Masters Philosophy

PHILOSOPHY OF MASTERS FOOTBALL AND GUIDELINES

The most important aspect of our game is that it is "football for fun". It is for this reason that there

are no ladders, finals or best & fairest awards in Victorian Country.

All participants should adhere to this philosophy and accept these guidelines:

1. Egos are to be left at home. Criticism of other player's performance, abilities etc. is not on. We are here to

do our best and have fun.

2. Disputing the umpire's decisions or abuse of umpires is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

3. On field fighting or bad language is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

4. Selection Criteria for games:

We obviously need far more players to get through a season than can take the field at the start of any given

match, and whilst every player will be given a chance to play, selection cannot help but be influenced by

the following:-

- paid membership

- attendance at training

- participation in club activities and duties

- willingness to travel to away games

The above does not mean that players who cannot train or play regularly will not be welcome and played, however they must be prepared to accept and understand our priorities, just as we understand that at our age there are a variety of factors that prevent some players being available each week.

5. Not withstanding point 4, every effort will be made to give all players equal time on the ground.

6. Hospitality to visiting teams is very important which is why every player is required to bring afternoon tea to all home games. As we partake of other team's hospitality during our travels to away games, all players should recognise the importance of returning the favour.

7. Masters Australian Football recognises the importance of involving our families in our activities and will continue to make a conscious effort to do this.

New players are always very welcome, but should be made fully aware of the above philosophy and what is required of them as a representative of your club and Masters Australian Football.

Remember, at our age, it is not how many games you win, but how many games you play. For that reason we have modified rules and modified attitudes to playing in order to minimise the risk of injury and keep us playing and enjoying our great game even longer.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR SPECTATORS

Applaud good performances and efforts from each team. Congratulate all participants upon their performances regardless of the game's outcome.

Respect official's decisions at all times, Condemn the use of violence in any form, be it by spectators, coaches, officials or players.

Show respect for your team's opponents. Without them there would be no game. Encourage players to follow the rules and the official's decisions.

Do not use foul language or harass players, coaches, and officials.

Each club, state or territory is responsible for the behaviour of their spectators and officials during and at the conclusion of their games.