CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Introduction

M5 Football is committed to providing a safe, positive, inclusive and development-focused environment for all players. This Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behaviour expected from:

- Players
- Parents & Guardians
- Coaches & Staff
- Spectators

This Code applies to all M5 Football Programs, including:

- Centre of Excellence Sessions
- ICON Training
- Technical Programs
- Academy Squads
- Camps & Clinics
- Private Training
- Outdoor training sessions
- Facility Hire

All participants, families and staff must follow this Code as a condition of enrolment, attendance and employment.

2. Player Code of Conduct

2.1 Respect & Behaviour

- Show respect to coaches, teammates, opponents, staff and referees at all times.
- Listen to instructions and follow coaching guidance immediately.
- Use positive language; no swearing, insults or abusive behaviour.
- Demonstrate sportsmanship in both success and disappointment.

2.2 Effort & Attitude

- Arrive prepared and ready to learn.
- Give full effort during every activity, regardless of mood or performance.
- Focus on development, not comparison with others.
- Display resilience and a willingness to try, fail, learn and improve.

2.3 Safety & Conduct

- Avoid rough, dangerous or reckless play.
- Use equipment—including ICON—correctly and safely.
- Report injuries, illness or unsafe behaviour to staff immediately.
- Never engage in bullying, harassment, intimidation or exclusion of others (in person or online).

2.4 Responsibility

- Wear appropriate football attire and footwear.
- Respect all M5 Football facilities, equipment and property.
- Clean up after themselves and help maintain a tidy training environment.

Failure to comply may result in removal from a session or program.

3. Parent & Guardian Code of Conduct

3.1 Sideline Behaviour

- Support all children positively—not just their own.
- Refrain from coaching from the sideline; allow coaches to coach.
- Never criticise referees, staff or players (verbally, physically or online).
- Avoid any behaviour that creates pressure or anxiety for players.

3.2 Communication & Respect

- Communicate respectfully with coaches and staff.
- Raise concerns privately, not during sessions or in front of children.
- Provide accurate medical and behavioural information as required.
- Follow all instructions from staff regarding safety, drop-off/pick-up and facilities.

3.3 Player Wellbeing

- Ensure players are punctual, properly equipped and hydrated.
- Keep players at home when unwell or injured unless cleared by a doctor.
- Support the club’s focus on long-term development, not short-term results.

3.4 Zero Tolerance Areas

Parents/Guardians must not engage in:

- Verbal or physical abuse
- Discriminatory, racist or offensive behaviour
- Harassment or intimidation
- Online abuse or negative commentary
- Interfering with training delivery or coach authority

Breaches may result in suspension of attendance rights or termination of enrolment.

4. Spectator Code of Conduct

- Remain outside designated training zones unless asked to assist.
- Avoid engaging with players during activities unless permitted.
- Refrain from shouting instructions or criticism.
- Maintain a quiet, respectful environment conducive to learning.
- Follow all staff instructions immediately when safety is concerned.

Spectators who violate these expectations may be asked to leave the venue.

5. Coach & Staff Code of Conduct

5.1 Professionalism

- Provide high-quality coaching consistent with the M5 methodology.
- Treat all players with respect, fairness and patience.
- Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
- Communicate positively with players and families.

5.2 Safety & Child Protection

- Hold valid Working With Children Checks (WWCC).
- Comply with all NSW Child Safe Standards.
- Ensure training activities are safe, age-appropriate and well-supervised.
- Report any suspected harm, risk or inappropriate behaviour immediately.

5.3 Integrity & Conduct

- Avoid favouritism, bias or inconsistent treatment of players.
- Never engage in abusive, discriminatory or inappropriate behaviour.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding player information and family matters.

5.4 Personal Standards

- Model the character and discipline expected of players.
- Arrive prepared, on time, and professionally presented.
- Maintain personal fitness and coaching competency.

6. ICON Equipment Code of Conduct

ICON is specialised football-specific electronic training equipment. Its use carries unique safety requirements.

Players, Parents & Staff must:
- Only use ICON when supervised by trained M5 Staff.
- Never touch, lean on or interfere with ICON sensors or panels.
- Maintain a clear zone around ICON when not participating.
- Enter/exit the ICON activity area only when directed by staff.
- Immediately report any malfunction, safety concern or misuse.

Prohibited Behaviours:
- Horseplay or rough behaviour near ICON.
- Running into or kicking ICON equipment.
- Attempting to modify, adjust or “test” sensors on your own.
- Food or drink near ICON.
- Allowing unsupervised children to approach ICON.

Severe or intentional misuse may result in immediate termination of participation.

7. Bullying, Harassment & Discrimination Policy

M5 Football has zero tolerance for:

- Bullying (verbal, physical or online)
- Social exclusion
- Harassment or intimidation
- Racism, sexism or discriminatory remarks
- Unwanted physical contact
- Threats or aggressive behaviour

Any breach may result in:

- Warning
- Session suspension
- Temporary removal from programs
- Permanent termination of membership
- Ban from attending the Centre of Excellence
- Reporting to external authorities (if required)

8. Facility Code of Conduct (Centre of Excellence & Outdoor Venues)

All participants must:

- Respect all venue rules and signage.
- Keep walkways, exits and entry points clear.
- Use toilets and change areas respectfully.
- Dispose of rubbish appropriately.
- Follow emergency directions from staff.

Prohibited in all M5 Football facilities:

- Food or alcohol in training spaces.
- Smoking or vaping.
- Playing unsafely or unsupervised.
- Damaging property or equipment.
- Entering restricted areas.
- Interfering with ICON or other equipment.

9. Photography & Social Media Conduct

- Only photograph your own child unless given explicit permission from other parents.
- Do not post images of other children online without consent.
- Do not post negative or defamatory comments about players, staff or the club.
- Use social media responsibly and respectfully

10. Reporting Concerns

Concerns related to safety, behaviour or wellbeing should be raised promptly via:

Email: team@m5football.com.au

Critical or urgent concerns should always be raised immediately with an on-site staff member.

All complaints or reports are handled confidentially and respectfully.

11. Consequences for Breach

Depending on the severity, consequences for breaching this Code include:

- Verbal warning
- Written warning
- Removal from a session
- Suspension from Programs
- Termination of Membership (without refund)
- Ban from attending facilities
- Referral to police or authorities (if safety or legal issues arise)

12. Agreement to the Code

This Code forms part of the M5 Football Terms & Conditions.

By enrolling, attending or participating in any M5 Football Program, all Members, Parents/Guardians, Spectators and Staff agree to comply with this Code of Conduct.