IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL PLAYERS

Dear Players,

It’s been a great start to the Summer Season and we hope everyone in enjoying it so far!

We want to address some feedback we have received and actions regarding recent flashpoints in a small amount of games. Your co-operation is essential in maintaining a positive and safe playing environment.

KEY POINTS TO REITERATE:

1. LIMIT AGGRESSION:

   • We need to keep aggression on the pitch to a minimum. We understand players have a desire to win but Aggressive Behaviour will not be tolerated. Please remember this is a social football competition. Please be respectful to each other.

2. CONTACT NEAR THE FENCE:

   • Any contact around the fence will result in a free kick. If you squash or foul an opponent into the fence, you WILL receive a Sin Bin and sit off for 2 minutes. As you approach the fence, remember, it is a steel cage and to keep it clean. If there is any contact, referees have been instructed to award a free kick immediately.

3. HANDS IN PLAY:

   • Excessive use of hand will lead to a free kick. If you hear “Hands Down”, please comply immediately. Our goal is to prevent any escalation of conflicts. There is no need to put your hands on opposition players during the game.

4. SLIDE TACKLES:

   • Slide tackles are NOT permitted. If you slide (even without making contact), the game will be stopped and a foul will be given against you. If you attempt a sliding challenge, you will be sent off.

5. OFF THE BALL PROVOCATION:

   • If players are provoking each other off the ball or engaging in unnecessary chatter, the game will be stopped IMMEDIATELY. Referees have been instructed to notify the player responsible to cease communication and restart play from the goalkeeper of the team in possession. Repeat offenses will result in Sin Bins (part exclusion from the game). Players will also be warned and Yellow Cards given for intentionally goading or trying to humiliate an opposing team or player in the team.

6. RESPECTING REFEREES AND STAFF:

   • Our Referees have a very difficult and challenging role to play. Players and Supporters are NOT to abuse a referee for a perceived mistake or because they are not happy with the referee making a decision.

   • All staff at Soccer5s are determined to promote a safe and fun enviroment to play football. If there are immediate concerns, please speak to a member of staff, either walking the hallways during a game or inside the bar. Don’t let things escalate. Let us know and we can monitor and step in if required.

consistency and communication:

This information has been circulated to every registered player and all our staff. Please ensure ALL your teammates and guest players have read this or you have explained this to them.

Thank you for your co-operation in making our league enjoyable and safe for everyone!