penrith & districts junior rugby league · 2015. 7. 10. · rugby league 2015 competition rules...

PENRITH & DISTRICTS JUNIOR

RUGBY LEAGUE

2015 Competition Rules

CONTACTS

Junior League Manager 0407 544 801

Junior League Operations Coordinator 0418 719 219

Junior League Compliance & Legal Coordinator 0418 792 528

Referees Association – Executive Officer 0448 890 482

Referees Association – Treasurer 0449 890 479

Referees Association Saturday Appointments 0402 257 339

Referees Association Sunday Appointments 0448 890 480

Junior League Office Hours: 8.00 am – 4.30 pm Monday to Friday

Junior League Office Email: [email protected]

Junior League Office Phone No.: 4720 5674

Junior League Postal Address: Locked Bag 8322, Penrith NSW 2751

Junior League Street Address: 123 Mulgoa Road, PENRITH NSW 2750

Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual

2015 BOARD MEMBERS

Brian Soulsby [email protected] 0419224379

Steve Miller [email protected] 0418 619 923

David Patullo [email protected] 0414 640 251

Ron Clements [email protected] 0413 499 020

David Patullo [email protected] 0416 213 450

Bill Demanuele [email protected] 0414640251

Frank Weber [email protected] 0437 409 033

Gary Wilson [email protected] 0418 275 225

Veronica Burgess [email protected] 0412 662 198

JL Manager 0407 544 801

VICE PRESIDENTS

Robert McLean [email protected] 0407 009 875

Vicki Campbell [email protected] 0418 769 065

Laurie Hupton [email protected] 0407 521 508

Ken McCotter [email protected] 0434 612 139

Kerri McDiarmid [email protected] 0400 949 989

Ian Weyman [email protected] 0401 949 989

Bob Malone [email protected] 0412 269 390

Alan Cameron [email protected] 0434 372 208

Barry Jones [email protected] 0424 354 433

Malcolm Duncan [email protected] 0425 320 890


2015 CLUB SECRETARIES

CLUB NAME EMAIL MOBILE

Blacktown City Craig Tasoulis [email protected] 0425 284 265

Blacktown

Workers

Stephen McLoynes

Deidre Boggett

[email protected]

[email protected]

0423 607 471

0423 572 697

Brothers John Fowler [email protected] 0438 623 808

Cambridge

Park/Cranebrook

Annette Murphy

Leanne Barnes

[email protected]

[email protected]

0467 602 040

0424437927

Colyton/Mt Druitt Richard Williams [email protected] 0401 257091

Doonside Traci Reynolds [email protected] 0406 270 201

Emu Plains Joanne Vella [email protected] 0410 439 348

Glenmore Park Dean Williams [email protected] 0417 432 976

Hawkesbury City Meg McFarlane [email protected] 0415622944

Katoomba Karen Ryan [email protected] 0402 244 766

Lower Mountains Dana Anderson [email protected] 0435 037 634

Minchinbury Anne Grisedale [email protected] 0425 296 494

PCYC Mt Druitt Rebecca Austin [email protected] 0456450202

Penrith Waratahs Debbie Lyne [email protected] 0410 410 457

Quakers Hill Rick Bobbin [email protected] 0419 274 391

Riverstone Steve Koberler [email protected] 0401 387 996

Rooty Hill RSL Don Milides [email protected] 0488443726

St Clair Bill Borg [email protected] 0425 226 683

St Marys Peter Bowler

Doug Falconer

[email protected]

[email protected]

0417 788 522

St Patricks Melissa Long melissa-j-long@hotmail 0419 253 318

Western

City Tigers Kerri McDiarmid [email protected] 0400 027 998

Windsor Dean Jones [email protected] 0400 678 238


1 ADMINISTRATION

1.1 ARL POLICY – ONLINE CLEARANCES 7

1.2 MATCH DAY RULES MANUAL ON OFFICIAL TABLES 9

1.3 COMPETITION TABLES 9

1.4 CONTRACT AND AGREEMENT DISPUTES 10

1.5 CLUB CONSTITUTIONS AND BY-LAWS 11

1.6 DEFAULTERS 11

1.7 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 13

1.8 INSURANCE AND OTHER FEES 14

1.9 MEETING PROCEDURES AND CLUB ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS 15

1.10 PAYMENT OF PLAYERS – POLICY 16

1.11 POWERS OF THE BOARD 17

1.12 SUBCOMMITTEES 19

1.13 TEAM LISTS 21

1.14 TRANSFERS 22

1.15 TRIPS AWAY / TOURS / KNOCKOUT CARNIVALS 28

1.16 WITHDRAWAL OF TEAMS 29

2 COMPETITIONS

2.1 ABANDONED GAMES POLICY 30

2.2 BYES 31

2.3 CLUB COLOURS / PLAYING UNIFORM 31

2.4 COMPETITION STRUCTURE AND CRITERIA 32

2.5 FORFEITS 35

2.6 GROUND MANAGER RESPONSIBILITIES 36

2.7 HOME CLUB RESPONSIBILITIES 38

2.8 NOMINATION OF TEAMS / GRADINGS AND RE-GRADINGS 38

2.9 NUMBER OF PLAYERS 40

2.10 PANTHER TAG BY-LAWS 40

2.11 PLAYING IN A HIGHER GRADE 43

2.12 PLAYING WITH MORE THAN ONE CLUB IN THE SAME SEASON 44

2.13 PLAYING WITH MORE THAN ONE TEAM IN THE SAME SEASON 45

2.14 REFEREE / TERMINATING MATCH / APPOINTMENTS/ COMPLAINTS 46

2.15 REGISTRATION OF PLAYERS – BOOKS / CARDS / ETC. 47

2.16 REPLACEMENT PLAYERS 48

2.17 SIGNING-ON (MATCH) SHEETS 49

2.18 TRIAL GAMES 50

2.19 WET WEATHER POLICY 51

3 MATCH DAY RULES

PRE GAME

3.1 INTRODUCTION 53

3.2 AVAILABILITY OF JUNIOR LEAGUE TO ALL 54

3.3 AUTHORISED PERSONS INSIDE SPECTATOR ENCLOSURE 55

3.4 CLUB COLOURS AND PLAYING UNIFORM 55

3.5 CONDITION OF GROUND 56

3.6 DURATION OF GAME AND BALL SIZE 56

3.7 FORFEITS 58

3.8 GROUND MANAGERS RESPONSIBILITIES 58

3.9 GROUND PREPARATION 60

3.10 INSURANCE AND REGISTRATION 61

3.11 PLAYER ELEIGIBILITY (PLAYING IN HIGHER GRADE) 61


3.12 PLAYERS REGISTRATION (ID) CARDS 62

3.13 REFEREE NOT IN ATTENDANCE 63

3.14 SIGN ON (MATCH) SHEETS 63

3.15 SUSPENDED AND DISQUALIFIED PERSONS 64

DURING GAME

3.16 ABANDONED GAMES/ TERMINATION OF MATCH 66

3.17 APPROACHING MATCH OFFICIALS 66

3.18 BEHAVIOUR INSIDE SPECTATOR ENCLOSURE 67

3.19 BITING, EYE GOUGING AND RACIAL ABUSE 67

3.20 CONCUSION AND SERIOUS HEAD INJURY 68

3.21 CUTS, BLOOD ETC 69

3.22 DECISION OF REFEREE 69

3.23 DISMISSED FROM THE FIELD 70

3.24 INTERCHANGE AND REPLACEMENTS 70

3.25 INTEREFERE WITH PROGRESS OF MATCH 71

3.26 MERCY RULE 72

3.27 NUMBER OF PLAYERS 72

3.28 PLAYER POINTS 74

3.29 REMOVING FOOTBALL JUMPER 74

3.30 RUNNING DISTANCE 74

3.31 SIN BIN 75

POST GAME

3.32 ABANDONED GAMES 77

3.33 DISMISSED PLAYERS 77

3.34 INCIDENTS AT THE END OF GAME 77

3.35 PLAYER PERMITS 77

3.36 POLICE TO BE ADVISED 78

3.37 PROTESTS 78

3.38 SIGN ON (MATCH) SHEETS 79

3.39 SPORTSMANSHIP 79

3.40 WHEN GAME CONCLUDES 79

TEAM SUPPORT OFFICIALS (COACH, MANAGER, TRAINER) AND PLAYERS

3.41 COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY 80

3.42 TEAM COACH 80

3.43 COACH QUALIFICATIONS 80

3.44 TASKS SPECIFIC TO COACH 81

3.45 TEAM MANAGER 82

3.46 MANAGER QUALIFICATIONS 82

3.47 TASK SPECIFIC TO MANAGER 82

3.48 TEAM TRAINER 83

3.49 TRAINER QUALIFICATION 83

3.50 TASK SPECIFIC TO TRAINER 83

3.51 PLAYERS 85

3.52 PLAYER QUALIFICATION 85

3.53 TASKS SPECIFIC TO PLAYERS 85

CODES OF CONDUCT

3.54 ACCEPTANCE OF CODES OF CONDUCT 87

3.55 BEHAVIOUR INSIDE SPECTATOR FENCE 88

3.56 CONSUMING INTOXICATING LIQOUR 88

3.57 CRITICAL COMMENTS 88

3.58 IDENTIFICATION OF OFFENDERS 88


3.59 INCIDENTS AFTER GAMES 88

3.60 INSULTING GESTURES 88

3.61 INTIMIDATION 89

3.62 KING HIT 89

3.63 OFFENSIVE/THREATENING LANGUAGE 89

3.64 RACIAL INSULTS 89

3.65 REMAINING INSIDE SPECTATOR FENCE 89

3.66 RESPONSE TO DEMANDS 90

3.67 ROUGH/FOUL PLAY 90

3.68 SINGING INDECENT SONGS 90

3.69 SPEAR (DANGEROUS) TACKLES 90

3.70 TEAM BEHAVIOUR 90

3.71 TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES 91

3.72 UNAUTHORISED ENTRY 91

4 SEMI FINALS, FINALS & GRAND FINALS

4.1 ABANDONED END OF SERIES MATCHES 93

4.2 BEHAVIOUR OF PLAYERS AND TEAM OFFICIALS IN SEMI FINALS 94

4.3 DRAWN END OF FINAL SERIES GAMES 95

4.4 ELIGIBILITY TO PLAY IN SEMI FINALS 96

4.5 HARASSMENT OF J.L OFFICIALS 97

4.6 METHOD OF DETERMINING SEMI FINAL POSITIONS 97

4.7 OFFENSIVE COMMENTS ON P.A. 98

4.8 PLAYERS LEAVING FIELD INJURED 98

4.9 PROTESTS DURING FINAL SERIES 99

4.10 RESPONSIBILITIES OF CLUBS HOSTING FINAL SERIES GAMES 99

5 COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL

5.1 APPEALS 101

5.2 BREACH NOTICE – POLICY 104

5.3 CONDUCT REVIEW – CODE OF PROCEDURES 109

5.4 CONDUCT REVIEW – BY LAWS 115

5.5 CONDUCT REVIEW - HEARINGS 117

5.6 JUDICIARY – CODE OF PROCEDURES 118

5.7 JUDICIARY – BY LAWS 125

5.8 JUDICIARY – HEARINGS 127

5.9 JUNIOR LEAGUE CLUB ADJUDICATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 128

5.10 MASS INFORMATION MEDIA 129

5.11 NOTIFICATION / PROCEDURE AT HEARINGS 129

5.12 PROTESTS 130

5.13 REPRESENTATION BY CLUBS – POLICY 131

5.14 RESPONSIBILITY OF JUNIOR LEAGUE MANAGER 132

5.15 SELLING AND SUPPLY OF ALCOHOL 134

5.16 SINGING INDECENT SONGS 135

5.17 SPEAR (DANGEROUS) TACKLES 136

5.18 SPECTATORS / SUPPORTERS / PARENTS 136

5.19 SUSPENDED AND DISQUALIFIED PERSONS – RESPONSIBILITY OF CLUBS 139

5.20 TEAM SUPPORT STAFF AND PLAYERS RESPONSIBILITIES 139

5.21 UNAUTHORISED ENTRY ONTO PLAYING AREA 145


1. ADMINISTRATION

1.1 NATIONAL CLEARANCE AND PERMITS POLICY

1.1.1 PURPOSE

The purpose of the National Clearance & Permits Policy is to:

1.1.1.1 Achieve consistency and efficiency in the movement of player data;

1.1.1.2 Improve timeliness of player movement from club to club; and

1.1.1.3 Record the history of players and match official’s movement.

1.1.2 SCOPE

The policy applies to all players and match officials moving from one Club /

Association to another.

1.1.2.1 A clearance is required when a player or match official is moving from one

Club / Association to another regardless of whether it is a new season or

during the season; and

1.1.2.2 A permit is required when a player is registered in one club and is being

permitted to play in another club on an interim basis:

1.1.2.2.1 Where an agreement exists between two clubs and has

been approved by the League / Governing Body; and

1.1.2.2.2 Where a club / team is participating in a combined

competition that crosses regular Rugby League boundaries.

1.1.3 PERIOD OF CLEARANCES AND PERMITS

A clearance may be initiated from the 1 November to 30 June within the same

season.

A permit can be initiated any time after the player has been registered in their

primary club until the completion of the season.

Exemptions apply to competitions played outside the regular Rugby League season.

1.1.4 PROCESSING OF A CLEARANCE AND PERMIT

1.1.4.1 Prior to requesting a clearance a club / association must have the written

consent of the player / match official by way of a registration form

completed and signed by the player / match official or the parent / legal

guardian in the event the player / match official is under the age of 18.


1.1.4.2 Clearances and Permits must be initiated by an authorised official from the

Club / Association to which the player or match official is moving to.

1.1.4.3 Player must be fully cleared via the NRL LeagueNet online platform prior to

playing in the new club.

1.1.4.4 A timeframe of ten (10) working days is allowed for a clearance to be fully

completed. Meaning either approved or denied.

1.1.4.5 In the event of a clearance being requested from a club that is no longer

active, the League / Region responsible for the competition from which the

player is leaving must complete the clearance process in lieu of the inactive

club.

1.1.4.6 A clearance may be denied for reasons as follows:

1.1.4.6.1 Fees in default

1.1.4.6.2 Fees on property owning

1.1.4.6.3 Pending tribunal or judiciary matters

1.1.4.6.4 Contractual agreements in dispute

1.1.4.7 In all the above cases the clearance request should be denied immediately

and an appropriate comment entered into the notes section.

1.1.5 DISPUTES

In the event of a dispute of a player clearing across State Leagues the dispute

would be escalated to the General Manager of Game Development and League

Integration or an appointed delegate.

Local conditions in relation to clearances:

1.1.6 If the registration of a player is withdrawn or suspended by the Junior League

Manager in accordance with Junior League rules, a clearance for that player to

transfer to another district will be denied. The player has the right of appeal to the

Board of Management.

1.1.7 If the Junior League Manager becomes aware there is a mass movement of players

by way of clearance out of the district, irrespective of the reason, the clearance of

such players will be denied. The players(s) have the right of appeal to the Board of

Management.

1.1.8 The clearance of any player / official / supporter / parent / volunteer or other

person who has breached the Junior League Codes of Conduct and had his / her

right to have an official involvement with the Junior League or any Junior League

club withdrawn or suspended will be denied. The person concerned has the right

of appeal to the Board of Management.


1.1.9 If a club allows a player to participate in a game without a fully approved clearance,

the team shall lose two (2) competitions points, should the team win the game or

be fined $500.00 if the team lost the game.

1.1.10 It is the responsibility of the club the player is clearing to, to ensure that the

clearance is fully approved prior to their registration.

1.1.11 A player cannot train / play with a club until their transfer has been fully approved.

The team coach will be held responsible for such breach and could face disciplinary

action and the club could face a fine of $500.00.

1.1.12 All clearances / transfers from the Penrith District are to be processed i.e. denied /

approved within five (5) days (from 15 January to 30 June each year). The Junior

League will deny / approve following this timeframe, without further consultation

with the junior league club.

1.2 COMPETITION RULES MANUAL ON OFFICIAL TABLES

1.2.1 It is the requirement of all junior league clubs to ensure there is a copy of the junior

league match day rules (for the current year) on all official tables at all junior league

playing fields on game day.

1.3 COMPETITION TABLES

1.3.1 The competition tables will be on the website. They should be checked regularly by

clubs. No more adjustments will be made after 5pm on the Friday of the weekend of

the last competition matches. It is the responsibility of clubs and coaches / managers

to check the tables and advise any errors before the cut-off date. The Junior League

office will not make changes until any change that is suggested has been confirmed by

a perusal of the sign-on sheet or other records.


1.4 CONTRACT AND AGREEMENT DISPUTES

1.4.1 Because of the policy that has been determined in respect to the payment of players,

the Junior League does not support such payments and prefers not to involve itself in

contract or agreement disputes that arise between clubs and players. Clubs who find

themselves in disagreement with other clubs in respect to the contracting and signing

of players will have to come to some form of agreement satisfactory to themselves

should there be any legal complication, conflict or dispute about clearance, transfer,

contracts or agreements.

1.4.2 The board will investigate all conflicts, complaints or disagreements arising from

contract / agreement disputes between a club and a player and pending settlement of

such dispute, will give strong consideration to the existing Junior League internal

registration, qualification, transfer and clearance rules that are already in place.

1.4.3 Should a club and a player desire to prepare a written agreement in regard to a playing

contact, arrangements should be made at the same time a contract / agreement is

signed between a club and a player, for the player to compete and sign a Junior League

transfer form.

1.4.4 The original of the signed transfer form should be submitted through the usual

channels to the Junior League.

1.4.5 A photocopy of the signed transfer form should be sent direct to the Junior League

Manager within (7) days with a short report on club letterhead and dated advising

brief details of the signing of the agreement between a player and his new club.

1.4.6 It is the responsibility of the club the player is joining to check to see the necessary

documentation has been received by the Junior League, before the player takes part in

any competition match.

1.4.7 When a player is offered a contract or agreement by a club, the following questions

should be written into the contract – ‘have you signed any contract / agreement with

another club for next season’? The player will be required to answer this question in

writing.

1.4.8 Any player who signs a contract or agreement with a club for the following season,

knowing that he had already signed a contract or agreement with another club for the

same season, may be suspended, fined or have other action taken against him.

1.4.9 Any player who does not have an acceptable explanation for refusing, ignoring or

falsely answering the question on the contract / agreement between himself and the

club, asking if he had signed a contract or agreement with another club for the

following season may be suspended, fined or have other action taken against him.

1.4.10 It will be a breach of these rules for any club not to ask the above question of a player

prior to entering into a contract or agreement with a player. Further, the Junior

League may not recognise any contract or agreement between a player and a club if

the club does not ask (and record the question and answer) of the player regarding

whether or not he has signed a contract or agreement with another club.


1.5 CLUB CONSTITUTIONS AND BY-LAWS

1.5.1 Clubs must operate from a standard Junior League constitution issued when the Junior

League incorporated.

1.5.2 Clubs may only alter the constitution at an Annual General Meeting and in accordance

with the rules of the constitution.

1.5.3 Each club shall forward a copy of its constitution to the Junior League and advise

alterations that are made from time to time.

1.5.4 A copy of the clubs constitution must be available at all meetings of the club.

1.5.5 Clubs may attach a set of by-laws to the constitution; such by-laws may be altered,

deleted or established at any general committee meeting of the club.

1.5.6 Clubs must observe and support the rules of the constitution at all times.

1.5.7 Areas of concern should be advised to the Junior League Manager.

1.5.8 If a particular rule or policy cannot be found in the Club Constitution, the Junior League

Constitution should be consulted and adhered to.

1.6 DEFAULTERS

PLAYERS

1.6.1 A club may refuse a transfer or clearance if a player is financially encumbered to

that club or has not returned property owned by the club.

1.6.1.1 Registration and insurance fees should be paid prior to a player taking

the field in the junior league competitions.

1.6.1.2 A player cannot be listed as a defaulter for the non-payment of

registration and /or insurance fees.

1.6.1.3 Once a club lists a player as a defaulter, that player cannot be registered

with ANY club.

1.6.1.4 If a club plays a player who has been listed as a defaulter that club faces

the possibility of losing points, being fined or other action.

1.6.1.5 Once a club plays a player who has been listed as a defaulter by that

club, the default will no longer be recognised. (Clause 1.7.1.2 will still

apply).


1.6.1.6 A default can only be lifted against a player by notification in writing to

the Junior League Manager.

1.6.1.7 Clubs or players who feel that have been disadvantaged may make

representations to the Board on any aspect of this rule.

1.6.1.8 The Junior League will call for a list of defaulters each year. The right to

list a player as a defaulter expires on the 31st

October each year.

1.6.1.9 If a player who has been listed as a defaulter makes an application for a

transfer or clearance, the club secretary should endorse the following

words on the application:

‘Player listed as a defaulter. Transfer (or clearance) not approved until

player pays the amount of $____ to the club”.

1.6.1.10 If a club registers or approves a transfer or clearance of a player listed as

a defaulter by approving online, without adding the above mentioned

words, the default against the player will no longer be recognised.

OFFICIALS

1.6.2 If a team support official (coach, trainer or manger) other official or person, is

financially encumbered to a club, owes money to the club or has not returned

property owned by the club, the club may report the matter to the Junior League

Manager, who after appropriate investigation may suspend that person from any

official involvement with any club, until the outstanding money (or property) has been

returned to the club, or take other action.

1.6.2.1 Any agreement made by a club with any person, regarding the payment

process of registration and insurance fees by player(s), should be in

writing and filed with the club secretary.


1.7 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

1.7.1 Clubs are required to forward the following documents to the Junior League Manager

every month:

1.7.1.1 The correctly completed monthly financial report.

1.7.1.2 The latest club bank statement.

1.7.1.3 Any other documentation requested.

1.7.2 Clubs shall cause correct accounts and books to be kept showing the financial

affairs of the club showing in particular:

1.7.2.1 All sums of money received and expended by the club.

1.7.2.2 All sales and purchases of goods by the club.

1.7.2.3 The assets, credits and liabilities of the club.

1.7.3 The books of account of all clubs should be kept at a place as the club committee

thinks fit and should be available for inspection by the Junior League Manager at

any time.

1.7.4 A copy of the balance sheet, auditor’s report and income and expenditure account

of each club should be forwarded to the Junior League Manager immediately

following the club’s audit.

1.7.5 It is the responsibility of the President and Executive of each club to overview the

financial management of the club and to promptly report to the Junior League

Manager and the club committee any area of concern in relation to the financial

management of the club and in particular any concern about the financial viability

of the club.

1.7.6 Clubs shall forward a copy of their proposed budget for the coming twelve (12)

months to the Junior League Manager.

1.7.7 The Board of Management does not support two (2) members of the same family

signing club cheques together and it is recommended that clubs arrange cheque

signing authority so as to preclude this from happening.

1.7.8 The club Treasurer shall prepare and table an up to date financial report to every

club general committee meeting. If he / she fails to do that a notation should be

made in the minutes. The Secretary shall advise the Junior League within 48 hours

of the non-submission of the report. If a club fails to submit a monthly financial

report to the Junior League, fines may result.

1.7.9 If a club fails to submit two (2) monthly financial reports in succession to the Junior

League, the club will face a thorough audit by the Junior League.

1.7.10 The club Treasurer shall table an Annual Audit to the club Annual General Meeting.

The meeting should not be held until the audit is available.


1.7.11 All clubs are asked to close off their financial books on 31st October each year, if

possible.

1.7.12 The Junior League Manager is empowered by the Board to call for the production of

the financial records of any club and it is a breach of this rule for such request to be

denied.

1.7.13 All monies received by club officials (other than the Treasurer) should be

transferred to the treasurer without delay (ie within 24/48 hours). It shall be a

breach of Junior League rules for a club official other than the Treasurer to retain

club funds, unless authorised by the Committee.

1.7.14 All monies received should be receipted without delay.

1.7.15 The Treasurer should make regular deposits to the bank and should not retain

possession of monies collected on behalf of the club unless there are extenuating

reasons approved by the president.

1.7.16 The committee shall direct policy in regard to the handling, deposit, safeguarding

and disbursement of funds collected by teams.

1.7.17 The Junior League does not support the lending of club funds to club members and

it shall be a breach of the rules for any person to retain, use, or be loaned funds for

temporary or personal reasons.

1.7.18 The Treasurer shall bring to notice of the committee and/ or the Junior League any

breaches of financial management rules or any movement or disbursement of club

funds other than prescribed by the committee or the Junior League.

1.8 INSURANCE AND OTHER FEES

1.8.1 The compulsory insurance and other fees deemed necessary by the Board of

Management must be paid at the prescribed rates and time.

1.8.2 Players

Before any player can take part in any Junior League sanctioned activity which includes

competition match, the player must be fully registered and qualified and covered by

the prescribed junior league insurance and other protective insurance cover and the

players ID card available at the official table. Failure to ensure this most important and

necessary requirement is in place, may result in suspension of the player, loss of

competition points for the team and other penalties.


1.8.3 Team Support Officials Before any coach or trainer can take part in any junior league

sanctioned activity which includes a competition match, the team official must be fully

qualified and covered by the prescribed junior league insurance and other protective

insurance cover and the officials ID card available at the official table. Failure to ensure

this most important and necessary requirement is in place, may result in suspension of

the team official, loss of competition points for the team and other penalty against

official(s) responsible.

1.8.4 Insurance for all player registrations must be paid at the time of registration. List of

names and cheques should be forwarded without delay to the Junior League Manager

by all clubs.

1.8.5 Clubs may be fined or face other disciplinary action for late payment or for ignoring

request(s) for payment.

1.8.6 Any person playing with a team in this Junior League who is not fully insured and

registered will face strong discipline action together with the team and club

concerned.

1.9 MEETING PROCEDURES AND CLUB ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS (JOSKE’S – Law &

Procedure at Meetings)

1.9.1 Members of the General Committee at monthly meetings of clubs are encouraged to

join the debate and discuss various matters raised.

1.9.1.1 Members proposing a motion or an amendment should state its nature

when addressing the meeting.

1.9.1.2 Members will be permitted to speak once only to a motion.

1.9.1.3 Members may rise at any time to speak to a point of order or to correct a

misstatement.

1.9.1.4 Members may ask questions at any time during a debate.

1.9.1.5 The mover of a motion shall have the right of reply, but there is no right

of reply by the mover of an amendment.

1.9.1.6 Speakers must keep to the particular matter then before the meeting

and discussion which is irrelevant will not be permitted.

1.9.1.7 Speakers who do not keep to the matter or who are unduly long-winded

may be requested to resume their seats.

1.9.1.8 The Chairperson is entitled to require a speaker to apologise and may

direct a speaker to withdraw from the meeting.


1.9.1.9 The Chairperson may with the consent of the meeting alter the order in

which the business of such meeting shall be taken.

1.9.2 Motion of Dissent – any decision or ruling by the Chairperson may be dissented from

and overruled by a majority of voters present.

1.9.2.1 The Chairperson explains dissent procedure.

1.9.2.2 The Chairperson invites the mover to state the reasons for the dissent.

1.9.2.3 The Chairperson advises why the decision or ruling was made.

1.9.2.4 The Chairperson calls for a seconder to the motion. (If no seconder the

motion lapses).

1.9.2.5 If the motion is second the Chairperson then puts the motion in the

following terms: “That the Chairperson’s ruling be upheld”.

1.9.2.6 If the vote was affirmative, the meeting continues.

1.9.2.7 If the vote was in the negative, the Chairperson reverses the ruling or

decision and the meeting continues.

1.9.2.8 No other person may enter the debate.

Annual General Meeting

1.9.3 Club Annual General Meetings should be held each year prior to the last weekend in

November.

1.9.4 Clubs shall advise the date of the Annual General Meeting to the Junior League office

at least fourteen (14) days prior to the date of the Annual General Meeting.

1.9.5 A club Annual General Meeting should not be held unless the Annual Audit is available.

1.10 PAYMENT OF PLAYERS – POLICY

1.10.1 The Board of Management is concerned about the escalating costs some clubs may

be subject to because of the payment of players to play Junior League and the

heavy burden such payments make on club finances and fundraising generally.

There is also concern that the development of lower age club teams could be

adversely affected should there be a concentration of finances towards the senior

teams.


1.10.2 In addition, there is added concern that should club pay players they could place

the club in a difficult position with various Government authorities and also with

industrial demands that could be made in respect to such things as GST, holiday

pay, leave loading, workers compensation, FBT, etc.

1.10.3 The Junior League is not prepared to risk jeopardising the development throughout

the vast numbers of Saturday teams (U6 to U15) and lower age Sunday teams (U16

and U17) and accordingly does not support the payment of money to Junior League

players to play rugby league or the payment of money or otherwise (gifts,

pushbikes or other enticements) to younger players to play or transfer from one

club to another.

1.10.4 The Board acknowledges that it is a difficult matter to ‘police’ the payment of

players’ policy. However advises all clubs that it will not support any activity or

action of any club or player that are in direct opposition to this policy.

1.10.5 Any club or player, who acts in detriment to this policy, does so on their own

accord.

1.10.6 The Board seek the cooperation of all cubs to support and respect this policy.

1.11 POWERS OF THE BOARD

1.11.1 The Board of Management of the Junior League in accordance with the

Memorandum and Articles of Association may make By-Laws, Resolutions, Rules

and Regulations or deal with any other matter as in the opinion of the Board of

Management are necessary and desirable for the proper control, administration

and management of the Junior League competitions and may amend, rescind,

interpret (where the rules are silent or not specifically dealt with) from time to time

any such By-Law, Resolution, conflict / complaint / protest, Rules and Regulations.

1.11.2 In accordance with the Junior League constitution the Board may, under certain

circumstances, adjust, suspend, cancel or take other action in regard to the

affiliation of any club(s) or team found guilty of action considered detrimental to

the welfare, image or interest of the Junior League.

1.11.3 To delegate authority to the Junior League Manager, to investigate any protest,

complaint or concern and if considered necessary to adjudicate or refer same to the

appropriate committee or investigative body.

1.11.4 The Board shall have control and general supervision of all competitions on all

grounds in the district, allocated for that purposes. The Board in furtherance and

not in limitation of other powers conferred on it by the constitution and

competition rules, codes of conduct, etc. shall have power in its discretion to

investigate, determine, adjudicate, adjust, interfere with and further resolve all

reports, concerns, complaints and breaches of its rules, irrespective if the matter

has already been resolved by any subcommittee.


1.11.5 Upon written complaint or notification made to the board concerning the process,

conduct, outcome or adjudication of any investigation, inquiry or hearing involving

any subcommittee, special group or other investigative process, provided the board

has reasonable cause to believe the original process, hearing or adjudication was

flawed, unconstitutional or in direct conflict with evidence produced, or for any

other reason, may refer the matter to the Junior League Manager for investigation.

Further, following the production of the Junior League Managers report at a

subsequent board meeting, the board may rescind, alter, interfere, refer back, or

change the original adjudication by taking whatever action is deemed necessary.

Rights of appeal exist.

1.11.6 The junior league board, appropriate sub-committees and the Junior League

Manager are empowered under the rules when breaches occur to withdraw the

opportunity and privilege of any coach, player, manager, trainer or other person to

have an involvement in official junior league activity, which includes competition,

trial and other games, training and associated involvement.

1.11.7 Actions Contrary to Interests and Welfare of Junior League

Should the Board of Management have reasonable cause to believe that an

affiliated club or member of that club, without approval or permission of the

Board, takes any action or aids and abets another person or persons whether

directly or indirectly to take any action, to form an agreement, joint venture,

relationship, sponsorship or align its members, players or teams or club, with

another club or group, that is not affiliated with the Penrith and District Rugby

League Club Ltd., whereby such action is considered by the Board to be against the

welfare, interests, policy or image of the Junior League, the Board may after proper

investigation, adjust, suspend, or cancel the affiliation of such club or otherwise

deal with the matter or any person found guilty of such actions.


1.12 SUBCOMMITTEES

1.12.1 The Board of Management shall establish various subcommittees with designated,

function and powers provided that the Board may, at its discretion, appoint

additional members to the committees at any time.

1.12.2 Members of the Committees shall be indemnified against costs, or any payment

required to be made pursuant to, or as a result of, or any settlement of, any legal

proceedings that may be instituted against them in consequence of the

performance of their duties.

1.12.3 At meetings of the committees, at least three (3) members of the committee shall

constitute a quorum.

1.12.4 The Board of Management may grant leave on such terms as it may see fit to any

person appearing to be represented by a barrister, solicitor or agent and may

modify or revoke such leave at any time.

1.12.5 Subcommittees will be Judiciary, Qualifications, Coaching, Image and Profile,

Conduct Review, Disputes, Grading’s, Sports Trainers, Publicity and Promotions,

Representative or Development Squads, Ground and Safety, Player Awards and

Referee Complaints subcommittee or other as deemed necessary by the Board of

Management.

1.12.6 Any subcommittee taking evidence at a hearing may institute action against any

player, official or club identified during the hearing as being responsible for a

breach of the Junior League Rules and Regulations.

1.12.7 Any player or official may request the Chairperson of a subcommittee to review the

conduct of another person seen on video (or reported verbally) who is alleged to be

in breach of the Junior League rules.

1.12.8 Any person who is elected by the procedure set out in this rule who refuses or

declines a position shall be named by the Chairperson at the following Board

meeting and if unable to give an acceptable explanation, shall stand down and be

replaced.

1.12.9 All reports from subcommittees shall be in writing to the Board of Management of

the Junior League.

1.12.10 An active player of any affiliated club, active referee or any person who is an official

of a Rugby League club not affiliated with the Penrith Junior League is ineligible to

hold a position on any Junior League subcommittee.

Judiciary Committee – to adjudicate when players are sent from the field or reported for

rough or illegal play or behaviour or for offences or infringements pertaining to judiciary

matters and to report to the Board thereto.


Qualifications Committee – to investigate and determine the qualification of officials and

players in accordance with the rules of the Penrith Junior League and report to the Board

thereto.

Conduct Review Committee – to investigate any complaint made of conduct in breach of the

Junior League Rules and Regulations and contrary to the Policy and prejudicial to the interests,

objects or welfare of the Junior League and to report to the Board thereto.

Disputes Committee – to adjudicate on all complaints, protests or disputes associated with the

playing of junior rugby league except as otherwise provide in these rules and report to the

Board thereto.

Gradings Committee – to grade / re-grade teams into their respective competitions. Such

grading’s are to be presented to a meeting of the Board of Management and General

Committee.

Club Welfare Committee – to assist, advise and support clubs with management, structure,

strategy, fundraising and other problems and issues.

Sports Trainers Committee – to educate clubs, trainers and officials in the latest techniques of

sports injury treatment. To investigate ways and means of ensuring players in the PDJRLFC

receive the best care, attention and medical service possible.

Representative and / or Development Committee – to overview the efficient and effective

administrative operation of representative and / or development football in accordance with

the rules of the Penrith Junior League and to determine transfer appeals of players in the

Representative and Development squads.

Player Awards Committee – to select players as winners of various Junior League Player

Awards.

Coaching Committee – to organise, control and arrange coaching courses and clinics and

ensure all players and teams in the Junior League are exposed to the most efficient and

effective coaching operation.

Image and Profile Committee – to review, identify and establish feedback processes to enable

the committee to ensure the image and profile of the Junior League is maintained on the

highest possible level.

Publicity and Promotions Committee – to organise, control, arrange and maintain an efficient

and effective publicity and promotions operation on behalf of the Junior League.

Grounds and Safety Committee – to inspect grounds to ensure playing surfaces are in good

condition and adequately marked and protected. To ensure all amenities at grounds are

adequate and properly utilised by all clubs.

Match and Incident Review Committee - to review and investigate reports of breaches of

Codes of Conduct and good behaviour rules and report the Board thereto.

Player Assessment Points Committee – to assess player points applications and to

recommend and assist the Junior League Manager manage the ‘A’ Grade competition.


1.12.11 Upon written complaint or notification made to the Board concerning the process,

conduct, outcome or adjudication of any investigation, inquiry or hearing involving

any subcommittee, special group or other investigative process, provided the board

has reasonable cause to believe the original process, hearing or adjudication was

flawed, unconstitutional or in direct conflict with evidence produced, may refer the

matter to the Junior League Manager for investigation.

Further, following the production of the Junior League Manager’s report at a

subsequent board meeting, the board may rescind, alter, interfere, refer back or

change the original adjudication by taking whatever action is deemed necessary.

Rights of appeal exist.

1.13 TEAM LISTS

1.13.1 Clubs shall provide a team list for teams who reach the grand finals to the Junior

League Manager no later than 12.00 noon on the Monday before the grand finals.

Teams are to wear the numbers as per the official program for the entire final

series, with the exception of injuries when substitutions may be made. Any club

not providing the required lists is to be fined for each team list that is not supplied.

1.13.2 Clubs are required to send a list of players for all teams commencing at Under 6 and

going through to ‘A’ grade.

1.13.3 The above lists are required by Round 3 of each season.

1.13.4 Players names should be numbered from number 1 through to the last number (i.e.

number 17, 18, 19 or 20).

1.14 TRANSFERS

1.14.1 Unless a transfer is in conflict with the Junior League rules, it will be granted.

1.14.1.1 Application for transfer by players Under 16 must have an endorsement

by their parent / guardian.

1.14.1.2 The Junior League will not process transfer prior to the 1st November

each season.

1.14.1.3 All transfers cease on the 30th June each year unless otherwise directed

by the board.

1.14.1.4 Players ‘sitting out the season’ or moving to another district for one

season to avoid these rules gain no advantage.


1.14.2 A players’ transfer will be considered completed when the following conditions are

in place:

1.14.2.1 The approved transfer application has been completed to the

satisfaction of the Junior League Manager and the Qualifications

Committee.

1.14.2.2 The Junior League has approved the transfer fully online.

1.14.2.3 A player will be officially attached to their new club from the date the

transfer application has been approved fully online. Any move by the

player to another club (including the club transferred from) will have to

go through the system in the same manner the original transfer did.

1.14.2.4 Only applications that are in accordance with the rules will be

considered i.e. correct forms and procedures used.

1.14.2.5 There is a transfer administration fee of $5.00 payable by the player and

debited against the club the player(s) transfer to.

1.14.3 Movement of Players : Delay in Registering Players

If any club becomes aware that players from another club team have refrained

from registering because of encouragement from another club or official to transfer

and further, because of that situation there is a real possibility that the club will be

unable to nominate or field a team in that age group the club may, if it has the

evidence to support a complaint, contact the Junior League Manager and report the

facts. The matter will be investigated by the Board and appropriate action taken.

1.14.3.1 If any club at first denies the transfer of a player and subsequently

approves the transfer after the player has appealed through the

Transfers and Appeal Committees, such club may be fined an amount to

be decided by the Board.

1.14.4 Defaulters

A club may refuse a transfer if a player is financially encumbered to that club or has

not returned property owned by the club providing the club submitted a defaulters

list within the required timeframe.

1.14.5 Movement of Players between Senior NSWRL Competitions and Junior League

1.14.5.1 The movement of players from a Senior NSWRL competition to the

Junior League competition and from the Junior League competition to

the senior competition must be approved by the Junior League

Manager.

1.14.5.2 Prior to the start of the season players and clubs must use the official

National Registration form when moving from a competition or club

outside the district and also when moving from a club inside the district.


1.14.5.3 Should a club within the district desire to play a Junior League player in

the senior competition after the Junior League competition has

commenced, the club shall advise the Junior League Manager the

player’s name and the grade he will play in, prior to 5pm before the

match. In the case of an emergency or after hours the Junior League

Manager should be contacted by mobile on 0407 544 801.

1.14.5.4 Players from a club that has teams in the senior competitions can move

from the Junior League competition to the senior competition at any

time during the season.

1.14.5.5 Players who move from a Junior League club to the senior competition

during the season, who later are released back to Junior League shall

return to the club they were selected from.

1.14.5.6 Player in the senior competition cannot move back to Junior League

competitions after the half-way point of the senior competition, unless

such movement is approved by the Junior League Board (i.e. injuries /

other reasons).

1.14.5.7 When a player returns to the Junior League competition, the various

Junior League and final series qualification rules that apply will have to

be observed. It is the responsibility of the club concerned to ensure the

qualification of all players.

1.14.5.8 If a player is promoted from the Windsor Ron Massey Cup Competition

(or equivalent) to the NSW Cup or higher competition and later released

back to Ron Massey Cup Competition (or equivalent), that player shall

return to the club they were released from.

1.14.5.9 NYC players returning to the Junior League competitions and are

contracted to Penrith are required to play ‘A’ grade, if they are not

contracted they are free to play any grade. Any amendment to this rule

must be approved by the High Performance Unit.

1.14.6 Representative Squad Players

1.14.6.1 For the purpose of these rules a representative squad player will be

players selected in the final squads of representative teams that are

selected to represent the Penrith District, including the Western Sydney

Academy of Sport.

Note: it may be necessary to alter age groups depending on decisions of

the league.

1.14.6.2 When a representative player returns to the junior league (for whatever

reason) he must return to the club he was registered with for the

remainder of the season.


1.14.6.3 When a player is selected in a representative squad it will be necessary

for the player to acknowledge the existence of the rules that apply to

the transfer and movement of representative players. Once a player

accepts representative selection the player also accepts all transfer and

other conditions pertaining to it.

1.14.6.4 The Junior League Manager will regularly review the internal transfer of

representative squad players from club to club within the Junior League

and present these to the board for consideration. The Board has the

right to approve / deny such transfers.

1.14.6.5 The transfer of a representative squad player (irrespective of the year

that player represented) may be refused if it is considered the team to

which the player makes application to transfer to has sufficient

representative player (current number is 4).

1.14.6.6 All transfer applications will be considered in their age group, not the

age group they may play i.e. SG Ball player wishing to play ‘A’ grade, and

if the club currently has 4 representative players from SG Ball the

transfer may be refused.

1.14.6.7 Should a player who was registered with a club in the Penrith Junior

League within the previous two (2) seasons, submit a clearance from

another district to play in the Penrith Junior League, the following

conditions will be observed:

1.14.6.7.1 The transfer of such a player to a particular club may be

refused if it is considered that his departure from and

return to the Penrith District was done in an effort to avoid

the existing transfer rules.

1.14.6.7.2 If the player was a representative player prior to his

clearance out of the Penrith District, that classification will

continue unless otherwise directed by the Board.

1.14.6.7.3 Players classified as representative players in other districts,

when transferring to the Penrith District, will be regarded as

representative players in this district.

1.14.6.8 Players in the representative squads will remain a representative player

until they fail to be selected in the squads the following season. This

rule may also be adjusted depending on the structure of representative

football.

1.14.6.9 Representation made on behalf of players in the representative squads

regarding injuries and / or medical matters, must be supported by a

medical report from a licensed medical practitioner.

1.14.6.10 A player who is out injured for a full season or lengthy period and who is

expected to return to football within a period of twelve (12) months (i.e.

the following season) cannot be replaced in the player’s Junior League

team by another representative player.


1.14.6.11 When players are advised at the end of each season of selection in the

representative squads a copy of the transfer rules may be issued to

them.

1.14.6.12 Representative squad players are required to submit an application for

transfer prior to them commencing training at another club.

1.14.7 Development Squad / CUBs / Merit Squad (Development Programs)

A development squad player will be a player who has been selected and named in

any of the Junior League development / CUBs / merit squads. The age structure for

these squads could change from time to time.

1.14.7.1 Following the formation of each squad / program, and if considered

necessary the players and parents may be brought together with the

Junior League Development Squad subcommittee (comprising three (3)

members of the Junior League Board) for the purpose of explaining the

outcomes hoped to be achieved, the future squad activities and the

junior league transfer rules and other matters.

1.14.7.1.1 If any player after attending meeting or receiving written

information does not desire to be involved in squad

activities they may apply to be released and if the request is

granted they will not qualify for any benefits or future

selection until further notice.

1.14.7.1.2 Once a player accepts their place in a development program

they accept the conditions and Junior League rules that

apply.

1.14.7.1.3 Players selected in any development program are required

to submit an application for transfer prior to them

commencing training at another club. Discipline action will

result for any breach of this rule.

1.14.7.1.4 Players in development programs will remain a

development player until they fail to be selected in the

program the following season. This rule may also be

adjusted depending on the structure of the program.

1.14.7.1.5 Representation made on behalf of players in development

programs regarding injuries and / or medical matters, must

be supported by a medical report from a licensed medical

practitioner.

1.14.7.1.6 A player who is out injured for a full season or lengthy

period and who is expected to return to football within a

period of twelve (12) months (i.e. the following season)

cannot be replaced in the player’s Junior League team by

another development program player.


1.14.7.1.7 The Junior League Board is the only body that can approve /

deny a transfer request for a player in the development

program. Rights of appeal exist.

1.14.7.1.8 A transfer of a player in a development program can be

denied (irrespective of the year that player represented) if

it is considered the team to which the player wishes to

transfer to has sufficient development squad players (the

current number is (4)).

1.14.7.1.9 By accepting a position in the CUBs program players must

return to the club they were selected from unless there are

extenuating circumstances. Written application must be

provided to the Board for consideration.

1.14.7.1.10 A development squad player, not including CUBs, may

transfer if he so wishes provided the transfer conforms to

the Junior League transfer rules. A meeting will be

arranged between the player, his parents and the

Development Squad Subcommittee so the reasons for such

a transfer can be discussed and the Subcommittee be

satisfied that there is no outside interference and the

transfer is in the best interest of the player.

1.14.7.1.11 All transfer applications will be considered on their age

group, not the age group they may play i.e. U17

development squad player wishing to play U19s, if the club

currently has four (4) development squad player from the

17s the transfer may be refused.

1.14.8 General Rules

1.14.8.1 Not more than two (2) players shall be allowed to transfer from one club

team to another club team in the same age group in the same year

unless the club they are leaving is willing to release them or unless

approved by the Board of Management.

1.14.8.2 A player may request a transfer from second division to first division

(Sunday competition only) and any player displaced by such transfer

may transfer back to second division provided the transfer is approved

by the Qualifications Committee.

1.14.8.3 A player cannot be compelled to play in a higher division or age group

and accordingly the Transfers Committee may, on reasonable grounds,

refuse a transfer to an age group above that which he would normally

be qualified to play.

1.14.8.4 A player who has transferred and registered as an ‘A’ grade player

cannot play in an age competition in that season.


1.14.8.5 Apart from where indicated there is no restriction on the number of

players that can transfer into a club each season.

1.14.8.6 If a club is fielding two (2) teams in the U16 or U17 age group not more

than four (4) players shall be allowed to transfer in the same year. The

Junior League will cancel any transfer online which is outside of these

rules and refer the player back to the club for explanation. A club can

submit a written submission to the Junior League Board if there are

extenuating circumstances.

1.14.8.7 A player cannot train / play with a club until their transfer has been fully

approved. The team coach will be held responsible for such breach and

cold face disciplinary action and the club could face a fine of $500.00

1.14.9 Transfer Appeals

1.14.9.1 Any appeal should be lodged in writing on the Junior League Appeal

form.

1.14.9.2 Players will not be able to play in competition matches until an appeal

has been heard and determined.

1.14.10 Transfer of First Division players

1.14.10.1 Any team that played in a first division grand final in the age groups from

U8 to U14 is unable to transfer in any first division players the following

season. (A first division player will be any player who has played five (5)

or more games in first division). Clubs may make representations where

there are extenuating circumstances. This rule applies to all teams,

irrespective if a club has more than one team in first division.


1.15 TRIPS AWAY / TOURS / KNOCKOUT CARNIVALS

1.15.1 The undermentioned conditions governing tours and visits to country centres, other

states and overseas by teams from the Penrith District Junior Rugby League and

other teams visiting the district are to be complied with by all affiliated clubs.

1.15.2 Written applications are to be submitted to the Junior League Manger as follows:

Inter-district and country visits – 14 days prior to departure.

Interstate – 4 weeks prior to departure

Overseas – Expression of intention to tour one (1) year; Application 3 months prior

to departure.

1.15.3 Applications should be lodged in accordance with the above and in time for it to be

discussed by the Board prior to the trip.

1.15.3.1 Should there be insufficient time for the application to go before the

Board the written application should be hand delivered to the Junior

League Manager as a matter of urgency.

1.15.3.2 Applications for interstate and overseas tours should be lodged on the

official NRL Application to Tour form and require approval by the NSWRL

and NRL.

1.15.3.3 Clubs who delay seeking official approval faces the prospects of not

having official sanction and thereby could forfeit insurance protection

and other entitlements.

1.15.4 A written report should be prepared covering the trip and submitted to the Junior

League Manager, together with references from the following:

1.15.4.1 If overnight stay, from the hotel, motel or boarding proprietors with

who accommodated.

1.15.4.2 From the Secretary of the sporting club which they visited or competed

against.

1.15.5 Affiliated clubs desiring to arrange visits from clubs outside the Penrith District are

to forward information to the Junior League Manager for approval by the Board.

1.15.6 To maintain insurance protection for players and officials, all teams playing outside

the Penrith Junior League district should obtain permission from the Junior League

prior to playing in any knockout or carnival.

1.15.7 Any club wishing to host a knockout carnival must submit their application in

writing to the Junior League Manager who will seek approval from the Board and

the NSW Rugby League. A knockout carnival cannot be held without appropriate

approval.


1.15.8 Any Junior League club that does not comply with these instructions or is in breach

of any of the conditions may forfeit any insurance rights and may have future

applications refused and / or be further dealt with by the Board.

1.16 WITHDRAWAL OF TEAMS

Any club that withdraws a team after the competition has commenced must report all facts to

the Board of Management.

1.16.1 If the reason for withdrawal is loss of players, the club is to state:

1.16.1.1 The players registered with the club and still available to play. These

players may transfer according to the Junior League rules, if they wish.

1.16.1.2 Players registered with the club and who have dropped out, thus causing

the withdrawal. To re-register with any club the following year, these

players must make application in writing to the Junior League for such

registration.

1.16.2 If the reason for withdrawal is the loss of the coach:

1.16.2.1 The reason for the coach’s withdrawal is to be advised.

1.16.2.2 The club has made every effort to keep the team functioning.

1.16.3 Clubs withdrawing teams will be subject to fines or other penalty to be determined

by the Board of Management dependent upon the amount of disruption the

withdrawal causes.

1.16.4 All other team withdrawals shall be reported to the Board of Management with

reasons why the team was withdrawn.

1.16.5 Fines may apply for withdrawal of teams as per the following scale:

1.16.5.1 Saturday $100.00

1.16.5.2 Sunday $500.00 (with $250.00 going to the opposition club)

• During first five (5) rounds $100.00

• During last five (5) rounds $500.00

• In between $250.00


2. COMPETITIONS

2.1 ABANDONED GAMES

The During Game segment of Match Day Rules itemises the rules that apply and the procedure

on game day should a match be abandoned by the referee.

Following the Junior League Manager’s investigation of the circumstances surrounding an

abandoned game the following course of action will be applied.

If it is ascertained that the actions and behaviour of players, or team officials, or spectator

supporters of both teams were responsible and significantly contributed towards the game

being abandoned and depending on the seriousness of the incident(s) one of more of the

following outcomes may result.

a) Offending teams will be suspended until investigation of the incident is

completed.

b) The game result may not be registered.

c) The game may not be replayed.

d) Both teams may lose 2 competition points.

e) Discipline action may be taken against individuals in breach of codes of

conduct.

f) Either or both teams may be disqualified from the competition or other action

taken.

If it is ascertained that the actions and behaviour of players, or team officials, or spectator

supporters of one of the two teams was responsible or significantly contributed towards the

game being abandoned and depending on the seriousness of the incident(s) one or more of the

following outcomes may result:-

a) The offending team will be suspended until investigation of the incident is completed.

b) The two competition points for the game may be awarded to the non-offending team.

c) For and against points (strategy used in forfeits) may be allocated to non-offending team.

d) The offending team may lose two competition points.

e) Discipline action may be taken against individuals in breach of codes of conduct.

f) The offending team may face disqualification from the competition.

Any team in two abandoned games in the same season, whether because of the actions and

behaviour of the players, team officials, spectator supporters or other reasons may be called

upon to show cause why the team should not be disqualified from the competition.

Any club who feels their team has been unfairly dealt with or harshly treated by any resulting

adjudication, may make representations to the Junior League board, however, severity of

penalty cannot be used as a defence.


2.2 BYES

2.2.1 A BYE shall count as a win, not as a match played.

2.2.2 For the purpose of a player serving a suspension (judiciary, etc.) a BYE will count as a

match played if the BYE was introduced after the commencement of the competition

or after the player was suspended.

2.2.3 Teams receive two competition points for a BYE.

2.2.4 A BYE and a forfeit are two distinct situations.

2.3 CLUB COLOURS / PLAYING UNIFORM

2.3.1 The secretary of each Junior League club shall register the club’s colours with the

Junior League Manager and such club’s players shall appear in proper uniform in all

matches. The Board shall have the power to refuse to register any uniform if it is not

sufficiently distinctive. Upon registering the uniform it shall become exclusive

property of the Junior League club first registering it and may not be worn by any

other club.

2.3.1.1 Any club failing to ensure all its members play and conform to these

rules shall be fined a sum as decided upon by the Board.

2.3.1.2 Clubs are not permitted to use District Club colours.

2.3.2 Clubs are unable to alter the colour, design or logo of the club uniforms, unless

approval from the Board of Management is obtained.

2.3.3 Teams or players displaying colours or designs that have not been approved by the

Board or Junior League Manager may lose competition points or other penalty. (It

is a serious breach of rules for any player to display gang orientated colours).


2.4 COMPETITION STRUCTURE AND CRITERIA

2.4.1 The Board of Management shall decide the competition structure, criteria, by-laws

and method of conducting the competitions each season.

2.4.2 In all competitions a series of games shall be played in which each team will play each

other team at least once in each age division, unless the Board of Management

decides otherwise.

2.4.3 In each match, two (2) points will be awarded for each win and one (1) point for each

draw.

2.4.4 If a match is not conducted for whatever reason, the board has the right to make a

decision regarding the ultimate outcome of such game.

2.4.5 Saturday Competitions

2.4.5.1 There will be as many divisions as the Board considers necessary with all

competitions using an 8 team draw, unless directed by the Board.

2.4.5.2 The competition structure will be U6, U7, U8, U9, U10, U11, U12, U13, U14

and U15.

2.4.6 The Board may at its discretion resolve that one or more age groups be involved in a

restricted (weigh/age) competition.

2.4.7 Sunday Competitions

2.4.7.1 There will be two (2) main divisions, first and second division.

2.4.7.2 Depending on the number of teams nominated, the Board may establish

further divisions.

2.4.7.3 The competition structure will be the U16, U17, U19, ‘A’ Reserve and ‘A’

Grade. The Board may change the structure of either division if necessary.

2.4.7.4 Clubs will be invited each year to nominate for first division.

2.4.7.5 The Board will have the final say on the number and which clubs participate in

the first and lower division competitions.

2.4.7.6 Clubs that do not nominate for the first division will automatically be

considered for the lower divisions.

2.4.7.7 In first division, a club is unable to have an ‘A’ Reserve grade team without an

‘A’ grade team. In the case of forfeits, the ‘A’ Reserve must be forfeited

before the ‘A’ grade.

2.4.7.8 There will be no Reserve grade in the lower divisions, but the Board may

support this or an U20 or U21 age group if considered necessary.


2.4.7.9 Any club may nominate two teams in the U16 and U17 age group provided

the following conditions are adhered to:

2.4.7.9.1 If a club is fielding two (2) teams in the U16 or U17 age group

not more than four (4) players shall be allowed to transfer to

that club in the same age group in the same year. The Junior

League will cancel any transfer online which is outside these

rules and refer the player back to the club for explanation.

2.4.7.9.2 A first division club fielding two (2) sides in the U16 or U17

competitions may register forty (40) players. A first division

club fielding one side in the U16 or U17 age groups may register

twenty five (25) players. This includes the number of players a

club has in the representative squads.

2.4.7.9.3 A first division club may nominate a team in the U16 Division 3

competition provided they had a team in the U15 Division 3

competition or lower the previous year. All nominations for

this must go to the Board for approval.

2.4.7.9.4 Clubs may make representations to the Board should there be

any extenuating circumstances.

2.4.7.9.5 Clubs may only field one (1) team in U19s, ‘A’ Reserve and ‘A’

Grade unless the Board resolves otherwise.

2.4.8 The Board may at its discretion adopt a salary cap or a player’ point assessment

concept, similar to the NSWRL (Ron Massey Cup) competition, for any grade.

2.4.9 The Board may at its discretion resolve to support and / or be involved in Master’s or

other forms of Rugby League.

2.4.10 ‘A’ Grade Points

2.4.10.1 An ‘A’ Grade points sub-committee shall be appointed each season

consisting of the following personnel:

2.4.10.2 One representative from each club involved in the competition.

2.4.10.3 A Chairperson.

2.4.10.4 Junior League Manager.

2.4.10.5 The Junior League Manager will take the minutes of the meetings and table

a copy for confirmation at the next board meeting.

2.4.10.6 The chairperson shall be a member of the Junior League Board who will

table a report at the board’s annual conference.


2.4.10.7 The committee shall meet whenever necessary, with meetings being

arranged by the coordinator.

2.4.10.8 The committee shall adjudicate on player assessment points for all players

as and when player assessment point forms are submitted.

2.4.10.9 In between meetings the adjudication shall be carried out by the executive.

2.4.10.10 The executive of the points committee shall be the coordinator,

chairperson and junior league manager.

2.4.10.11 All conflicts, protests and adjudications shall be determined by the

executive.

2.4.10.12 In February/March each year the committee shall meet to discuss and

arrive at rules for the approaching season.

2.4.10.13 In September/October each year the committee shall meet to discuss the

just completed season and identify any frustrations that may exist.

2.4.10.14 When a player assessment form is submitted the club submitting same

shall complete all sections of the form, including the player assessment

section. Forms not completed in accordance with the requirements will

not be processed. Forms must be submitted for all players in the Under 19,

A Reserve and A Grade first division competitions.

2.4.10.15 If a team exceeds the allocated assessment points (the figure that has been

agreed upon by the board) the team will lose the two (2) competition point

should the team win the game or be fined $500.00 if the team lost the

game.

2.4.10.16 If a player when competing a player point assessment form is convicted of

deliberately providing false information, the player will be suspended for

twelve (12) months i.e. Eighteen (18) competition matches).

2.4.10.17 If a club official when completing a player points assessment form is

convicted of deliberately providing false or misleading information, the

official will be suspended for five (5) years.

2.4.10.18 If a player or club official is convicted of deliberately providing false or

misleading information, the team concerned shall lose the two (2)

competition points for every game won in which the player was involved.

2.4.10.19 If a player or club official is convicted of deliberately providing false or

misleading information, the club concerned shall be fined the sum of

$500.00 for every game that the team lost in which the player was

involved.


2.4.10.20 If a player or official when completing a player points assessment form is

convicted of carelessly or unintentionally providing false or misleading

information, the person concerned shall be brought before the executive

and dealt with for a breach of this rule.

2.4.10.21 It is the sole responsibility of the club to check any information provided by

the player when completing a player point’s assessment form. It will be a

breach of this rule should a club official not carry out this function.

Explanations that the player provided incorrect information because of

limited intelligence or understanding by the player will not be accepted.

2.4.10.22 Player assessment forms should be submitted to the J.L. office prior to 12

noon each Friday so the player assessment weekly return can be circulated

to the clubs.

2.5 FORFEITS

2.5.1 Any team that has forfeited twice in succession or three times in all may face

elimination from the respective competition unless otherwise directed by the Board.

2.5.2 When a club forfeits to another, the match shall count as a match played and be

declared in favour of the club forfeited to.

2.5.3 The Junior League uses a ‘for’ and ‘against’ percentage points system to calculate ‘for’

and ‘against’ points when a team forfeits:

2.5.3.1 Each game is treated as an ‘entity’.

The ‘FOR’ points of the winning teams are added together.

The total is divided by the number of games played in that division.

The total arrived at is then allocated as FOR points to the team receiving the

forfeit.

The team also receives 2 competition points.

2.5.3.2 The team that forfeited will receive a zero (0) FOR points and the against

points as calculated above.

Example: 62-18 42-20 10-6 25-18 31-15

Total 170-77 Winning points divided by 5 = 34-0

2.5.4 Any club that forfeits an ‘A’ Grade game without notice to opponents and the Junior

League Manager before 12 noon on the day preceding the match shall be fined a sum

as determined by the board.

2.5.5 A bye and a forfeit are two distinct situations.


2.6 GROUND MANAGER RESPONSIBILITIES

2.6.1 Job Description

Be visible and alert and aware of activity inside the spectator fence or rope and do

everything possible to ensure the wellbeing and safety of patrons. Have a good

knowledge of the crowd and ground control rules and policy that applies and utilise

the junior league incident reporting process that is in place.

2.6.2 Qualification, Policy and Administrative Requirements

Because of the complex nature of the ground managers tasks and responsibilities and

the threat of litigation and the possible exposure of the club to legal action should a

serious incident occur, it is important the ground manager is well prepared and aware

of the responsibilities that are involved.

The key tasks of a ground manager are:

2.6.2.1 Have a good knowledge of the club and junior league disciplinary procedures

and rules that apply to both the home and visiting clubs

2.6.2.2 Attend meetings and co-operate with the district junior league manager.

2.6.2.3 Observe and support district and club crowd and ground control requirements

and report any exceptions.

2.6.3 Junior League semi-final series – the junior league will offer selected club ground

managers an opportunity to be part of the junior league district crowd and ground

control management operation during the end of season semi-finals, finals and grand

finals.

2.6.4 Communication and awareness – Because of the time involved, multiple grounds

being used and the number of games that are played at some venues, ground

managers are not expected to be able to witness every breach or exception that

occurs but are encouraged to have a general overview of the majority of club activity

on the clubs’ home ground when matches are played and have effective reporting and

communication processes in place to keep themselves informed of various

developments.

2.6.5 Support from junior league – the junior league will support, co-operate and assist all

clubs and ground managers and do all reasonable things to protect the interests and

wellbeing of everyone involved in managing and over viewing the junior league rules,

codes of conduct and good behaviour rules

Match Day Requirements

2.6.6 Utilise junior league incident report form – a club ground manager or other official

shall utilise the Junior League incident report form and report all available

information, regarding serious breaches of the junior league rules, codes of conduct

and good behaviour rules, prior to 10am on the Monday following the incident.


2.6.7 The home club ground manager shall ensure written records of the names of

authorised persons (except coaches, trainers, team managers and players) allowed

inside the spectator fence are kept and present same upon request to the junior

league when required.

2.6.8 Any person (includes player, coach, trainer, manager) official, parent, spectator,

supporter or other person shall be in breach of the junior league rules, codes of

conduct and good behaviour rules, if they assault, threaten, harass, intimidate, abuse

or otherwise cause serious inconvenience to another person at any junior league

venue or playing field.

2.6.9 Report to Police

It is standing junior league policy to report all assaults and serious altercations to the

police and to firmly support any action that is taken. There will be no hesitation to

provide documentation and records to the authorities and do everything reasonable

and possible to assist with the identification and prosecution of offenders. Any

person who is seriously threatened or assaulted who doesn’t report the matter to

police will be in breach of Junior League Rules.

2.6.10 Follow up by assisting the victim, or family or relatives:-

(a) Advise them the matter will be followed up by the Junior League

Manager.

(b) Give them the contact number of the Junior League Manager.

(c) Visit hospital or doctor’s surgery with them.

(d) Telephone victim(s) later that night to see how they are.

(e) Find out what can be done to assist them.

2.6.11 In very serious cases (serious injury or death) it might be necessary to arrange a

counsellor (the Junior League Manager can assist with contact numbers) and get that

person to conduct a counselling session as soon as possible with family members,

team members, close friends and club members etc.

2.6.12 Follow up by submitting a written report to the Junior League Manager.

Please Note:

Irrespective of what happened and who is involved, the first and most important action is to go

to the aid of injured and/or distressed persons. Keep a copy of these guidelines on hand at all

times. Ensure your club secretary and ground manager are aware of the procedures that are

outlined above.


2.7 HOME CLUB RESPONSIBILITIES

2.7.1 The home club will be responsible for the control of spectators and supporters.

If after appropriate investigation, a club (or it’s appointed representative) is convicted

of having inadequate crowd and ground management procedures in place, or ignored

or refused to meet the required Junior League Ground Management obligation,

resulting in serious breach of the Junior League rules, codes of conduct and good

behaviour rules, in addition to discipline action being taken against individuals, the

affiliation of the offending club could be threatened.

2.7.2 Appropriate codes of conduct and other rules in the form of a competition rules

manual will be provided to all clubs by the Junior League. Documents as directed by

the Junior League must be prominently displayed on the official table at every playing

field, with fines applying for exceptions.

2.8 NOMINATION OF TEAMS / GRADINGS AND RE-GRADINGS

2.8.1 Nomination of teams for the various competitions each season shall close on a date

determined by the Board of Management.

2.8.2 The Junior League Manager will forward special nomination forms to each club.

2.8.3 Following completion of the forms, the clubs will return same prior to the date

determined by the Board.

2.8.4 The Junior League Manager will advise all clubs of the various nominations.

2.8.5 Grading of teams will take place and clubs will be advised of those grading’s prior to

the commencement of the competitions.

2.8.6 The Board of Management may make allowances for late nomination of teams and

may make adjustment to those already nominated.

2.8.7 Clubs may make representations to the Board in regard to any nomination or grading

matter.

2.8.8 A club is unable to nominate more than 40 teams in Saturday competitions.

2.8.9 Any club may nominate two teams in the Under 16 and 17 age groups, provided the

transfer conditions are adhered to.

2.8.10 At the end of each season, the Junior League Manager will advise clubs of the

proposed grading’s for the following season.

2.8.11 Prior to the start of the competitions, clubs will advise the Junior League Manager of

the club’s nomination of teams, by age group and preferred division based on the

previous season’s team performances.


2.8.12 At the time of nomination of teams, clubs have the opportunity to advise any matter

associated with grading of teams. (i.e. loss of players, number of first year players) to

meet club development strategies.

2.8.13 Nominations and grading’s may be discussed at the nomination night or specified

General Committee meeting. The Junior League Manager and the grading’s

committee will grade all teams in accordance with the following criteria:

2.8.13.1 Under normal circumstances, the two (2) teams which contested the grand

final will be elevated one division, and the two (2) teams at the bottom of

the previous year’s competition table are relegated one division.

2.8.13.2 Clubs with more than one team in the same age group (Saturday

competition) may have their first team graded no lower than third division

unless there are extenuating circumstances supported by Board decision.

2.8.13.3 Other changes will take place if considered necessary and the grading’s as

per clause (2.12.9) may be altered if considered necessary.

2.8.13.4 The Grading’s Committee may re-grade teams more than once whilst the

competitions are in progress if circumstances warrant.

2.8.13.5 In the event that there are two teams from the same club in the same

division, those teams will be drawn to play each other in accordance with

normal draw allocations.

2.8.13.6 Clubs have a right of appeal against any grading or regarding decision, by

the Grading’s Committee.

2.8.13.7 Clubs who fail to advise grading’s concerns (see clause 2.12.11 and 2.12.12)

may lose impact of any representations made or appeals lodged.


2.9 NUMBER OF PLAYERS

2.9.1 Should the referee or Junior League Manager (or adjudicating sub-committee)

become aware of and satisfied that a team has more than the authorised number of

players on the field, any points scored whilst the additional player(s) were on the field

shall be deducted. The referee may order the removal of the additional player(s) from

the field and if that order is not observed immediately shall award the match to the

non-offending team.

2.9.2 Any appeal or protest under this rule will be dismissed if evidence supports the fact

that the appellant club’s captain and/or team support officials were aware of the

breach during or immediately after the match and failed to bring it to the notice of

the referee at the time by reporting the matter to the official table.

2.9.3 When arriving at a decision the adjudicating subcommittee or the Junior League

Manager will take into account the amount of time the additional player(s) were on

the field and the impact that it had on the outcome of game and specifically, address

that issue in its adjudication.

2.10 PANTHER TAG

2.10.1 PANTHER TAG – By-Laws

Subject to the modification below, all games will be played under the International

Laws of Rugby League. All requirements governing the off-field conduct of matches

and behaviour of players (e.g. Judiciary) will be outline in accordance with the By-

Laws and Code of Conduct.

Mode of Play

2.10.1.1 Each match will consist of two (2) equal halves of twenty (20) minutes.

There will be a half-time period of no longer than five (5) minutes.

2.10.1.2 Teams will consist of eleven (11) players, with a maximum of four (4)

replacements. An unlimited interchange rule will apply.

2.10.1.3 Games will be played on an international (full-size) Rugby League field.

2.10.1.4 There will be no scrums in Panther Tag competitions, with any instance of a

scrum in the International Rules of Rugby League being replaced with a

play-the-ball to the team who would normally have received the feed to

the scrum.

Tagging

2.10.1.5 The removal of one or both tags from the attacking player carrying the ball

will constitute a ‘tackle’.


2.10.1.5.1 Once tagged, the ball carrier must return to the spot where the

tag was made and play the ball.

2.10.1.5.1.1 After making a tag, the defender shall drop the tag

on the ground at the spot where the tag was made –

a player throwing an opponent’s tag away will be

penalised.

2.10.1.5.1.2 One (1) or two (2) markers may be present at each

play the ball and will be governed by the relevant

rules of Rugby League.

2.10.1.5.2 A player in possession of the ball without both tags on will be

deemed to be ‘tagged’, regardless of whether the tag has been

removed by another player or has simply fallen off.

2.10.1.5.2.1 The exception of this rule is the dummy-half or a

player taking a tap, who may pass the ball on to a

team-mate in the absence of one or both tags. They

may not take more than two (2) steps in the act of

passing or they too will be deemed ‘tagged’.

2.10.1.5.3 The ball carrier is not permitted to protect their tags to fend off

defenders.

2.10.1.5.4 A ‘simultaneous tag’, where the ball is passed at the time as the

tag is made, will be allowed to play-on with the advantaged

played to the attacking team.

2.10.1.5.5 In the event of the ball being passed after the tag is made:

2.10.1.5.5.1 The attacking team will be asked to return the ball

to the tagged player to play the ball (unless it is the

last play) if the referees deemed that the player

was tagged in the act of passing.

2.10.1.5.5.2 If the attacker is deemed not to have been tagged in

the act of passing and has therefore committed a

‘deliberate’ late pass, they will be penalised.

2.10.1.6 As a non/minimal contact version of Rugby League, both the attacker and

defender have a responsibility not to initiate contact. A player deliberately

bumping into an opponent will be penalised. The onus is on the attacking

player to avoid the defender.

2.10.1.6.1 Players may ‘spin’ whilst running with the ball, however the

onus is still on the attacker to avoid the defender and may be

penalised for initiating contact with the opponent.

2.10.1.6.2 Player may dive to score a try, however if a defender is within

‘tagging distance’ they may not dive before the try-line.


2.10.1.7 The defensive line is to retire 5m from each play-the-ball or tap restart and

may move forward once the ball has cleared the ruck.

Kicking

2.10.1.8 Each half will commence with a place kick from the centre of the halfway

line as per the Laws of Rugby League.

2.10.1.8.1 After points have been scored, the re-start of play from the

halfway line will be by a place kick to the non-scoring team with

NO REQUIREMENT for the ball to travel ten (10) metres forward

from that kick.

2.10.1.9 The team in possession may kick the ball on any tackle, however there will

be no ‘bombs’ allowed (any kick deemed by the referee to be kicked in the

air for the purposes of allowing time for chasing players to contact the ball

– ‘chip’ kicks will be allowed).

2.10.1.9.1 After kicking the ball, the attacking team may not dive on the

ball.

2.10.1.9.2 The ball may be kicked into the in-goal however, as above the

ball shall not be contested in the air and the attacking team

cannot dive on it but may score a try by grounding the ball with

the hands.

2.10.1.9.3 From a penalty, a kick for touch or attempt at penalty goal may

be taken as per the Laws of Rugby League.

2.10.1.10 Kicks for goal will be taken in accordance with the International Laws of the

Game.

Sin-Bin / Send-offs

2.10.1.11 Periods of temporary suspension (Sin Bin) shall apply as per the

International Laws of Rugby League.

2.10.1.12 Any player dismissed from the field shall adhere to the Junior League

procedures as outlined in this manual.


2.11 PLAYING IN A HIGHER GRADE

2.11.1 Other than as advised in rules 2.11.1.3, 2.11.1.4, 2.11.1.5 and 2.11.1.6 the Junior

League Board does not under any circumstances support a player in Saturday football

(ie age groups U7 to U15) playing in a higher age group more than one (1) year above

the player’s age and it will be a breach of Junior League rules should any player do so.

2.11.1.1 Should a player be required to play in an age group higher that the players

age, it shall only be an age group no higher than one (1) year above the

players age with the following action required before the player takes the

field.

i. Written permission on the official Junior League form for

that purpose by the players parent, guardian or carer must

be obtained.

ii. An endorsement on such document must also be obtained

from the club Secretary and team coach.

2.11.1.2 Should a player take the field in an age group more one (1) year higher

than the player’s age, the team support officials (coach, manager, trainers)

will be in breach of Junior League rules.

i. Team support officials (coach, manager, trainers) will be

asked to show cause why their accreditation should not be

suspended and will stand down from any official

involvement pending an investigation and/or discipline

hearing.

ii. Competition points and points scored by the team in the

match in which the player took the field will be confiscated

and in addition the team may lose three (3) competition

points.

2.11.1.3 The U/6 age group may consist of players between the age of 4 and 6

years.

2.11.1.4 In ladies/girls competitions the age groups may be a combination of

multiple years. Ie U13/U14/U15, U15 to U17, U16 to U18 or U17 to U19.

2.11.1.5 The U/19 age group may consist of players between the age of 17 and 19

years.

2.11.1.6 Players over the age of 18 years are able to play in open age competitions.

2.11.2 When a player plays in a higher age group in a final series game without having first

played in his own age group on that day, the player becomes unqualified and will not

be permitted to return to play in a lower age group in a subsequent final series game.

A maximum of two (2) players from the Under 19 age group, on a weekend when the

Under 19 has a BYE, may play in Reserve or ‘A’ grade without losing qualification to

play Under 19.


2.11.3 When the competition includes ‘A’ and ‘A’ Reserve grades and both teams from one

club have qualified for final series, there will be no restriction on reserve grade

players playing in A Grade.

2.11.4 In Saturday competition clubs may use players from a lower level age group (including

final series games), but not more than one (1) year above their age, providing written

approval has been obtained and approved by the parent, coach and club official

provided:

2.11.4.1 If players are moving to a division that is equal to or lower than the division

they are in, only two players are permitted to move. Further, players

cannot go down more than two (2) divisions. IE Under 10 division 1 can’t go

below Under 11 Division 3, otherwise there is no restriction. (If in doubt,

contact the Junior League Office.)

2.11.4.2 Any breaches of this rule may result in the team being disqualified from the

semi-finals and discipline action taken against the person responsible.

2.11.4.3 In both Saturday and Sunday football if a player is called up from a lower

age group into a higher age group, in final series games, he / she may go on

the field at any time.

2.11.4.4 This rule can only be used if there is a shortage or injuries to players in the

higher age group.

2.11.4.5 This rule does not apply to competition rounds and is usually used when a

lower level age group team has been eliminated from the final series

games and the higher age group has a shortage of players.

2.12 PLAYING WITH MORE THAN ONE CLUB IN THE SAME SEASON

Once a player signs on and plays a competition match (or portion of match) with a club, he is

unable to play with another club in the same season unless:-

2.12.1 The player’s team withdraws from the competition:

2.12.1.1 Clubs shall advise in writing the reason for withdrawing.

2.12.1.2 Include a list of registered players involved, together with player’s cards.

2.12.1.3 Attach an application for transfer form, signed by each player and

endorsed by the Club Secretary.

2.12.2 A club has an overabundance of players and is prepared to release those not required

(i.e. representative players returning-an influx of new players-return of previously

registered players).


2.12.2.1 Clubs shall submit a list of registered players so affected together with

player cards.

2.12.2.2 Attach an application form for transfer, signed by each player and

endorsed by the Club Secretary.

2.12.2.3 Players cannot make application for transfer on their own behalf, under

this clause.

2.12.2.4 The Board of Management agrees with such transfers or there are other

special reasons.

2.12.2.5 No transfers can take place after the 30th June.

2.12.3 Written representations containing extenuating circumstances are acceptable to the

Junior League Manager.

2.12.3.1 Fines will apply if any club promises or encourages a transfer without

referring the matter to the Junior League Manager.

2.12.4 A player cannot play in a higher level competition i.e S.G. Ball, Harold Matthews, Ron

Massey Cup, Sydney Shield, NSW Cup or any other competition introduced and the

Junior League on the same weekend (this applies to the 17 players named in the

squad). Penalties will apply.

2.13 PLAYING WITH MORE THAN ONE TEAM IN THE SAME SEASON

2.13.1 When an affiliated club has more than one team in an age group of which there is

more than one division, a player must not play with more than one team within that

age group during any part of the competition or the playoffs, semi-finals, finals and

grand finals. (This includes players promoted from lower age groups.) Once the player

plays his first competition match in a particular division in an age group, that player

must remain in that division for the rest of the season, except under the following

circumstances:

2.13.1.1 A player may move up to a higher division at any stage during the first half

of the competition. There can be no movement after the half-way point of

the competition. i.e. 18 games – halfway point is 9 games.

2.13.1.2 To promote a player during the first half of the competition it will be

necessary for the club committee to endorse such promotion.

2.13.1.3 The club must advise the Junior League in writing.

2.13.1.4 Once a player plays in a higher division he cannot return to the lower

division. The Board may consider extenuating circumstances.


2.13.1.5 No more than two (2) players in the same age group can move up a division

in the same season.

2.13.1.6 This rule should not be confused with the rule which allows a player from a

lower age group to play in a higher age group in any competition match,

playoff, semi-final, final or grand final.

2.13.2 Should a player be in breach of this rule by playing with more than the one team in

the same age group, either or both teams’ competition points may be confiscated, or

the team could be disqualified from the semi-Final series and the player be declared

unqualified and/or be suspended.

2.13.2.1 The Board may determine the length of time a player remains unqualified

depending on the circumstances.

2.13.3 In respect to first division teams who field a second side in the U/16, U/17 or U/19 age

group, there is a restriction of two players who can move from a division one team

one season to a division two team the following season. Unless approved by the

board.

2.14 REFEREES

Referee Terminating a Match

2.14.1 The referee has the discretion to terminate a game whenever by reason of climatic

condition, interference by spectators or other causes the referee deems it necessary.

In all cases in which a game is terminated the referee shall advise the Junior League

Manager through the Secretary of the Referees’ Association prior to 5:00pm on the

following Tuesday by submitting a written report.

2.14.1.1 Should the Referee’s Association have prior warning or opinion regarding

the alleged condition of a ground, the matter should be brought to the

notice of the Junior League Manager as a matter of urgency prior to any

action being taken.

Referee’s Appointments

2.14.2 The Referees’ Appointments Board shall appoint referees’ to games.

2.14.2.1 Eligibility and constitution of said Appointments Board shall be constituted

by the Referees’ Association and included in their constitution with the

approval of the junior league.

2.14.2.2 A referee shall be appointed for each match by the Appointments Board.

2.14.2.3 In the event of the Referee’s Association failing or refusing to appoint

Referee’s, the Junior League Manager may carry out that function.


2.14.3 Junior league clubs are encouraged to provide two (2) persons from each club each

season to gain their referees certificate (i.e. Sunday players referee Saturday games).

Complaints by Referee’s

2.14.4 All complaints by referees must reach the Junior League Office by 5:00pm on the

Tuesday following the match.

2.14.5 Any club official who is qualified to referee and appointed to games by the referee’s

association, must declare a conflict of interest if appointed to games involving teams

from that persons club. The Junior League Manager is entitled to request the

Referee’s Association to change such appointment.

2.15 REGISTRATION OF PLAYERS – BOOKS, CARDS, ETC.

2.15.1 Players signing Junior League registration and team sheets are subject to

disqualification if particulars contained therein are found to be incorrect.

2.15.2 Players desiring to play under an assumed name for personal reasons must register

their correct name with the Junior League Manager or with the Registrar, both of

whom shall treat the matter with the utmost confidence.

2.15.3 Players registered with the Penrith District Junior League must register their correct

address with the Junior League and must notify same of change within fourteen (14)

days otherwise, unless a reasonable explanation can be furnished, may not be eligible

to play the following year with any club in the Penrith District.

2.15.4 Affiliated junior clubs are empowered to impose registration, insurance and other

fees.

2.15.5 Clubs have a responsibility to ensure every player who represents the club is a fully

registered and qualified player and affiliated club, group or member thereof, shall be

deemed to be guilty of an offence, if they allow any person who is unregistered or

under suspension or disqualification to take part in any match or matches. (See Rule

3.13.24)

2.15.6 Notwithstanding whether or not a player registers or transfers to a club, his

registration with a particular club will not be confirmed until he plays his first

competition game.

2.15.7 All applications for registration must be typed or completed neatly in ink and must be

signed by the player and club Secretary or Registrar. A copy of the player’s

identification must be attached to the registration form and signed by club official

confirming original identification has been sighted.

2.15.8 All players must produce an original Birth Certificate or Proof of Age acceptable to the

Junior League; sign registration papers and other appropriate documents, a record of

which shall be kept by the Junior League.


2.15.8.1 Any reports or complaints about unqualified players or players using false

identity or birth certificates should be reported to the Junior League

Manager.

2.15.9 First Division clubs may register fifty (50) players in their ‘A’ and Reserve grades in

total and twenty five (25) players in their U19 competition. Second Division clubs may

register thirty (30) players in their ‘A’ Grade and twenty five (25) players in the U16,

U17 and U19 competitions. First division clubs not nominating a reserve grade may

register 30 players.

2.15.10 A first division club fielding two (2) sides in the U16 and U17 competitions may

register forty (40) players in total. A first division club fielding one (1) side in the U16

and U17 age groups may register twenty five (25) players. This includes the number

of players a club has in the representative squads.

2.15.11 The usual result of a protest or complaint about a team playing without the players ID

cards being at the official table is for the game to be awarded to the opposing team.

2.15.12 If there were extenuating reasons for the unavailability of the cards and all players

involved in the game were registered in accordance with the rules, there is provision

for the result of the game to be recognised.

2.15.13 If the unavailability of the cards was the result of carelessness or lack of proper

security, there is provision for the game to be awarded to the opposing team.

2.15.14 Return Identification Card to Junior League

A Junior League club may with reasonable cause, deny, refuse, return, suspend,

disqualify (or for other reason) the registration of a player, official or other person.

When that action is taken the club shall invite the person concerned and conduct a

proper hearing into the reasons that action was necessary. A copy of the Minutes of

that meeting together with the persons ID (registration) card should be forwarded to

the Junior League office.

2.16 REPLACEMENT PLAYERS

2.16.1 This variation to the N.S.W.R.L. replacement rules (International, Mod and Mini) that

have been determined by the Board should be read in conjunction with the full

unabridged version of the International Laws of the Game (including Mini and Mod

laws) of the Australian Rugby League.

These ‘local’ rule adjustments will override similar rules where they appear in the

Australian Rugby League documents, as referred to in above clause.



2.16.2.1 All players who sign the official sign-on sheet, or in the case of mini and

mod football whose name appear on the sign-on sheet must play at least

one full period of football, or two periods of football in mini, unless

prevented by injury.

2.16.2.2 Once a player has been taken from the field and replaced whilst the game

is in progress, with the exception of U13, U14 and U15 that player cannot

take any further part in that game or any additional game on that day.

2.16.2.3 All Under 9 matches will be played on a mod sized field.

2.16.2.4 In the Under 6, 7 & 8 age groups the game shall be started after a try with a

tap kick from half way.

2.16.2.5 The same unlimited replacement rules that apply to the Sunday 2nd division

competitions on the previous page, applies to the U13, U14 and U15 age

group, except in first division competitions where a total of ten (10)

replacements can be made. In first Division, only seventeen (17) players IN

TOTAL can be signed on and used.

2.17 SIGNING ON MATCH SHEETS

2.17.1 In the case of any appeal or protest hearing the Junior League official sign-on sheet

will be bonafide evidence of a player’s qualification and any details and endorsements

that appear on such sign-on sheet will be regarded as acceptable evidence unless

proven to the contrary.

Both clubs who are represented by officials at the official table are held responsible for

the content of sign-on sheets.

2.17.1.1 It shall be the responsibility of the home club to ensure the sign-on sheets

are available and completed in the correct manner. Should any

discrepancy be found during a hearing of a protest or complaint the

appropriate sub-committee may institute a fine or other penalty against

the club concerned.

2.17.1.2 The score appearing on the sign on sheet at the time the referee signs the

sheet will be recognised as the official score.

2.17.1.3 Any complaint or protest regarding the final score of a match or

compilation of scores shall be referred to the appropriate sub-committee

for adjudication.

2.17.1.4 Following investigation by a sub-committee, if the result of a game or

change of score results the matter must be referred to the Board for final

adjudication.


2.17.2 The Junior League Manager will arrange for an experienced official to check all ‘sign-

on’ sheets. These sheets are to be checked regularly and any discrepancies to be

corrected and missing sheets to be reported to the Junior League Manager who will

take appropriate action.

2.17.3 ONLY players present on the day and playing in the game are to be entered on the

sign-on sheet. Managers of mini teams must check that players are present and have

played the required periods.

2.17.4 If sign-on sheets are not used in trial games, the team management should prepare

and retain a list of all players (and their previous club, irrespective if the Club is in or

out of the Junior League District) who played in the respective trial.

2.18 TRIAL GAMES

2.18.1 The junior league will manage two Saturday and two Sunday trials where necessary.

Other Saturday and Sunday trials will be a matter for each club to organise between

themselves. The junior league will arrange insurance and other protection for the

teams involved, provided the clubs inform the junior league office in writing of

proposed trial games they will be involved in, internally or externally. The clubs will

have to arrange their own grounds, referees (to be booked through the junior league)

and resource support. Players dismissed from the field will be treated the same as

they currently are.

2.18.2 If official sign on sheets are not used in trials, the team management should prepare

and retain a list of all players (and their previous club, irrespective if the club is in or

out of this junior league) who played in the respective trial.

2.18.3 Nicknames, shortened names, aliases or other references cannot be used. Players

names must be spelt correctly.

2.18.4 Under the junior league rules all clubs must have the name and previous club of every

player who plays in the trials.

2.18.5 If a player is sent off, clubs shall give the name and previous club to the referee

concerned. The player cannot play again that weekend, but may play in trials the

following week.

2.18.6 Players cannot play in trials unless the club they play for know their name and the

name of their previous club.

2.18.7 The surname and initial or Christian name of each player involved in any trial game

must be known to the club the player is representing and be written onto the sign on

sheet or player’s sheet.


2.19 WET WEATHER POLICY

2.19.1 If council close their grounds prior to the weekend all junior league games for that

weekend will be cancelled.

2.19.2 If wet weather occurs from Friday afternoon to Sunday morning, all clubs with

scheduled games must inspect their grounds and advise the Junior League Manager

via text message or email by 7.15am of the morning of the scheduled games as to the

status of their grounds, either playable or unplayable.

2.19.3 If games are scheduled for a later start the venue must still be inspected and status

advised as directed in 2.19.2.

2.19.4 Junior League Manage3r to advise clubs no later than 7.45am as to the decision of the

Junior League as to whether all games are to be called off or to allow games to

continue due to a limited number of grounds being affected.

2.19.5 The decision of the Junior League Manager will be final.

2.19.6 Notification of decisions will be communicated through Email, website and social

media.


3. MATCH DAY RULES

PRE-GAME

3.1 INTRODUCTION

3.2 AVAILABILITY OF JUNIOR LEAGUE TO ALL

3.3 AUTHORISED PERSONS INSIDE SPECTATOR ENCLOSURE

3.4 CLUB COLOURS AND PLAYING UNIFORM

3.5 CONDITION OF GROUND

3.6 DURATION OF GAME AND BALL SIZE

3.7 FORFEITS

3.8 GROUND MANAGERS RESPONSIBILITIES

3.9 GROUND PREPARATION

3.10 INSURANCE AND REGISTRATION

3.11 PLAYER ELIGIBILITY (PLAYING IN HIGHER GRADE)

3.12 PLAYERS REGISTRATION (ID) CARDS

3.13 REFEREE NOT IN ATTENDANCE

3.14 SIGN ON (MATCH) SHEETS

3.15 SUSPENDED AND DISQUALIFIED PERSONS


3.1 INTRODUCTION The intent of this concise Match Day Rules document is to provide a quick and easy

understanding of rules, specific to match day for team support staff (coaches, managers,

trainers) officials, players and all persons involved (on and off the field) on game day.

The rules itemised in the Match Day Rules document are rules and requirements that apply

prior to, during and after the game and are specific to the particular game the above

mentioned officials and players are involved in.

The Match Day Rules have been separated and highlighted from the many hundreds of rules

that apply to all aspects of Junior League operations as outlined in the Junior League

Competition Rules Manual.

The Match Day Rules document should be read in conjunction with the Junior League

Competition Rules Manual, which is issued to all Junior League Club Secretaries at the

commencement of each season.

It is a requirement of the Junior League for all Junior League clubs to ensure there is a copy of

the Match Day Rules on all official tables at all Junior League grounds on game day.

Should any clarification of these Match Day Rules be required, or if there is any confusion or

doubt about any rule or issue, the Junior League Manager may be contacted on telephone –

0407 544 801.


3.2 AVAILABILITY OF JUNIOR LEAGUE TO ALL

3.2.1 The Junior League welcomes and invites every person who wishes to be involved in

rugby league to have an enjoyable, healthy and satisfying experience, with such

involvement conditional on them respecting and abiding by the Junior League codes

of conduct, which are fully set out in the Junior League Competition Rules Manual.

Immediately any person participates or involves themselves in any Junior League

activity, it is conditional and on the understanding that the persons concerned

acknowledge, respect and agree to abide by and be bound by the Junior League

Competition Rules, Constitution, codes of conduct, regulations and other appropriate

provision and the policy and decision making from time to time resolved by the Board

and the Junior League Manager.

Signing the Junior League application for registration is regarded as an

acknowledgement of acceptance by the person signing, of the codes of conduct and

discipline provisions set out in the Junior League Competition Rules Manual and other

appropriate good conduct and behaviour documents.

A coach, manager, player, trainer, official, spectator, or other person is required at all

times to observe and respect the Junior League codes of conduct and good behaviour

rules and behave in a decent and professional manner and not engage in any conduct

that is detrimental to the welfare, image or best interest of the game of rugby league

or the policy of the Junior League.

By respecting and abiding by the codes of conduct and good behaviour rules,

stakeholders will be helping the Junior League empower and build on one of a

number of key outcomes of the positive culture that has gradually built up over the

years, which is to encourage all players to improve their skills, build their self-esteem

and confidence, enjoy themselves and have fun whilst they are playing rugby league.


3.3 AUTHORISED PERSONS INSIDE SPECTATOR ENCLOSURE

3.3.1 UNAUTHORISED ENTRY ONTO PLAYING AREA (ZERO TOLERANCE FIELD INVASION)

Any person (including coaches, trainers, players, managers, officials or other persons)

who enters inside the spectator fence (rope or spectator barrier) or on the playing

field without approval of the referee, ground manager or the Junior League Manager

will be in breach of Junior League Rules.

3.3.2 The following persons are authorised to be inside the spectator fence at junior league

playing fields.

3.3.2.1 Players who are actively involved in the game.

3.3.2.2 The Coach, trainers and manager of the team.

3.3.2.3 Approved medical personnel.

3.3.2.4 Club officials or representatives authorised to perform crowd and ground

control. ie. ground manger.

3.3.2.5 District junior league crowd and grounds personnel, district selectors or other

officials.

3.3.2.6 Referees, approved touch judges and referee appointment board

representatives.

3.3.2.7 Persons who have been given authority by the J.L Manager or ground

manager or have legitimate reasons to be there i.e unofficial touch judge.

3.3.3 If the ground manager refuses to support a person being inside the spectator fence,

the person concerned should leave the area immediately.

3.3.4 Should any spectator or other person (parent, guardian, carer, relative, etc.) make an

unauthorised entry (cross the sideline and or dead ball line) onto the playing field, at

any junior league game the person will be in breach of the Junior League codes of

Conduct. Following investigation and identification of the offending person, the

registration of any player(s) related to that offending person may be suspended by

the Junior League Manager.

3.4 CLUB COLOURS / PLAYING UNIFORMS

3.4.1 Clubs should ensure that players appear in proper uniforms in all competition

matches and end of season matches which shall consist of jersey in the clubs

registered colours, socks, shorts, boots or shoes (which must not have spikes or studs

which in the opinion of the referee could be considered dangerous).

3.4.2 The following must be adhered to in relation to playing uniform:

3.4.2.1 Skins that come past the bottom of shorts are not allowed. Longer ones can

be approved if a doctor’s certificate is forthcoming.

3.4.2.2 Players with beaded hair or hearing aids must wear headgear.

3.4.2.3 Knots cannot be tired anywhere in the football jumper.


3.4.2.4 Body jewellery must be removed or taped.

3.4.2.5 Players wearing eye goggles have to seek permission and approval from

NSWRL.

3.4.2.6 Gang orientated colours cannot be displayed.

3.5 CONDITION OF GROUND

3.5.1 Where there is doubt regarding the fitness of the ground where a competition match

is to be played, consultation between the referees, two captains and senior officials

from each club should take place with the final decision resting with the referee.

3.6 DURATION OF GAME AND BALL SIZE

3.6.1 Any team not prepared to commence a match within fifteen (15) minutes of the time

directed shall be deemed to have forfeited, unless satisfactory reasons for the delay

are given to the board.

3.6.1.1 Matches will not be played after a fifteen (15) minute period has elapsed.

3.6.1.2 In the event of other disputes (unqualified / over age players, etc.) or non-

production of a team’s brag book, the match should be played and a protest

submitted in accordance with these rules ie. Give the players a game first and

deal with the protest later.

3.6.2 All matches shall be played on dates fixed by the Board of Management, or sub-

committee appointed by them and shall commence at such times and be played upon

such grounds as may be directed.

3.6.3 Each home club must appoint a timekeeper to officiate at the table for each game,

whose duties will be to keep the time and the score and to sound a bell or hooter at

half time and full time. Visiting clubs should also provide their own timekeeper.

3.6.4 The duration of a game or games can only be interfered with if the disruption was for

more than thirty (30) minutes. If the disruption was less than 30 minutes, the

schedule of games should be maintained as per the official junior league draw. If the

disruption was more than thirty (30) minutes, the following procedures should be

observed:

3.6.4.1 The ground manager should estimate the finishing time of the last match and

consider the expected standard of light at that time.

3.6.4.2 If there is concern that failing or bad light could be a problem, for the last

and/or second last game, the question of playing under lights should be

considered and arranged if possible.


3.6.4.3 If games are played under lights, it is suggested that games should not start

after 5:30pm unless both coaches agree.

3.6.4.4 If playing under lights is not an option, the ground manager should liaise with

both coaches and the referee and arrange for five (5) minutes to be deducted

from each half of the remaining matches, until the lost time has been made

up.

3.6.4.5 If there are insufficient matches to enable lost time to be made up, the

ground manager should telephone the Junior League Manager on 0407 544

801 and seek a direction.

3.6.4.6 If there are no options other than to cancel a game(s) the Junior League

Manager will make that decision and advise the ground manager. The Junior

League Manager will later contact the clubs involved and discuss possible

replays.

3.6.4.7 All teams involved in games that are delayed and played under this rule will

be in breach of the rules if they refuse to play.

3.6.5 Age Group No of Periods Duration Ball Size

Under 6-8 Three(3) Ten (10) minute Mini

Under 9 Two(2) Twenty (20) minute Mod

Under 10-11 Two(2) Twenty (20) minute Mod

Under 12 Two(2) Twenty (20) minute Mod

Under 13-15 Two(2) Twenty five (25) minute International

Under 16-17 Two(2) Thirty (30) minute International

Under 18 Two(2) Thirty (30) minute International

Under 19 Two(2) Thirty (30) minute International

Under 20 Two(2) Thirty five (35) minute International

‘A’ Reserve Two(2) Thirty five (35) minute International

Under 21 Two(2) Thirty five (35) minute International

‘A’ Grade Two(2) Forty (40) minute International

3.6.5.1 It is the responsibility of clubs to ascertain the starting times, date and venue

of all matches involving their teams for each weekly round of competition.

3.6.5.2 It is the responsibility of each team to have its own football ready for use if

necessary.


3.7 FORFEITS

3.7.1 When a team is aware it is going to forfeit the following people must be advised

immediately:

3.7.1.1 The opposing club secretary.

3.7.1.2 The secretary of the Referees’ Association.

3.7.1.3 The Junior League office or the Junior League Manager.

3.7.2 Clubs cannot forfeit ‘A’ Grade and at the same venue field an A reserve grade. If one

of those teams forfeit, it must be the Reserve grade first.

3.8 GROUND MANAGER RESPONSIBILITIES

The key task of the ground manager is to:

3.8.1 Do everything possible to ensure the safety and well being of patrons whilst they are

at the venue.

3.8.1.1 Appointment of Club Ground Manager

All clubs are required to appoint a responsible person or persons as Ground

Manager and to provide an appropriate level of support and assistance so as

to allow that person to efficiently and effectively carry out the responsibilities

that are involved. Where possible, a ground manager is to be appointed to

each field.

3.8.1.2 Home club responsibility – the home club will be responsible for the control of

spectators and supporters and should do everything possible to ensure there

are no breaches or breakdown of the junior league and club codes of conduct

and good behaviour rules.

3.8.1.3 Check playing field and surrounds to ensure all safety measures and

requirements of the junior league and the home club have been observed and

there are no major depressions, foreign or dangerous implements or articles

protruding or evident.

3.8.1.4 The ground manager or official performing that role is authorised to take the

following action to ascertain the identity of any person who has committed a

breach of the junior league rules.

3.8.1.4.1 Approach the coach, trainers and team manager of the team

the offending person is supporting and request the offender’s

name.

3.8.1.4.2 If the coach, trainers or manager refuses or hinders efforts to

obtain that information, they will be in breach Junior League

rules.


3.8.1.4.3 If the ground manager refuses to support a person being inside

the spectator fence, the person concerned should leave the

area immediately.

3.8.2 Serious Incident, Serious Injury or Death

3.8.2.1 Give immediate assistance to those injured or in distress. If waiting for an

ambulance or other services, move them away from any danger or further

harassment.

3.8.2.2 Obtain urgent medical or other support by telephoning 000 for Ambulance,

Police or Fire Brigade. Every club has trained medical trainers who can be

utilised in an emergency.

3.8.2.3 Protect and secure the victim’s property and possessions and provide a safe

and secure environment if children are involved or with victim.

3.8.2.4 Make a note of circumstances of the incident. The time it happened, what

happened, the cause if known and who was involved.

3.8.2.5 Identify any offenders and detain if possible.

3.8.2.6 Whilst waiting for the Police, Ambulance or other services, identify any

witnesses who were present and ask them to wait and assist with enquiries.

3.8.2.7 Co-operate and assist the emergency service teams when they arrive.

3.8.2.8 Contact the Junior League Manager and advise details.

3.8.2.9 Follow up by assisting the victim, or family or relatives:-

(a) Advise them the matter will be followed up by the Junior League

Manager.

(b) Give them the contact number of the Junior League Manager.

3.8.3 Evaluate and report incidents – the ground manager will be expected to evaluate

incidents that occur and report appropriate rule breaches and issues to the Junior

League Manager, without delay by way of fax, e-mail, telephone or personal visit to

the junior league office.

3.8.4 Utilise junior league incident report form – a club ground manager or other official

shall utilise the Junior League incident report form and report all available

information, regarding serious breaches of the junior league rules, codes of conduct

and good behaviour rules, prior to 10am on the Monday following the incident. See

following examples:-

3.8.4.1 The identity of any person who makes an unauthorised entry inside the

spectator fence or onto the playing field, including players, coaches, trainers

and managers.

3.8.4.2 All assault matters and the identity of those involved.


3.8.4.3 Abusive, insulting, threatening language or harassment of any referee, touch

judge, official or other person.

3.8.4.4 Crowd disturbance, riots, brawls etc. and the cause.

3.8.4.5 Any person under influence of intoxicating liquor.

3.8.4.6 Other serious breaches of Junior League rules.

3.9 GROUND PREPARATION

3.9.1 All Club officials and committees should make themselves aware of the list of

responsibilities of the club ground managers and home club ground preparation

responsibilities that are set out in the Junior League Rules. It is important that club

officials are aware of those responsibilities and the important need to ensure they are

observed.

3.9.2 The home club is responsible to ensure the following are provided:

3.9.2.1 Correct size and number of footballs

3.9.2.2 Ball boys

3.9.2.3 Corner posts and goal post pads – agility poles cannot be used as corner

posts

3.9.2.4 Correct ground/field markings

3.9.2.5 Match day procedures manual

3.9.2.6 Time keepers (team managers) clock, siren or bell

3.9.2.7 Touch judges if not appointed. Must be over 14 years of age

3.9.2.8 Match sign on sheets

3.9.2.9 Stretcher and first aid box

3.9.2.10 Receptacle for blood soiled dressings etc.

3.9.2.11 Clean dressing rooms and toilets

3.9.2.12 Canteen facilities for spectators

3.9.2.13 Easy access for ambulance and prompt medical contact

3.9.2.14 Enter scores online or email /fax through to J.L. office the following

Monday morning

3.9.2.15 Keep unauthorised persons outside spectator fence

3.9.2.16 Only use approved kicking T’s. Must be soft rubber

3.9.2.17 Witches hats and domes must be soft rubber

3.9.2.18 Inspect playing field and surrounds to ensure all safety measures are in

place and there are no foreign or dangerous articles or implements

protruding or evident


3.9.3 The visiting club is responsible to support and assist the home club in relation to the

provision of the above (if possible) and the following:-

3.9.3.1 Control of their own spectators, supporters and parents.

3.9.3.2 Good behaviour of their players and team support staff.

3.9.3.3 Provide a time keeper (team manager).

3.9.3.4 Assist home club to keep unauthorised persons outside spectator fence.

3.9.3.5 Proper medical procedures for care of own players.

3.10 INSURANCE AND REGISTRATION

3.10.1 Players

Before any player can take part in any Junior League sanctioned activity which

includes a competition match, the player must be fully registered and qualified and

covered by the prescribed junior league insurance and other protective insurance

cover and the players ID card available at the official table. Failure to ensure this most

important and necessary requirement is in place, may result in suspension of the

player, loss of competition points for the team and other penalties.

3.10.2 Team Support Officials

Before any coach or trainer can take part in any junior league sanctioned activity

which includes a competition match, the team official must be fully qualified and

covered by the prescribed junior league insurance and other protective insurance

cover and the officials ID card available at the official table. Failure to ensure this most

important and necessary requirement is in place, may result in suspension of the

team official, loss of competition points for the team and other penalty against

official(s) responsible.

3.11 PLAYER ELIGIBILITY (PLAYING IN A HIGHER GRADE)

3.11.1 A player may play in any grade for which they are eligible, at any time during the

season, with the exception of final series games or as may be defined otherwise in

these rules.

3.11.2 No player shall be compelled to play in a higher age group. A player may play in a

higher age group, if the player so wishes, but not more than one (1) year above their

age in Saturday football. In determining a player’s qualification for final series games,

a player having played in a lower age group and replaces a player in a higher age

group on the same day, that player shall be deemed not to have played in a higher

age group.

3.11.3 It is a serious breach of any player in Saturday football to play in a higher age group

more than one (1) year above their own age group. In the event of a player playing in

a higher age group, written permission by the parent, guardian or carer must be

obtained prior to the player taking the field and signed off by the coach and club

official (secretary / president).


3.11.4 In Sunday football there is no limit on players moving from Division 1 to Division 1 (i.e.

16 x 1 to 17 x 1 or 17 x 1 to 19 x 1). If moving from 16 x 1 to 17 x 2 or 17 x 1 to 19 x 2,

the limit is two (2) players

3.11.5 In competitions where Tier A and Tier B apply, once the competitions have split there

will be a limit of two (2) players who can move from a Tier A team to a Tier B team.

There is no limit on players moving from Tier A to Tier A or Tier B to Tier B or Tier B to

Tier A.

3.12 PLAYERS REGISTRATION (ID) CARDS

3.12.1 Registration books should be available to the officials at the official table with player’s

cards in the same order as the list of players and programs.

3.12.2 Books of identification photographs are to be produced prior to sign on and to remain

at the table for the duration of the game. Any anomalies noticed with identity cards

to be recorded on the back of the sign-on sheet and a follow up report submitted to

the junior league. It is the duty of the officials at the table to ensure the players’ cards

and sign on sheets are correctly completed and then to make the appropriate

notations regarding replacement players and to correctly record scores before having

the referee sign the sheet.

3.12.3 If a player goes onto the field and plays without the players’ card being available at

the official table, the players’ team may forfeit any competition points gained as a

result of that particular match and the player and the club concerned could face

disciplinary.

3.12.4 A team manager is entitled to check players’ cards from both teams prior to and

during a game. The inspection process should be discreet and courteous. Opposing

players and officials should not be cross-examined or put under duress. If player’s

cards are to be compared with players, this should be done by way of a visual

inspection when the opposing team is signing on. Any apprehension, concern or

suspected rule breach should be written on the back of the sign on sheet and a junior

league incident report submitted to the Junior League Manager prior to 5:00pm on

the Tuesday following the match.

3.12.5 If a player leaves a venue during a game, to go to another venue and takes his players’

card with him, the opposing team officials must be informed and given an opportunity

to inspect the players’ card prior to his departure from that venue. Breaches against

this rule could result in loss of points and/or suspension.

3.12.6 Lost or misplaced player’s identification card and / or brag book.

3.12.6.1 Team managers should check weekly to ensure all players and team

officials ID cards are in the team brag book.

3.12.6.2 If an individual player’s ID card is not at the official table that player should

not take the field and if he does the team will be in breach of this rule.


3.12.6.3 In the event of team officials becoming aware before the weekend that a

brag book has been lost or misplaced, they should advise the junior league

office in sufficient time so duplicate cards or other authorisation can be

arranged before the game.

3.12.6.4 In the event of team officials becoming aware on game day that a brag

book has been lost or misplaced, they should advise the opposing team

coach prior to the game. The game should be played first and any protest

or complaint regarding the unavailability of the players ID cards attended

to afterwards.

3.13 REFEREE NOT IN ATTENDANCE

In the event of the referee so appointed not attending within fifteen (15) minutes after the

time set down to commence the match, then any person (qualified as a referee for the

particular age group) may be appointed to control the match by the secretaries (or in their

absence) by officials of the opposing clubs.

If agreement to appoint a qualified person is reached and the match is played, the result of the

match shall stand and cannot be protested on the issue of referee appointment or

performance.

If agreement cannot be reached and a referee is not appointed the game should not be played

and the matter reported to the Junior League Manager.

In any case a written report should be forwarded as soon as possible to the Junior League

Manager.

3.14 SIGN ON (MATCH) SHEET

3.14.1 All players except Under 6, Under 7, Under 8 and Under 9 are required to sign on prior

to entering the field of play – this includes blood bin replacement players.

3.14.2 Players signing-on forms must be signed by each player in the in the presence of the

opposing team before the commencement of a match and the original must be

forwarded to the Junior League office on the following Monday. Duplicate to be

retained by the home club and triplicate retained by the visiting club.

3.14.3 ONLY players present on the day and playing in the game are to be entered on the

sign-on sheet. Managers of mini teams must check that players are present and have

played the required periods.

Both clubs who are represented by officials at the official table are held responsible

for the content of sign-on sheets.


3.14.3.1 Each club will appoint a team manager or managers who shall add the

words “team manager” after the signature. Such manager or managers

will be in charge of the team until the completion of the match and a

reasonable period thereafter.

3.14.4 Books of identification photographs are to be produced prior to sign-on and to remain

at table for the duration of game. Any anomalies noticed with sign-on sheets or

identity cards to be recorded on the back of sign-on sheet. It is the duty of the officials

at the table to ensure the sign-on sheets are correctly completed and then to make

the appropriate notations regarding replacement players and to correctly record

scores before having the referee sign the sheet.

3.14.4.1 It shall be the responsibility of the home club to ensure the sign-on sheets

are available and completed in the correct manner.

3.14.4.2 Score sheets cannot be interfered with, altered or amended after the

referee has signed it. Strong penalties result.

3.14.5 It is the responsibility of all team managers and coaches to know the identity of all

players representing the club in all matches, including trial games and those details to

be included on the sign on sheet.

3.14.6 Coaches, trainers, managers and players must sign the sign-on sheet before the game

commences.

3.14.7 If a team official is convicted of refusing to sign the sign-on sheet, his/her team may

lose competition points irrespective of the outcome of the match.

3.15 SUSPENDED AND DISQUALIFED PERSONS

3.15.1 The following restrictions apply to any coach, manager, trainer, club official,

spectator, supporter, parent, club member or other person who has been suspended

and/or disqualified by any junior league committee or the Junior League Manager and

includes any person suspended or disqualified by a junior league club, provided such

adjudication has been endorsed by the junior league:-

3.15.1.1 Cannot be inside the spectator fence or rope at any junior league ground at

any time whilst junior league games and training are taking place.

3.15.1.2 Cannot be in the dressing room at any time with any junior league team at

training or games.

3.15.1.3 Cannot have any official involvement in club or committee activities,

meetings etc. however the Junior League Board may allow suspended

persons limited involvement in various non official activities.

3.15.1.4 Can assist with BBQs, field-set up, canteens, etc. providing the points above

are adhered to.

3.15.1.5 Suspended players cannot be inside the spectator fence during games and

cannot act as ‘runners’ for any team.


DURING GAME

3.16 ABANDONED GAMES/ TERMINATION OF MATCH

3.17 APPROACHING MATCH OFFICIALS

3.18 BEHAVIOUR INSIDE SPECTATOR ENCLOSURE

3.19 BITING, EYE GOUGING AND RACIAL ABUSE

3.20 CONCUSION AND SERIOUS HEAD INJURY

3.21 CUTS, BLOOD ETC

3.22 DECISION OF REFEREE

3.23 DISMISSED FROM THE FIELD

3.24 INTERCHANGE AND REPLACEMENTS

3.25 INTEREFERE WITH PROGRESS OF MATCH

3.26 MERCY RULE


3.28 PLAYER POINTS

3.29 REMOVING FOOTBALL JUMPER

3.30 RUNNING DISTANCE

3.31 SIN BIN


3.16 ABANDONED GAMES

3.16.1 The only person authorised under the junior league rules to abandon a game of junior

rugby league whilst the game is in progress is the referee.

3.16.2 Should a referee become apprehensive and have significant concern about the

behaviour of players, team officials, spectators, or for other reasons, the referee

should stop the game, consult the ground manager and advise the game will be

abandoned unless the unacceptable behaviour of those responsible ceases. Should

the efforts of the ground manager be ignored or unsuccessful and the unacceptable

behaviour continues, the referee has the option of abandoning the game and if that

action is taken, shall report the circumstances in writing to the Referee’s Association.

3.16.3 It will be a breach of the codes of conduct for any player, official, spectator or other

person to engage in conduct or behaviour that results in a game being abandoned by

the referee.

3.16.4 Upon receipt of the referee’s report the Junior League Manager shall cause an

investigation to be carried out into the reasons the game was abandoned. See Rule

2.1 (page 34) Competitions.

3.16.5 The referee has the discretion to terminate a game whenever, by reason of climatic

conditions, interference by spectators or other causes the referee deems it necessary.

In all cases in which a game is terminated the referee shall submit a report in writing

to the Junior League Manager prior to 5pm on the following Tuesday

3.16.6 Should the Referees’ Association have prior warning or opinion regarding the alleged

“unsafe” condition of a playing field, the matter should be brought to the notice of

the Junior League Manager as a matter of urgency prior to any action being taken.

3.16.7 The Junior League Grounds and Safety Committee may close any ground if it is

considered it is unsafe to play on or for reasons endorsed by the Junior League

Manager. The referee may be involved in the decision.

3.17 APPROACHING A REFEREE OR TOUCH JUDGE

3.17.1 It is a breach of Junior League rules for a player, coach, trainer, manager or other

official to ‘approach’ a referee or touch judge during or immediately after a game

seeking a rule explanation or for any other reason directly relating to a game. (There

is no objection to a referee being approached before a game provided the approach is

civil and courteous).

3.17.2 All ‘approaches’ to a referee and/or touch judge should be made through the

Referee’s Association Appointments Board official at the ground or at semi-final time

through the Junior League Ground Manager.


3.18 BEHAVIOUR INSIDE THE SPECTATOR FENCE

3.18.1 Prior to, during and following the conclusion of any game, all players and team

support officials are expected to behave in a responsible and professional manner and

to observe the directions of the referee and the ground manager until they leave the

confines and surrounds of the playing field.

3.18.2 Any player or team official who is involved in any way in any match will be in breach

of junior league rules if that person makes an unauthorised entry onto the other side

of the spectator fence or rope at any ground. The same person will commit a further

breach of the rules if their actions and/or behaviour once on the other side of the

spectator fence or rope, are considered to be detrimental to the best interests and

welfare of the junior league and the game of rugby league.

3.18.3 Prior to, during and after the conclusion of any game, all players and team support

officials involved in that game will remain inside the spectator fence or rope, until the

game has been officially concluded by the referee and then will leave the area in an

orderly and controlled manner.

3.18.4 Any player, team or other official will be in breach of this rule if that persons actions

and behaviour are considered detrimental and against the best interests of the Junior

League irrespective of which side of the spectator fence or barrier that person is on.

3.18.5 Any team official or player convicted of using offensive or threatening language

towards a match or ground officials, will be in breach of Junior League Rules and the

team may lose competition points.

3.19 BITING, EYE GOUGING OR RACIAL INSULT ALLEGATIONS

3.19.1 When a player makes an allegation to the referee that he has been bitten, had his

eye(s) gouged or racially abused by another player the following action will be taken:

3.19.1.1 The referee will call together both touch judges, the two (2) team

captains, the player who made the allegation and the player against

whom the allegation was made.

3.19.1.2 Inform them that a complaint has been made and give a brief account of

the complaint.

3.19.1.3 Draw attention to any injury i.e. bite mark, cut or scratch or alleged

words used etc.

3.19.1.4 Inform them that a complaint form will be completed after the match and

forwarded to the Junior League office.


3.19.1.5 To have this matter placed before the appropriate committee, the

player or his parent or guardian or club official who made the complaint

will be expected to complete a written complaint and submit same to the

Junior League office before 5pm on the Tuesday following the incident. If

the player concerned does not take that action the complaint may not

proceed unless the Junior League Manager directs otherwise. (If a

player gets a reputation as a frivolous complainer action will be taken

against him.)

3.20 NSWRL CONCUSSION RULE

3.20.1 HEAD INJURIES POLICY STATEMENT

Any head injury that results in signs or symptoms of brain trauma (no matter how minor) must

be treated as serious until proven otherwise.

Great care is needed in the initial management, especially if any degree of concussion or

decreased level of consciousness is evident.

All unconscious players must be managed by the attending NRL Sports Trainer and an

ambulance called immediately.

The possibility of spinal injury must be considered with any head injury.

The player must be referred to a doctor for medical evaluation. The doctor should have a

history – or know the players previous health status. – regarding head injury.

Under no circumstances should the player be allowed to continue playing or return to play

during the same game. This will eliminate any potential “second hit syndrome”

A Certificate must be obtained from a doctor before the player resumes training or playing. The

Certificate should nominate that the player is being cleared of a “head injury”.

The initial assessment and management must be carried out by the accredited NRL Sports

Trainer in attendance at the game venue, following the protocols of the NRL Sports Trainer

Scheme.

Any return to activity/ playing must follow the gradual, symptom free process outlined in the

NRL Head Injury Notification brochure.

Head Injury Notification

If a player sustains an injury to the head and does not show signs or symptoms of a concussion

immediately, it is advisable to give the ‘Head Injury Notification’ form to the player’s parents,

relative(s) or any other person who will be with this player for at least the next 24 hours.


3.21 CUTS, BLOOD, ETC.

3.21.1 The referee may direct a player who is bleeding to leave the field for attention and if

necessary change any part of the playing uniform.

3.21.2 When a player leaves the field for the blood bin, the letters ‘BB’ should be endorsed in

the replaced player’s column on the sign on sheet.

3.21.3 In Saturday football (other than U13 to U15 Division 1 competitions), if a player is

replaced because of the blood bin, provided the player who replaced the bleeding

player is in turn replaced by the blood bin player when he returns to the field, it will

not count as a replacement.

3.21.4 Only the referee can determine whether a player should be put in the blood bin. If a

player is taken off without the knowledge of the referee it will be deemed as a normal

replacement and in the Saturday competitions that player cannot go back on the field

except for Sunday football where there is unlimited interchange.

3.21.5 Any player returning to the field of play after being in the blood bin must exchange

places with the player that replaced him. If a different player comes off he shall be

deemed to be a replacement.

3.21.6 Clubs are expected to provide proper receptacles for the collection of blood soiled

bandages etc.

3.22 DECISION OF REFEREE

It is the firm policy of the junior league not to interfere with the result of a match due to a

referee error on the field. If however it should be found that an error was made by officials at

the official table recording the match, or for other reasons supported by committee

resolutions after taking evidence, the junior league Board of Management may consider (after

due deliberation), interfering with the outcome of any match so effected.

3.22.1 Any club may lodge a complaint against a decision of a referee, or on the grounds of

misconduct of a referee.

3.22.2 A written statement defining the points at which the complaint or protest is founded

and the law or laws under which it is laid must be delivered to the Junior League

Manager by 5:00pm on the Tuesday following the match.

3.22.3 A copy of all complaints are forwarded to the Secretary of the Referees’ Association

for investigation.


3.23 DISMISSED FROM FIELD IN COMPETITION/TRIAL GAMES

3.23.1 Any player who has been dismissed from the field of play shall vacate the playing

enclosure and will resume ordinary attire and shall be suspended from playing until

the case shall have been duly dealt with by the Judiciary Committee (unless otherwise

indicated in these rules).

3.23.2 A player after being dismissed from the field may face an additional charge if they do

not immediately vacate the playing enclosure and return to the dressing room.

3.23.3 Referees shall obtain the name of any offending player from the captain or club

official responsible for the team. Failure of the captain or club official to supply the

player(s) correct name shall be deemed misconduct, for which the person(s)

concerned shall be reported by the referee in writing to the Junior League Manager.

3.23.4 When a player has been ordered from the field of play by the referee, the referee is

obliged to complete a report. Such report shall be countersigned by an official of the

offending player’s club who shall retain the duplicate copy.

3.24 INTERCHANGE AND REPLACEMENTS 3.24.1 There will be limited interchange in the U13, U14 and U15 first division

competitions. Only 17 players can be listed on the sign-on sheet (thirteen (13)

starting team and four (4) interchange players to be used ten (10) times).

3.24.2 Sunday competition

3.24.2.1 In U/16, U17, U19, A Reserve and A Grade first division competitions

a total of ten (10) replacements can be made. In first Division, only

seventeen (17) players IN TOTAL can be signed on and used.

3.24.2.2 Teams may sign on and use twenty (20) players in games in 2nd

division. That allows for seven (7) replacement players instead of

four (4). Coaches who do not support this rule do not have to use

the additional players if they prefer not to do so.

3.24.2.3 It is important to ensure that replacement players used in a blood

bin situation are one of the four or seven replacement players i.e.

irrespective of how many players are replaced and how many

replacements are made including blood-bin, no more than seventeen

(17) or twenty (20) players IN TOTAL can be used.



3.24.3.1 When a player leaves the field because of a blood-bin situation. In

every case the letters B/B shall be endorsed on the sign-on sheet in

the replaced players’ column in addition to the number of the

replacement player, provided the player who replaced the bleeding

player is in turn replaced by the blood-bin player when he returns to

the field.

3.24.3.2 In mini and mod should a player be replaced or removed from the

field during the progress of a match, that player is unable to

return to the field at any time.

3.24.3.3 Players who have played a full period and are replaced at half time

or after the completion of a full period of play, or two periods in mini

football, may be used again as a replacement later in the game.

3.24.3.4 Replacement players who take the field during the first half should

play out the second half in Mod and two of the following periods of

play in Mini football.

3.24.3.5 When a referee replaces a player in mini and mod football, the

referee should signal time off and not re-start the game until the

replacement player is on the field.

3.24.3.6 The same unlimited replacement rules that apply to the Sunday 2nd

division competitions, applies to the U13, U14 and U15 age group,

except in first division competitions where a total of ten (10)

replacements can be made. In first Division, only seventeen (17)

players IN TOTAL can be signed on and used.

3.25 INTEREFERE WITH PROGRESS OF A MATCH

3.25.1 The referee shall not allow any person apart from the players and authorised

team support officials onto the playing area without permission (this includes

coaches, parents, spectators and others) and should anyone make an

unauthorised entry onto the field they will be in breach of the junior league

rules and codes of conduct.


3.25.2 If a parent, coach or other person during the game became aware of any

circumstances deemed contrary to the welfare and interest of the referee, a

player or any authorised person on the field, the matter should be brought to

the attention of the ground manager in a civil and courteous manner. The

ground manager will evaluate the information and if deemed necessary bring

the matter to the attention of the referee via the official touch judge. If there

is no official touch judge the ground manager may enter the field of play and

approach the referee. The referee’s decision is final. Any person acting

contrary to this clause will be in breach of junior league rules and codes of

conduct.

3.25.3 It will be a breach of the junior league codes of conduct for any person

(includes coaches, trainer etc) to disrupt, interfere or prevent a match from

continuing.

3.26 MERCY RULE

3.26.1 Mercy Rule – all matches in the Saturday competition will stop immediately

when there is a gap of 50 points. All matches in the Sunday competition will

stop immediately when there is a gap of 60 points. Officials at official tables

will sound the siren at the appropriate time.


3.27.1 In the event of any team comprising of thirteen (13) players playing with less

than nine (9) players or more than thirteen (13) players, it shall be the duty

of the opposing captain or club official to draw the referee’s attention to

that fact.

3.27.2 In the event of a team in international grades having less than nine (9)

players, the game shall be terminated immediately and the match awarded to

the opposing team.

3.27.3 Should a team begin a match with less than the prescribed number of

players, it may fill the vacant place(s) at any time during the match, provided

the on field duration rule/time for the mini and mod players is observed. If a

team should begin a match with a full complement of players, substitutes can

be introduced to take the place of other players during the match in

accordance with the replacement rules and the referee must be notified.


3.27.4 If a team is short of players at the time when the game is due to commence, it

will be allowed fifteen minutes to allow missing players to arrive at the ground

and then take the field, however, when the minimum number of players have

signed on, the team shall take the field and commence the game, irrespective

if there are still other players missing. If the team refuses to take the field

when the minimum number of players is available, the game will be forfeited

to the opposing team.

3.27.5 Age Group Min No of Players Max No of Players Mini

Under 6, 7 & 8 6 8

Mod

Under 9, 10 & 11 8 11

Under 12 10 13

International

Under 13, 14 & 15 9 13

Under 16, 17, 18, 19

20, 21, A/R & A Grade 9 13

3.27.6 In the event of a player arriving late for a match in Saturday football with a

team that is not short in numbers, that player shall be allowed to sign-on and

take the field provided that happens within twenty (20) minutes in mini and

mod from the commencement of play. It is also then necessary for that player

to play at least one full period of the game. 3.27.7 In mini and mod football, players arriving late for a game cannot take the field

if the game has been in progress for longer than 20 minutes.

3.27.8 A total of twenty (20) players may be used in the U/13, U/14 and U/15 age

groups in all divisions other than division one, with unlimited replacements. In

U/13 to U/19 Division 1 competitions, a total of 17 players may be signed on

and used with 10 interchanges. A total of twenty (20) players may be used in

Sunday 2nd division (16 to ‘A’ Grade), with unlimited replacements. A total of

seventeen (17) players may be used in Sunday 1st division A Grade, with

unlimited replacements.


3.28 PLAYER POINTS

3.28.1 If a player plays in a game without the player assessment form being

submitted and processed, the team will lose the two (2) competition points

should the team win the game or be fined $500.00 if the team lost the game.

3.28.2 In the event of a player who has not previously been assessed being assessed

between 12 noon on a Friday and the commencement of a game on the

weekend, the assessment form must be brought to the notice of the opposing

team manager and attached to the sign on sheet prior to half time of the

match played immediately before the ‘A’ grade.

3.28.3 The match reporting (sign-on) sheet must be fully completed by both team

mangers before the referee starts the second half of the match immediately

before the ‘A’ grade and the ‘A’ Reserve grade.

3.28.4 In the event of a player whose name appears on the match reporting sheet

being injured prior to the commencement of a match and unable to play, a line

should be ruled through that players name and the details of a replacement

player added to the sheet. It will be necessary for a player’s point’s

assessment sheet to be fully completed for the replacement player and

attached to the sign-on sheet.

3.29 REMOVING FOOTBALL JUMPER

It is a breach of Junior League Rules for any player to remove their football jumper

during or after a game until the player moves outside the spectator fence (unless

removal of jumper is necessary because of injury or other acceptable reason .i.e.

damaged, torn, blood etc.)

3.30 RUNNING DISTANCE

It is a breach of Junior League Rules for any player to ‘run a distance’ to involve

themselves in any on field altercation or incident.


3.31 SIN BIN

3.31.1 Players sent to the sin bin by the referee must report to the official table and

obey all reasonable directions.

3.31.2 The sin bin clock will commence when the player reports to the official table.

3.31.3 Players who leave the sin bin without permission face substantial penalty.

3.31.4 A player is officially in the sin bin immediately when the referee gives such

signal.

3.31.5 Sin bin – if a player is sent to the sin bin by the referee he should immediately

leave the field without comment and go directly to the official table and

remain there under supervision until he is authorised to re-enter the field of

play. A player is regarded as being in the sin bin immediately the decision is

made by the referee and irrespective of the player’s location on the field.

However, the sin bin clock will not be started until the player arrives at the

official table. There are strong penalties against any player who involves

himself in an incident or makes an unauthorised entry onto the field after

being sent to the sin bin.


POST GAME


3.33 DISMISSED PLAYERS

3.34 INCIDENTS AT THE END OF GAME

3.35 PLAYER PERMITS

3.36 POLICE TO BE ADVISED

3.37 PROTESTS

3.38 SIGN ON (MATCH) SHEETS

3.39 SPORTSMANSHIP

3.40 WHEN GAME CONCLUDES



3.32.1 In the event of a game being abandoned by the referee, or if for any other

reason a game was not completed because of an on-field incident(s) and/or

behaviour by players, the Junior League Manager may call for reports from the

referee, both teams and any other person.

3.33 DISMISSED PLAYERS

3.33.1 When a player is dismissed from the field by the referee it is the responsibility

of the team manager to take possession of the players ID card and cause to be

delivered to the club Secretary as a matter of urgency. It will be the

responsibility of the club Secretary to forward the match sheet to the Junior

League office as per the usual match sheet delivery process. The club Secretary

should maintain possession of the players ID card until any suspension that

eventuates concludes. (Player suspensions are advised to all clubs the day

following the judiciary hearing). Any player who plays in any game whilst

suspended, automatically becomes an unauthorised player and should that

happen both the player and club Secretary will be in breach of this rule.

3.34 INCIDENTS AT END OF GAME

3.34.1 It is a breach of Junior League rules for any player or official prior, during or

after a game to push and / or shove, chase, intimidate, harass or otherwise

inconvenience other players or person to an extent where the investigating

committee is satisfied such action instigated an incident or altercation to

occur.

3.35 PLAYER PERMITS

Players moving between Junior League/Grade/Ron Massey Cup and Representative

Football (see transfers):-

3.35.1 Any player who last played grade football, First Division, Metropolitan,

Sponsors or Ron Massey Cup, or other external competition or with the Junior

Representative Squads must first obtain written permission from the Junior

League Manager prior to playing in any Junior League match.


3.35.2 The Junior League Manager has the sole right in regard to the number of

permits issued and a permit will not be valid unless it is issued by the Junior

League Manager. See Rule 2.1 (page 34) Competitions.

3.35.3 Permits must be handed in at the official table and attached to the sign-on

sheet. The player’s registration card (player’s card) must be at the official

table prior to the player taking the field of play. It is the responsibility of the

club the player is playing with to ensure this rule is observed.

3.36 POLICE TO BE ADVISED

Every person who has been assaulted or seriously threatened is encouraged to report

the matter to police within 24 hours and support any investigation that follows.

3.37 PROTESTS

3.37.1 Provided the rules and regulations have been observed and followed, a club

may lodge a protest against a breach of the junior league rules in relation to

the outcome of a match and the complaint may subsequently be heard by the

appropriate sub-committee or the Junior League Manager.

3.37.2 All protests shall be in writing on the official junior league incident report form

and addressed to the Junior League Manager and be delivered/lodged to the

junior league office by 5:00pm on the Tuesday following the match.

3.37.3 If a club decides to protest whilst a match is in progress (or immediately before

or after) a brief account of the protest should be written on the back of the

sign-on sheet with the name of the club, official and position.

3.37.3.1 It is still necessary for the club secretary to forward a letter of

protest to the Junior League Manager by 5:00pm on the Tuesday

following the match.

3.37.3.2 If the follow up letter from the club Secretary is not received by

5:00pm on the Tuesday following the match, no further action will

be taken by the Junior League Manager. This letter may be faxed or

emailed to the junior league office however the club official should

confirm receipt of the protest with the office staff.


3.37.3.3 Clubs are still able to lodge a protest irrespective of whether or not

the sign-on sheet is endorsed (there will be circumstances when that

endorsement might not be practical).

3.38 MATCH (SIGN ON) SHEETS

3.38.1 The completed match sheet should be thoroughly checked by both team

managers and presented to the referee for signature. Match sheets cannot be

altered in any way after the referee has signed same.

3.39 SPORTSMANSHIP / SHAKE HANDS

3.39.1 At the conclusion of each game in the Saturday competition, the two teams

will come together in the vicinity of where the game ended and give each

other three cheers and shake hands. Any player or official who refused to

support or encourage this rule will be in breach of the Junior League Codes of

Conduct.

3.40 WHEN GAME CONCLUDES

3.40.1 When the game concludes – reserve players are not permitted to enter the

field of play after a game concludes until the referee has blown the whistle and

signals full time. It is a breach of junior league rules if reserve and injured

players enter the field of play before the game is officially ended by the

referee.


TEAM SUPPORT OFFICIALS (COACH, MANAGER, TRAINER

AND PLAYERS)

3.41 Collective Responsibility – Provide a safe, healthy and enjoyable training and playing

environment, develop player skills and fitness, respect and support the codes of conduct and

good behaviour rules and generate tolerance, sportsmanship and positive attitudes towards

opposition teams and others in the game.

3.42 TEAM COACH

3.43 Coach Qualification - All coaches must hold an appropriate coaching certificate or meet other

requirements as determined by the Board of Management.

3.43.1 Clubs are unable to appoint an unqualified person to a coaching position without first

obtaining the support of the Junior League. The Junior League will support the

appointment of coaches under the following conditions:

3.43.1.1 Saturday Teams Under 6 to Under 12

On the condition that the person appointed and club gives an undertaking

that they will attend the first available coaching course and the club

acknowledges a bond of $250.00. If the coach fails to meet the obligation,

the bond will be enforced and the person concerned will be suspended.

3.43.1.2 Saturday and Sunday Teams Under 13 to Under 19

On the condition that the person appointed has appropriate experience

and already holds a mini/mod coaching qualification and has held an

International coaching qualification for a minimum of two (2) years and

gives an undertaking they will attend the first available coaching course

and the club acknowledges a bond of $1000.00. If the coach fails to meet

the obligation, the bond will be enforced and the person concerned will be

suspended.

3.43.1.2.1 The Junior League may support an unqualified person being

appointed to coach in the Sunday competition on the provision

that he has the appropriate experience and he sits for the lower

level coaching certificate at the start of the season and then the

higher level certificate at the end of the season.

3.43.1.3 Sunday ‘A’ and ‘A’ Reserve Grade Teams

On the condition that the person appointed has appropriate experience

and already holds a mini/mod coaching qualification and has held an

International coaching qualification for a minimum of two (2) years and

gives an undertaking they will attend the first available coaching course

and the club acknowledges a bond of $1000.00. If the coach fails to meet

the obligation, the bond will be enforced and the person concerned will be

suspended.


Any club that appoints a phantom coach because the actual person

coaching the team is not qualified. In addition both persons (the phantom

coach and the actual coach) may be suspended and the team may be

disqualified and the club fined.

3.43.2 Clubs shall arrange a meeting of all team coaches prior to the commencement of the

competitions and shall advise the date of such meeting to the junior league office well

in advance.

3.43.3 Clubs are encouraged to invite a representative of the junior league to attend the first

period of such meeting and address those present in regards to codes of conduct, new

rules and other matters relative to the competitions and player and team behaviour.

3.43.4 The names of all coaches appointed by clubs should be advised to the Junior League

office prior to the first competition match. Mid-season changes also to be advised.

3.43.5 Prior to a club appointing a person to a coaching position, that persons coaching

certificate/card must be produced. Clubs should not accept verbal assurances in this

regard. It is a breach of this rule if actual proof of the persons coaching qualifications

is not viewed by a club prior to appointment.

3.43.6 If after an investigation by the Junior League Manager or appropriate committee of a

complaint or serious incident or breach of the codes of conduct has been carried out

and there is reasonable cause to believe the team coach, ignored, refused or failed to

observe and respect the codes of conduct, the accreditation of such person(s) may be

withdrawn by the Junior League Manager.

3.43.7 If evidence at a hearing indicates that the coach ignored and/or refused to take a

responsible and involved leadership role, by trying to defuse and control a situation or

incident, the team will face the loss of competition points, irrespective of the

outcome of the particular match, in addition to any other penalty.

3.43.8 If there are complaints directly about the action and/or attitude of a coach of a team

(swearing, abusing, yelling at players, referees, officials, encouraging rough and unfair

play, or other breaches of the codes of conduct) and there is insufficient evidence to

place the coach before the Conduct Review Committee, the matter will be referred to

the Junior League Manager or the Coaching sub-Committee who will interview the

coach or take other action.

3.44 TASKS SPECIFIC TO COACH

3.44.1 As a senior official and in accordance with Junior League Rules, the coach of each

team is responsible and accountable for the actions and behaviour of the players and

team support officials of the team.

3.44.2 The coach is expected to set an example to others by exercising self control and

discipline, act at all times in a professional manner and insist all players and team

officials respect the codes of conduct.


3.44.3 Approach any player, team official or supporter being unreasonable boisterous and /

or using unacceptable language or exhibiting poor behaviour and ask them to refrain

from such behaviour.

3.44.4 The coach is expected to show respect and support towards match and ground

officials at all times, not openly ‘coach’ from the sideline and not go onto the playing

field whilst a match is in progress. Only the coach and assistant coach are able to be

inside the spectator fence.

3.45 TEAM MANAGER

3.46 Manager Qualification - Each club is required to appoint a manager for each team. Such

team manager will be in charge of the team until the completion of the match and a

reasonable period thereafter.

3.47 Tasks Specific to Manager

3.47.1 Support the requirements as set out in the junior league rules in respect to the proper

compilation of match sign on sheets.

3.47.2 Make themselves aware of the content of the section on match sign on sheets that

appears in the Junior League Competition Rules Manual.

3.47.3 Before each game commences, check the identification cards of the opposing team to

ensure all players, names are properly recorded on the match sign on sheet and that

all identification cards of the opposing team players are in the ‘brag’ book.

3.47.3.1 Any exceptions should be immediately brought to the notice of the

opposing team manager and if any reasonable request is ignored or

refused, to the notice of the ground manager.

3.47.3.2 All exceptions should be reported to the Junior League Manager by way of

incident report prior to 5.00 pm the following Tuesday.

3.47.3.3 The name of the trainer who is in attendance at the ground as the Level 1

(or higher qualified) trainer shall be endorsed on the sign on sheet.

3.47.3.4 Write details of any errors, omissions or anomalies that are observed on

the back of the sign on sheet and if necessary submit any major concerns

to the junior league Junior League Manager by way of incident report.

3.47.3.5 Ensure all articles and equipment as required by the Junior League rules

are on or available to the official table. Ie. Clock, bell or siren, match

sheets, first aid equipment, footballs, match day rules etc.

3.47.3.6 Check the ID cards or trainers, and coaches of the opposing team to ensure

they are qualified. If the ID cards of a coach or trainer are not on the official

table the person concerned becomes unqualified and is unable to take any

part in the game.


3.47.3.7 Endorse the names on the match sheet of any unofficial touch judge who

officiates during the game. Any unofficial touch judge who refuses to

provide his/her name, becomes an unauthorised person and must move

behind the spectator fence.

3.47.3.8 Ensure both coaches, all trainers and the team managers sign the match

sheet prior to the commencement of the game.

3.47.3.9 Correctly complete the match sheet prior to, during and after the game, as

per the requirements of the Junior League Competition Rules Manual and

have it signed by the referee at the end of the game.

3.47.3.10 If sign on sheets are not used in trial games, prepare and retain a

list of players and jumper numbers.

3.48 TEAM TRAINER

3.49 Trainer Qualification – All trainers must be registered and qualified with the Junior League

and have at least the League Safe qualifications or equivalent.

3.49.1 Every Junior League club must ensure there is at least one person present at each

venue when Junior league games are in progress with at least one of the following

qualifications: (i) Level 1 or 2 Sports Trainer, (ii) Registered Nurse, (iii) Doctor, (iv)

Ambulance Officer, (v) St. Johns First Aid Officer, or (vi) Others with similar

qualifications.

3.49.2 Trainers must be registered and qualified with the Junior League before they can have

any active involvement with any team.

3.50 Tasks Specific to Trainers

3.50.1 All club trainers will be required to wear appropriate Junior League clothing, whilst

serving in a trainer’s capacity with each club. Clubs are not permitted to provide their

own trainers shirts. Loss of competition points may result if there are breaches of this

rule.

3.50.2 If the identification card of a trainer is not in the brag book on the official table the

person concerned will not be able to have any official involvement with any team in

the Junior League on that day.

3.50.3 Clubs will ensure that sponges, cloths and the like are not used by trainers when

servicing teams and that advice and recommendations from the Junior League in

regard to cleanliness, germ-free treatment and good health practices are observed.

3.50.4 The colour of trainers shirts are yellow for league safe, blue for level 1 and orange for

level 2.

3.50.5 The names of all trainers appointed by clubs should be advised to the junior league

office prior to the first competition match. Mid-season changes are also to be

advised.


3.50.6 If there are complaints directly about the action and/or attitude of a trainer of a

team (swearing, abusing, yelling at or ridiculing players referees, officials, encouraging

rough/unfair play etc.) and there is insufficient evidence to place the trainer before a

proper hearing (conduct review) the matter will be referred to the Junior League

Manager to take whatever action is deemed appropriate.

Trainers must remain in the marked arear in between going on and off the field.

The main function of trainers is to give support and properly hydrate players.

A trainer may only go on the field whilst the game is in progress as follows:-

i. When a try is scored.

ii. When a penalty kick at goal is taken.

iii. When referee calls stoppage in play.

iv. When a player is down injured.

v. In hot weather when referee calls a drink break.

vi. To replace playing gear(ie jumper, boots etc)

vii. To advise the replacement of players.

Trainers who engage in bad sportsmanship, sledging, unseemly language or who

linger on field “coaching” players may be dismissed from the field by the referee.

Authorised trainers directed by the referee to leave the field of play must do so

immediately and to refuse or delay will be in breach of Junior League rules.

A trainer may be on the field during U/6 matches behind players but cannot

approach or speak to the referee.

No more than 2 trainers can be on the sideline for mini and mod games and only 1

trainer can be on the field at any one time unless a player is injured. No more than

3 trainers can be on the sideline for international games and only 2 trainers may go

on the field at any one time unless a player is injured.

IMPORTANT

3.50.7 Team officials (coach, trainer or manager) are required to strictly adhere to the rules

that apply to team coaches, trainers, managers and players on the reserve bench as

outlined in the Junior League Rules Manual. Under the “3 strikes and your out” rules

selected complaints and breaches of the codes of conduct Grade 1 may be dealt with

as follows by the way of a Breach Notice:-

3.50.7.1 First Occasion - Caution may be issued

3.50.7.2 Second Occasion - Attend meeting in the Junior League office.

3.50.7.3 Third Occasion - Suspension.

3.50.8 The Junior League Board, appropriate sub-committees and the Junior League

Manager are empowered under the rules when breaches occur to withdraw the

opportunity and privilege of any coach, player, manager, trainer or other person to

have an involvement in official Junior League activity, which includes competition,

trial and other games, training and associated involvement.


3.51 PLAYERS

3.52 Player Qualification – Every player who takes part in any Junior League competition match

must be fully registered and qualified in accordance with Junior League requirements as

outlined in the Junior League competition rules Manual.

3.53 Task Specific to Player

3.53.1 Players can only wear on field clothing and equipment that has been approved by the

Junior League. See Rule 2.3 (Club colours and playing uniforms)

3.53.2 Players are expected to exercise self control and discipline, act at all times in a

professional manner, respect match officials, opposition players, team officials and

codes of conduct.

3.53.3 Players on the reserve bench are required to sit quietly, set an example to others, not

be boisterous and not enter the field of play unless they are authorised to do so.

3.53.4 Players sent to the sin bin or dismissed from the field must leave the field

immediately, in a professional manner, without comment and observe the Junior

League rules that apply.

3.53.5 Players dismissed from the field have an option of accepting an early guilty plea via

the Judiciary process advised in the Junior League competition Rules Manual, or

appearing personally at Judiciary.

3.53.6 Any club that plays an unqualified, or over age player, may lose the match that player

played in.


CODES OF CONDUCT

3.54 ACCEPTANCE OF CODES OF CONDUCT

3.55 BEHAVIOUR INSIDE SPECTATOR FENCE

3.56 CONSUMING INTOXICATING LIQOUR

3.57 CRITICAL COMMENTS

3.58 IDENTIFICATION OF OFFENDERS

3.59 INCIDENTS AFTER GAMES

3.60 INSULTING GESTURES

3.61 INTIMIDATION

3.62 KING HIT

3.63 OFFENSIVE / THREATENING LANGUAGE

3.64 RACIAL INSULTS

3.65 REMAINING INSIDE SPECATOR FENCE

3.66 RESPONSE TO DEMANDS

3.67 ROUGH / FOUL PLAY

3.68 SINGING INDECENT SONGS

3.69 SPEAR (DANGEROUS) TACKLE

3.70 TEAM BEHAVIOUR

3.71 TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES

3.72 UNAUTHORISED ENTRY


3.54 RESPECT FOR JUNIOR LEAGUE CODES OF CONDUCT

3.54.1 A player, coach, trainer, manager, official, parent, spectator or other person is

required at all times to observe and respect the Junior League code of conduct and

behave in a decent and professional manner and not engage in any conduct that is

considered detrimental to the welfare or image or best interests of the game of rugby

league or the policy of the Junior League.

3.54.2 It will be a breach of the Junior League Codes of Conduct for any person, team or club

to:-

3.54.2.1 Engage in any dishonest, corrupt, fraudulent, improper, unprofessional or

dishonourable behaviour. Or any activity considered to be against the

welfare, interests and policy of the Junior League.

3.54.2.2 Offer money or other advantage to any official to neglect his/her

responsibilities and/or duties.

3.54.2.3 Obstruct, intimidate, hinder or in any way interferes, prevents or tries to

prevent any official from carrying out his/her duties.

3.54.2.4 Fail to obey, carry out, respect and conform to any reasonable direction,

order or requirements made by any official in the normal exercise of that

person’s duties.

CODES OF CONDUCT

1

Be a good sport. Control your temper. Do not abuse, yell at, sledge, harass or ridicule

others. Do not use foul, threatening or insulting language.

2

Condemn the use of violence in any form. Do not bully or take advantage of others.

Treat everyone as you would like to be treated yourself.

3

Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants, regardless of their sex, ability,

cultural background or religion. Never make racist or religious threats or remarks.

4

Display Respect, control and professionalism at all times to your opposition, your

team, your club, the referee and everyone involved in the game.

5

Abide by the rules. Never argue with the referee. Respect decisions made by officials

and encourage others to do the same.

6

Focus on the game and everyone’s involvement and performance rather than winning

or losing. Win or lose with respect and dignity.

7

Show compassion and consideration at all times, to injured and ill players and other

persons. Do everything you can to help and support them.

8

Strive for continual improvement by everyone in your club and the Junior League.

Keep up to date with the latest rules, rule changes and techniques.

9

Cooperate and support all efforts to provide quality leadership, supervision, coaching

and protection for your children and all participants.

10

Respect and cooperate with the ground manager by remaining outside the spectator

barrier and off the playing field during the progress of games. Never invade the field or

interfere with the progress of a match. Support match officials (referee and touch

judges) management and handling of all on-field issues.


3.55 Behaviour Inside Spectator Fence Any player or team official who is involved in any way in any match will be in breach of junior

league rules if that person makes an unauthorised entry onto the other side of the spectator

fence or rope at any ground. The same person will commit a further breach of the rules if their

actions and/or behaviour once on the other side of the spectator fence or rope, are considered

to be detrimental to the best interests and welfare of the junior league and the game of rugby

league.

3.56 Consuming Intoxicating Liquor It will be a breach of the junior league rules for any coach, manager, trainer or player to

consume intoxicating liquor prior to or during a game upon conviction of that person, the team

may lose three competition points or other penalty.

3.57 Critical Comments Directed at Match Officials It is a breach of junior league rules for a player or team official or other person to openly use

criticism of match or other officials as an excuse for the outcome of the game or for anti-social

behaviour or comments by team members.

3.58 Identification of Offenders It will be a breach of Junior League rules for any Coach, Trainer or team manager (or other

official) upon request being made to refuse or fail to advise the name of any player or team

official to the Ground Manager, Referee, Touch Judge or other authorised person.

3.59 Incidents at End or After Games. It is a breach of Junior League rules for any player or official prior, during or after a game to

push and / or shove, chase, intimidate, harass or otherwise inconvenience other players or

person to an extent where such action instigated an incident or altercation.

3.60 Insulting Gestures Any player or official who makes gestures that are found to be intimidating, insulting,

suggestive, unacceptable, offensive, or not in the best interest and welfare of the game or

Junior League, to the crowd or group of spectators, will be in breach of Junior League Codes of

Conduct.


3.61 Intimidation by Players or Team Officials It is a breach of junior league rules for player(s) or team official(s) to congregate or form

groups prior, during or after a game in such a manner they intimidate, harass or cause

inconvenience to others.

3.62 King Hit It will be a breach of Junior League Codes of Conduct for a player to deliberately ‘king hit’ an

opposing player and upon conviction may face suspension for sixteen (16) competition

matches. A ‘king hit’ is described as a deliberate an unexpected punch or elbow to the head or

neck of an opposing player.

3.63 Offensive and Threatening Language It is a breach of Junior League Rules for any players, trainers and team support official

(including the coach) to yell at, harass or intimidate touch judges, the referee or other persons.

Breaches of this rule may see them suspended from any further involvement in that game.

3.63.1 If any player or team official is convicted of using indecent, abusive, insulting or

threatening language to a referee, touch judge or official, that persons’ team may be

fined and lose competition points.

3.64 Racial or Religious Insults It will be a breach of Junior League Codes of Conduct for any reason to threaten, abuse,

intimidate, or make insulting reference to another person’s colour, religion, nationality or

beliefs. To convict under this specific rule the hearing committee after the taking of evidence

must be satisfied beyond reasonable doubt, that the language used was offensive and racially

or religiously intended. Alternatively, the Committee may determine a conviction for another

Codes of Conduct breach.

3.65 Remain Inside Spectator Fence Prior to, during and after the conclusion of any game, all players and team support officials

involved in that game will remain inside the spectator fence or rope, until the game has been

officially concluded by the referee and then will leave the area in an orderly and controlled

manner. Any player who jumps the spectator fence (or who goes into the crowd) to involve

himself in any off-field incident will be in serious breach of these rules. Prior to, during and following the conclusion of any game, all players and team support

officials are expected to behave in a responsible and professional manner and to observe the


directions of the referee and the ground manager until they leave the confines and surrounds

of the playing field. Any player or team official who involves himself in any activity that is

considered to be detrimental to the best interests and welfare of the junior league or the

game of rugby league will be in breach of this rule. Any player, team or other official will be in breach of this rule if that persons actions and

behaviour are considered detrimental and against the best interests of the Junior League

irrespective of which side of the spectator fence or barrier that person is on i.e. going outside

the fence to abuse and criticise is no defence.

3.66 Response to Demands

It will be a breach of the Codes of Conduct for any team official (coach, manager, trainer) to

refuse or fail to advise the name of any player or team official whose name appears on the

match sheet, to the ground manager, referee, touch judge or other authorised person.

3.67 Rough and Foul Play The referee or any official of the Junior League shall report any instances of rough or foul play

or any instances of misconduct occurring prior to, during or after the progress of a match,

whether such misconduct shall have led to a player or players being penalised or otherwise

dealt with by the referee, ordered from the field or not.

3.68 Singing indecent songs If a team sings a song with indecent or suggestive language, every player in the team who has

signed the sign on sheet for that game will be held responsible and any action taken will

involve all those players, unless there are extenuating or acceptable evidence which clearly

indicates a certain player(s) was not involved.

3.69 Spear (dangerous) tackle Players who are convicted of a deliberate spear tackle will receive substantial suspensions and

their team may lose competition points.

3.70 Team Behaviour If after appropriate investigation the coach, trainer, manager or player(s) of a team is

convicted of a serious breach of the Junior League Rules or Codes of Conduct, the team

concerned may lose competition points in addition to any penalty against the offending

person. Should a second conviction occur the team concerned may be disqualified from the

competition.


3.71 Team Responsibilities

If a player, coach, trainer, manager or other person associated with a team uses racial, abusive

or threatening language towards a referee, touch judge, official or other person or otherwise is

in serious breach of the codes of conduct, in such a manner that the offender is unable to be

identified, the team as an entity will be held responsibility.

3.72 Unauthorised entry onto the playing field Any player who unlawfully enters the playing field from the sin bin, the reserve bench or other

position may be facing a significant suspension. The player may face an additional suspension

should that player become involved in illegal activity once on the field.

Subject to conviction under this Rule the Board may confiscate competition points from a

team whenever it is considered appropriate.


4. SEMI FINALS, FINALS & GRAND FINALS. 4.1 ABANDONED END OF SERIES MATCHES

4.2 BEHAVIOUR OF PLAYERS AND TEAM OFFICIALS IN SEMI FINALS

4.3 DISMISSED FROM THE FIELD IN FINAL SERIES GAMES

4.4 DRAWN END OF FINAL SERIES GAMES

4.5 ELIGIBILITY TO PLAY IN SEMI FINALS

4.6 HARASSMENT OF J.L OFFICIALS

4.7 METHOD OF DETERMINING SEMI FINAL POSITIONS

4.8 OFFENSIVE COMMENTS ON P.A.

4.9 PLAYERS LEAVING FIELD INJURED

4.10 PROTESTS DURING FINAL SERIES

4.11 RESPONSIBILITIES OF CLUBS HOSTING FINAL SERIES GAMES


4.1 ABANDONED END OF SERIES MATCHES

Because if the significantly increased profile of the end of series matches and the privilege of

being involved, the Junior League Board expects players and team support officials to place

emphasis on the need to respect and support the junior league codes of conduct and good

behaviour rules during these prestigious matches.

Should a play-off, semi final, final or grand final be abandoned, due to the pressing need to

conclude an investigation before the following weekend, the Junior League Manager shall

obtain reports from both teams, match and ground officials and other appropriate persons and

cause an immediate investigation to be carried out into the reasons that caused the game to be

abandoned.

Players and team support officials involved in end of series games are advised that penalties in

regard to teams or individuals convicted of actions and/or behaviour considered responsible or

contributing towards end of series games being abandoned, may be significantly increased to

the penalties advised in part 2 for abandoned matches during the competition rounds.


4.2 BEHAVIOUR OF PLAYERS AND TEAM OFFICIALS IN SEMI FINALS 4.2.1 Junior League officials at end of season semi-final matches are empowered to take on

the spot action within the Junior League rules against players and team support

officials for breaches of the Junior League code of conduct.

4.2.1.1 Should a player or team support official be in breach of the Junior League

code of conduct a caution may be issued and the person concerned requested

to abide by the Junior League rules. (In serious cases a caution can be waived

and an immediate suspension be directed.)

4.2.1.2 Should that person continue to be in breach following an official caution that

person may be suspended from taking part in any future match on that day or

in the match that he is involved in at that particular time.

4.2.1.3 Should that person or team official refuse to accept the disciplinary action or

further offend, the persons ID card will be taken possession of the matter

referred to the Junior League Manager, with a recommendation that it be

referred to the Junior League conduct review committee.

4.2.1.4 If a player takes the field or a coach, trainer or team manager disregards a

direction after being suspended in accordance with this rule, the match may

be awarded to the opposing team.

4.2.1.5 Significant penalties apply upon conviction of a player, coach, trainer,

manager or other person for using offensive and/or threatening behaviour or

language towards a referee, touch judge or junior league official at end of

series matches.

4.2.1.6 Players sent off in grand finals – if a player appears before any committee

(judiciary, conduct review etc.) for being sent off or cited in a semi-final, final

or grand final, upon conviction and in addition to the normal penalty, he may

be asked to show cause why a further suspension should not be implemented.


4.3 DRAWN END OF FINAL SERIES GAMES 4.3.1 Where the scores are equal after the completion of any play-off, semi-final, final or

grand final of both the Saturday and Sunday competition, the referee will call the two

captains together and advise that the game will go into extra time of two ten (10)

minute periods for international games or two five (5) minute periods for mini/mod

games. A coin will be tossed. The captain winning the toss will have the option of

either kick off or receive the ball from the kick off. The game will commence and

continue until one of the teams scores either a field goal, penalty goal or try. The

referee will then immediately terminate the game with the team scoring first being

declared the winner.

4.3.2 In grand finals, in the event that neither team has scored following two (2) periods of

ten (10) minutes in international games or two five (5) minute periods in mini/mod

games of extra time, the game will be declared a draw with both teams’ joint

premiers.

4.3.3 In semi-finals and finals, in the event that neither team has scored following two (2)

periods of ten (10) minute periods in international games or two five (5) minute

periods in mini/mod games of extra time, the team that scored the first try in the

game will be declared the winner. If no tries, it will be the team that scored the first

goal; if no goals the game will be replayed mid-week.

4.3.4 After the first ten (10) minute period in international games or first five (5) minute

period in mini/mod games of extra time the teams will change ends and the game

recommended with a kick-off from half-way.


4.4 ELIGIBILITY TO PLAY IN SEMI FINALS 4.4.1 To be eligible to participate in play-offs, semi-finals, finals and grand finals, a player

must be registered prior to the third last round of the competition and have played in

at least three (3) competition matches with a club in any grade during the current

season of the Penrith Junior League.

4.4.2 In the case of a player not being able to play the required three (3) matches as

indicated above due to injury sustained during the season, upon investigation of

medical evidence by the Junior League Manager such player may be permitted to take

part in a play-off, semi-final, final or grand final. Action decided upon by the Junior

League Manager must be reported to and accepted by the Board.

4.4.2.1 A doctor’s certificate must be available covering the time the player was

unable to play.

4.4.2.2 The certificate must be in the Junior League office by 5:00pm on the Friday

prior to the last competition match.

4.4.3 Team Managers are expected to make themselves aware of player availability well

prior to the semi-finals and take the necessary action to ensure all players are

qualified.

4.4.4 For the purpose of final series games, in both the Saturday and Sunday competitions a

player must have played a minimum of three (3) competition games with the club.

The player is then eligible for the grade in which he / she played three (3) of their last

five (5) competitions matches. See Example:

Example

5

th last game 4

th last game 3

rd last game 2

nd last game last game Eligible for

Under 19 A Grade A Grade A Reserve A Reserve A/R or A

Under 10 Under 10 Under 10 Under 9 Under 9 Under 10

4.4.5 When a club has both A grade and Reserve grade teams in the semi-final and playing

on the same day, if a player who is qualified to play reserve grade (i.e. has played

three of the last five games in reserve grade) is promoted to A Grade, because he has

shown good form in the last two or three matches, the A Grade player displaced is

allowed to play reserve grade, irrespective if he has qualified (i.e. by playing three of

his last five games in reserve grade).


4.5 HARRASSMENT OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OFFICIALS

If any player or team support official uses any insulting, abusive or threatening language or

unnecessarily challenges any junior league official involved during the semi-final series on

crowd and ground control, gate admission, signing players on or other official function, the

matter should be immediately reported to the ground manager, who if satisfied with the

circumstances will suspend the offending person from any involvement in any match on that

date and submit a report to the Junior League Manager with the view of bringing the offending

person before the conduct review committee

4.6 METHOD OF DETERMINING SEMI-FINAL POSITIONS 4.6.1 At the conclusion of the competition rounds, the first five (5) teams in Saturday

competition, except the first division ten (10) team competitions where it will be the

first six (6) teams, and the first five (5) teams in Sunday competitions shall take part in

the final series matches. (The Board of Management can adjust the number of teams

to make up semi-finals).

If at the conclusion of competition matches two or more teams are equal in

competition points, then for the purpose of determining the order of placement of

teams for the final series, the teams will be ranked in order, according to the

difference between the number of points scored by a team and the number of points

scored against a team with the team with the greater difference being ranked ahead

of a team with lesser, in the event of that difference being equal, the following

percentage determination will be made:

Points score for x 100

Points scored against 1

with the team with the highest percentage being ranked ahead of the team with the

lower percentage.

4.6.2 Qualification for semi-finals – semi-final qualification for all teams will be on

competition points and then for and against points. There will be no play-offs for any

position, including fourth (4 team semi-finals) and fifth (5 team semi-finals).

4.6.3 Five (5) Team Semi-Final Structure

When the final number of teams to play in the final series (Saturday and Sunday) has

been determined, the order of play shall be as follows:

Saturday and Sunday Competition

MATCH ‘A’ Team 4 -v- Team 5

MATCH ‘B’ Team 2 -v- Team 3

MATCH ‘C’ Winner of Match ‘A’ -v- Loser of Match ‘B’

MATCH ‘D’ Team 1 -v- Winner of Match ‘B’

MATCH ‘E’ Winner of Match ‘C’ -v- Loser of Match ‘D’

MATCH ‘F’ Winner of Match ‘D’ -v- Winner of Match ‘E’


4.6.4 Four (4) Team Semi-Final Structure When the final number of teams to play in the final series (Saturday and Sunday) has


MATCH ‘A’ Team 3 -v- Team 4

MATCH ‘B’ Team 1 -v- Team 2

MATCH ‘C’ Winner of Match ‘A’ -v- Loser of Match ‘B’

MATCH ‘D’ Winner of Match ‘B’ -v- Winner of Match ‘C’

4.6.5 Six (6) Team Semi-Final Structure

When the final number of teams to play in the final series (Saturday and Sunday) has


MATCH ‘A’ Elimination Semi Final A Team 3 –v- Team 6

MATCH ‘B’ Elimination Semi Final B Team 4 –v- Team 5

MATCH ‘C’ Qualification Semi Final Team 1 –v- Team 2

MATCH ‘D’ Elimination Final Winner Match A –v- Winner Match

MATCH ‘E’ Final Qualifier Loser Match C –v- Winner Match D

MATCH ‘F’ Grand Final Winner Match C –v- Winner Match E

4.7 OFFENSIVE COMMENTS ON P.A.

Use of Indecent or Unacceptable Language over P.A. at Grand Final or on other Occasion

It is a breach of Junior League rules for any player or team official to use indecent or

unacceptable language at a presentation or after a grand final or other match.

4.8 PLAYERS LEAVING THE FIELD INJURED

At Semi Finals, Finals and Grand Finals should any authorised sports trainer be of the opinion

that a player should not continue in a game because of injury, the matter should be discussed

with the Junior League Ground Manager before a decision is made. The final decision rests

with the ground manager.


4.9 PROTESTS DURING FINAL SERIES 4.9.1 Should a protest occur during or immediately after a play-off, semi-final, final or grand

final every effort will be made to resolve the issue at the venue as soon as possible.

4.9.2 Should a protest be unable to be resolved at the venue, all protests will be heard if

possible on the day of the match, at a time and venue to be advised by the Junior

League Manager. Any protest shall be immediately referred to the Junior League

Manager who will arrange an urgent hearing.

4.9.3 For a protest to be accepted from Clubs involved in the final series matches it must be

lodged in writing at the official table, no later than fifteen (15) minutes after the

completion of the game. The Junior League Manager may institute action in regard to

a breach of Junior League rules at any time.

4.9.4 The Junior League Manager is authorised to investigate all protests, complaints and

other concerns and make adjudication. This may be done by involving a match review

committee should that be desired.

4.10 RESPONSIBILITIES OF CLUBS HOSTING SEMI FINALS

4.10.1 Adequate PA system on grand final day.

4.10.2 Covered area for official table(s).

4.10.3 Adequate seating for officials and reserve players.

4.10.4 Ground/field markings, siren/hooter, clock etc.

4.10.5 Canteen in operation.

4.10.6 At least two (2) officials appointed to assist the Junior League with crowd control.

4.10.7 Enclosed or fenced off ground.

4.10.8 Medical equipment – stretcher, first aid kit, telephone availability.

4.10.9 Goal post pads/corner posts, etc.

4.10.10 Food/drinks for Junior League officials.

4.10.11 Clean adequate toilets and dressing rooms.

4.10.12 One ball boy for each field.


General Rules

4.10.13 The sale or supply of alcohol at all Junior League grounds during the semi-final series

is not permitted.

4.10.14 Dressing room passes will be issued to clubs involved in grand finals to enable

selected club persons to enter dressing rooms after games. The passes will be colour

coded.

4.10.15 Teams finishing matches will remain on the field until teams in dressing rooms take

the field for the next game.

4.10.16 Team managers of Clubs involved in semi-finals etc are to sit at the official table whilst

that team is playing.

4.10.17 Only the main team coach is able to be inside the spectator fence. Assistant coaches

must remain outside the fence.

4.10.18 It will be the responsibility of the main team coach to ensure the players and team

support staff observes these semi-final rules.

4.10.19 Only players in football gear and signed on to play can sit in the reserve players’ area.

4.10.20 Trainers must remain in the reserve player’s area in between going on and off the

field. Breaches of this rule will see the trainer suspended from any further

involvement in that game.

4.10.21 Players and team support officials (includes the coach) yelling at touch judges, the

referee or other persons will be cautioned. Further breaches of this rule will see

them suspended from any further involvement in that game.

4.10.22 Any persons suspended from any further part in a game must immediately retire

behind the spectator fence.

4.10.23 Once a team has been signed on during the semi-final series, it must take the field

immediately upon the direction of the junior league ground manager. If a team

refuses or delays taking the field upon direction, the ground manager will report the

circumstances to the next board meeting.


5. COMPLIANCE & LEGAL 5.1 APPEALS

5.1.1 Any player, official, person, group, team or club has a right of appeal against any

adjudication or decision made by a Junior League Sub-Committee, the Executive,

Junior League Manager or the Board of Management of the Junior League. All appeal

applications must be completed by the appellant, or, in the case of a minor, by a

parent or guardian. Clubs, Coaches and other officials cannot appeal or pay the

appeal fee on behalf of members.

The District Appeals Committee will adjudicate upon all appeals. For an appeal to be

accepted by the Appeals Committee the following requirements must be observed:

5.1.1.1 The official Junior League Appeal Form should be used.

5.1.1.2 The prescribed appeal fee should be attached.

5.1.1.3 The appeal should be lodged at the Junior League office within the limitation

of time.

5.1.1.4 Fresh evidence must be available and fully set out in or attached to the Appeal

Form. This is most important. (The success of the appeal may depend on the

quality of the fresh evidence submission).

5.1.1.5 Proper appeal procedures should be followed.

5.1.2 The Official Junior League Appeal Form

Copies of the appeal form can be obtained from the Junior League office. All sections

of the form must be completed and if necessary additional documentation can be

attached. The appeal could lose impact if insufficient information is provided i.e.

fresh evidence.

5.1.3 The Appeal Fee

The appeal fee is $500.00 and should be attached to the appeal form when it is

lodged with the Junior League. The fee can be paid by cheque or cash and is

refundable, only if the appeal is upheld unless Appeals Committee decides otherwise.

5.1.4 Limitation of Time

The limitation of time for the lodgement of appeals will be :-

LIMITATION OF TIME

Appeals against decisions of Conduct Review, Judiciary or other Subcommittees must

be lodged by 10.00am on the following Monday.

5.1.4.1 As a result of the above there will be insufficient time to arrange an appeal

hearing prior to the following weekend, accordingly any penalty (suspension,


fine or other penalty) appealed against will be operative until the appeal

hearing takes place.

5.1.4.2 Should an appeal be lodged following a hearing into or adjudication into an

incident, complaint, protest, etc. from the last competition round, a play-off,

semi-final or final the limitation of time will be 24 hours from the date of any

special hearing or adjudication that took place.

5.1.5 Fresh Evidence

Fresh evidence is evidence that could not have been reasonably known at the time of

the earlier hearing. Any evidence that could have been available at the earlier hearing

if all diligent searches and inquiries had been made by the appellant prior to the

conclusion of the initial hearing is not fresh evidence. (i.e. Under most circumstances

a video or additional witnesses is not fresh evidence).

An appeal will not proceed unless there is fresh evidence. Lodging an appeal without

fresh evidence will place the appeal fee at risk of being confiscated.

5.1.6 Responsibilities of the Junior League Manager

5.1.6.1 Prior to sending the appeal documents to the Appeal Committee the Junior

League Manager shall check the documents to ensure they are in order and

attach a report advising the following:-

(a) An assessment of the appeal procedures.

(b) An assessment of the fresh evidence.

5.1.6.2 Convey to the appellant whatever decision and supporting comments that are

advised by the Appeals Committee in regard to whether or not the appeal is

to proceed.

5.1.7 Responsibilities of the Appeals Committee

5.1.7.1 Upon receipt and perusal of the appeal documents, consider the report from

the Junior League Manager and review and evaluate any fresh evidence that

has been provided.

5.1.7.2 Make a decision to either allow the appeal to proceed, or dismiss the appeal

advising the reasons why that action was taken.

5.1.7.3 Advise the Junior League Manager of that decision and if the appeal is to

proceed nominate a date of hearing.

5.1.8 The Appeal Hearing

5.1.8.1 The first task of the Appeals Committee will be to invite the appellant to

present the fresh evidence. Other evidence from any previous hearing or

other information that is not part of the fresh evidence will not be admissible.

The Junior League representative will then be invited to address the

committee on the fresh evidence.


5.1.8.2 The Appeals Committee may at any time dismiss the appeal without taking

any further evidence, if it is considered the fresh evidence is insufficient or

lacking substance.

5.1.8.3 If the Appeals Committee has accepted the fresh evidence and allowed the

appeal to continue, the appellant may only introduce evidence directly related

to the fresh evidence in the appeal submission.

5.1.8.4 Witnesses will not be expected to attend unless their attendance has been

requested and their evidence is directly related to the fresh evidence that has

been submitted.

5.1.8.5 IMPORTANT – it is the responsibility of the person lodging an appeal to know

the powers of the Appeals Committee and all conditions and aspects of the

appeal procedure and be aware the appeal may not be accepted if proper

procedures are not followed.

5.1.8.6 If the evidence given by a witness at a lower level hearing is not challenged in

the appeal submission, such evidence will be held to be reliable and true and

will be unable to be challenged during the hearing of the appeal unless the

Chairman directs otherwise. Club or person lodging appeal must advise full

details of evidence that is being challenged.

5.1.8.7 It is the responsibility of the appellant to gather evidence and arrange for

witnesses, other than Junior League Officials (i.e. Judiciary/Conduct

Review/Qualification/Reps etc.) to attend appeals and give evidence in

support of the appeal submission.

5.1.8.8 The Appeals Committee may consider and if necessary take into account all

available evidence.

5.1.9 Powers of the Appeals Committee

5.1.9.1 The Appeals Committee may dismiss an appeal without going into full

evidence, on the grounds that there is insufficient fresh evidence.

5.1.9.2 If the Appeals Committee judges the appeal to be groundless, frivolous or

considers the proper appeal procedures were not followed, the appeal fee

can be confiscated.

5.1.9.3 Pending the result of appeals, all decisions appealed against will be operative.

5.1.9.4 The Appeals Committee may decrease, increase or otherwise alter any

previous penalty imposed.

5.1.9.5 The decision of the Appeals Committee is final and binding and cannot be

appealed against.


5.1.10 Transfer Appeals

5.1.10.1 There are special procedures in place to deal with appeals in respect to

transfers.

5.1.10.2 The Junior League Manager has approval from the Board to review appeals

prior to the appeals going to the District Appeals Committee. In the case of

transfer appeals, after due investigation and if satisfied special

circumstances exist, may alter the previous decisions. In the case of other

appeals the Junior League Manager may after due investigation and if

satisfied special circumstances exist, recommend review by the Board.

5.1.10.3 Further, there is also provision for transfer appeals involving players in the

District Representative and Development Squads to be reviewed by a

special Sub-Committee of the Board of Management.

5.1.10.4 Appeals may proceed to the District Appeals Committee following

dissatisfaction in regard to the adjudication by the Junior League Manager

or special Sub-Committee should that action be desired.

5.2 BREACH NOTICE – Code of Procedure

5.2.1 Compliance

All clubs and all persons (which include players, team support and / or club officials

and other persons i.e. parents / relatives / supporters, etc.) as defined by the board of

management as bound by the rules of the Penrith and Districts Junior Rugby League

club Limited (i.e. Memorandum and Articles of Association and competition and other

rules as resolved by the board from time to time) shall at all times comply with the

provisions of this breach policy.

5.2.2 Proof of Breaches

5.2.2.1 Where in these rules a club or a person is prohibited from doing something,

that club or person shall be taken to have failed to comply with that provision

if that club or person.

(a) Does the thing that is prohibited;

(b) Attempts to do the thing that is prohibited; or

(c) Aids, abet, counsels, procure or induce another person or entity to

do or attempt to do the thing that is prohibited.

5.2.2.2 Where in these rules a club or a person is required to do something, that the

club or person shall be taken to have failed to comply with that provision if

that club or person:

(a) Fails to do the thing required; or

(b) Aids, abet, counsels, procure or induce another person or entity

not to do the thing that is required.


5.2.2.3 Any breach of these rules by a club and / or team support or other club official

shall be deemed to also be a breach of the relevant rule by that official’s club.

5.2.2.3.1 In any breach proceedings brought against a club for a

contravention of these rules it will be sufficient proof of that

contravention if it is established that a team support official

and / or official of that club contravened the relevant rule.

5.2.2.3.2 Notwithstanding anything herein or elsewhere contained in any

breach proceedings brought against a person for a

contravention of these rules the contravention shall not be

taken to be proved unless the evidence (either directly or

inferentially) supports the conclusion, on the balance of

probabilities, that the person:

(a) Knowingly committed the act or made the omission

constituting the contravention;

(b) Knowingly aided, abetted, counselled, procured or induced

the contravention; or

(c) Has been in any way directly or indirectly, knowingly

concerned in, or part to the contravention.

5.2.2.4 In any breach proceedings brought against a club and / or person bound by

these rules for a contravention of these rules ignorance of the existence of the

provision contravened shall not be a defence or excuse.

5.2.2.5 Unless otherwise specified in any breach proceedings brought against a club

and / or person bound by these rules for a contravention of these rules it will

be sufficient proof of that contravention if it is established that the evidence

(either directly or inferentially) supports the conclusion that, on the balance

of probabilities, the contravention occurred.

5.2.3 Penalties of Breach

A breach of these rules by any club or by any person bound by these rules renders

that club or person liable for such a breach, to any one or more of the following

penalties:

5.2.3.1 The imposition of a fine.

5.2.3.2 The imposition of a requirement that restitution and / or compensation be

paid to any person or entity affected by the breach.

5.2.3.3 The refusal to register or the suspension or cancellation of the registration of

a player or players.

5.2.3.4 The withdrawal of accreditation (i.e. the right to participate) of any coach,

trainer, team manager, team support official and / or club official.

5.2.3.5 The deduction of competition points.


5.2.3.6 The exclusion of a team from participating in:

5.2.3.6.1 A round or rounds of the competition;

5.2.3.6.2 Final series; or

5.2.3.6.3 Other competition or match.

5.2.3.7 The stripping of any title or honour conferred on any club or player and the

deduction of all or portion of any grant and / or prize money.

5.2.3.8 Any other sanction, without limitation, that the junior league compliance and

legal coordinator, in his absolute discretion, considers appropriate.

5.2.4 More than one person may be penalised for the same breach

In any case where a contravention of these rules has occurred, breach proceedings

may be taken against any and all clubs and persons bound by these rules who:

5.2.4.1 Committed the act or made the omission constituting contravention;

5.2.4.2 Aided and abetted, counselled, procured or induced that contravention; or

5.2.4.3 Was in any way, directly or indirectly, concerned in, or party to, the

contravention.

5.2.5 Matters that will be subject to breach notices

The junior league compliance and legal coordinator is authorised to investigate all

reports, complaints, allegations and advising of breaches of the junior league codes

of conduct and good behaviour rules and any competition or other rule as itemised in

the junior league Memorandum and Articles of Association and competition rules

(including the schedules or guidelines to these rules). As an example only, some of

the matters referred to are:

(a) Offensive, abusive, indecent and threatening language and behaviour;

(b) Intimidation, harassment and racial insults;

(c) Acts of violence and breaches of codes of conduct on or off the field;

(d) Dishonest, corrupt, fraudulent, improper and unprofessional behaviour;

(e) Disrupting and preventing games from being completed;

(f) Abandoned games due to player and other misbehaviour;

(g) Unauthorised entry onto playing field;

(h) Team trainers and other officials breaching competition rules and codes of

conduct;

(i) Any other matter at the absolute discretion of the junior league manager.


5.2.6 Imposing Penalties

If the junior league compliance and legal coordinator forms the opinion, in his

absolute discretion, that a breach of these rules by a person bound by these rules and

/ or club has occurred and the junior league compliance and legal coordinator

proposed to impose a penalty in relation to that breach the junior league compliance

and legal coordinator may:

5.2.6.1 Issue a breach notice to that person and / or that club setting out the alleged

breach and the proposed penalty and specifying a period of not less than five

(5) business days during which that person and / or that club may respond in

writing to the junior league compliance and legal coordinator in relation to

the alleged breach and the proposed penalty.

Please note: The junior league compliance and legal coordinator may in

special circumstances reduce the above period (i.e. five business days) to a

lesser period provided he clearly advises / explains the reason for doing so

(i.e. semi-finals or other pressing competition commitment or circumstance).

5.2.6.2 After the expiration of the period for response specified in cluse (e) (i) the

junior league compliance and legal coordinator may, after considering any

written response to the breach notice from the person or the club, determine

that the breach has occurred and impose the penalty set out in the breach

notice.

5.2.6.3 Determine that the breach has occurred and impose a different penalty to the

one set out in the breach notice.

5.2.6.4 Determine that the breach has not occurred.

5.2.6.5 Determine that a different breach than the one set out in the breach notice

has occurred, in which event he may withdraw that breach notice and forward

to the person or club an amended breach notice.

5.2.6.6 In any case where the junior league compliance and legal coordinator had

determined that a breach has occurred and he has imposed a penalty, the

junior league compliance and legal coordinator shall forthwith notify the club

or the person, as the case may be, of that determination or imposition.

5.2.7 Right of Appeal/Review

Any person who is the subject of a determination and imposition may, within five (5)

business days of that determination and imposition, request the junior league

conduct review subcommittee (i.e. the appeals tribunal that is in place) to review that

determination and / or imposition as the case may be.

5.2.7.1 A person or club who is entitled to request the junior league conduct review

subcommittee to review a determination and / or imposition must proceed in

accordance with the requirements of the breach notice appeal procedural

rules as set out.


5.2.7.2 On the hearing of the review of a determination or imposition of the junior

league compliance and legal coordinator, the junior league conduct review

subcommittee may vary the determination and / or imposition of the junior

league compliance and legal coordinator or take other action.

5.2.7.3 The limitation of time for an appeal after the last competition match, play-off,

semi-final, final or grand final is twenty four (24) hours from the date the

adjudication was advised.

5.2.8 Review (appeal) Procedure

For a review (appeal) to be accepted and processed by the junior league conduct

review subcommittee the following procedure must be followed:

5.2.8.1 The review (appeal) application must be in writing. (email will be accepted)

5.2.8.2 The limitation of time (five (5) days) must be observed.

5.2.8.3 Fresh evidence must be provided (any evidence that could have been included

in the response to the breach notice and was not, is not regarded as fresh

evidence).

5.2.8.4 Appeals/review should not be lodged for the sake of appealing. A frivolous or

inadequately prepared application may be dismissed by the sub-committee

without proceeding into evidence.

5.2.8.5 The junior league conduct review subcommittee will consider all available

documentation and evidence of the matter and make a decision to either

dismiss or uphold the review (appeal) or take other action. The decision of

the subcommittee is final and binding.

5.2.9 Review does not operate as a stay

Where a person or a club is entitled to request a review by the junior league match

review subcommittee of a determination or imposition made by the junior league

compliance and legal coordinator and does so within the time specified by that rule,

neither that request nor that review shall operate to stay the determination or

imposition, as the case may be.


5.3 CONDUCT REVIEW – CODE OF PROCEDURE

5.3.1 Objectives

5.3.1.1 Provide fair and just procedures, conducted expeditiously and in compliance

with natural justice to hear and determine charges and for imposing penalties.

5.3.1.2 Proceedings are in good faith and on applicable merits in each case and

promote uniformity and consistency of approach in sentencing.

5.3.1.3 Provide a safe system of procedures for the protection of all persons

appearing at hearings.

5.3.1.4 Recognise and enforce disqualification and suspensions imposed on persons

in all Junior League competitions and activities.

5.3.2 Amendments to Policy Statements

The provisions of this code may be amended by the Junior League Board from time to

time and policy statements re operations and provisions of this code issued in such

manner as the Board sees fit.

5.3.3 Chairman and Conduct Review Committee

As soon as practicable after the Annual General meeting each year the Junior League

Board will appoint a Conduct Review Committee and appoint one of the members

Chairman.

5.3.4 Functions of Conduct Review

The functions of the Conduct Review Committee are to hear and determine such

charges for an offence and such investigations as are referred to it for decision and in

the discharge of its functions shall at all times act independently, impartially, fairly

and openly, except where to do so would be unfair to the person appearing.

5.3.5 Conduct Review By-Laws

Conduct Review By-Laws that are appended to this Code are a guide only for the

Conduct Review Committee with the Chairman when necessary having discretion to

interpret such guidelines as he thinks fit.

5.3.6 Administration

The Junior League Compliance and Legal Coordinator (who for the purpose of this

Code will be the Incident Review Coordinator) will be responsible to the Junior League

Board through the Junior League Manager for the administration of the Conduct

Review Code of Procedure and the following duties:

5.3.6.1 Review all acts of misconduct and other incidents and breaches of the Junior

League Codes of Conduct.


5.3.6.2 Investigate, examine and consider any conduct by a player, official or other

person that may constitute an offence.

5.3.6.3 Recommend and / or take action where considered appropriate.

5.3.6.4 Report exceptions, concerns and matters in interest to the Junior League

Manager.

5.3.6.5 Generally proceed in accordance with the requirements of this rule.

5.3.7 Guidelines for the Incidents Review Coordinator

The Incident Review Coordinator will review all incidents of misconduct involving and

surrounding players, officials and other persons and where necessary shall ascribe

adjudication (which could include penalty) for each one having regard to the

following:

5.3.7.1 Whether there is substantial and reliable evidence to justify a charge.

5.3.7.2 The extent to which the person is to blame for the incident.

5.3.7.3 The seriousness or conversely the triviality of the persons conduct.

5.3.7.4 Whether any other person was injured in the incident.

5.3.7.5 Whether the offending person was provoked

5.3.7.6 The previous conduct of the offending person.

5.3.7.7 Any mitigating or aggravating circumstances.

5.3.8 General Offences

For the purpose of this Code an offence is constituted by any instance of misconduct

and such other conduct as may, from time to time, be deemed by the Incident Review

Coordinator or Conduct Review Committee to constitute an offence.

5.3.9 Consequences

A person will be deemed to have been charged with an offence immediately such

person is informed (verbally, in writing or electronically) by the Secretary of that

persons club (or the club that person has some connection with) or by the Junior

League with the Incident Review Coordinator having absolute discretion in

determining the definition of the words ‘some connection’.


5.3.10 Grading’s

Demerit Points

Short description of offence Grade 1

Low

Grade 2

Medium

Grade 3

High

Behave in unprofessional or contrary

manner, includes: threatening, offensive,

abusive unacceptable conduct.

1000 1600 3200

Unauthorised entry onto playing field.

Become involved in on-field incident.

1600

1600

Offensive, abusive, threatening language

(includes racial insults). 800 1600 2400


(includes racial insults) to match official. 1600 2400 3200


(includes racial insults) to match official). Team loses 3 competition points.

Competition points may also be deducted at the committee’s discretion upon

conviction for other serious offences.

In the event of a complaint being made of conduct not itemised in above grading, the

Incident Review Coordinator may determine a grading and advise such action.

The Incident Review Coordinator may also reduce demerit points if he is satisfied

there are extenuating circumstances.

5.3.11 Base Penalty Points

The base penalty for each grading of an offence shall be the number of demerit points

specified above.

5.3.12 Merit (deduction) Points

A person who does not have any convictions for the past three seasons will be

entitled to a deduction of 25% of base penalty points.

A person who offers an early guilty plea will be entitled to a deduction of 25% of base

penalty points.


5.3.13 Demerit (addition) Points

A person who has a conviction of a similar offence during the last three seasons will

have 50% of the base penalty points added.

A person who has a conviction for other offences during the last three seasons will

have 25% of the base penalty points added.

5.3.14 100 Points Equals One-Match Suspension

After taking into account base, deduction and addition of points, when the total

amount of points totals 100, the person shall be suspended for one (1) match, 200

points for two (2) matches, 300 points for three (3) matches and so on.

Should the total amount of points total 175, the person shall be suspended for one (1)

match and have 75 carry over points. If points total 275, the person shall be

suspended for two (2) matches and have 75 carry over points and so on.

A person’s period of suspension is deemed served when the allocated or accumulated

points have been reduced to less than 100.

5.3.15 Calculation of Elective Penalty

The elective penalty shall be the number of base demerit points as set out in the

grading column(s), less any merit points (deducted) plus any demerit points (added).

5.3.16 Carry-Over Points

Carry-over points will remain active in a person’s record for a period of three (3)

years.

5.3.17 Rounding Down

After the calculation of points referred to has been carried out the figure thereby

obtained shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number.

5.3.18 Doubt about Calculation of Points

In the event a person, representative or club is in doubt as to the calculation of points

or the period of suspension, application may be made to the Chairman of Conduct

Review for a declaration. Such declaration shall be final and binding.

5.3.19 Conduct Review may Adjust Grading

In determining the grading of a charge, the Conduct Review committee may ascribe a

grading, which is greater or less than the grading specified in the Notice of Charge.


5.3.20 Notification of Charge

Following receipt by the club of the persons charge by email from the Junior League it

will be the responsibility of the club Secretary (or designated person) to contact the

person concerned and communicate details of the charge, the hearing arrangements

and other relevant information to the person.

5.3.21 Details of Charge

In the notification of charge email sent from the Junior League to the persons club

Secretary, brief details of the charge against the person and the date and venue

where the incident occurred will be provided. Should the matter go into evidence a

written copy of the complaint (allegations) will be available to the person at the

hearing, together with ample opportunity to ask questions and to cross examine

witnesses, should that be necessary.

5.3.22 Response to Charge

Following notification of the charge the person charged may respond by:

5.3.22.1 Plead guilty with an explanation

5.3.22.2 Plead ‘No Contest’

5.3.22.3 Request interview with Compliance and Legal Coordinator

5.3.22.4 Plead not guilty

If the person elects to offer an early guilty plea, the person, the complainant and

the witnesses will not be called to the hearing.

If the person elects to plead ‘No Contest’ the person, the complainant and the

witnesses are not required to attend a hearing and the matter will be determined

in their absence, however, the person may attend the hearing if desired.

If the person elects to plead not guilty, the person, the complainant and witnesses

will be required at the hearing and the matter will go into evidence.

5.3.23 Reasonable Time to Respond

To enable the person charged to consider all options and if necessary to prepare for a

hearing and also to enable the Junior League to deal with the matter as soon as

possible five (5) or more days’ notice of the proposed hearing will be given to the

person charged.


5.3.24 No Contest

When a person elects not to contest the offence charged, the making of that election

does not constitute an admission on his / her part that he / she is guilty, or otherwise

responsible for, the conduct charged but, rather it is an indication that he / she has

chosen for one reason or another not to contest the charge. The Incident Review

Coordinator and Conduct Review committee may adjudicate on the matter in the

absence of that person.

5.3.25 Sequence of Procedure (Timeframe)

If the person concerned intends to plead not guilty there is no commitment on that

person to make contact with the Junior League or the Incident Review Coordinator.

The person should attend a subsequent hearing ready to respond to the charge.

If the person concerned intends to plead guilty with an explanation or to plead ‘No

Contest’ it is necessary for that person (or the club Secretary) to advise the Junior

League of that decision so the various witnesses and complainant can be advised not

to attend the hearing.

5.3.26 Merit Opportunity (deduction) of Penalty

Should a person charged elect to plead guilty with an explanation or to plead ‘No

Contest’ and that person advises such intention to the Incident Review Coordinator

within a period of five (5) days, and the Incident Review Coordinator is of the opinion

the matter can be dealt with summarily the following deduction of penalty may apply:

5.3.26.1 The penalty for the early guilty plea will be reduced by 25%.

5.3.26.2 The penalty will be reduced by an additional 25% if the person has no prior

convictions during the past three (3) years.

5.3.27 Persons Failing to Respond or attend Conduct Review Hearing

Should a person fail to respond by the time limit prescribed, the charge may be set

down for hearing before the Conduct Review Committee. The committee will be so

informed and any merit opportunity (i.e. deduction of penalty) no longer available.

Should a person be charged with an offence fail to appear, the committee may

proceed to hear and determine the charge and the penalty in the absence of the

person.

Players or officials failing to appear at conduct review without acceptable explanation

may face additional penalty.

5.3.28 Rehabilitation

Should the Chairman of Conduct Review and / or the Incident Review Coordinator

form an opinion (in his absolute discretion) that a player, official or other person

would benefit from rehabilitation or counselling, a recommendation may be made

and the person concerned undertake a program or similar initiative.


5.3.29 Proceedings not to be Invalidated

Proceedings shall not be invalidated or subject to appeal, merely by reason of any

defect whether of substance or of form in any notice or by reason of non-compliance

by the Junior League with any provision of this Code, unless the Chairman so directs.

5.3.30 Documentation

The following documentation will be recognised and retained by the Junior League:

Form 1 Letter(s) of complaint or Incident Report(s) to Junior League, hard copy or

email.

Form 2 Notice of Charge from Junior League to Club, email.

Form 3 Response from Club or person to Junior League, hard copy or email.

Form 4 Conduct Review hearing (record of evidence at hearing), hard copy

completed at time of hearing.

Form 5 Conduct Review report (results of matters circulated to clubs), email.

5.3.31 Visual Evidence

Visual evidence must be DVD compatible to Junior League equipment. Visual evidence

should be delivered to the Junior League office on Monday prior to 5pm, so

compatibility can be checked.

5.4 CONDUCT REVIEW BY-LAWS

Conduct Review hearings are held weekly commencing at 7.00 pm (in 2013 they will be held

on Tuesday nights). A quorum for a hearing is three (3).

5.4.1 The Conduct Review Committee adjudicates on disciplinary matters such as breaches

of the Codes of Conduct, other than judiciary matters. When a player, coach, trainer,

manager or other official is in breach of the Junior League Codes of Conduct, the

person concerned may be required to appear before the Conduct Review Committee.

5.4.2 If a referee is the complainant, the referee will advise the Secretary of the Referees’

Association of the incident. The Secretary will in turn advise the Junior League office.

If the complainant is a club official or other person, it should be sent through the

complainants club Secretary.

5.4.3 Clubs should appoint at least one responsible person to be their representative at

Conduct Review hearings. On some occasions a player’s coach may also attend and if

the player is Under 16 the player’s parent or guardian may attend, however only one

person may represent the person appearing during the hearing proceedings.


5.4.4 There is no objection to a solicitor or other legal representative attending the hearing

with the defendant, in an advisory capacity only and is there at the discretion of the

Chairperson and is unable to cross examine or question witnesses.

5.4.5 In the event that the Conduct Review Committee cannot convene on normal hearing

nights, the person appearing may be allowed to continue with an active Junior League

involvement pending appearing on another date, unless the Junior League Manager

or committee Chairperson decide otherwise.

5.4.6 A person must have a reasonable excuse for asking for an adjournment of a hearing in

which case the committee may use its own discretion. If an adjournment is agreed to

the person concerned may not continue with an active Junior League involvement

until the matter is heard, unless the Junior League Manager or committee

Chairperson decide otherwise.

5.4.7 The Conduct Review Committee may cite any player or person for misconduct or

other breaches they become aware of during the taking of evidence at hearings.

5.4.8 Conviction records are checked prior to each hearing and adjusted after the hearing

has concluded. A list of all persons who appeared together with the adjudication

results is communicated to all clubs following the hearing.

5.4.9 It is Junior League policy not to call children of tender years (Under 12) to hearings

unless it is absolutely necessary. The Chairperson has discretion in deciding if a child

of tender years should be called to a hearing and in lieu of such attendance may admit

documented evidence if it is available and direct the committee to evaluate such

evidence at the appropriate time.

5.4.10 It is Junior League policy not to admit video, DVD, laptop (or similar) electronic

evidence into a hearing or investigation unless it has direct bearing on the matter

being investigated. The Chairperson has discretion in deciding if such evidence should

be admitted and in lieu may admit documented or verbal acknowledgement of the

content of such evidence and direct the committee to evaluate such evidence at the

appropriate time.

5.4.11 It is Junior League policy not to support an excessive number of witnesses attending

hearings on behalf of the defendant or the complainant. The Chairperson has

discretion to restrict the number of witnesses to a reasonable number and to

acknowledge the evidence such witnesses may provide and to direct the committee

to evaluate such evidence at the appropriate times.

5.4.12 Witnesses who are identified in the letter of complaint or other documents may be

called to give evidence at a hearing. It is a breach of Junior League rules for a witness

after being summoned to refuse or not attend a hearing.

5.4.13 The Chairperson may from time to time adjourn or temporarily suspend a hearing in

such manner and upon such terms as the Chairperson sees fit.

5.4.14 The Chairperson, when necessary, has discretion to interpret the Conduct Review

Guidelines and By-Laws as he thinks fit.


5.5 CONDUCT REVIEW – Hearing Procedures

5.5.1 The club representative and person appearing are called into the hearing room where

the Chairperson explains the purpose of the hearing.

5.5.2 The person appearing is made aware of details of the complaint and is asked for a

plea by the Chairperson.

5.5.3 If the person appearing pleads guilty the complainant and witnesses may not be

called. The person appearing will have an opportunity to offer an explanation and any

other constructive and character information of his / her choice.

5.5.4 If the person appearing pleads not guilty a full hearing of the complaint will take place

with evidence taken from witnesses, the complainant and the defendant.

5.5.5 Following the taking of evidence in a not guilty matter, the committee will first of all

decide on the guilt or otherwise of the defendant and then decide the penalty.

5.5.6 Prior to the committee retiring to consider guilt or otherwise and penalty, the

defendant will have ample opportunity to advise character and other evidence on his

/ her behalf.

5.5.7 The Chairperson will not allow anyone to interrupt (or talk over), belittle, insult or

ridicule another and will insist on everyone receiving natural justice and being treated

in a decent and fair manner. Anyone in breach of this clause may be called before the

Conduct Review Committee on a complaint of misconduct.

5.5.8 No member of any committee, defendant, complainant or witness, shall leave the

hearing room during the progress of a hearing and whilst evidence is being taken,

except with the Chairperson’s permission.

5.5.9 No member of any committee, defendant, complainant or witness, shall during the

progress of a hearing or whilst a matter is being heard, discuss any part of the

evidence with any person, except with their legal representative.

5.5.10 Any person who feels they have been disadvantaged or have a complaint about

procedure may first of all made representations to the Junior League Board and if not

satisfied with the response, may appeal any adjudication to the District Appeals

Committee.


5.6 JUDICIARY – CODE OF PROCEDURES

5.6.1 Objectives

5.6.1.1 Provide fair and just procedures, conducted expeditiously and in compliance

with natural justice to hear and determine charges and for imposing penalties.

5.6.1.2 Proceedings are in good faith and on applicable merits in each case and

promote uniformity and consistency of approach in sentencing.

5.6.1.3 Provide a safe system of procedures for the protection of all persons

appearing at hearings.

5.6.1.4 Recognise and enforce disqualification and suspensions imposed on persons

in all Junior League competitions and activities.

5.6.2 Amendments to Policy Statements

The provisions of this code may be amended by the Junior League Board from time to

time and policy statements re operations and provisions of this code ussued in such

manner as the Board sees fit.

5.6.3 Chairman and Judiciary Committee

As soon as practicable after the Annual General meeting each year the Junior League

Board will appoint a Judiciary Committee and appoint one of the members Chairman.

5.6.4 Functions of Judiciary

The functions of the Judiciary Committee are to hear and determine such charges and

grading’s for an offence as referred to it for decision and in the discharge of its

functions shall at all times act independently, impartially, fairly and openly, except

where to do so would be unfair to the player appearing.

5.6.5 Judiciary Review By-Laws

Judiciary By-Laws that are appended to this Code are a guide only for the Judiciary

Committee with the Chairman when necessary having discretion to interpret such

guidelines as he thinks fit.

5.6.6 Administration

The Junior League Compliance and Legal Coordinator (who for the purpose of this

Code will be the Incident Review Coordinator) will be responsible to the Junior League

Board through the Junior League Manager for the administration of the Judiciary Code

of Procedure and the following duties:

5.6.6.1 Review all player’s dismissals, acts of misconduct and other incidents and

breaches of the Junior League Codes of Conduct.


5.6.6.2 Investigate, examine and consider any conduct by a player, official or other

person that may constitute an offence.

5.6.6.3 Recommend and / or take action where considered appropriate.

5.6.6.4 Report exceptions, concerns and matters in interest of the Junior League

Manager.

5.6.6.5 Generally proceed in accordance with the requirements of this rule.

5.6.7 Guidelines for the Incidents Review Coordinator

The Incident Review Coordinator will review all incidents of misconduct involving and

surrounding players dismissals and where necessary shall ascribe a grading for each

one having regard for the following:

5.6.7.1 Whether there is substantial and reliable evidence to justify a charge.

5.6.7.2 The extent to which the person is to blame for the incident.

5.6.7.3 The seriousness or conversely the triviality of the persons conduct.

5.6.7.4 Whether an opposing player was injured in the incident.

5.6.7.5 Whether the offending person was provoked.

5.6.7.6 The previous conduct during the match of the offending player.

5.6.7.7 Any mitigating or aggravating circumstances.

5.6.8 General Offences

For the purpose of this Code an Offence is constituted by an instance of misconduct

and such other conduct as may, from time to time, be deemed by the Incident Review

Coordinator or the Judiciary Committee, to constitute an offence.

5.6.9 Consequences

A player will be deemed to have been charged with an offence immediately the

Referee Dismissal Notice has been issued to the player or team official following the

match in question.


5.6.10 Grading’s

Short description of offence Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3

Tripping 120 600 1200

Run a distance 120 600 1200

Involved in altercation 120 600 1200

Striking 120 600 1200

Dispute decision 120 600 1200

Del. & Cont. break laws of game 120 600 1200

Careless/reckless high tackle 150 600 1200

Intentional high tackle 800 1600 3000

Contrary/detrimental conduct 200 600 1200

Offensive language 400 800 1200

Offensive language at match official 800 1600 2400

Dangerous throw 800 1600 3000

Elbowing 800 1600 3000

Kicking 800 1600 3000

Kneeing 800 1600 3000

Re-enter playing field 2000

Involved in on field incident 1600

Deliberate ‘King hit’ 1600

Instigator of ‘all in brawl’ 1600

Use racial insults or abuse 1600

* Offensive language directed at match or Junior League officials also mandatory loss

of competition points.

** Competition points may also be deducted at the Committees discretion upon

conviction for other serious offences. (I.e. racial insults or abuse)

In the event of a complaint being made of conduct not itemised in above gradings,

there is provision for the Incident Review Coordinator to determine a grading for that

complaint / breach and advise appropriate persons of such action.

5.6.11 Base Penalty Points

The base penalty for each grading of an offence shall be the number of demerit points

specified above.

5.6.12 Merit (deduction) Points

A player who does not have any convictions for the past three season will be entitled

to a deduction of 25% of base penalty points, provided the player was an active player

for that period.

A player who offers an early guilty plea will be entitled to a deduction of 25% of base

penalty points.


5.6.13 Demerit (addition) Points

A player who has a conviction of a similar offence during last three seasons will have

50% of the base penalty points added.

A player who has a conviction for other offence during last three seasons will have

25% of the base penalty points added.

5.6.14 100 Points equals One Match Suspension

After taking into account base, deduction and addition of points, when the total

amount of players points totals 100, the player shall be suspended from playing for

one (1) match, 200 points for two (2) matches, 300 points for three (3) matches, and

so on.

Should the total amount of players points total 175, the player shall be suspended

from playing for one (1) match and have 75 carry over points. If players points total

275, the player shall be suspended for two (2) matches and have 75 carry over points,

and so on.

A player’s period of suspension will be deemed to have been served with the players

allocated or accumulated points have been reduced to less than 100.

5.6.15 Calculation of Elective Penalty

The elective penalty shall be the number of base demerit points as set out in the

grading column(s), less any Merit points (deducted) plus any Demerit points (added).

5.6.16 Carry Over Points

Carry over points will remain active in a player’s record for a period of three (3) years

provided the player was an active player for that period.

5.6.17 Rounding Down

After the calculation of points referred to has been carried out, the figure thereby

obtained shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number.

5.6.18 Doubt about Calculation of Points

In the event a player, his representative or club is in doubt as to the calculation of

points or the period of suspension, application may be made to the Chairman of

Judiciary for a declaration. Such declaration shall be final and binding.

5.6.19 Judiciary May Adjust Grading

In determining the grading of a charge against a player, the Judiciary Committee may

ascribe a grading which is greater or less than the grading specified in the notice of

charge.


5.6.20 Player’s Response to Charge Form

Following the receipt by the club of the Player’s Charge Form by email from the Junior

League on Monday, following the match in question, it will be necessary for the club

Secretary (or designated person) to contact the player and communicate details of the

charge to the player and the points advised by the Junior League.

The player is then required to make a decision to either accept or reject the penalty

proposed. The player’s decision should be conveyed by email by the club Secretary

(or designated person) to the Junior League before 10.00 am on Tuesday (the next

day).

If the player accepts the penalty there will be no need for him to attend judiciary. If

the player rejects the penalty he will have to attend judiciary on the following

Wednesday night.

It is the responsibility of the player’s club Secretary to inform the player and to convey

the player’s decision to the Junior League. Recept in the Junior League office of an

email from the club Secretary will be satisfactory evidence to the Incident Review

Coordinator and the Judiciary Committee of the player’s decision in regard to

accepting or rejecting the penalty.

5.6.21 Procedure After Election

After receiving a Notice of Charge from the Junior League a player may:

5.6.21.1 Accept the grading and plead guilty to the offence.

5.6.21.2 Plead guilty to the offence but dispute the grading

5.6.21.3 Plead not guilty

In regard to clause 5.6.21.1 the player and match officials will not be required to

attend Judiciary.

In regard to clauses 5.6.21.2 and 5.6.21.3 the player and match officials will be

required to attend Judiciary.

5.6.22 Power to Refer to Judiciary

If for any reason the Incident Review Coordinator is of the opinion the provisions of

the early guilty plea should not be utilised and a charge should be referred to the

Judiciary Committee for the determination of penalty (or for other reason at the

Incident Review Coordinator’s discretion) then the Incident Review Coordinator may

so refer the charge.


5.6.23 Amendment or Withdrawal of Charge

If after considering all the circumstances of the complaint / incident, the referee’s

reports, the player’s response and any other relevant material, the Incident Review

Coordinator may at any stage of the early guilty plea process amend, lower or

increase the grading, refer the matter to Judiciary, withdraw the offer or otherwise

deal with the matter.

5.6.24 Sequence of Procedure (Timeframe)

Game Day

5.6.24.1 Player dismissed from field by referee

5.6.24.2 Referee issues Dismissal Notice to player (via team official)

5.6.24.3 Team official advises Club Secretary

5.6.24.4 Referee advises Secretary of Referees’ Association

Monday

5.6.24.5 Secretary of Referees’ Association advises Junior League

5.6.24.6 Junior League compiles list of dismissals and checks record

5.6.24.7 Junior League advises player’s club of offence grading

5.6.24.8 Player makes decision regarding offence grading

Tuesday

5.6.24.9 Player’s club advises Junior League of player’s decision

5.6.24.10 Junior League considers player’s decision and responds accordingly

5.6.24.11 Junior League arranges player’s appearance before Judiciary (if

appropriate)

5.6.24.12 Junior League advises witnesses (to or not to) attend Judiciary

Wednesday

5.6.24.13 Junior League prepares Judiciary hearing documentation

5.6.24.14 Judiciary hearing conducted

Thursday

5.6.24.15 Judiciary records adjusted

5.6.24.16 Junior League advises clubs outcome of Judiciary hearings

5.6.25 Commitment on Players (and Clubs) to attend Judiciary

It is the responsibility of every player dismissed from the field by the referee to

automatically attend Judiciary on the allocated night, in 2013 this will be Wednesday,

unless the player has resolved through the Judiciary Code of Procedures to accept the

grading as determined by the Junior League and that grading negates the need for the

player to attend. The Junior League is not obliged to pre-advise the player or the club

of the need for a player dismissed from the field to attend Judiciary.


5.6.26 Player (or Club) Failing to Respond and / or Appear

Should a player fail to respond by the time limit prescribed in the notice of charge

form (ie 10am on Tuesday following the match) the adjudication advised in the notice

of charge form will apply and automatically come into effect on and from that time

limit.

Any player who failed to respond by the time limit prescribed, may at a later date

make application for the adjudication and/or process to be reviewed by the

Compliance and Legal Coordinator and if necessary referred to the Judiciary

Committee.

Should a player charged with an offence fail to appear, provided proper process as set

out in these rules has been followed, the Judiciary Committee may proceed to hear

and determine the charge and any penalty in the absence of the player.

Players failing to appear at judiciary without an acceptable explanation may face

additional penalty.

5.6.27 Rehabilitation

Should the Chairman of Judiciary and / or the Incident Review Coordinator form an

opinion (in his absolute discretion) that a player (or other person) would benefit from

rehabilitation or counselling, a recommendation may be made that the person

concerned undertake a program or other initiative.

5.6.28 Documentation

The following documentation will be recognised and retained by the Junior League:

Form 1 Referee’s Dismissal Report (to player through team official), hard copy

completed by referee on game day.

Form 2 Notice of Charge to player’s club from Junior League to Club, email sent to

club from the Junior League.

Form 3 Player’s Response to Charge to Junior League from player’s club, fax, email

or hard copy sent to Junior League by club.

Form 4 Judiciary hearing (record of evidence at Judiciary hearing), hard copy

completed at time of hearing.

Form 5 Judiciary report (results of Judiciary matters circulated to clubs), email sent

to clubs from the Junior League.

5.6.29 Procedures not to be Invalidated

Proceedings shall not be invalidated or subject to appeal, merely by reason of any

defect whether of substance or of form in any notice or by reason of non-compliance

by the Junior League with any provision of this Code, unless the Chairman so directs.


5.6.30 Visual Evidence

Visual evidence must be DVD compatible to Junior League equipment. Visual evidence

should be delivered to the Junior League office on Monday prior to 5pm, so

compatibility can be checked.

5.7 JUDICIARY – BY-LAWS

Judiciary hearings are held weekly commencing at 7.00 pm. A quorum for a hearing is three

(3).

5.7.1 When a player is sent from the field by the referee, the player must go directly to the

dressing room and change into civilian clothing. The player cannot remain inside the

spectator fence (rope or barrier).

5.7.2 Immediately after the game concludes the referee will complete a Player Dismissal

Report and hand same to a team representative and obtains that persons signature.

The team representative should advise the player of the content.

5.7.3 The referee will advise the Secretary of the Referees’ Association of the player’s

dismissal. The Secretary in turn will advise the Junior League office.

5.7.4 Clubs should appoint at least one (1) responsible official to be their representative at

Judiciary hearings. On some occasions a player’s coach may also attend and if the

player is Under 16 the player’s parent (or guardian) may attend, however only one

person may represent the player during the hearing procedures.

5.7.5 There is no objection to a solicitor or other legal representative attending a hearing

with the player in an advisory capacity only and is there at the discretion of the

Chairman and is unable to cross examine or question witnesses.

5.7.6 In the event that the Judiciary Committee cannot convene on normal judiciary nights,

the player may be allowed to play pending appearing on another date, unless the

Committee or Junior League Manager decides otherwise.

5.7.7 A player must have a reasonable excuse for asking for an adjournment of a hearing in

which case the committee may use its own discretion. If an adjournment is agreed to

the player may not play until the matter is heard, unless the Committee or Junior

League Manager decides otherwise.

5.7.8 If a player fails to appear at Judiciary the player may be suspended until he appears.

5.7.9 Depending on the circumstances, if the referee fails to attend a hearing the matter

may still be heard. The player may be given the opportunity to have the matter heard

or adjourned to another date.

5.7.10 Players who fail to appear on the initial date and then appear on a subsequent date

and do not have an acceptable reason for not appearing initially, may be suspended

for four (4) matches plus any additional penalty.


5.7.11 If a player enters an early guilty plea the referee is not called. The referee’s report

will be accepted without debate.

5.7.12 Players from mini or mod age groups (Under 12) sent from the field do not have to

attend Judiciary, unless the Junior League Manager decides otherwise. The referee

shall furnish a report which will be dealt with by the Junior League Manager.

5.7.13 If a player is sent off in a mid-week Junior League or school game he is unable to play

in any competition match until he appears before Judiciary.

5.7.14 The Judiciary Committee may cite any player for misconduct or other breaches they

become aware of during the taking of evidence at Judiciary hearings.

5.7.15 A copy of the referee’s report is made available to players at Judiciary hearings.

5.7.16 If a BYE was introduced into the competition after the start of the competition it will

count as a match served from the period of suspension.

5.7.17 Once a player has been sent from the field in a trial or competition match, the player

may have no further involvement in that game or any other game that day.

5.7.18 For every two (2) competition matches washed out during the period of suspension,

one (1) match will be reduced from the original sentence.

5.7.19 Referee’s arrive at a hearing prior to 7.00 pm and hand their reports to the Judiciary

coordinator and retire to an adjourning room until required to give evidence.

5.7.20 Usually younger players are processed first with the hearing involving older players

later in the night.

5.7.21 Conviction records are checked prior to each hearing and adjusted after the hearing

has concluded. A list of all players who appeared together with penalties is

communicated to all clubs following the hearing.

5.7.22 The Chairperson may from time to time adjourn or temporarily suspend a hearing in

such manner and upon such terms as the Chairperson sees fit.

5.7.23 The Chairperson, when necessary has discretion to interpret the Judiciary guidelines

as he thinks fit.


5.8 JUDICIARY – Hearing Procedures

5.8.1 The club representative and player are called into the hearing room where the

Chairperson explains the purpose of the hearing.

5.8.2 The Chairperson confirms with the player that he has been given a copy of the

referee’s report and asks the player for a plea.

5.8.3 If the player pleads guilty the referee and witnesses may not be called. The player will

have an opportunity to offer an explanation and any other constructive and character

information of his / her choice.

5.8.4 If the player pleads not guilty a full hearing of the complaint will take place with

evidence taken from witnesses and the defendant.

5.8.5 Following the taking of the evidence and before retiring, the committee will first of all

decide on the guilt or otherwise of the player and then decide the penalty.

5.8.6 The committee will invite the player to advise the committee on character and other

evidence on his behalf.

5.8.7 The Chairperson will not allow anyone to interrupt (or talk over), belittle, insult or

ridicule another and will insist on everyone receiving natural justice and being treated

in a decent and fair manner. Anyone in breach of this clause may be called to account

on a complaint of misconduct.

5.8.8 No member of any committee, defendant, complainant or witness, shall leave the

hearing room during the progress of a hearing and whilst evidence is being taken,

except with the chairpersons permission.

5.8.9 No member of any committee, defendant, complainant or witness, shall during the

progress of a hearing or whilst a matter is part heard, discuss any part of the evidence

with any person, except with their legal representation.

5.8.10 Any player who feels he has been disadvantaged or has a complaint about procedure

may first of all make representations to the Junior League Board and if not satisfied

with the response, may appeal any adjudication to the District Appeals Committee.


5.9 JUNIOR LEAGUE CLUB ADJUDICATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

5.9.1 Discipline Action at Club Level

A Junior League club may with reasonable cause suspend, disqualify, fine or take

other action against any player, official, club member or other person who is

convicted of a breach of the club and/or Junior League codes of conduct. When that

action is taken the club shall invite the person concerned and conduct a proper

hearing into the incident. A copy of the Minutes of the hearing shall be forwarded to

the Junior League Manager and provided the clubs actions have been endorsed by the

Junior League Manager, the adjudication of any person so dealt with, will apply

throughout all clubs in the Penrith Junior League District. (Persons called to a hearing

should be given five or more days’ notice, brief details of the complaint and invited to

produce whatever evidence and witnesses deemed necessary).

5.9.2 Should any member of a junior league club holding an official position (ie committee,

team support, coach, trainer, manager, canteen manager. Sponsorship manager etc)

have allegations or a complaint made against them regarding criminal or indictable

offence or activity (stealing, dishonesty, assault etc) the Junior League Manager shall

be advised as a matter of urgency.

5.9.3 Should any member of a Junior League Club Executive (President, Senior Vice

President, Secretary or Treasurer) have allegations or a complaint made against them

regarding criminal or indictable offence or activity (stealing, dishonesty, assault etc)

the matter shall be referred to the Junior League Manager for investigation.


5.10 MASS INFORMATION MEDIA

5.10.1 If the Junior League Manager, Subcommittee or authorised person adjudicating or

investigating a complaint involving the sending of material or comments by way of

‘mass information media’ (including but not limited to Facebook, You Tube, Twitter,

etc.) has reasonable cause to believe a coach, trainer, manager, player, official or

other person was responsible for ‘publishing or circulating’ any insulting, offensive,

intimidating, or otherwise unacceptable material or comments, that person or

persons may be fined, suspended or otherwise dealt with.

5.10.2 Existing penalties that are advised for breaches of the codes of conduct in respect to

offensive and threatening language and behaviour, will apply in respect to any player,

coach, trainer, manager, official or other person, who uses mass information media to

threaten, abuse, intimidate, harass or offend another person, authority, organisation

of the junior league.

5.10.3 Publish Comments

A player, coach, trainer, team manager or official of the Junior League or Junior

League club shall not publish or cause to be published any comments or material that

is considered by the Board of Management to be detrimental to the policy or

prejudicial to the interests, welfare or image of the Junior League or the game of

rugby league at Penrith or elsewhere.

“Comments publicly” means adverse comments either orally or in writing or in the

presence of any person known or ought to be known to be a member of the media or

makes such a comment which is known or ought to be known may be reported to the

media.

5.11 NOTIFICATION AND PROCEDURES AT HEARINGS

5.11.1 Any player, club official or other person required at a hearing will be advised by way

of a fax, hard copy letter or email sent to the club Secretary. It will then be the

responsibility of the club Secretary to inform the person concerned of the hearing

time and date etc. Failure of club to advise the person concerned is no defence

against non-attendance.

5.11.1.1 Refuse or Gives False information - Any player, official, supporter, parent,

volunteer or other person associated with the Junior League or any

affiliated club, who either refuses or fails without reasonable cause to

attend and give evidence at any enquiry when requested to do so, or

attends any enquiry and refuses to give evidence, or on any occasion gives

evidence or information to any committee at any enquiry, which in the

opinion of the committee or Junior League Manager is false and/or

misleading, shall be in breach of junior league rules.

5.11.1.2 Non-Attendance at Hearings – If a person called to a hearing does not

appear at the hearing after being given due notice, any written material

sent to the person or club, or received from the person or club which


addresses the incident in question shall be tabled and the hearing duly

conducted. The chairman will ensure standard discipline procedures are

maintained and the person concerned (in their absence) received natural

justice.

5.11.2 Public Comments

A player, coach, trainer, team manager or official of the Junior League or Junior

League club shall not comment publicly on any matter which is or is likely to be the

subject of an official inquiry by the Junior League or a committee of the Junior League.

5.11.3 Behaviour at Hearings

It will be a breach of this rule for anyone appearing before any junior league

committee or the Junior League Manager, to ridicule, insult, belittle or otherwise

make any unreasonable or unnecessary critical comments about the committee or the

proceedings that are underway or just completed

(The interpretation of the words ridicule, insult, belittle or critical is a matter for the

Junior League Manager to interpret).

5.11.4 Identification at Hearing

When a player, coach or trainer is called to appear before the

Conduct Review Committee for discipline reasons, or a breach of the junior league

codes of conduct that persons players/coach/trainers ID card is also required to be

produced by the person concerned at the meeting.

5.11.4.1 Any period of suspension may not commence until card produced. If the

card is not produced the person concerned may be unable to have any

official junior league involvement until the card is produced to the Junior

League Manager.

5.12 PROTESTS

5.12.1 Upon receipt of the protest, the Junior League Manager will advise brief details of the

protest/complaint to the club complained against and arrange for the matter to be

investigated and adjudicated upon. Non receipt of that notice will not be a defence at

any subsequent hearing.

5.12.2 Should a club or official lodge a frivolous or groundless complaint or fail to proceed

with a complaint in such a way it is considered an inconvenience or embarrassment,

disciplinary action against the club or official lodging the protest may follow.

5.12.3 A representative of the club committee may represent players or club officials

appearing at a protest hearing from their club. Players under the age of 16 years may

have a parent or guardian attend the hearing with them.

5.12.4 The Junior League Manager is empowered by the Board to adjudicate on any protest,

complaint or issue felt is appropriate.


5.13 REPRESENTATIONS BY CLUBS – POLICY

5.13.1 The current policy that exists does not support clubs or players and officials of clubs

writing directly to the NSWRL or the ARL or other authority without directing their

concerns to the Junior League first.

5.13.2 The Board wants clubs to feel confident about exercising their rights and to have an

opportunity to express any frustrations they may have. The Board also feels it is

necessary for the Junior League to be afforded the same opportunity. Accordingly,

the following policy is in place:

5.13.3 Should any player, team support official, official of any club, club committee, person

acting on behalf of a club or an official of the Junior League be of the opinion that

they, their club or member of their club has been disadvantaged by a decision, rule or

resolution made by the Junior League management team (Board of Management,

Sub-Committees or Junior League Manager) or that any decision, rule, resolution or

recommendation is not in the best interests of themselves, their club or their

members they should follow procedures set out in these rules (see Junior League

Appeal procedures). Further and following the completion of the appeal process, if

they are not satisfied with the outcome and if they so desire they may notify the

Junior League Manager in writing and submit details of their objection or concern for

information of the Board of Management.

5.13.4 Upon receipt of such representations the Junior League Manager will present same to

the next meeting of the Board for discussion.

5.13.5 The Junior League Manager will convey the Board’s decision to the person or club

concerned.

5.13.6 Officials and clubs are reminded that current policy allows any member of the General

Committee to raise any subject on the floor of General Committee meetings and

request the matter be discussed. Further, they may also request that the Board re-

considers any decisions it has previously made. The General Committee is able to

make recommendations to the Board.

5.13.7 It will be a breach of Junior League rules for any person or club to make contact with

the District Club, NSWRL or the ARL or other authority without first observing and

utilising Junior League Appeal procedures and the requirements of the policy set out

in this document.

5.13.8 Irrespective of what reason a person or club has to make contact with the District

Club, NSWRL or ARL or other authority a copy of the correspondence or verbal contact

proposed must be forwarded to the Junior League Manager first with a covering letter

explaining the reasons for such action.

5.13.9 The Junior League Manager will forward all correspondence to the appropriate

authority together with a response by the Junior League management.


5.14 RESPONSILIBITIES OF JUNIOR LEAGUE MANAGER

5.14.1 Upon any complaint being made of any breach of the Junior League Codes of Conduct,

rules or Regulations of conduct contrary to the policy or prejudicial to the interests,

welfare or image of the Junior League on the part of any player, coach, trainer, team

manager or official of the Junior League or any Junior League club or supporter,

parent or other person, the Board of Management, the Junior League Manager or any

Sub-Committee so empowered shall have the power to deal with such complaint and

in the exercise of the power hereby conferred may disqualify, suspend, fine or

otherwise deal with any such person(s) team or club it finds after due inquiry to have

been guilty of such conduct.

5.14.2 The Junior League Manager may at any time call on a player, coach, trainer, team

official or official of the Junior League or Junior league club or supporter, parent or

other person to appear before the Board of Management or appropriate committee

to answer a complaint, that conduct, which shall be specified in such charge,

constitutes conduct contrary to the policy or prejudicial to the interests, welfare or

image of the Junior League.

5.14.3 When a major incident or disturbance occurs on or off the field, which requires an

investigation to be carried out, the Junior League Manager may with reasonable cause

defer, delay or abandon any game pending the outcome of the investigation and/or

may also suspend any player, official, team or parent(s) during the course of the

investigation.

5.14.4 Publishing and Circulating Information – The Junior League Manager may publish, by

email, fax, hard copy or other means to stakeholders, on the junior league website

and in the media, reports and results of investigations, enquiries, proceedings, acts

and decisions irrespective of those involved and whether the same shall or shall not

reflect on the character or conduct of any person convicted of a breach of the codes

of conduct, rules or by-laws, provided such publication is stating fact and is not

defamatory or malicious.

5.14.5 If the parent(s) or family members of any player or official who has had his/her

registration suspended by the Junior League Manager, objects or feels disadvantaged

by such adjudication, they may first make written representations to the next meeting

of the board and they may then appeal any adjudication of the board to the district

appeals committee.

5.14.6 Case of Minor Misconduct – In cases of minor misconduct, the Junior League

Manager shall, after making thorough enquiries, have the authority and discretion to

determine what action or penalty to be imposed. If the person concerned has not

shown good cause why such action should not be imposed within a reasonable time,

then such penalty shall be confirmed by the Junior League Manager and the matter

later reported to the board.

5.14.6.1 Authority of Matters not set out in the Rules – The Junior League Manager

shall have the authority and discretion to investigate and deal with any

person, team or club in respect to misconduct and/or allegations of

misconduct or other matters not otherwise specified and/or provided for in

the rules and by-laws.


5.14.6.2 The registration of any player may be withdrawn or suspended by the

Junior League Manager if after investigating a complaint there is

reasonable cause to believe that the player or the player’s parent (or family

member) has committed a serious breach of the Junior League Codes of

Conduct.

5.14.7 The Junior League through the Junior League Manager or board may with reasonable

cause disqualify, suspend or exclude any person from participation or attendance at

any junior league activities for any period of time considered appropriate.

5.14.8 Response to Requests from Junior League Manager

When it is necessary to gather information about an incident, seek an explanation,

investigate a protest, breach of codes of conduct, or for any reason to make contact

with a club regarding any issue, the Junior League Manager shall send the usual Junior

League letter or memorandum by email, fax or other means. If after a reasonable

time a club has not responded, the Junior League Manager may adjudicate on the

matter by making a decision utilising all available information that is available.

5.14.9 Investigate complaints – The Junior League Manager shall conduct an investigation

into reports or breaches of the Junior League rules, codes of conduct and good

behaviour rules by players, coaches, managers, trainers, spectators, supporters,

parents, officials, and other persons and observe the following procedures:

5.14.9.1 Seek immediate reports from club officials and other persons.

5.14.9.2 Evaluate reports and seek additional information if necessary.

5.14.9.3 If necessary, arrange meeting of Match and Incident Review Committee.

5.14.9.4 Take appropriate action in accordance with Junior League rules.

5.14.9.5 Report outcome to next meeting of Board of Management.

5.14.10 Request for Information – The Junior League Manager may issue a written request to

any club official or member to reveal the identity of any person who is in breach of

junior league rules. If that request is ignored, refused or for other reason not

provided within a reasonable period, or misleading false information is given, the

team concerned may be suspended, lose competition points and additional action

may be taken against the official, member, team or club concerned.

5.14.11 Support – In the event of any person being injured as a result of any assault or

incident, the Junior League Manager is authorised by the Board of Management to

make whatever further enquiries are deemed necessary and to further support such

person:

5.14.11.1 Check on the welfare and wellbeing of any person involved.

5.14.11.2 Advise the Junior League policy in regard to assaults and other serious

incidents and to what extent the Junior League is able to support such

person(s)


5.14.11.3 Offer any reasonable level of support and assistance.

5.14.11.4 Report the outcome to the next meeting of the Board of Management.

5.15 SELLING AND SUPPLY OF ALCOHOL POLICY

5.15.1 The Junior League would prefer clubs not to sell or supply alcohol at their playing

fields when Junior League games are in progress.

5.15.2 It is Junior League policy not to sell or supply alcohol at semi-finals, finals, grand finals

or other games under the control of the Junior League.

5.15.3 The Junior League acknowledges the right of clubs who, because of a liquor license

are able to lawfully sell or supply alcohol at their playing fields or other club venues.

5.15.4 The sale/supply of alcohol at Junior League grounds when games involving Under 6 to

Under 15 age groups (usually the Saturday competition) is not allowed under any

circumstances and any club convicted of this offence may face strong discipline

action.

5.15.5 The sale/supply of alcohol at Junior League grounds when games involving the Under

19, Reserve Grade and ‘A’ Grade teams (usually Sunday Competition) is not allowed

prior to 12.00 noon on the day of the match. Any club convicted of this offence may

face strong discipline action.

5.15.6 Should any incident happen at a Junior League ground where alcohol is sold or

supplied and it is established that the sale or supply of alcohol by the Junior League

club was the contributing factor, the club concerned may face strong discipline action.

5.15.7 The Board may approve the sale of or supply of alcohol at grounds on special

occasions.

5.15.8 At grounds where alcohol is sold / supplied in accordance with a Liquor Licence there

is a responsibility on the club concerned to properly supervise and police the

situation.

5.15.9 All clubs are expected to intervene and remove alcohol (and spectators if necessary)

where it has been brought/produced at a ground during Junior League games in

contravention of this policy.


5.16 SINGING INDECENT SONGS

5.16.1 Upon the receipt by the Junior League of a complaint regarding a team, singing a song

with indecent or suggestive language ,the Secretary of the club concerned (the club

complained against) will be contacted and advised accordingly.

5.16.2 A full investigation into the complaint will take place as a matter of urgency.

5.16.3 Any person who fails to provide information upon request may be suspended.

5.16.4 Any person who makes a complaint that is found to be groundless or frivolous may be

called before the Conduct Review Committee on a charge of misconduct.

5.16.5 Upon the Junior League Manager being satisfied a team has committed a breach, the

following action may be taken:

5.16.6 If a competition match and the team is in the running for the semi-finals, the team

may lose competition points.

5.16.7 If the team is unable to make the semi-finals, the players may be suspended for four

(4) or more competition matches.

5.16.7.1 If a play-off, semi-final or final, the team may be disqualified and result of

game involved not recognised or reversed. In grand finals the team will be

fined $1000.00.

5.16.7.2 In addition to the above penalty, all players convicted may be placed on

probation for a period of twelve (12) months.

5.16.7.3 Or other action may be taken.

5.16.8 A second conviction in the same season may result in an additional penalty of the

team being withdrawn or suspended from the competition.

5.16.9 Forfeits will not be taken into account in relation to penalty in respect to this rule.

5.16.10 The Board of Management may vary the above penalty and conditions if it considers it

necessary.

5.16.11 Any decision of the Junior League Manager may be appealed.


5.17 SPEAR (DANGEROUS) TACKLES

5.17.1 If the committee hearing a spear tackle complaint is satisfied that the tackle was a

reflex action and not intentional (there may also be other reasons) the player, upon

his first conviction may be placed on a suspended sentence and his team may lose

competition points.

5.17.2 If the same player is convicted a second time for a similar tackle, he may receive a

lengthy suspension (plus the suspended sentence penalty from the first conviction)

and his team may lose competition points.

5.18 SPECTATORS / SUPPORTERS / PARENTS

5.18.1 Team Accountable

If after appropriate investigation, any member of a club, including coach, manager,

trainer, the parent(s) of any player, family member or supporter/ spectator of any

team is convicted of an unauthorised entry inside the spectator fence or onto the

playing field commits an assault or other serious breach of junior league rules, codes

of conduct or good behaviour rules, or if any of the above persons fail, refuse or

neglect to do or take any reasonable action to prevent others committing similar

breaches, in addition to action against the offender, the team that the offending

person supports, may lose competition points or other action taken. Should a second

conviction occur the team may be disqualified from the competition.

5.18.2 Players Registration Suspended

Following an investigation by the Junior League Manager of a complaint concerning

serious breach of junior league rules and/or codes of conduct, alleged to have been

committed by the parent(s) or family member of a player or official, the Junior League

Manager may request the alleged offender to attend an interview with the Junior

League Manager and at the same time advise that the registration of the offender’s

child (the player) or relative is suspended until the offender attends a meeting with

the Junior League Manager to discuss the incident that occurred.

5.18.3 Parents Meeting with Junior League

Interviews between the Junior League Manager and an offending parent (or family

member) of a player or official, will be held in private at the junior league office and a

club representative (club official or coach) will not be invited to attend. When a club

secretary (or other delegated senior official) is aware that an offending parent (or

family member) is attending such meeting and feels there is a need to support that

person, the club may make representations to the Junior League Manager prior to the

meeting taking place. The Junior League Manager will report the outcome of the

meeting to the Board.


5.18.4 Refuse or Fail to Attend Meeting

Should any parent(s) or family member of a player or official, who has been requested

to attend a meeting with the Junior League Manager, to discuss that persons alleged

breach of the junior league codes of conduct, refuse or fail to attend such meeting,

the Junior League Manager may confirm the suspension of the registration of such

player or official, until the person(s) concerned attend such meeting. The matter shall

be reported at the next meeting of the Board of Management.

5.18.5 Representations to the Board

If the parent(s) or family member of any player or official who has had his/her

registration suspended by the Junior League Manager, objects or feels disadvantaged

by such adjudication, they may make written representations to the next meeting of

the Board of Management. They may then appeal to the District Appeals Committee

should they not be satisfied with any adjudication or decision resolved by the board.

5.18.6 In the event of any spectator, group of spectators or other person who:-

• Throws any article or object at a referee, touch judge, player, team support staff,

official or other person,

• Makes an unauthorised entry inside the spectator fences or ropes,

• Engages in any action that disrupts or has the potential to disrupt any junior league

game or official activity,

• Seriously demonstrates against, abuses, threatens or otherwise demeans another

person,

• Is in serious breach of the junior league codes of conduct,

Upon being made aware of any such incident, the Junior League Manager shall take

the following action:-

5.18.6.1 Call for reports and carry out a thorough investigation into the incident.

5.18.6.2 Make whatever enquiries he feels are appropriate and necessary.

5.18.6.3 Utilise whatever provisions that are available within the rules to assist in

the investigation of the complaint.

5.18.7 Actions by Junior League Manager

If the Junior League Manager after carrying out an investigation, is in the possession

of sufficient evidence, that provides reasonable cause to believe that a particular

person or persons, are in breach of any part of this clause and further, provided the

team the offending person was supporting can be identified, the following action may

be taken:-

5.18.7.1 Contact the club concerned and invite the club to show cause why a fine,

other action taken, or competition points should not be deducted from the

team the offending spectator was supporting.

5.18.7.2 Report any action taken under this clause to the next board meeting.


5.18.8 Identification of Offenders

When the Junior League Manager is investigating reports concerning complaints and

breaches of the junior league rules and codes of conduct by players, officials,

spectators or supporters of teams and the identity of the offending person is not

readily known, the following action may be taken:-

5.18.8.1 Conduct an investigation and make whatever enquiries are necessary, in an

effort to identify the team the offending person(s) is supporting or is

associated with.

5.18.8.2 Satisfy beyond reasonable doubt, from the evidence gathered, the identity

of the team the offending person(s) is supporting or associated with.

5.18.8.3 Make a formal demand on the respective club itself to carry out an internal

investigation with the members of the team that has been so identified,

allowing the club a reasonable period to respond. (Reasonable period is at

the discretion of the Junior League Manager.)

5.18.9 Delay or Refuse to Identify Offender

5.18.9.1 When the identity of the offending person(s) is known, refer the matter to

the appropriate committee or take other action as provided for in the

rules. In the event that the identity of the offending person(s) is delayed,

refused or not provided by the club within a reasonable period, the Junior

League Manager may take the following action:-

5.18.9.2 Advise the club that the involvement of the team concerned in junior

league competitions and other activity is suspended until the identity of

the offending person(s) has been notified to the Junior League Manager.

5.18.9.3 If action is taken under clause (i) above, a full report shall be submitted to

the junior league board with a recommendation for endorsement of the

Junior League Manager’s actions.

5.18.9.4 The Junior League Manager shall also further investigate the reason any

request for the identification of the offending person(s) was delayed,

refused or not provided by the club and report the result to the Junior

League board.

5.18.9.5 Clubs who feel they have been disadvantaged by this clause may make

representations to the next meeting of the junior league board of

management.


5.19 SUSPENDED AND DISQUALIFIED PERSON

Responsibility of Clubs

5.19.1 If any team, club, player or official encourages or takes action to support a suspended

or disqualified person having access to a team or player, that team may lose

competition points, be disqualified from the competition or have action taken against

the club, player and/or official.

5.19.2 Any club aware of a suspended or disqualified person having access to a team,

contrary to this rule, and the club fails to promptly advise the junior league, the club

executive may face disciplinary action before the junior league board.

5.19.3 Any club aware of such suspension or disqualification who fails to take reasonable

action to prevent such a person having such access to a team, player, or official

activity (meetings, committee etc.), the club executive may face disciplinary action

before the junior league board.

5.20 TEAM SUPPORT STAFF AND PLAYER RESPONSIBILITIES (SEE TEAM SUPPORT OFFICIALS IN

MATCH DAY RULES)

5.20.1 This section contains codes of conduct, good behaviour rules and responsibilities that

apply and are specific to team support officials. Also included are multiple codes of

conduct, good behaviour rules and responsibilities that are general and apply. It is

therefore necessary and important when reading and considering the specific

responsibilities of coaches, players, managers and trainers that the multiple rules and

requirements are taken into account, together with the contents of Match Day Rules,

specific to team support officials.

5.20.2 The junior league board, appropriate sub-committees and the Junior League Manager

are empowered under the rules when breaches occur to withdraw the opportunity

and privilege of any coach, player, manager, trainer or other person to have an

involvement in official junior league activity, which includes competition, trial and

other games, training and associated involvement.

5.20.3 The intent of this section and Match Day Rules document is to fully inform all coaches,

players, managers, trainers, club officials and other persons of the rules, policy,

requirements and codes of conduct that apply. The junior league board believes the

conduct and behaviour of players can be directly attributed to the degree of

leadership and example set by team support officials and in particular the team coach

and the team coach will be held accountable should any serious and/or unacceptable

codes of conduct breaches occur.


5.20.4 THREE STRIKES AND YOU’RE OUT

Team officials (coach, trainer or manager) are required to strictly adhere to the rules

that apply to team coaches, trainers, managers and players on the reserve bench as

outlined in part 3 (Compliance and Legal of the Junior League Rules Manual. Under

the ‘ Three strikes and you’re out’ policy introduced in 2013 and at the discretion of

the Compliance and Legal Coordinator, selected complaints and breaches of the codes

of conduct that do not go to a hearing before Conduct Review will be dealt with by

the way of a Breach Notice:-

5.20.4.1 First occasion - Caution will be issued.

5.20.4.2 Second occasion - Attend meeting in the Junior League office.

5.20.4.3 Third occasion - Suspension.

COACH

Responsibilities

Develop player skills and promote, respect, tolerance, sportsmanship and positive attitudes

toward opposition teams and others in the game. Generate character building within the

team and encourage respect and support for the junior league good behaviour rules and codes

of conduct.

Qualification, Policy and Administration

5.20.5 All coaches must hold an appropriate coaching certificate or meet other requirements

as determined by the Board of Management.

5.20.6 Clubs are unable to appoint an unqualified person to a coaching position without first

obtaining the support of the Junior League. The Junior League will support the

appointment of coaches under the following conditions:

5.20.6.1 Saturday Teams Under 6 to Under 12

On the condition that the person appointed and club gives an undertaking that they

will attend the first available coaching course and the club acknowledges a bond of

$250.00. If the coach fails to meet the obligation, the bond will be enforced and the

person concerned will be suspended.

5.20.6.2 Sunday ‘A’ and ‘A’ Reserve Grade Teams

On the condition that the person appointed has appropriate experience and already

holds a mini/mod coaching qualification and has held an International coaching

qualification for a minimum of two (2) years and gives an undertaking they will attend

the first available coaching course and the club acknowledges a bond of $1000.00. If

the coach fails to meet the obligation, the bond will be enforced and the person

concerned will be suspended.


5.20.6.3 Saturday and Sunday Teams Under 13 to Under 19

The Junior League may support an unqualified person being appointed to coach in the

U/13 to U/19 Saturday and Sunday competition on the provision that he has

appropriate experience and sits for the International coaching certificate during that

season and the club acknowledges a bond of $500.00. If the coach fails to meet the

obligation, the bond will be enforced the person concerned will be suspended.

5.20.6.4 The Junior League may support an unqualified person being appointed to

coach in the Sunday competition on the provision that he has the

appropriate experience and he sits for the lower level coaching certificate

at the start of the season and then the higher level certificate at the end of

the season.

5.20.7 Persons who are given permission to coach a team from the first competition match

and who are not qualified as a coach must obtain such qualification by attending the

NEXT coaching course. They will not be permitted to continue coaching if they do not

attend that course. Fines and suspensions follow any exceptions.

IMPORTANT - Any club that appoints a phantom coach because the actual person

coaching the team is not qualified. In addition both persons (the phantom coach and

the actual coach) will be suspended and the team may be disqualified and the club

fined up to $2000.00.

5.20.8 Clubs shall arrange a meeting of all team coaches prior to the commencement of the

competitions and shall advise the date of such meeting to the junior league office well

in advance.

5.20.9 Clubs are encouraged to invite a representative of the junior league to attend the first

period of such meeting and address those present in regards to codes of conduct, new

rules and other matters relative to the competitions and player and team behaviour.

5.20.10 If after an investigation by the Junior League Manager or appropriate committee of a

complaint or serious incident or breach of the codes of conduct has been carried out

and there is reasonable cause to believe the team coach, manager or trainer(s)

ignored, refused or failed to observe and respect the codes of conduct, the

accreditation of such person(s) may be withdrawn by the Junior League Manager.

5.20.11 If evidence at a hearing indicates that the coach ignored and/or refused to take a

responsible and involved leadership role, by trying to defuse and control the situation

or incident, the team will face the loss of competition points, irrespective of the

outcome of the particular match, in addition to any other penalty.

5.20.12 If there are complaints directly about the action and/or attitude of a coach of a team

(swearing, abusing, yelling at players, referees, officials, encouraging rough and unfair

play, or other breaches of the codes of conduct) and there is insufficient evidence to

place the coach before the Conduct Review Committee, the matter will be referred to

the Junior League Manager or the Coaching sub-Committee who will interview the

coach or take other action.

5.20.13 The names of all coaches appointed by clubs should be advised to the Junior League

office prior to the first competition match. Mid-season changes also to be advised.


5.20.14 Prior to a club appointing a person to a coaching position, that persons coaching

certificate/card must be produced. Clubs should not accept verbal assurances in this

regard. It is a breach of this rule if actual proof of the persons coaching qualifications

is not viewed by a club prior to appointment.

Match Day Requirements

5.20.15 Coaches must have their coaches’ identification card visibly displayed at all times

whilst inside the spectator fence or rope.

MANAGERS

Responsibilities

Represent the team at club team meetings. Ensure the players are qualified and all rules and

requirements are adhered to by team members. Manage and correctly record details of all

games and other team related tasks. Generate character building within the team and

encourage respect and support for the junior league good behaviour rules and codes of

conduct.


5.20.16 Appoint team managers – It is necessary for each club to appoint a manager for each

team. Such team manager will be in charge of the team until the completion of the

match and a reasonable period thereafter. The team manager will be responsible for

the following:

5.20.16.1 Support the requirements as set out in the junior league rules in respect to

the proper compilation of match sign on sheets

5.20.16.2 If sign on sheets are not used in trial games the team manager should

prepare and retain a list of players and their jumper numbers who played

in the particular trial.

5.20.17 Response to demands – It will be a breach of junior league rules for any team

manager to refuse or fail to advise the name of any player or team official, whose

name appears on the match sign on sheet, to the ground manager, referee, touch

judge or other authorised official.

5.20.18 Team manager’s job description – All team managers are encouraged to make

themselves aware of the content of the section on match sign on sheets that appears

in the Junior League Competition Match Day Manual that is issued at the start of each

season to all club Secretaries.

5.20.19 All names to be correctly recorded – before each game commences, each team

manager shall check the identification cards of the opposing team to ensure all

players, coaches, trainers and team managers names are properly recorded on the

match sign on sheet and that all identification cards of the opposing team players are

in the ‘brag’ book.


5.20.19.1 Any exceptions should be immediately brought to the notice of the

opposing team manager and if any reasonable request is ignored or

refused, to the notice of the ground manager.

5.20.19.2 All exceptions should be reported to the Junior League Manager by way of

incident report prior to 5.00 pm the following Tuesday.

5.20.19.3 The name of the trainer who is in attendance at the ground as the Level 1

(or higher qualified) trainer shall be endorsed on the sign on sheet.

5.20.19.4 Recording and reporting exceptions – all team managers should write

details of any errors, omissions or anomalies that are observed on the back

of the sign on sheet and if necessary submit any major concerns to the

junior league Junior League Manager by way of incident report.

PLAYER

Responsibilities

Represent your team and your club in a sportsmanlike and professional manner and respect

opposition players, officials and other persons. Support and co-operate with your coach and

team officials and strive at all times to improve your skills and ability. Generate character

building within the team and encourage respect and support for the junior league good

behaviour rules and codes of conduct.

5.20.20 Players failing to appear at judiciary – any player failing to appear at judiciary or

conduct review without an acceptable explanation, in addition to being suspended

until they do appear, may be asked to show cause why he should not be suspended

for an additional number of matches.

5.20.21 Conduct review – players appearing at conduct review must take their player’s

identification card to the hearing with them. Failure to do this may result in

suspension until the card is produced.

5.20.22 Codes of conduct – any player convicted of a breach of the junior league rules, codes

of conduct and good behaviour rules, may face suspension, fine or other penalty.

TRAINER

Responsibilities

Ensure players reach and maintain required fitness levels and they enjoy a safe and healthy

training and playing environment. Generate character building within the team and encourage

respect and support for the junior league good behaviour rules and codes of conduct.


5.20.23 It shall be the responsibility of all clubs to ensure all club trainers are qualified and

experienced and/or enrolled in self-development initiatives with the Junior League.


5.20.23.1 All trainers will require at least the League Safe qualification or equivalent.

5.20.24 Every Junior League club must ensure there is at least one person present at each

venue when Junior league games are in progress with at least one of the following

qualifications: (i) Level 1 or 2 Sports Trainer, (ii) Registered Nurse, (iii) Doctor, (iv)

Ambulance Officer, (v) St. Johns First Aid Officer, or (vi) Others with similar

qualifications.

5.20.25 Trainers must be registered and qualified with the Junior League before they can have

any active involvement with any team.

5.20.26 All club trainers will be required to wear appropriate Junior League clothing, whilst

serving in a trainer’s capacity with each club. Clubs are not permitted to provide their

own trainers shirts. Loss of competition points may result if there are breaches of this

rule.

5.20.27 If the identification card of a trainer is not in the brag book on the official table the

person concerned will not be able to have any official involvement with any team in

the Junior League on that day.

5.20.28 Clubs will ensure that sponges, cloths and the like are not used by trainers when

servicing teams and that advice and recommendations from the Junior League in

regard to cleanliness, germ-free treatment and good health practices are observed.

5.20.29 The colour of trainers shirts are yellow for league safe, blue for level 1 and orange for

level 2.

5.20.30 The names of all trainers appointed by clubs should be advised to the junior league

office prior to the first competition match. Mid-season changes are also to be

advised.

5.20.31 If there are complaints directly about the action and/or attitude of a trainer of a team

(swearing, abusing, yelling at or ridiculing players referees, officials, encouraging

rough/unfair play etc.) and there is insufficient evidence to place the trainer before a

proper hearing (conduct review) the matter will be referred to the Junior League

Manager to take whatever action is deemed appropriate.

5.20.32 If a trainer is suspended for a serious breach of the rules or for using threatening or

offensive language to match officials, the trainer will be required to re-sit

accreditation (i.e. attend next trainers course) before returning to an active role as a

trainer.


5.21 UNAUTHORISED ENTRY ONTO PLAYING AREA ( ZERO TOLERANCE FIELD INVASION)

Any person (including coaches, trainers, players, managers, officials or other persons) who

enters inside the spectator fence (rope or spectator barrier) or on the playing field without

approval of the referee, ground manager or the Junior League Manager will be in breach of the

Junior League Rules.

Players on the reserve bench (or in the sin-bin) can only enter the field of play if they do so in

accordance with Junior League rules.

5.21.1 It will be a breach of the Junior League rules for any player to enter the field of play

from the reserve bench (or sin-bin) unless such entry is in accordance with Junior

League rules.

5.21.2 Any player on the reserve bench (or in the sin-bin) who makes an unauthorised entry

onto the playing field, upon conviction, may face a significant suspension and the

team may lose competition points.

5.21.3 Any player, team support staff (coach, trainer or manager) or other person who

during the progress of a game leaves the reserve bench/area (or the sin bin) and

moves towards the sideline or along the sideline in the direction of an altercation or

incident that may be taking place on the field will be in breach of the Junior League

rules.

5.21.4 The words ‘moves towards the sideline or along the sideline’ relate to anyone who

runs or makes a sudden departure from the reserve bench (or sin-bin) as a deliberate

reaction to an altercation or incident that has or is taking place.

5.21.5 Should any player or team official (not involved in the match) make an unauthorised

entry onto the playing field, during or immediately after a game, that person, upon

conviction may be suspended from all Junior League activity for a period of two years.

5.21.6 Should any spectator or other person make an unlawful entry onto the playing field

during or immediately after a game, upon conviction the registration of any of any

relative of that person (includes children who are registered players) may be

suspended for a period of twelve months.