Updated June 2021

The focus of the Premier Academy League is on the enjoyment and development of the players, with the goal of promoting a life-long love of the sport. All academies, coaches, players and spectators must support the league in our efforts to provide an environment and experience that is conducive to achieving this goal.

We will not tolerate poor behaviour under any circumstances. Violations of our Code of Conduct will have consequences, including suspension or removal from the competition for individuals, teams or academies.

Coaches:

• Coaches should promote the player’s enjoyment and development over winning.

• Coaches should encourage their players to play hard but fairly.

• Coaches should promote the rules and laws of the game to their players.

• Coaches should always be supportive of the referee and other officials.

• Coaches should never interfere with the referees’ management of the game, nor should they question any decision in front of their players.

• Coaches should never ridicule or yell at their players, referee or opposition, for any reason.

• Coaches should always promote a supportive and positive environment within the league and encourage other participants to do the same.

Players:

• Players should always play by the rules.

• Players should always avoid violent conduct or foul play.

• Players should never argue with a referee or other official.

• Players should never verbally abuse other players or referees, nor should they provoke a hostile situation on the field.

• Players should uphold sportsmanship at all times, considering fair play a priority over winning.

• Players should act graciously in both victory and defeat.

• Players should respect all other participants (teammates, coaches, opposition, referees).

• Players should always promote a supportive and positive environment within the league and encourage other participants to do the same.

Parents/Spectators:

• Parents/Spectators should always promote a positive environment within the league and respect all other participants (players, coaches, referees, officials and other spectators).

• Parents/Spectators should congratulate all participants on their performance, regardless of the result.

• Parents/Spectators should never attempt to communicate with or abuse the referee at any time.

• Parents/Spectators should respect all decisions made by referees and other officials.

• Parents/Spectators should never ridicule or yell at their child or other players for making a mistake.

• Parents/Spectators should never support violent conduct, foul play or abusive language by players.

• Parents/Spectators should never use abusive language, including swearing.

• Parents/Spectators should not coach or make instructive comments on the sideline.

• Parents/Spectators are permitted to make positive and supportive comments that do not interfere with the running of the game.

• Parents/Spectators should never contact the Premier Academy League directly. The only exceptions are in urgent or sensitive situations that require immediate attention. Concerns or feedback should be directed to the relevant Academy Director who will then, at their discretion, contact the league’s organisation committee.