Players
are the most important people in the sport. Playing
for the team, and for the team to win, is the
most fundamental part of the game. But not winning
at any cost - Fair Play and respect for all others
in the game is fundamentally important.
This Code
focuses on players involved in top-class football.
Nevertheless, the key concepts in the Code are
valid for players at all levels.
Obligations towards the
game
A player should :
Make
every effort to develop their own sporting abilities,
in terms of skill, technique, tactics and stamina.
Give
maximum effort and strive for the best possible
performance during a game, even if his team is
in a position where the desired result has already
been achieved.
Set a positive
example for others, particularly young players and
supporters.
Avoid all forms
of gamesmanship and time-wasting.
Always
have regard for the best interests of the game,
including where publicly expressing an opinion
on the game and any particular aspect of it, including
others involved in the game.
Not use inappropriate
language.
Obligations towards one's
own team
A player should :
Make
every effort consistent with Fair Play and the
Laws of the Game to help his own team win.
Resist
any influence which might, or might be seen to,
bring into question his commitment to the team
winning.
Respect for the Laws of
the Game and competition rules
A player should:
Know
and abide by the Laws, rules and spirit of the
game, and the competition rules.
Accept
success and failure, victory and defeat, equally.
Resist
any temptation to take banned substances or use
banned techniques.
Respect towards Opponents
A player should:
Treat
opponents with due respect at all times, irrespective
of the result of the game.
Safeguard
the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence
and rough play, and help injured opponents.
Respect towards the Match
Officials
A player should:
Accept
the decision of the Match Official without protest.
Avoid
words or actions which may mislead a Match Official.
Show
due respect towards Match Officials.
Respect towards Team Officials
A player should:
Abide
by the instructions of their Coach and Team Officials,
provided they do not contradict the spirit of
this Code.
Show due respect towards the Team Officials of
the opposition.
