Codes of Conduct

Kew Junior Football Club's Code of Conduct

The KJFC "Kew Comets", fully supports the Codes of Conduct introduced by the AFL and AFL Victoria. Today’s parents have an essential role in the delivery and support of sporting activities for their own and other children. With it comes a clear responsibility to act constructively and encouragingly at all times.

Barracking and wanting your child to perform well is human nature, but this must be done responsibly, avoiding the ugly parent syndrome at all times. Similarly, parents should endeavour to model the behaviours they want to see in their own and other children - this includes treating all players, coaches, spectators and volunteers respectfully.

The Comets' mission is to provide a safe and healthy environment for all children and their families.  

When registering to play with the Kew Junior Football Club, parents and players agree to abide by the Players, Parents & Supporters Codes of Conduct.  These Codes are essential to ensuring the safety, health, wellbeing and enjoyment of all those involved in junior footy.

Players Code of Conduct

By registering to play for the Kew Junior Football Club (“Kew Comets”) all players agree to be bound by the Players Code of Conduct:

  1. Play by the Rules – every participant must play by the rules of the game as provided by the YJFL and in accordance with Kew Comets' Code of Conduct.
  2. Kew Comets has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to actual or threats of verbal or physical abuse toward officials (volunteer or otherwise), parents, teammates, supporters or opponents. Any player found guilty of this conduct understands that they will be subject to disciplinary action by the Club and may also be subject to action by the YJFL or AFL Victoria.    
  3. Kew Comets has a zero-tolerance policy for any remarks made that are based on race, appearance, religion, gender or ability. Players understand that any conduct of this nature will result in immediate sanction by the Club and may also incur sanctions from the YJFL or AFL Victoria. Players should also note that some remarks of this nature are illegal (e.g. racial vilification) and could have serious consequences outside the Club’s control.  
  4. Always show respect, listen to, and cooperate with your coach, the umpires and your teammates.  Never argue with the umpires.
  5. Be a team player – it’s a team game, treat it that way.
  6. Treat all players fairly and with respect – whether they are part of your own team or members of the opposition.
  7. Play for your own enjoyment and to improve your skills.

Parents & Supporters Code of Conduct 

By registering their children with the Kew Junior Football Club (“Kew Comets”) all parents, their families and any guests they may bring to any Club-related events agree to be bound by the Parents and Supporters Code of Conduct:

  1. Remember that children play sport for their enjoyment; parents and supporters are there to enjoy and to support.
  2. Encourage participation, but don’t force it.
  3. Focus on the child’s efforts and self-esteem – teaching how we play the game is more important than winning.
  4. Never ridicule mistakes or losses – supporters are there to support, not to reprimand.    
  5. Kew Comets’ primary focus will always be to provide a safe and positive environment for all children and their families. We have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to actual or threats of verbal or physical abuse towards umpires, any volunteers, other spectators and especially any children. This includes, but is not limited to, inappropriate language, mockery or any words or conduct aimed at intimidating or degrading a player, volunteer or another spectator. All parents and/or supporters acknowledge that any breach of this nature will result in severe consequences for the adults involved.
  6. Public criticism of officials or umpires will not be tolerated. Most of these people are volunteers who give up their time and energy to give our children the best possible football and club experience. They should be always treated with respect.
  7. All concerns relating to any aspects of your child’s football experience at the Club should first be raised with your team’s coach and the team manager privately and respectfully. Where a parent is unhappy with an outcome, they can escalate the matter to the Kew Comets Committee or Child Safety Officer.
  8. Smoking, vaping and the consumption of alcohol is unacceptable at junior sport.

Coaches Code of Conduct

Coaches are required to sign the AFL Code Of Conduct as part of the Level 1 Accreditation requirement. All coaches must be accredited to coach in our League.