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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 Page 2
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
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 3
2015 CLUB SECRETARIES
CLUB NAME EMAIL MOBILE
Blacktown City Craig Tasoulis [email protected] 0425 284 265
Blacktown
Workers
Stephen McLoynes
Deidre Boggett
0423 607 471
0423 572 697
Brothers John Fowler [email protected] 0438 623 808
Cambridge
Park/Cranebrook
Annette Murphy
Leanne Barnes
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
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
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 4
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
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 5
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
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 6
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
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 7
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 8
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 9
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 10
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 11
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).
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 12
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 13
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 14
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 15
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 16
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 17
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 21
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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’.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 46
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.
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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.
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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.
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2.16.2 Saturday Competitions
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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
3.27 NUMBER OF PLAYERS
3.28 PLAYER POINTS
3.29 REMOVING FOOTBALL JUMPER
3.30 RUNNING DISTANCE
3.31 SIN BIN
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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3.24.3 Saturday Competitions
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.
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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 NUMBER OF PLAYERS
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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POST GAME
3.32 ABANDONED GAMES
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
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3.32 ABANDONED GAMES
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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’
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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
been determined, the order of play shall be as follows:
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
been determined, the order of play shall be as follows:
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.
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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.
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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.
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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,
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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’.
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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
Offensive, abusive, threatening language
(includes racial insults) to match official. 1600 2400 3200
Offensive, abusive, threatening language
(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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 140
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.
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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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 142
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.
Qualification, Policy and Administration
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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 143
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.
Qualification, Policy and Administration
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.
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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.
Penrith & Districts JRL 2015 Competition Manual Page 145
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.