Codes of Practice

 

Club Policy for Safeguarding the Welfare of all Young Players

 

This document is distributed to the following people throughout Bala Town Football Club.

• Parents
• Players
• Coaches
• Officials
• Volunteers

 

Club’s Welfare Policy Statement

 

Introduction

 

Bala Town Football Club recognises its responsibilities to safeguard the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults who are attracted to and participate in football. As part of the club’s commitment to providing good quality football in a safe environment, the Welfare Policy and Code of Conduct and Good Practice have been extended to cover everyone (paid and unpaid staff, volunteers, coached, officials and players) taking part in the sport of football in Wales.

 

Terms of Reference

 

“A relationship of trust is defined as any in which a person has power or influence over and/or is in a position to confer advancement or failure. A sexual relationship is deemed to be intrinsically unequal within such a relationship of trust and is therefore judged as unacceptable, even where the young person or participant is above the legal age of consent.”

A “Vulnerable Adult” is any with a learning or physical disability or physical or mental illness, which results in their being incapable of protecting themselves from abuse and when their moral well being may be overpowered.

A “Vulnerable Person” is any adult or the weaker party in a relationship of trust.

 

Aims

 

– To establish an effective system to ensure that all children, young people and vulnerable adults are able to enjoy football in as safe an environment as possible.
– To ensure that everyone involved in football at the club, in whatever capacity, is trained in the welfare and protection of children, young adults and vulnerable adults.
– To promote high standards of behaviour by all those involved in all aspects of football.
– To ensure everyone who enjoys football at the club is protected from sexual harassment

 

Responsibilities

 

In order to ensure that all members, officials, voluntary or paid workers, players and participants are protected from abuse, exploitation, harassment and harm, inside or outside of the Club, the Board of Bala Town Football Club will:
– Accept the moral and legal responsibility to implement procedures to provide a duty of care to children, young people and vulnerable adults, safeguard their well being and protect them from abuse.
– Respect and promote the rights, wishes and feeling of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

– Recruit, train and supervise its employees and volunteers to adopt best practice to safeguard and protect children, young people and vulnerable adults from abuse, and themselves against false allegations.
– Require staff/volunteers to adopt and abide by Bala Town Football Club Code of Conduct and Good Practice and Welfare Policy and Procedures.
– Require that all coaches, officials and volunteers be aware of the potential for the development of a relationship of trust between themselves and young people and vulnerable adults, and the consequences inherent in the accidental or intentional abuse of that relationship.

 

Principles

 

The key principles underlining the Welfare Policy are that:

– The Welfare of children and young people (the Children’s Act 1989, defines a young person as under 18 years of age) and vulnerable adults is the primary concern.
– All children, young people and vulnerable adults, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, racial origin, religious beliefs or sexual identity have the right to protection from abuse.
– All incidents of poor practice and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
– Confidentiality should be upheld in line with the Data Protection Act (1998), and the Human Rights Act (1998).
– It is the responsibility of the Child Protection experts to determine whether or not abuse has taken place, but is everyone’s responsibility to report any concerns

– All forms of sexual harassment are prohibited.

 

Information on Types of Abuse

 

All adults at the club have a responsibility to report any concerns they have if they suspect that abuse is taking place. Physical and behavioural signs that may raise concerns include:

 

Physical Abuse (hitting, shaking, squeezing, biting, burning)

 

In football, this may result if the nature of intensity of training is inappropriate for the player, or where drugs or alcohol (specifically under 18) are advocated or tolerated.

 

Sexual Abuse (Any form of sexual behaviour between an adult and a young person or the use of pornographic material.)

 

In football, this may be the result of coaches or older players involving young / disabled players in any form of sexual activity (e.g. Sexual language, touching or relationships).

 

Emotional Abuse (Wherever there is any form of abuse as well as the withholding of love or affection, overprotection, frequent use of shouting or taunts)

 

In football, this may occur if players are subject to constant criticism, bullying (by coach, parents or peers), taunting to unrealistic pressure to perform to high expectation.

 

Neglect (Failure to provide adequate food, shelter and clothing, failing to protect a child from physical harm or danger or the failure to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment.)

 

Neglect in football could include a teacher or coach not ensuring children were safe, exposing them to undue cold, heat or unnecessary risk of injury.

 

Signs, which may be a cause for concern

 

• Unexplained bruising or injuries and reluctance to talk about them
• Unexplained changes in behaviour – becoming aggressive, withdrawn or unhappy.
• Something said by a player who may identify a coach as a trusted person with whom to share concerns.
• A change observed over a long period of time (e.g. the person losing weight or becoming increasingly dirty or unkempt.)
• Sexually explicit behaviour and language.

 

Club’s Equality Statement

 

(Also refer to Club’s Anti-Discrimination Charter)

 

• Bala Town Football Club is fully committed to the principles of the equality of opportunity.
• No participant, volunteer, job applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment than any other, on the grounds of gender, age, colour, disability, ethnic origin, parental or marital status, religious belief, social class or sexual preference.
• Bala Town Football Club will ensure that there is open access for all those who wish to participate in the sport, in whatever capacity and that they are treated fairly.
• Bala Town Football Club recognises its legal obligations not to discriminate.
• Bala Town Football Club will regard discrimination by any employee, participant or volunteer as grounds for disciplinary.

 

Policy Statement for the Prevention of Abuse of Trust

 

Introduction

 

Bala Town Football Club recognises its responsibilities towards children, young people, and vulnerable adults to protect them against sexual activity within relationships of trust. As part of Bala Town Football Club commitment to providing good quality football in a safe environment, it has introduced this Policy, which covers the relationship between participants, officials, coaches, volunteers and paid employees.

 

The aims of Bala Town Football Club Prevention of Abuse of Trust Policy are:

 

• to establish an effective system to ensure that all those in a position of trust are aware of their responsibilities to protect those who are deemed to be vulnerable from an unequal and potentially damaging relationship.
• to establish an effective system to ensure that all those in a position of trust do not put themselves in a position where allegations of abuse, whether or not these allegations are justified, can be made.
• To ensure high standards of behaviour by all those involved in all aspects of football.
• To ensure everyone who enjoys football in the club is protected from physical or verbal harassment.

 

Principles

 

• All children, young people and vulnerable adults, whatever their age, culture, disability, gender, language, racial origin, religious beliefs or sexual identity, have the right to protection from sexual activity from those working with them in a relationship of trust.
• Confidentiality of all parties will be respected within the bounds of the law.
• Pre-existing sexual relationships should be ended before a sports relationship, for example, between a coach and a participant commences OR the sexual relationship should be ended before the sports relationship commences.
• The above principles apply to everyone regardless of sexual orientation, race, gender, religion or disability.

 

Responsibilities

• Implement procedures to provide protection to children, young people and vulnerable adults from sexual activity from those with whom they have a relationship of trust.
• Support anyone within the organisation who raises concerns about the behaviour of another.
• Respond to any allegations appropriately and implement the appropriate investigation, disciplinary and appeals procedures.
• Require that coaches demonstrate proper personal behaviour and conduct at all times and encourage children, young people and vulnerable adults to display the same qualities.

 

Who to Contact

If you suspect abuse could be taking place you should contact our nominated Child Protection Officer or a Welfare Officer appointed by the FAW Area Association to which your club is registered.

It is not your responsibility to decide whether abuse is taking place, but it is your responsibility to act if you have any concerns.

 

Bala Town Football Club Child Protection Officer

 

Addresses: Rhydian Jones, Rhyd Y Groe, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 0LW
Contact Details: (m) 07377408742, (e) rhydian.sjones@gmail.com

 

Football Association of Wales -  Safeguarding Officer

Contact Details: Safeguarding Department, Hensol, Pontyclyn, CF72 8JY
(t) 02920435830  (e) safeguarding@faw.co.uk

 

This Policy was written in conjunction with the “Football Association of Wales Welfare Policy.”

 

Bala Town Football Club would like to thank the Association for their help and guidance with this document.

 

This document to be reviewed 1st February 2024

 

Supporters Charter

 

Bala Town Football Club Supporters Charter sets out our club’s commitment to give our supporters a safe and enjoyable experience of football at our club.

 

Bala Town Football Club:

• Will set out and publish service and safety standards, giving a framework by which its performance can be judged by themselves and others.
• Take action if service or safety performance falls short of the published standards.
• Will provide a forum by which supporters may raise their comments or concerns.
• Will review its standards annually.
• Will commit to keep the supporter informed of activity at the club.
• Will publish its charter and make it freely available to all

 

This document to be reviewed 1st February 2024.

 

The Charter

 

• Standards of performance
Our club will set service level targets wherever possible and appropriate. We will strive to achieve the targets and publish its performance against the service level targets.
• Supporter information
Our club undertakes to keep our supporters informed as to changes at the club by whatever means the Board decides is the most cost effective.
Our club undertakes to keep our supporters informed on a regular basis by whatever means it decides are appropriate and cost effective.
Our club will publish its position on major policy issues.
• Special Needs
Our club will publish details of the availability of and pricing policy for special needs seating and their carers. These details will be published at the earliest possible opportunity.
• Ticket sales
Our club:
– will publish details of the availability of and its pricing policy of all tickets.
– will publish amendments at the earliest possible opportunity.
– will publish its policy for returned and unwanted tickets.
– will publish its tickets return policy for abandoned matches.
– will provide a range of ticket prices.
– will offer a method of instalment payment for season tickets.
– will offer reduced prices for restricted view seating.
– will offer an appropriate concessionary ticket policy.
– will publish its policy on visiting support ticket allocation.
– will publish details of any membership, loyalty, bond, debenture or similar scheme.
• Fixture lists
The club undertakes to keep the supporters informed as to fixture changes by whatever means it decides is the most cost effective and appropriate.
• Stadium
The club undertakes to provide a clean and safe stadium with the appropriate facilities.
The club will provide an area for the exclusive use of family groups and junior supporters.
The club undertakes to provide access for those with special needs
• Equality
The club undertakes to encourage an environment free of sectarian and racial abuse.
• Catering
The club undertakes to provide or subcontract an appropriate catering service for all spectators at the ground.
• Merchandising
All replica strips will have a lifespan of at least two seasons from the date of introduction.
The date of introduction will be included on the garment swing ticket
Details of the next intended change of kits will be available from the club.
• Supporter Contact
The club will respond to any contact from a supporter within seven days, by the most appropriate method, unless under extreme circumstances which renders the club administration unable to respond.

 

This is the club’s most recent Charter and will be reviewed and renewed where appropriate at the start of every season.

 

Bala Town Football Club would welcome any suggestions or questions regarding this Charter. Should you wish to do so, please contact:

 

Ruth Crump, Club Secretary, Bala Town Football Club Ltd, The Pavilion, Maes Tegid, Castle Street, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7UY

 

Bala Town Football Club Anti-Discrimination Policy

 

• Bala Town Football Club is responsible for setting standards and values to apply throughout the club at every level.  Football belongs to and should be enjoyed by everyone, equally.  Our commitment is to confront and eliminate discrimination whether by reason of sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or disability.
• Equality of opportunity at Bala Town Football Club means that in all our activities we will not discriminate or in any way treat anyone less favourably, on grounds of sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or disability.

 

This includes:

• The advertisement for volunteers.
• The selection of candidates for volunteers.
• Courses.
• External coaching and education activities and awards.
• Football development activities.
• Selection for teams.
• Appointments to honorary positions.

 

• Bala Town Football Club will not tolerate racist, sectarian, sexual or bigoted harassment or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal, and will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it occurs.
• Bala Town Football Club is committed to the development of the programme of ongoing training and awareness raising events and activities, in order to promote the eradication of discrimination within its own organisation, and within football as a whole.
• Bala Town Football Club gives a commitment to ensure that the club is open to all and the team selection policy will be the footballing ability and character of the individual and the collective balance of the team.
• Each player and employee contract will include the clause: Football Club is opposed to racism, sectarianism, bigotry and discrimination in any form. I the undersigned share these principles and give commitment to uphold and promote these standards.

 

UEFA Ten Point Plan of Action for Professional Football Clubs

– Issue a statement saying the club will not tolerate racism, spelling out the action it will take against those engaged in racist chanting. The statement should be printed in all match programmes and displayed permanently and prominently around the ground.
– Make public address announcements condemning racist chanting at matches.
– Make it a condition for season ticket holders that they do not take part in racist abuse.
– Take action to prevent the sale of racist literature inside and outside the ground.
– Take disciplinary action against players who engage in racial abuse.
– Contact other clubs to make sure they understand the club’s policy on racism.
– Encourage a common strategy between stewards and police for dealing with racist abuse.
– Remove all racist graffiti from the ground as a matter of urgency.
– Adopt an equal opportunities policy in relation to employment and service provision.
– Work with all other groups and agencies, such as the players union, supporters, schools, voluntary organisations, youth clubs, sponsors, local authorities, local businesses and police, to develop pro-active programmes and make progress to raise awareness of campaigning to eliminate racial abuse and discrimination.

 

Equal Opportunities Policy

 

• Bala Town Football Club is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members of whatever level or authority, to abide and adhere to this general principle and the requirements of the Codes of Practice issued by the Equal Opportunities Commission and Commission for Racial Equality.

• All members are expected to abide by the requirements of the Race Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1986 and Disability Discrimination Act 1995.  Specifically discrimination is prohibited by:

1. Treating any individual on grounds of gender, colour, marital status, race, nationality or ethnic or national origin, religion, sexual orientation or disability less favourably than others.
2. Expecting an individual solely on the grounds stated above to comply with requirement(s) for any reason whatsoever related to their membership, which are different from the requirements for others.
3. Imposing on an individual requirements, which are in effect more onerous on that individual than they are on others.  For example, this would include applying a condition, which makes it more difficult for members of a particular race or sex to comply than others not of that race or sex.
4. Victimisation of an individual.
5. Harassment of an individual, by virtue of discrimination.
6. Any other act or omission of an act, which has as its effect the disadvantaging of a member against another, or others, purely on the above grounds.  Thus, in all the Club’s recruitment, selection, promotion and training processes, as well as disciplinary matters, it is essential that merit, experience, skills and temperament are considered as objectively as possible.

 

• Bala Town Football Club commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims of discrimination on the above grounds and where such is found to be the case, a requirement that the practice cease forthwith, restitution of damage or loss (if necessary) and to the investigation of any member accused of discrimination.
• Any member found guilty of discrimination will be instructed to desist forthwith.  Since discrimination in its many forms is against the Football Club’s policy, any members offending will be dealt with under the disciplinary procedure.

 

The Football Club commits itself to the disabled person whenever possible and will treat such members, in aspects of their recruitment and membership, in exactly the same manner as other members. The difficulties of their disablement permitting assistance will be given, wherever possible to ensure that disabled members are helped in gaining access. Appropriate training will be made to such members who request it.

 

This document to be reviewed 1st February 2024

 

Bala Town Football Club and the Community

 

The Board of Bala Town Football Club recognises the pivotal role that we can play in relation to the local community. Similarly, the Football Association of Wales encourages clubs to engage in a variety of activity aimed at strengthening the relationship between the club and the local community.

Research suggests that clubs are continually involved in community activity although they often fail to advertise or promote this. Consequently, Bala Town Football Club appreciates the advantages for our club to promote this activity and have subsequently, formalised a Club Strategy. This has been demonstrated in the business sector where community activity and its promotion are designed to meet both financial objectives and social objectives. Creating a strategy with measurable goals as well as a means to promote this activity will benefit not only the club but also the community as a whole.

 

Bala Town Football Club Community Strategy

 

– To establish links with local youth clubs and assist these clubs with coaching and also providing the use of facilities and equipment for football festivals etc.
– To set up clubs with local youths, but not necessarily football clubs, to promote and develop the role of the club in the community and to set appropriate examples of behaviour.
– To set up clubs with the disabled and disadvantaged youth and adult groups in the community and to use the facilities and the equipment of the club and also its personnel.
– To utilise the playing and coaching personnel to address various social and equity issues including drug awareness issues and healthy lifestyle, etc.
– To utilise the facilities of the club in conjunction with multi-media training for anybody who wishes to learn.
– To undertake any services within the local community to the benefit of the community and ultimately the club.
– To be aware of the clubs Anti-Discrimination Policy and Equal Opportunities Policy at all times when dealing with the Community.

This strategy should also be linked to the club’s Business Strategy.

 

Communication of the Strategy

 

Bala Town Football Club aims to communicate its Community Strategy and also its progress reports via the following means: –

– Club Newsletter
– Match Programmes
– Club Forums
– Local Press
– Staff and Player Visits to Local Youth Clubs and Schools
– Letters to Local Youth Clubs and Schools

 

This strategy was written for the Season 2023/2024 and will be reviewed and renewed where appropriate at the start of every season.

 

Bala Town Football Club would welcome any suggestions or questions regarding this strategy. Should you wish to do so, please contact:

 

Ruth Crump, Club Secretary, Bala Town Football Club Ltd, The Pavilion, Maes Tegid, Castle Street, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7UY

 

1st February 2023

 

Fair Play at the Bala Town Football Club

 

Introduction

 

Conduct according to the spirit of Fair Play is essential for the successful promotion and development of and involvement in sport.  The objective of Fair Play is to foster a sporting spirit, as well as the sporting behaviour of coaches, players, team officials and spectators, thereby increasing the enjoyment of all those involved in the game.

In order that clubs may address the behaviour of supporters in a meaningful way, consideration must be given to the actions and activities of four integral parts of those associated with the club; its coaches, players, officials and the parents and guardians of its youth players.

The Club has subsequently introduced Fair Play Charters, which should be abided by at all times, when representing Bala Town Football Club.

 

Code of Conduct for the Team Coaches

 

Coaches are key to the establishment of ethics in football.  Their concept of ethics and their attitude directly affects the behaviour of players under their supervision.  Coaches are, therefore expected to pay particular care to the moral aspect of their conduct.

 

Coaches have to be aware that almost all of their everyday decisions and choices of actions, as well as strategic targets, have ethical implications.

 

It is natural that winning constitutes a basic concern for coaches. This code is not intended to conflict with that.  However, the code calls for coaches to disassociate themselves from a “win-at-all-costs” attitude.

 

Increased responsibility is requested from coaches involved in coaching young people.  The health, safety, welfare and moral education of young people are a first priority, before the achievement or the reputation of the club, school, coach or parent.

 

• Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
• Coaches must place the well-being and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance.
• Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by governing bodies.
• Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with each player based on mutual trust and respect.
• Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
• Coaches must encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.
• Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of players.
• Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the players (and, where appropriate, parent) exactly what is expected of them and also what they are entitled to expect from their coach.
• Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the player.
• Coaches must always promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play) and never condone violations of the Laws of the Game, behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game or relevant rules and regulations or the use of prohibited substances or techniques.
• Coaches must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance.
• Coaches must not use or tolerate inappropriate language.
• Coaches must promote and encourage, particularly to young players, the importance of a healthy lifestyle and diet.
• Coaches must provide guidance and support to players on the dangers of drug abuse.

 

Code of Conduct for Players

 

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. Consequently, the Board of Bala Town Football Club would like to adopt these high standards, as is the case throughout the Football Club.

 

Obligations towards the game

 

A player should:

 

• Make every effort to develop their own sporting abilities, in terms of skill, technique, tactics and stamina.
• Make every effort to lead a healthy lifestyle which will include an appropriate diet and an avoidance of recreational or performance enhancing drugs.
• 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 that 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 with an equal measure of dignity.
• 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 that 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.

 

Obligations towards the Supporters

 

A player should:

 

• Show due respect to the interests of supporters.

 

Code of Conduct for Team Officials

 

This Code applies to all team/club officials (although some items may not apply to all officials).

 

Obligations towards the Game

 

The team official should:

 

• Set a positive example for others, particularly young players and supporters.
•    Promote and develop their own team having regard to the interest of the Players, Supporters and reputation of the national game.
•    Share knowledge and experience when invited to do so, taking into account the interest of the body that has requested this rather than personal interests.
• Avoid all forms of gamesmanship.
• Show due respect to Match Officials and others involved in the game.
• Always have regard for the best interests of the game, including where publicly expressing an opinion of the game and any particular aspect of it, including others involved in the game.
• Not use or tolerate inappropriate language.

 

Obligations towards the Team

 

The team official should;

 

• Make every effort to develop the sporting, technical and tactical levels of the club/team, and to obtain the best results for the team, using all permitted means.
• Give priority to the interests of the team over individual interests.
• Resist all illegal or unsporting influences, including banned substances and techniques.
• Promote ethical principles.
• Show due respect for the interests of the players, coaches and officials, their own club/team and others.

 

Obligations towards the Supporters

 

The team official should:

 

•    Show due respect for the interests of supporters.

 

Respect towards the Match Officials

 

A team official should:

 

• Accept the decisions of the Match Official without protest.
• Avoid words or actions that may mislead a Match Official.
• Show due respect towards Match Officials.

 

Code of Conduct for Parents and Guardians with young players connected with the club.

 

Parents have a great influence on children’s enjoyment and success in football.  All children play football because they first and foremost love the game – it’s fun.  It is important to remember that however good a child becomes at football within our club it is important to reinforce the message to parents that positive encouragement will contribute to:

 

– Children enjoying football.
– A sense of personal achievement.
– Self-esteem.
– Improving the child’s skills and techniques.

 

A parent’s expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude towards:

 

– Other players.
– Officials.
– Managers.
– Spectators.

 

We must ensure that parents within our club are always positive and encouraging towards all of the children not just their own.

Encourage parents to:

 

• Applaud the opposition as well as our own team.
• Avoid coaching the child during the game.
• Not to shout and scream.
• Respect the referee’s decision.
• Give attention to each of the children involved in football not just the most talented.
• Give encouragement to everyone to participate in football.

 

Ensure that parents within the club agree and adhere to the club’s Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy.

 

Code of Conduct for Supporters

 

The crowd is considered to be an organic component of a football game. The support of the fans may contribute to the success of the team. The crowd is not expected to watch the game in silence. Encouragement of the teams by shouting, non-abusive singing, etc. may have a positive influence on the atmosphere in accordance with the spirit of Fair Play.

 

The spectators are, however, expected to respect the opponents and the referee.  They should appreciate the performance of the opposition even if they emerge as winners.  They should in no way intimidate or frighten opponents, the referee or opposing supporters.