
It is hoped that players will always act with integrity and where possible, issues should be addressed with the person involved in an informal way. On occasion however, the severity of the incident may require a disciplinary process.
3.1 | If a player is in contravention of any of the rules outlined above, then they may be subject to a disciplinary procedure. Within that procedure, they may ask a self-elected representative to support their argument or provide evidence on their behalf.
3.2 | If a player is in contravention of any of the rules outlined above, they will be notified within 72 hours of the incident, or within 72 hours of their player facilitator being made aware of the complaint. This will be in the form of an informal conversation preferably in person or on the phone, or via message if those options are not possible.
3.3 | A player may apologise either publicly or to the individual that made the complaint, and if the severity of the incident does not warrant further action, then the matter will be considered closed. If the person who made the complaint wishes to remain anonymous, then an apology to the wider league will suffice.
3.4 | In more extreme cases, or where sexism, racism, ableism or homophobia is the cause of the complaint, then a player may be subject to sanctions:
- If it is a first offence, then a player will receive a formal warning
- On a second offence, a player will receive a final warning and a three match ban
- On a third offence, a player will be removed from the league and will not be eligible to rejoin for a period of 12 months
3.5 | A player has the right to appeal any disciplinary action taken. If they wish to appeal, they must email hello@footballxl.co.uk within seven days of the decision being taken. An appeal discussion will take place in person and the player may bring an elected representative to the discussion to assist with their appeal. A decision to an appeal will be provided within seven days of the discussion, with any disciplinary action on hold until the completion of the appeal.
3.6 | Any player may make a complaint at any time to their player facilitator.
When a complaint is raised, it will be treated in strictest confidence and only discussed internally.