EJA Rules 23/24 - Eastern Junior Alliance Football League

EASTERN JUNIOR ALLIANCE RULES 2023-24

(Sanctioned by Essex CFA)

DEFINITIONS

(A) In these Rules:

“Affiliated Association” means an Association accorded the status of an Affiliated Association under the rules of The FA.

“AGM” shall mean the annual general meeting held in accordance with the constitution of the Competition.

“Club” means a club for the time being in membership of the Competition.

“Competition” means the Eastern Junior Alliance League.

“Competition Match” means any match played or to be played under the jurisdiction of the Competition.

“Contract Player” means any Player (other than a Player on a Scholarship) who is eligible to play under a written contract of employment with a Club.

“Deposit” means a sum of money deposited with the Competition as part of the requirements of membership of the Competition.

“Fees Tariff” means a list of fees approved by the Clubs at a general meeting to be levied by the Management Committee for any matters for which fees are payable under the Rules, as set out at Schedule A.

“Fines Tariff” means a list of fines approved by the Clubs at a general meeting to be levied by the Management Committee for any breach of the Rules, as set out at Schedule A.

“Ground” means the ground on which the Club’s Team(s) plays its Competition Matches.

“Management Committee” means in the case of a Competition which is an unincorporated association, the management committee elected to manage the running of the Competition and where the Competition is incorporated it means the Board of Directors appointed in accordance with the articles of association of that company.

“Match Officials” means the referee, the assistant referees and any fourth official appointed to a Competition Match.

“Non-Contract Player” means any Player (other than a Player on a Scholarship) who is eligible to play for a Club but has not entered into a written contract of employment.

“Officer” means an individual who is appointed or elected to a position in a Club or Competition which requires that individual to make day to day decisions.

“Participant” shall have the same meaning as set out in the rules of The FA from time to time.

“Player” means any Contract Player, Non-Contract Player or other player who plays or who is eligible to play for a Club.

“Player Registration System” means The FA system to register players as determined by The FA from time to time.

“Playing Season” means the period between the date on which the first competitive fixture in the Competition is played each year until the date on which the last competitive fixture in the Competition is played.

“Rules” means these rules under which the Competition is administered.

“Sanctioning Authority” means the Essex County Football Association Limited.

“Scholarship” means a Scholarship as defined in The FA rules.

“Season” means the period of time between an AGM and the subsequent AGM.

“Secretary” means such person or persons appointed or elected to carry out the administration of the Competition.

“SGM” means a special general meeting held in accordance with the constitution of the Competition.

“Team” means a team affiliated to a Club, including where a Club provides more than one team in the Competition in accordance with the Rules.

“Team Sheet” means a form provided by the Competition on which the names of the Players taking part in a Competition match are listed.

“The FA” means The Football Association Limited.

“written” or “in writing” means the representation or reproduction of words or symbols or other information in a visible form by any method or combination of methods, whether sent or supplied in electronic form or otherwise.

“Youth Football” means those participating at ages under 11s to under 18s.

(B) Unless stated otherwise, terms referring to natural persons are applicable to all genders. Any term in the singular applies to the plural and vice-versa.

GOVERNANCE RULES

COMPETITION NAME AND CONSTITUTION

(A) The Competition will be known as the “Eastern Junior Alliance“ (or such other name as the Competition may adopt). The Clubs participating in the Competition must be members of the Competition. A Club which ceases to exist, or which ceases to be entitled to play in the Competition for any reason whatsoever shall thereupon automatically cease to be a member of the Competition.

(B) This Competition shall consist of not more than 100 Clubs approved by the Sanctioning Authority.

(C) The geographical area covered by the Competition membership shall be London and the Southeast and Eastern Counties of England. The member Clubs should be affiliated with one of these County FAs: Bedfordshire, Berks & Bucks, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Huntingdonshire, London, Middlesex, Norfolk, and Suffolk.

(D) The administration of the Competition under these Rules will be carried out by the Competition acting (save where otherwise specifically mentioned herein) through the Management Committee in accordance with the rules, regulations and policies of The FA.

(E) All Clubs shall adhere to the Rules. Every Club shall be deemed, as a member of the Competition to have accepted the Rules and to have agreed to abide by the decisions of the Management Committee in relation thereto, subject to the provisions of Rule 7.

(F) The Rules are taken from the Standard Code of Rules for Youth Competitions (the “Standard Code”) determined by The FA from time to time. In the event of any omissions from the Standard Code then the requirements of the Standard Code shall be deemed to apply to the Competition.

(G) All Clubs must be affiliated to an Affiliated Association and their names and particulars shall be returned annually by the appointed date in a manner prescribed by the Sanctioning Authority and must have a constitution approved by the Sanctioning Authority. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

This Competition shall apply annually for sanction to the Sanctioning Authority and the constituent Teams of Clubs may be grouped in divisions, each not exceeding 12 in number.

(H) Inclusivity and Non-discrimination

(i) The Competition and each Club must be committed to promoting inclusivity and to eliminating all forms of discrimination and should abide and adhere to The FA Equality Policy and any legislative requirements (to include those contained in the Equality Act2010).

(ii) This Competition and each Club must make every effort to promote equality by treating people fairly and with respect, by recognising that inequalities may exist, by taking steps to address them and by providing access and opportunities for all members of the community, irrespective of age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability or otherwise.

(iii) Any alleged breach of the Equality Act 2010 legislation must be referred to the appropriate Sanctioning Authority for investigation.

(I) Clubs must comply with the provisions of any initiatives of The FA which are adopted by the Competition including, but not limited to, England Football Accredited and RESPECT programmes. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(J) All Participants shall abide by The Football Association Regulations for Safeguarding Children as determined by The FA from time to time.

(K) Clubs shall not enter any of their Teams playing at a particular age group in the Competition in any other competition (with the exception of County FA Competitions) except with the written consent of the Management Committee. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(L) At the AGM or an SGM called for the purpose, a majority of the delegates present shall have power to decide or adjust the constitution of the divisions at their discretion. When necessary, this Rule shall take precedence over Rule 22.

(M) As an England Football Accredited League this Competition requires all its Clubs to have achieved England Football Accreditation status. New Member Clubs have three years to achieve this status. The League has the right to refuse membership to a Club if it fails to demonstrate commitment to achieving the award.

(N) This Competition and its Clubs shall support the FA’s Respect programme. As such it recognises that everyone in football has a collective responsibility to create a fair, safe and enjoyable environment in which the game can take place. A Respect League values the courtesy and fairness by opposing players, club officials and spectators. The League and its Clubs will seek to play fixtures in a fair, competitive environment.

CLUB NAME

Any Club wishing to change its name must obtain permission from the Sanctioning Authority and from the Management Committee. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

ENTRY FEE, SUBSCRIPTION, DEPOSIT

(A) Applications by Clubs for admission to the Competition or the entry of an additional Team(s) from the same Club must be made in writing to the Secretary by 30 April and must be accompanied by an entry fee per Team as set out in the Fees Tariff, which shall be returned in the event of non-election.

At the discretion of the voting members present applications, of which due notice has been given, may be received at the AGM or a SGM or on a date agreed by the Management Committee.

Applications for membership will only be accepted provided all applicants participate in the national pyramid system laid out by the Football Association. All Clubs must be Regional NLS Feeder League or above.

Except for in the Under 18’s, Any Club is only permitted to have one team in an age group.

Each Club applying for membership must have a minimum of two teams when applying to join the Eastern Junior Alliance and must maintain at least two teams to remain in membership.

(B) The annual subscription shall be payable in accordance with the Fees Tariff per Club/Team and shall be payable on or before 15^th August in each year.

(C) A Deposit of £100 shall be payable in accordance with the Fees Tariff per Club and shall be payable on application to join. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(D) A Club shall not participate in this Competition until the entry fee, annual subscription and Deposit (if required) have been paid.

(E) If requested by the Competition, Clubs must advise annually to the Secretary in writing by 7th July of its Sanctioning Authority affiliation number for the forthcoming Playing Season. Clubs must advise the Secretary in writing, or on the prescribed form, of details of its headquarters, its Officers and any other information required by the Competition. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(F) An all-female team can apply to the Competition to play an age group down in a mixed gender competition, subject to rule 8(A)(iii) & (iv) and provided the team has obtained approval from its Sanctioning Authority.

(G) If a Club pulls out a team after the constitution has been agreed but before the season has begun will be charged in line with the fines tariff and lose their team entry. If by withdrawing a team the Club falls below the two team requirements, all teams will need to be withdrawn and the relevant fines applied to each team.

MANAGEMENT, NOMINATION, ELECTION

(A) The Management Committee shall comprise the Officers of the Competition and up to five members who shall all be elected at the AGM.

The Officers of the Competition shall be the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary, Registration Secretary, Referees Secretary, Welfare Officer, Fixtures Secretary, Assistant Treasurer, Assistant Secretary, Assistant Referees Secretary, Media Manager, Disciplinary Secretary, Development Officers (Areas), Facilities Officer (Areas), Cups Secretary and Results Secretary to be elected annually at the AGM. (N.B. Auditors/Verifiers are not Officers).

(B) Retiring Officers shall be eligible to become candidates for re-election without nomination provided that the Officer notifies the Secretary in writing not later than 30th April in each year.

All other candidates for election as Officers of the Competition or members of the Management Committee shall be nominated to the Secretary in writing, signed by the secretaries of two Clubs, not later than 30^th April in each year. Names of the candidates for election shall be circulated with the notice of the AGM. In the event of there being no nomination in accordance with the foregoing for any office, nominations may be received at the AGM.

(C) The Management Committee shall meet as and when required, save that no more than three calendar months shall pass between each meeting.

On receiving a requisition signed by two-thirds (2/3) of the members of the Management Committee the Secretary shall convene a meeting of the Management Committee.

(D) Except where otherwise mentioned all communications shall be addressed to the Secretary who shall conduct the correspondence of the Competition and keep a record of its proceedings.

(E) All communications received from Clubs must be conducted through their Officers and sent to the Secretary.

Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

POWERS OF MANAGEMENT

(A) The Management Committee may appoint sub-committees and delegate such of their powers as they deem necessary. The decisions of all sub-committees shall be reported to the Management Committee for ratification. The Management Committee shall have power to deal only with matters within the Competition and not for any matters of misconduct that are under the jurisdiction of The FA or Affiliated Association.

(B) Subject to the permission of the Sanctioning Authority having been obtained the Management Committee may order a match or matches to be played each Season, the proceeds to be devoted to the funds of the Competition and, if necessary, may call upon each Club (including any club which may have withdrawn during the Season) to contribute equally such sums as may be necessary to meet any deficiency at the end of the Season.

(C) Each member of the Management Committee shall have the right to attend and vote at all Management Committee meetings and have one vote thereat, but no member shall be allowed to vote on any matters directly appertaining to such member or to the Club so represented or where there may be a conflict of interest. (This shall also apply to the procedure of any sub-committee).

In the event of the voting being equal on any matter, the Chairman of the Management Committee shall have a second or casting vote.

(D) The Management Committee shall have powers to apply, act upon and enforce these Rules and shall also have jurisdiction over all matters affecting the Competition. Any action by the Competition must be taken within 28 days of the Competition being notified.

With the exception of Rules 6(I), 8(H) and 9, for all alleged breaches of a Rule the Management Committee shall issue a formal written charge to the Club concerned. The Club charged shall be given 7 days from the date of notification of the charge to reply. In such reply a Club may:-

(i) Accept the charge and submit in writing a case of mitigation for consideration by the Management Committee on the papers; or

(ii) Accept the charge and notify that it wishes to put its case of mitigation at a hearing before the Management Committee; or

(iii) Deny the charge and submit in writing supporting evidence for consideration by the Management Committee on the papers; or

(iv) Deny the charge and notify that it wishes to put its case at a hearing before the Management Committee.

Where the Club charged fails to respond within 7 days, the Management Committee shall determine the charge in such manner and upon such evidence as it considers appropriate.

Where required, hearings shall take place as soon as reasonably practicable following receipt of the reply of the Club as more fully set out above.

Having considered the reply of the Club (whether in writing or at a hearing), the Management Committee shall make its decision and, in the event that the charge is accepted or proven, decide on the appropriate penalty (with reference to the Fines Tariff where applicable).

The maximum fine permitted for any breach of a Rule is £100 and, when setting any fine, the Management Committee must ensure that the penalty is proportional to the offence, taking into account any mitigating circumstances.

No Participant under the age of 18 can be fined.

All breaches of the Laws of the Game or the Rules and Regulations of The FA shall be dealt with in accordance with FA Rules by the appropriate Association.

(E) All decisions of the Management Committee shall be binding subject to the right of appeal in accordance with Rule7.

Decisions of the Management Committee must be notified in writing to those concerned within 7 days.

(F) 50% of its members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business by the Management Committee or any sub-committee thereof.

(G) The Management Committee, as it may deem necessary, shall have power to fill, in an acting capacity, any vacancies that may occur amongst their number.

(H) A Club must comply with an order or instruction of the Management Committee and must attend to the business and/or the correspondence of the Competition to the satisfaction of the Management Committee. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(I) Subject to a Club’s right of appeal in accordance with Rule 7 below, all fines and charges must be paid within 14 days of the date of notification of the decision.

Any Club failing to do so will be fined in accordance with the Fines Tariff. Further failure to pay the fine including the additional fine within a further 14 days will result in fixtures being withdrawn until such time as the outstanding fines are paid.

(J) A member of the Management Committee appointed by the Competition to attend a meeting or Competition Match may have any reasonable expenses incurred refunded by the Competition.

(K) The Management Committee shall have the power to fill any vacancy that may occur in the membership of the Competition between the AGM or SGM called to decide the constitution and the commencement of the Playing Season.

(L) The business of the Competition as determined by the Management Committee may be transacted by electronic mail or facsimile.

PROTESTS, CLAIMS, COMPLAINTS, APPEALS

(A) (i) All questions of eligibility, qualification of Players or interpretations of the Rules shall be referred to the Management Committee or a sub-committee duly appointed by the Management Committee.

(ii) Objections relevant to the dimensions of the pitch, goals, flag posts or other facilities of the venue will not be entertained by the Management Committee unless a protest is lodged with the referee before the commencement of the Competition Match.

(B) Except in cases where the Management Committee decide that there are special circumstances, protests and complaints (which must contain full particulars of the grounds upon which they are founded) must be lodged with the Secretary within seven days (excluding Sundays) of the Competition Match or occurrence to which they refer. A protest or complaint shall not be withdrawn except by permission of the Management Committee. A member of the Management Committee who is a member of any Club involved shall not be present (except as a witness or representative of his Club) when such protest or complaint is being determined.

(C) No protest of whatever kind shall be considered by the Management Committee unless the complaining Club shall have deposited with the Secretary a sum in accordance with the Fees Tariff. This may be forfeited in whole or in part in the event of the complaining or protesting Club losing its case. The Competition shall have power to order the defaulting Club or the Club making a losing or frivolous protest or complaint to pay the expenses of the inquiry or to order that the costs to be shared by the parties.

(D) All parties to a protest or complaint must receive a copy of the submission and must be afforded an opportunity to make a statement at least 7 days prior to the protest or complaint being heard.

(i) All parties must have received seven days’ notice of the hearing should they be instructed to attend.

(ii) Should a Club elect to state its case in person then it should forward a deposit of £10.00 and indicate such when forwarding the written response.

(E) The Management Committee shall also have power to compel any party to the protest to pay such expenses as the Management Committee shall direct.

(F) Any appeal against a decision of the Management Committee must be lodged with the Sanctioning Authority within 14 days of the posting of the written notification of the decision causing the appeal, accompanied by a fee as set out in the Fees Tariff, which may be forfeited in the event of the appeal not being upheld. A copy of the appeal must also be sent to the Secretary. The procedure for the appeal shall be determined by the Sanctioning Authority, in such respect the Sanctioning Authority may (but is not obliged to):

(i) invite submissions by the parties involved; or

(ii) convene a hearing to hear the appeal; or

(iii) permit new evidence; or

(iv) impose deadlines as are appropriate.

Any appeal shall not involve a rehearing of the evidence considered by the Management Committee.

(G) No appeal can be lodged against a decision taken at an AGM or SGM unless this is on the ground of unconstitutional conduct

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

(A) The AGM shall be held not later than 30th June in each year. At this meeting, the following business shall be transacted provided that at least 50% of members are present and entitled to vote:-

(i) To receive and confirm the minutes of the preceding AGM.

(ii) To receive and adopt the annual report, balance sheet and statement of accounts.

(iii) Election of Clubs to fill vacancies.

(iv) Confirm a date for when an SGM will be held to agree the Constitution of the Competition for the ensuing Season.

(v) Election of Officers of the Competition and the Management Committee members.

(vi) Appointment of auditors/verifiers.

(vii) Alteration of Rules, if any (see Rule14).

(viii) Fix the date for the commencement of the Playing Season.

(ix) Fix the date for the end of the Playing Season.

(x) Confirm which dates will be non-playing weekends

(xi) Other business of which due notice shall have been given and accepted as being relevant to an AGM.

(B) A copy of the duly audited/verified balance sheet, statement of accounts and agenda shall be forwarded to each Club at least 14 days prior to the meeting together with any proposed Rule changes.

(C) A signed copy of the duly audited/verified balance sheet and statement of accounts shall be sent to the Sanctioning Authority within 14 days of its adoption by the AGM.

(D) Each Club shall be empowered to send two delegates to an AGM. Each Club shall be entitled to one vote only. Fourteen days’ notice shall be given of any AGM.

(E) Clubs who have withdrawn their membership of the Competition during the Playing Season being concluded or who are not continuing membership shall be entitled to attend but shall vote only on matters relating to the Season being concluded. This provision will not apply to Clubs expelled in accordance with Rule12.

(F) All voting shall be conducted by a show of voting indicators unless a ballot be demanded by at least 50% of the delegates qualified to vote or the Chair so decides.

(G) No individual shall be entitled to vote on behalf of more than one Club.

(H) Any continuing Club must be represented at the AGM. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(I) Officers of the Competition and Management Committee members shall be entitled to attend and vote at an AGM, but cannot also cast a vote on behalf of a Club (see Rule 8 (G))

(J) Where a Competition is an incorporated entity, the Officers of the Competition shall ensure that the Articles of Association of the Competition are consistent with the requirements of these Rules.

SPECIAL GENERAL MEETINGS

(A) Upon receiving a requisition signed by two-thirds (2/3) of the Clubs in membership the Secretary shall call an SGM.

(B) The Management Committee may call an SGM at any time.

(C) At least seven (7) days’ notice shall be given of a meeting under this Rule, together with an agenda of the business to be transacted at such meeting.

(D) Each Club shall be empowered to send two delegates to all SGMs. Each Club shall be entitled to one vote only.

(E) Any Club failing to be represented at an SGM shall be fined in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(F) Officers of the Competition and Management Committee members shall be entitled to attend and vote at all SGMs, but cannot also cast a vote on behalf of a Club (see Rule 9 (D)).

AGREEMENT TO BE SIGNED

Each Club shall complete and sign the following agreement which shall be deposited with the Competition together with the application for membership for the coming Season, or upon indicating that the Club intends to compete.

“We, [name] of [address] (Chairman/Director) and [name] of [address] (Secretary/Director) of [ ] Football Club (Limited) have been provided with a copy of the Rules and Regulations of the Eastern Junior Alliance Competition and do hereby agree for and on behalf of the said Club, if elected or accepted into membership, to conform to those Rules and Regulations and to accept, abide by and implement the decisions of the Management Committee of the Competition, subject to the right of appeal in accordance with Rule 7.”

The agreement shall be signed by the Club Chairman and Secretary (where a Club is an unincorporated association) or two Directors of the Club (where a Club is an incorporated entity)

Note: By signing the above agreement you are agreeing to abide by the FA Respect programme and its Codes of Conduct and the Codes of Conduct of the Eastern Junior Alliance League.

Any alteration of the Chair / Secretary / Directors of the Club on the above agreement must be notified to the County Football Association(s) to which the Club is affiliated and to the Secretary.

Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

CONTINUATION OF MEMBERSHIP, WITHDRAWAL OF A CLUB

(A) Any Club intending, or having a provisional intention, to withdraw a Team from the Competition must do so at least 35 days before the AGM. This does not apply to a Club moving in accordance with Rule 22(B). Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(B) The Management Committee shall have the discretion to deal with a Team being unable to start or complete its fixtures for a Playing Season, including but not limited to, issuing a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(C) Notwithstanding the powers of the Management Committee pursuant to Rule 6(I), in the event of a Club failing to discharge all its financial obligations to the Competition in excess of £50, the Management Committee shall be empowered to refer the debt under The FA Football Debt Recovery provisions.

EXCLUSION OF CLUBS OR TEAM. MISCONDUCT OF CLUBS, OFFICERS, PLAYERS, MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

(A) At the AGM or SGM called for the purpose in accordance with the provisions of Rule 9, notice of motion having been duly circulated on the agenda by direction of the Management Committee, the accredited delegates present shall have the power to: (i) remove a member of the Management Committee from office, (ii) exclude any Club or Team from membership, both of which must be supported by more than two-thirds (2/3) of those present and voting. Voting on this point shall be conducted by ballot. A member of the Management Committee or Club which is the subject of the vote being taken shall be excluded from voting.

(B) At the AGM, or at an SGM called for the purpose in accordance with the provisions of Rule 9, the accredited delegates present shall have the power to exclude from further participation in the Competition any Club or Team whose conduct has, in their opinion, been undesirable, which must be supported by more than two-thirds (2/3) of those present and voting. Voting on this point shall be conducted by ballot. A Club whose conduct is the subject of the vote being taken shall be excluded from voting.

(C) Any Officer or member of a Club proved guilty of either a breach of Rule, other than field offences, or of inducing or attempting to induce a Player or Players of another Club in the Competition to join them shall be liable to such penalty as a General Meeting or Management Committee may decide, and their Club shall also be liable to expulsion in accordance with the provisions of clauses (A) and/or (B) of this Rule.

TROPHY

(A) The following agreement shall be signed on behalf of the winners of the cup or trophy: –

“We A [name] and B [name], the Chairman and Secretary of [ ] FC(Limited), members of and representing the Club, having been declared winners of [ ] cup or trophy, and it having been delivered to us by the Competition, do hereby on behalf of the Club jointly and severally agree to return the cup or trophy to the Competition Secretary on or before [ ]. If the cup or trophy is lost or damaged whilst under our care, we agree to refund to the Competition the amount of its current value or the cost of its thorough repair.”

Failure to comply will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

Trophies not returned by the date specified in the agreement will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

Any Club failing to engrave trophies or return the trophies in a clean state, which they have won, with their name and the season which they won same, will be fined in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(B) At the close of each Competition awards may/shall be made to the winners and runners-up if the funds of the Competition permit.

ALTERATION TO RULES

Alterations, for which consent has been given by the Sanctioning Authority, shall be made to these Rules only at the AGM or at an SGM specially convened for the purpose called in accordance with Rule 9. Any alteration made during the Playing Season to these Rules shall not take effect until the following Playing Season, except in exceptional circumstances where approved by the Sanctioning Authority and The FA.

Notice of proposed alterations to be considered at the AGM shall be submitted to the Secretary by 1st April in each year. The proposals, together with any proposals by the Management Committee, shall be circulated to the Clubs 28 days before the AGM and any amendments thereto shall be submitted to the Secretary by 7 days before the AGM. The proposals and proposed amendments thereto shall be circulated to Clubs with the notice of the AGM. A proposal to change a Rule shall be carried if a majority of those present, entitled to vote and voting are in favour.

A copy of the proposed alterations to Rules to be considered at the AGM or SGM shall be submitted to the Sanctioning Authority at least 28 days prior to the date of the meeting.

FINANCE

15. (A) The Management Committee shall determine with which bank or other financial institution the funds of the Competition will be lodged.

(B) All expenditure in excess of £500 shall be approved by the Finance Sub Committee. Cheques shall be signed by at least two Officers nominated by the Management Committee.

(C) The financial year of the Competition will end on 31st March.

(D) The books, or a certified balance sheet, of a Competition shall be prepared and shall be verified annually by a suitably qualified person(s) who shall be appointed at the AGM.

(E) Honoraria, if paid, must be agreed at the AGM and relate to the Playing Season just concluded. The Management Committee shall recommend which Officers may receive honoraria and the level of payment. All the above to be detailed on the AGM paperwork under “Any other business” (Rule 8(A)(x)).our Content Goes Here

INSURANCE

(A) All Clubs must have valid public liability insurance cover of at least ten million pounds (£10,000,000) at all times.

(B) All Clubs must have valid personal accident cover for all Players registered with them from time to time. The Players’ personal accident insurance cover must be in place prior to the Club taking part in any Competition Match and shall be at least equal to the minimum recommended cover determined from time to time by the Sanctioning Authority. In instances where The FA is the Sanctioning Authority, the minimum recommended cover will be the cover required by the Affiliated Association to which a Club affiliates.

Failure to comply with Rule 16(A) or 16(B) will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

DISSOLUTION

(A) Dissolution of the Competition shall be by resolution approved at an SGM by a majority of three quarters (3/4) of the members present and shall take effect from the date of the relevant SGM.

(B) In the event of the dissolution of the Competition, the members of the Management Committee are responsible for the winding up of the assets and liabilities of the Competition.

(C) The Management Committee shall deal with any surplus assets as follows:

(i) Any surplus assets, save for a trophy or any other presentation, remaining after the discharge of the debts and liabilities of the Competition shall be transferred only to another Competition or Affiliated Association or the Essex County Football Association Benevolent Fund or to such other charitable or benevolent object in the locality of the Competition as determined by resolution at or before the time of winding up, and approved in writing by the Sanctioning Authority.

(ii) If a Competition is discontinued for any reason a trophy or any other presentation shall be returned to the donor if the conditions attached to it so provide or, if not, dealt with as the Sanctioning Authority may decide.

MATCH RELATED RULES

QUALIFICATION OF PLAYERS

(A) A Player is one who, being in all other respects eligible, has:-

(i) registered through the FA Player Registration System and received approval from the Competition.

If a Club attempts to register a player via the Player Registration System but does not fully and correctly complete the necessary information via the Player Registration System, the registration will not be processed.

Clubs must access the Player Registration System in order to complete the registration process. The registration submission must incorporate a current passport-size photograph of the Player seeking registration together with confirmation that the Player’s proof of date of birth has been checked by the Club and is accurate.

Clubs must submit any registration before 7pm on the Friday before a Sunday fixture, any registration request received after this time will not be considered until 9am Monday following,

Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(B) (i) Contract Players are not permitted in this Competition with the exception of those Players who are registered under contract with the same Club who have a Team operating at Steps 1 to 6 of the National League System.

It is the responsibility of each Club to ensure that any Player registered to the Club has, where necessary, the required International Transfer Certificate. Clearance is required for any Player aged 10 and over crossing borders including Wales, Scotland and Ireland.

(ii) A Player registered with a Premier League or English Football League Academy under the Elite Player Performance Plan contained within Youth Development Rules will not be permitted to play in this Competition. Details of the Youth Development Rules are published on The FA website. A Player registered with a FA Girls’ Regional Talent Club may play in this Competition subject to the FA Programme for Excellence (Female) Regulations.

(iii) Each Team must have the following number of Players registered fourteen days before the start of each Playing Season:

11v11 format: 16 players

Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(C) A child who has not attained the age of 6 shall not play, and shall not be permitted or encouraged to play, in a match of any kind.

The relevant age for each Player is determined by his or her age as at midnight on 31 August of the relevant Playing Season i.e., children who are aged 6 as at midnight on 31 August in a Playing Season (together with those who attain the age of 6 during the Playing Season) will be classed as Under 7 Players for that Playing Season. Children who are aged 7 as at midnight on 31 August in a Playing Season will be classed as Under8 Players for that Playing Season, and so on.

Notwithstanding the above, a child is permitted to play up in the age group above his or her chronological age group, irrespective of any changes of format or competition structure, save that a child who attains the age of 6 after 31 August is permitted to play only in the Under 7 age group, and may not play in the Under 8 age group, for that Playing Season. Girls in all female teams may also be permitted to play an age group down in accordance with Rule 4(F).

The age groups that children are eligible to play in are set out in the table below, subject to Rule 4(F), along with the permitted football formats for each of those age groups. Children shall not play, and shall not be permitted or encouraged to play, in a match between sides of more than the stated number of players, according to their age group:

Age on 31 August	Eligible Age Groups	Maximum Permitted Format	Minimum Pitch Size		Maximum Pitch Size		Goal Size	Ball Size
Age on 31 August	Eligible Age Groups	Maximum Permitted Format	yards	metres	yards	metres	feet	Ball Size
11	Under 13	11v11	90 x 50	82.3 x 45.75	100 x 60	91.44 x 54.9	21×7	4
12	Under 13	11v11	90 x 50	82.3 x 45.75	100 x 60	91.44 x 54.9	21×7	4
12	Under 14	11v11	90 x 50	82.3 x 45.75	100 x 60	91.44 x 54.9	21×7	4
13	Under 14	11v11	90 x 50	82.3 x 45.75	100 x 60	91.44 x 54.9	21×7	4
13	Under 15	11v11	90 x 50	82.3 x 45.75	110 x 70	100.58 x 64	24×8	5
14	Under 15	11v11	90 x 50	82.3 x 45.75	110 x 70	100.58 x 64	24×8	5
14	Under 16	11v11	90 x 50	82.3 x 45.75	110 x 70	100.58 x 64	24×8	5
15	Under 16	11v11	90 x 50	82.3 x 45.75	110 x 70	100.58 x 64	24×8	5
	Under 17	11v11	100 x 50	91.44 x 45.75	130 x 100	118.87 x 91.44	24×8	5
	Under 18	11v11	100 x 50	91.44 x 45.75	130 x 100	118.87 x 91.44	24×8	5
16	Under 17	11v11	100 x 50	91.44 x 45.75	130 x 100	118.87 x 91.44	24×8	5
	Under 18	11v11	100 x 50	91.44 x 45.75	130 x 100	118.87 x 91.44	24×8	5
	Open Age	11v11	100 x 50	91.44 x 45.75	130 x 100	118.87 x 91.44	24×8	5

(D) A fee as set out in the Fees Tariff shall be paid by each Club/Team for each Player registered, if applicable.

Each team will deposit the sum of £80 fourteen days prior to the commencement of the season to cover the minimum number of required players (16). Any further registrations will be invoiced on the 1st of November 15th January and 1stApril of that season. Failure to comply with this rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(E) The Management Committee shall decide all registration disputes taking into account the following.

(i) A Player shall not be permitted to register for more than one Club subject to the exceptions set out in Rule 18 (E)(iii) below.

(ii) In the event of a Player signing a registration form or having a registration submitted for more than one Club priority of registration shall decide for which Club the Player shall be registered. The (Registrations) Secretary shall notify the Club last applying to register the Player of the fact of the previous registration subject to the exceptions set out in Rule 18 (E)(iii) below.

(iii) A Player is only permitted to register for more than one Club provided that:

(a) The Teams in which the Player plays are not in the same age group; or

(b) Except for the purpose of a transfer

and the Player meets the requirements in Rule 18(C).

(F) It shall be a breach of these Rules for a Player to: –

(i) Play for more than one Team in the same age group in the Competition in the same Playing Season without first being transferred.

(ii) Having registered for one Club in the Competition, register for another Club in the Competition in that Playing Season, except if the provisions set out in Rule 18 (E)(iii) apply, or where the Competition adopts Rule 18 (P).

(iii) Submit a signed registration form or submit a registration through the Player Registration System for registration that the Player had wilfully neglected to accurately or fully complete.

Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(G) (i) The Management Committee shall have the power to accept the registration of any Player subject to the provisions of Rule 18(G)(ii) and (iii)below.

(ii) The Management Committee shall have power to refuse, cancel or suspend the registration of any Player, the exercise of such power being without prejudice to the Management Committee’s ability to fine a Club at its discretion (in accordance with the Fines Tariff) that has been charged and found guilty of registration irregularities (subject to Rule 7).

(iii) The Management Committee shall have the power to refuse or cancel the registration of any Player charged and found guilty of undesirable conduct (subject to Rule 7) subject to the right of appeal to the Sanctioning Authority. Where the Management Committee does not have enough information to enable it to make a decision pursuant to the above power, it may apply, in its absolute discretion, to the Sanctioning Authority for further information.

Undesirable conduct shall mean an incident of repeated proven misconduct, which may deter a Participant from being involved in this Competition.

(iv) For a Player who has previously had a registration removed in accordance with Rule 18(G)(iii) but has a registration accepted at the expiry of exclusion will be considered to be under a probationary period of 12 months. Whilst under a probationary period, should the Player commit a further act of proven misconduct under the jurisdiction of the Competition, (excluding standard dismissals), the Competition would be empowered to consider a further charge of bringing the Competition into disrepute.

(Note: Action under Rule 18(G)(iii) shall only be taken against a Player in cases of the Player bringing the Competition into disrepute and will in any event be subject to an appeal to the Sanctioning Authority. All decisions must include the period of restriction. For the purpose of this Rule, bringing the Competition into disrepute can only be considered where the Player has received in excess of 112 days’ suspension, or 10 matches in match-based discipline, in any competition (and is not restricted to the Competition) in a period of two years or less from the date of the first offence.)

(H) Subject to compliance with FA Rule C when a Club wishes to register a player who is already registered with another club it shall submit a transfer form (in a format as determined by the Competition) to the Competition accompanied by a fee as set out in the Fees Tariff. Such transfer shall be referred by the Competition to the club for which the player is registered. Should this club object to the transfer it should state its objections in writing to the Competition and to the player concerned within 3 days of receipt of the notification. Upon receipt of the Club’s consent, or upon its failure to give written objection within 3 days, the Secretary may, on behalf of the Management Committee, transfer the player who shall be deemed eligible to play for the new Club from such date or fourteen days after receipt of such transfer.

In the event of an objection to a transfer the matter shall be referred to the Management Committee for a decision.

(I) A Player may not be registered for a Club nor transferred to another Club in the Competition after 6pm on the 31 March except by special permission of the Management Committee, which will only be given in exceptional circumstances.

(J) A Club shall keep a list of the Players it registers and a record of all matches in which those Players have played for the Club and shall produce such records upon demand by the Management Committee.

In the event a Club has more than one Team in an age group, each Team must be clearly identifiable but not designated ‘A’ or ‘B’ or 1st or 2nd. In such cases, Players will be registered for one Team only. A Player so registered will be allowed to play for his Club in a younger or older age group within the provisions of Rule 18(C).

(K) A register containing the names of all Players registered for each Club, with the date of registration, shall be kept by the (Registrations) Secretary and shall be open to the inspection of an Officer of the Club at all Management Committee meetings or at other times mutually arranged. Registrations are valid for one Playing Season only.

In the event of a Non-Contract Player changing his status to that of a Contract Player with the same Club, another Club in the Competition or with a club in another competition his registration as a Non-Contract Player will automatically be cancelled and declared void unless the Club conforms to the exception detailed in Rule 18(B)(i).

(L) A Player shall not be eligible to play for a Team in any special championship, promotion or relegation deciding Competition Match (as specified in Rule 22(A)) unless the Player has played four Competition Matches for that Team in the current Playing Season.

(M) A Team shall not include more than 8 Players who have taken part in six or more senior Competition Matches during the current Playing Season unless a period of 21 days has elapsed since they last played.

For the purpose of this Rule a senior competition(s) is any competition at Step 5 or above of the National League System.

Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(N) (i) Subject to Rule 18(N)(ii), any Club found to have played an ineligible Player in a Competition Match or Matches where points are awarded shall have the points gained from that Competition Match deducted from its record, up to a maximum of 12 points, and have levied upon it a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(ii) The Management Committee may vary the sanction as relates to the deduction of points set out at Rule 18(N)(i) only in circumstances where the ineligibility is due to the failure to obtain an International Transfer Certificate or where the ineligibility is related to the Player’s status.

(iii) Where a Club is found to have played an ineligible Player in accordance with Rule 18(N)(i) above, the Management Committee may also, at its discretion:

(a) Award the points available in the Competition Match in question to the opponents, subject to the Competition Match not being ordered to be replayed; or

(b) Levy penalty points against the Club in default; or

(c) Order that such Competition Match or Matches be replayed (on such terms as are decided by the Management Committee).

(The following clause applies to Competitions involving Players in full-time secondary education):-

(O) (i) Priority must be given at all times to school and school organisations activities. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(ii) The availability of children must be cleared with their head teacher (except for Sunday league competitions).

(iii) A child under the age of 15 as at midnight on 31 August in the relevant Playing Season, shall not be permitted to play in a Competition Match during that Playing Season where any other Player is older or younger than that child by two years or more.

(P) If a Club wishes to cancel a Player’s registration within the Competition, it must make a request via The FA’s electronic player registration system giving the reasons for the request. The Competition may either approve or decline the request.

If a Player’s registration is cancelled, he/she will not be eligible to play in the Competition for a period of [x] days from the date of cancellation.

(R) Teams must have with them at any game played under the Management of the League, a laminated copy of the Player Registration System Squad List with photographs and a completed Match card. These must be exchanged by the two competing Clubs before the match and returned on conclusion. They must also be produced on demand to any League Official. Failure to observe this procedure or failure to produce the registration cards when requested shall render the Club liable to a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff) and to such other action as may be decided by the Management Committee. If a Club does not have the Player Registration System Squad List, a protest must be lodged in accordance with Rule 7 for adjudication by the Management Committee. If any irregularity is found, the matter will be dealt with by the Management Committee as provided by the Rules of this Competition on player eligibility (Rule 18).

CLUB COLOURS

Every Team must register the colour of its shirts and shorts with the Secretary by 7th July who shall decide as to their suitability.

Any Team wishing to change its colours during the Playing Season must obtain permission from the Management Committee.

Goalkeepers must wear colours which distinguish them from all other Players and the Match Officials.

No Player, including the goalkeeper, shall be permitted to wear black or very dark shirts.

Any Team not being able to play in its normal colours as registered with the Competition shall notify its opponents the colours in which they will play (including the colours of the goalkeeper jersey) at least five days before the Competition Match.

If, in the opinion of the referee, two Teams have the same or similar colours, the away Team shall make the change. Should a Team delay the scheduled time of kick-off for a Competition Match by not having a change of colours they will be fined in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

Shirts must all be numbered differently, failing which a fine will be levied in accordance with the Fines Tariff. Names of Youth Players shall not appear on the shirts.

The Secretary of the Competition may request shirts to be submitted if complaints are received as to lack of distinguishing colours, and the Management Committee may refuse to permit any shirts or shorts as they think fit.

PLAYING SEASON. CONDITIONS OF PLAY, TIMES OF KICK-OFF, POSTPONEMENTS, SUBSTITUTES

(A) All Competition Matches shall be played in accordance with the Laws of the Game as determined by the International Football Association Board or, for Mini-Soccer, and 9v9 football, the Rules as set down by The FA.

Clubs must take all reasonable precautions to keep their Grounds in a playable condition. All Competition Matches shall be played on pitches deemed suitable by the Management Committee. If through any fault of the home Team a Competition Match has to be replayed, the Management Committee shall have power to order the venue to be changed.

The Management Committee shall have power to decide whether a pitch and/or facilities are suitable for Competition Matches and to order the Club concerned to play its Competition Matches on another ground.

Football Turf Pitches (3G) are allowed in this Competition provided they meet the required performance standards and are listed on the FA’s Register of Football Turf Pitches. All Football Turf Pitches used must be tested (by a FIFA accredited test institute) every three years and the results passed to The FA. The FA will give a decision on the suitability for use and add the pitch to the Register.

The home Club is also responsible for advising Participants of footwear requirements when confirming match arrangements in accordance with Rule20(C).

Overhead netting is allowed for 5v5 and 7v7 mini soccer if the overhead netting height is at a minimum of 6m.

No overhead netting is allowed for 9v9 and 11v11 affiliated matches.

Overhead wires used to support pitch divider netting are ideally removed for affiliated matches but if they cannot be removed then discretion is given to the match official to restart the match in accordance with the laws of the game.

All Competition Matches shall have a duration as set out below unless a shorter time is mutually arranged by the two Clubs in consultation with the referee prior to the commencement of the Competition Match, and in any event shall be of equal halves.

Competition Matches should be played in accordance with the Laws appropriate to the relevant age group, as laid down by The FA, as detailed below.

Under 13 and Under 14:

Duration of play per half: 25-35 minutes

Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 100 minutes

Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 150 minutes

Structure: Any varieties including one season long league table

In this Competition the duration of play shall be 70 minutes (35 minutes each half).

Under 15 and Under 16:

Duration of play per half: 25-40 minutes

Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 100 minutes

Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 150 minutes

Structure: Any varieties including one season long league table

In this Competition the duration of play shall be 80 minutes (40 minutes each half).

Under 17 and Under 18:

Duration of play per half: 25-45 minutes

Max playing time per day (organised development fixtures): 120 minutes

Max playing time per day (tournaments, trophy events/festivals): 180 minutes

Structure: Any varieties including one season long league table

In this Competition the duration of play shall be 90 minutes (45 minutes each half).

For round robin / trophy events, the maximum duration of play per half cannot be exceeded, but the minimum duration of play per half may be adjusted.

For trophy events, the Competition may award mementos.

The times of kick-off shall be fixed at the AGM and can only be altered by the mutual consent of the two competing Clubs prior to the scheduled date of the Competition match with written notification given to the Competition Secretary at least 7 days prior.

Unless by prior agreement by both teams and the match referee, the match duration will be as above (maximum duration per half). In addition, kick-off times must be between 10.00am and 2.00pm – unless by prior agreement of both teams in writing.

Referees must order Competition Matches to commence at the appointed time and must report all late starts to the Competition.

The home Team must provide goal nets, corner flags and at least two footballs fit for play and the referee shall make a report to the Competition if the footballs are unsuitable. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

Goal nets must be used. Failure to comply with this rule will incur a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

Two footballs of the type authorised by the Competition must be provided to the match referee in their changing room at least fifteen minutes before play commences. The size of football to be used: size 4 for those playing under 13 and 14 age groups; size 5 for all other age groups.

Each team must purchase four match balls from the league of the type that have been approved by the Clubs and Management Committee.

(B) Except by permission of the Management Committee all Competition Matches must be played on the dates originally fixed but priority shall be given to The FA and parent County Association Cup Competitions. All other matches must be considered secondary. Clubs may mutually agree to bring forward a Competition Match with the consent of the (Fixtures) Secretary. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

Each team shall up to two free Sundays of their choice. 30 days notice must be given in writing to the relevant fixture secretary

This is in addition to Christmas Day, New year’s Day and Easter Sunday.

In the case of a revised fixture date, the Clubs must be given by the Competition 5 clear days’ notice of the Competition Match (unless otherwise mutually agreed).

(C) An Officer of the home Club must ensure that the kick off times are input into Full Time before 8am Monday mornings and give notice of full particulars of the location of, and access to, the Ground and time of kick-off to the Match Officials and an Officer of the opposing Club at least five clear days prior to the playing of the Competition Match. If not so provided, the away Club and Match Officials shall seek such details and report the circumstances to the Competition. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(D) The minimum number of Players that will constitute a Team for a Competition Match is as follows:

11v11 format: 7 players

(E) (i) In competitions where points are awarded, home and away matches shall be played. In the event of a Club failing to keep its engagement the Management Committee shall have the power to impose a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff), deduct points from the defaulting Club, award the points from the Competition Match in question to the opponents, order the defaulting Club to pay any reasonable expenses incurred by the opponents or otherwise deal with them except the award of goals. Notwithstanding the foregoing home and away provision, the Management Committee shall have power to order a Competition Match to be played on a neutral ground or on the opponent’s Ground if they are satisfied that such action is warranted by the circumstances.

(ii) Any Club unable to fulfil a fixture or where a Competition Match has been postponed for any reason must, without delay, give notice to the (Fixtures) Secretary, the League Secretary, the Referees Secretary, the League Results Secretary, the secretary or manager of the opposing Club and the appointed Match Officials. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(iii) Postponements and the reason for the postponement must be notified to the Fixtures Secretary and Results Secretary within 24 hours of the date of postponement. The match should be played in its entirety on a date to be mutually agreed by the two Clubs and notified to the Fixtures Secretary within 14 days and approved by the Management Committee. Unless in the case of bad weather, no postponement will be accepted after 9.00pm on the Wednesday before the scheduled kick-off time and will also not be accepted if the postponing team has previously postponed 2 fixtures, unless any of these were due to bad weather. No postponement of fixtures scheduled for after the 31st March will be accepted, and points from such fixtures awarded to opponents. Any Club failing to comply with this rule shall be charged with failing to fulfil the fixture under Rule 10E(i).

(iv) In the event of a Competition Match not being played or abandoned owing to causes over which neither Club has control, it should be played in its entirety on a date to be mutually agreed by the two Clubs and approved by the Management Committee. Failing such agreement and notification to the (Fixtures) Secretary within seven days the Management Committee shall have the power to order the Competition Match to be played on a named date or on or before a given date. Where it is to the advantage of the Competition and the Clubs involved agree, the Management Committee shall also be empowered to order the score at the time of an abandonment to stand. Providing gate money is taken and retained the visiting Club shall receive their actual standard class rail or bus fares or the equivalent for eighteen persons, or car allowance at 30p per mile for transporting four persons or hire charge of a coach (receipt to be submitted). The residue (if any) to be equally divided between the two Clubs after deducting the cost of advertising, printing, posting, police and Match Officials charges. The home Club shall take the whole of the proceeds of the second Competition Match. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(v) The Management Committee shall review all Competition Matches abandoned in cases where it is consequent upon the conduct of either or both Teams. Where it is to the advantage of the Competition and does no injustice to either Club, the Management Committee shall be empowered to order the score at the time of the abandonment to stand. In all cases where the Management Committee are satisfied that a Competition Match was abandoned owing to the conduct of one Team or its Club member(s) they shall be empowered to award the points for the Competition Match to the opponent. In cases where a Competition Match has been abandoned owing to the conduct of both Teams or their Club member(s), the Management Committee shall rule that neither Team will be awarded any points for that Competition Match, and it shall not be replayed. No fine(s) can be applied by the Management Committee for an abandoned Competition Match.

(vi) The Management Committee shall review any Competition Match that has taken place where either or both Teams were under a suspension imposed upon them by The FA or Affiliated Association. In each case the Team that was under suspension would be dealt with in the same manner as if they had participated with ineligible players in accordance with Rule 18(N)(i) above. Where both Teams were under suspension the Competition Match must be declared null and void and shall not be replayed.

(F) A Club may at its discretion and in accordance with the Laws of the Game use substitute Players in any Competition Match.

A Club may only use up to 5 from 5 named substitute Players. A Player who has been substituted becomes a substitute and may replace any Player at any time subject to the substitution being carried out in accordance with Law 3 of the Laws of Association Football.

In Youth Football only, the referee shall be informed of the names of the substitute Players not later than fifteen minutes before the start of the Competition Match and a Player not so named may not take part in that Competition Match.

A Player who has named as a substitute before the start of that Competition Match but does not actually play in the game shall not be considered to have been a Player in that Competition Match within the meaning of Rule 18 of this Competition.

(G) The half time interval shall be of fifteen minutes’ duration, but it shall not exceed 15 minutes. The half time interval may only be altered with the consent of the referee.

(H) The Teams taking part in Youth Football shall identify a Team captain who shall wear an armband and shall have a responsibility to offer support in the management of the on-field discipline of his/her teammates. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(J) All under 18 matches must be played on the Clubs main Pitch. In the event of the main pitch being unplayable any alternative venue must meet the required minimum standard. Any under 18 team in membership of the League which is unable to play at the Clubs main ground may be placed in a separate section and their nominated alternative ground must meet the minimum standard.

All other age groups may play their matches on public and park pitches, subject to:

The pitch must be fully surrounded by a boundary rope behind which all spectators must stand.

This rope must be substantial and be no less than four feet from the ground, at its lowest point and a minimum of nine feet from the edge of the playing area.

All teams must, when notifying the League of the venue for the current season, make sure that the venue is no more than twenty miles from the club’s main ground.

Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(K) Both participating teams are to arrive at the confirmed venue no later than one hour before the notified kick-off time. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(L) Separate dressing rooms and hot showers shall also be provided for each team along with separate facilities for match official(s). Each room shall be suitably closed off to protect the privacy of the occupants from others. Keys shall be provided for the occupants to use during the length of their stay at the facility. If keys are not available, then clear signage must be displayed within each such room to the effect that users are requested not to leave any valuables within the room as the Home club is unable to accept responsibility for items removed without permission. Each room shall be clean, tidy and uncluttered and the users shall be expected to leave the accommodation in a similar condition when vacating such.

Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(M) Only named substitutes and a maximum of three Officials of the club are allowed within the dug-out during the match. No more than two people are allowed to stand in the technical area at any one time and then only to convey instructions to their team. If there is no dug-out but there is a technical area only three persons are allowed to stand in that area at any one time and then only to convey instructions to their team. If there is no dug-out or technical area, then all but two persons must stay behind the barrier throughout the match.

For the purposes of this rule, “Officials” shall mean persons registered on the Whole Game System as officials of the club.

(N) HOSPITALITY

(i) A Home Club Match Delegate / Respect Officer should meet and greet the opposing team and match officials upon arrival, offer refreshments and show them to the changing rooms. Offer refreshments to the match officials at half time and ensure everyone knows where the end of match hospitality will be served. They should be available for queries or to ensure player and supporter safety whilst at the venue and instil the FA Respect campaign. This nominated official should be present at the match venue a minimum of one hour before the scheduled kick-off time of the match. Failure to comply with this rule will incur a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(ii) The mandatory minimum requirements shall consist of a hot drink to be made available prior to the match, at half time and at the conclusion of the match, both for the match official(s) and opponents. Hot or cold food is to be provided at the end of the game; match officials in their changing room (optional), players and managers in the Club House.

Clubs failing to comply with these requirements shall be liable to a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

Visiting teams should avail themselves of the hospitality shown by the home team. If such a team has an exceptional reason for not accepting such hospitality, this should be notified to the home team in writing at least 5 days before the agreed match kick-off time and copied to the League Secretary and Fines Secretary. Should any team not correctly decline this hospitality they will be fined in accordance with the fines tariff.

(O) DRESS CODE

A mandatory minimum dress code shall be observed whereby all players and Club Officials must wear either shirt, tie and trousers (jeans are not acceptable) or else all squad members must wear club tracksuits on arrival at the ground and after the game. Failure to comply with this rule will incur a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(P) Each team must be staffed so they are able to operate in the event of the manager/coach being unavailable and also to be able to draft in other Club coaches to maintain the required number to run the team.

(Q) The home team should appoint a Respect Officer that should be clearly identified who should met the opposition and match official on arrival, offer refreshments and show them to the changing rooms. Offer refreshments to the match official at half time and ensure everyone knows where the end of match hospitality will be served. They should be available for queries or to ensure player and supporter safety whilst at the venue; and instil the FA Respect campaign.

REPORTING RESULTS

(A) The Results Secretary must receive by 8pm on the date played, the result of each Competition Match in the prescribed manner. This must include Team Players, starting, used as a substitute, unused substitutes, goal scorers and the referee markings required by Rule 23, and any other information required by the Competition via Full Time. If using the Match Day App, you MUST check the information has appeared on Full Time, only using the App is not a reason for failure of information in Full Time. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(B) Both Clubs shall use SMS to notify the result of each Competition Match to the FA Full-Time system by 8pm on the day of the fixture. For midweek evening fixtures, this deadline will be within 24 hours of the match being played. This applies to the FA Youth Cup and all County Cup fixtures. All Clubs competing in outside competitions, whether they are the home club or the away club, shall enter the result onto the website or text the Fixture and Result Secretaries. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(C) The match result notification, should be correctly completed, as prescribed by the Competition. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

DETERMINING CHAMPIONSHIP

(A) In Competitions where points are awarded, Team rankings within the Competition will be decided by points with three points to be awarded for a win and one point for a drawn Competition Match. The Teams gaining the highest number of points in their respective divisions at the end of the Playing Season shall be adjudged the winners. Competition Matches must not be played for double points.

In the event of two or more Teams being equal on points at the end of the Playing Season, rankings may be determined by a deciding match or matches played under conditions determined by the Management Committee, or the position shared.

(B) Not in use

(C) The age group champions will be determined by a play-off competition in a format to be determined in each playing season by the Management Committee. The winning team in each age group division at the conclusion of the season, or the team leading each division on a date specified at the start of the season by the Management Committee, shall be invited to participate in the play-off competition.

(D) In the event of a Team withdrawing from the Competition before completing 75% of its fixtures for the Playing Season all points obtained by or recorded against such defaulting Team shall be expunged from the Competition table. For the purposes of this Rule 22(D) a completed fixture shall include any Competition Match(es) which has been awarded by the Management Committee.

Where a team withdraws having completed 75% of its fixtures the points for any unplayed games shall be awarded to the defaulting team’s opponents.

MATCH OFFICIALS

(A) Registered referees (and assistant referees where approved by The FA or County FA) for all Competition Matches shall be appointed in a manner approved by the Management Committee and by the Sanctioning Authority.

(B) In cases where there are no officially appointed Match Officials in attendance, the Clubs shall agree upon a referee. An individual thus agreed upon shall, for that Competition Match, have the full powers, status and authority of a registered referee. Individuals under the age of 16 must not participate either as a referee or assistant referee in any open age competition and individuals under the age of 14 must not participate either as a referee or assistant referee in any Competition Match. Referees between the ages of 14 and 16 are only eligible to officiate in competitions where the Players’ age band is at least one year younger than the age of the referee, for example a 15-year-old referee may only officiate in competitions where the age banding is 14 or younger. Failure to agree on a referee will result in both clubs being charged with failure to fulfil the fixture in line with the appropriate fine tariff.

(C) Where assistant referees are not appointed each Team shall provide a Club assistant referee. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff) being imposed on the defaulting Club.

(D) The appointed referee shall have power to decide as to the fitness of the Ground in all Competition Matches and that decision shall be final, subject to the determination of the Local Authority or the owners of a Ground, which must be accepted.

(E) Subject to any limits/provisions laid down by the Sanctioning Authority, Match Officials appointed under this Rule shall be paid their fees and expenses in accordance with the Fees Tariff.

Match Officials will be paid their fees and/or expenses by the home Club before/immediately after the Competition Match or within 24 hours by BACS agreed in advance with the match official when sending confirmation. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(F) In the event of a Competition Match not being played because of circumstances over which the Clubs have no control, the Match Officials, if present, shall be entitled to full fee plus expenses. Where a Competition Match is not played owing to one Club being in default, that Club shall be ordered to pay the Match Officials, if they attend the Ground, their full fee and expenses. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.

(G) A referee not keeping his or her engagement and failing to give a satisfactory explanation as to their non-appearance, may be reported to the Affiliated Association with which he or she is registered.

(H) Each Club shall, in a manner prescribed from time to time by The FA, award marks to the referee for each Competition Match and the name of the referee and the marks awarded shall be submitted to the Competition on the prescribed form provided. Clubs failing to comply with this Rule shall be liable to be fined (in accordance with the Fines Tariff) or dealt with as the Management Committee shall determine.

(I) The Competition shall keep a record of the markings and, on the form provided by the prescribed date each Season, shall submit a summary to The FA / County FA.

(J) The referee shall submit a report form, supplied by the Competition, giving the result of the Competition Match, the number of Players in each Team and the time of kick- off and answer the range of questions to assist in the smooth running of the League to the Results Secretary within 24 hours of the Competition Match.

(K) Match Officials shall be supplied, each season, with a copy of the Competition Rules free of charge.

(L) Match Officials shall have undertaken a RESPECT briefing offered by The FA/County FA or the Competition.

Approved ECFA 12.7.2023 Including Competition amendments June 2023.