INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
bfnl.com.au
2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
CONTENTS BFNL Board of Driectors / Staff
5
Club Contacts
7
Operations Manual
33
2021 Standard Start Times
34
Time On & Using the Interchange Form
35
Ground Manager Duties
36
Match Review Panel Process
37
BFNL Constitution
38
Football By Laws
47
BFLW By Laws
91
Netball By Laws
97
Appendices
109
bfnl.com.au
3
McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
4
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
BALLARAT FNL BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair - Adrian Bettio - adrian.bettio@gmail.com Operations Director - Richard Carroll Finance Director - Gerard Harrington Netball Directors - Brigette Mihaljevic, Sally Kruger Junior Directors - Dale Murley Female Football Directors - Robert Simmonds, Jeromy Jones Executive Directors - Barry Ag, Peter Earl
BALLARAT FNL STAFF General Manager - Shane Anwyl - 0409 072 403 - shane@bfnl.com.au Football Manager - Scott Carey - 0478 133 533 - scott@bfnl.com.au Netball Manager - Gemma Murphy - 0401 152 906 - gemma@bfnl.com.au
McDonald’s Ballarat Football Netball League Street Address: Saxon House, 1431 Mair Street, Ballarat VIC 3350 Postal Address: PO Box 586 Ballarat VIC 3350 Office Phone: (03) 5333 1977
bfnl.com.au
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
6
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
2021 CLUB CONTACTS
The following Operations Manual and content is current until a new edition is released by the Ballarat Football Netball League. Additional resources are available from the league website
bfnl.com.au
bfnl.com.au
7
McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
BACCHUS MARSH CLUB OFFICIALS President
Mark Farrell
0416 251 025
president@bmfnc.com.au
Vice President
Pat Mullen
0414 445 705
pmullen@bmfnc.com.au
0407 003 081
secretary@bmfnc.com.au
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Maria Dickson Treasurer
Steve Hicks
0412 012 370
tresurer@bmfnc.com.au
COVID Safety Officer
Pat Mullen
0414 445 705
pmullen@bmfnc.com.au
Ground Manager - Matchday
Peter Dickson
0428 539 040
peter.dickson@semex.com.au
Court Manager - Matchday
Tegan LaFranchi
0458 229 876
tlafranchi@bmfnccom.au
Football Manager
Chris Stuhldreier
0402 274 102
castuhldreier@bigpond.com.au
Football Coaching Coordinator
Chris Stuhldreier
0402 274 102
castuhldreier@bigpond.com.au
Senior Coach
Tom Germon
0401 186 673
tommy_g8@hotmail.com
Reserves Coach
Paul Griffiths
0408 676 253
paulg@qest.net.au
U/19 Coach
Jake Owen
0423 021 727
jakeyowen44@hotmail.com
Netball Manager
Tegan LaFranchi
0458 229 876
tlafranchi@bmfnccom.au
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Tegan LaFranchi
0458 229 876
tlafranchi@bmfnccom.au
A Grade Netball Coach
TBC
B Grade Netball Coach
TBC
C Grade Netball Coach
Bec Power
0432 583 720
rebecca.power@outlook.com
D Grade Netball Coach
Karen Pawlowicz
0419 598 236
karen@sameltonsth.catholic.edu.au
E Grade Netball Coach
Emily Dodd
0424 024 100
emilydodd97@hotmail.com
19 & U Netball Coach
Bec Power
0432 583 720
rebecca.power@outlook.com
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
8
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
BACCHUS MARSH JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS President
Michael Kennedy
0433 976 755
michael.kennedy@gbforestry.com.au
Vice President
Scott James
0488 394 358
sjames@bmfnc.com.au
0425 739 374
katewest1@me.com
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Kate West Treasurer
Kelly Dilges
0455 823 994
juniortreasurer@bmfnc.com,au
COVID Safety Officer
Scott James
0488 394 358
sjames@bmfnc.com.au
Football Manager
Wayne McKercher
0449 752 478
juniorcoaching@bmfnc.com.au
Football Coaching Coordinator
Wayne McKercher
0449 752 478
juniorcoaching@bmfnc.com.au
U/17 Senior Football
Wayne McKercher
0449 752 478
juniorcoaching@bmfnc.com.au
U/17 Reserve Football
TBC
U/15 Senior Football
Mark Gillespie
0401 671 335
mark@thecadguys.com.au
U/15 Reserve Football
TBC
U/13 Senior Football
Scott Dewsbury
0431 478 650
U/13 Reserve Football
Steve Lee
0417 322 476
U/11 Senior Football
Scott Fisher
0411 818 232
U/11 Reserve Football
TBC
U/9 Football
Matt White
0437 691 544
matthewwhite13@hotmail.com
Netball Manager
Rayleen Thewma
0408 767 922
juniornetball@bmfnc.com.au
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Belinda Johnston
0418 100 587
juniornetball@bmfnc.com.au
17 & U Senior Netball
TBC
17 & U Reserve Netball
TBC
15 & U Senior Netball
TBC
15 & U Reserve Netball
TBC
13 & U Senior Netball
Michelle Hendrix
13 & U Reserve Netball
Michelle Hendrix
11 & U Senior Netball
Dail Geisler
11 & U Reserve Netball
Dail Geisler
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
bfnl.com.au
9
McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
BALLARAT SWANS CLUB OFFICIALS President
Karl Drever
0438 397 544
karl.drever@westernag.com.au
Secretary
Colin Duffy
0437 415 142
colinduf@tpgi.com.au
Football Director
Paul Nicholls
0417 398 241
info@jacarandalandscapes.com.au
Netball Director
Kirsty McLean
0409 451 014
kirstymas1505@gmail.com
Ground Manager
Mark Delaney
0487 097 912
Netball Court Manager
Rachel Cross
0419 150 518
Tribunal Advocate
Shane Manley
0409 533 538
Treasurer
Isaac Manley
rabridges@bigpond.com
FOOTBALL Senior Coach
Joe Carmody
0427 080 679
jcarmody@stpats.vic.edu.au
Reserves Coach
Michael McKinnon
0409 317 421
nikmic7070@gmail.com
Under 19 Coach
Tim Shearer
0408 586 536
shimstats@gmail.com
A Grade Coach
Lisa James
0417 553 090
lisajames@westnet.com.au
B Grade Coach
Karen Goonan
0408 561 630
kazza505@hotmail.com
C Grade Coach
Kirsty McLean
0409 451 014
kirstymac1505@gmail.com
D Grade Coach
Kirsty McLean
0409 451 014
kirstymac1505@gmail.com
E Grade Coach
Bec Wallis
0407 755 166
beckywallis94 @gmail.com
19 & Under Coach
Rachel Cross
0419 150 518
rabridges@bigpond.com
NETBALL
10
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
BALLARAT SWANS JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS Director
Scott Petrie
0418 503 764
scott@trevorpetrie.com.au
Secretary
Kerry Armstrong
0400 947 477
mkarma28@skymesh.com.au
Football Manager
James Bik
0439 453 155
james.bik@elders.com.au
Netball Manager
Kylie Scobie
0438 313 199
swansnetballbfnc@gmail.com
Under 17 Seniors
Adam O’Keefe
0490 668 220
Under 17 Reserves
Paul Constable
0407 348 992
Under 15 Seniors
Rod Stepnell
0430 951 144
Under 15 Reserves
Leigh Murphy
0410 209 356
Under 13 Seniors
Mick O’Brien
0417 019 401
Under 13 Reserves
Nigel McGrath
0408 517 693
Under 11 Seniors
Scott Petrie
0418 503 764
Under 11 Reserves
Ray McCormack
0409 893 706
17 & Under Seniors
Di Rogers
0417 578 187
17 & Under Resereves
Di Rogers
0417 578 187
15 & Under Seniors
Jo Crick
0409 554 996
15 & Under Reserves
Richard Bales
0428 545 611
13 & Under Seniors
Jo Crick
0409 554 996
13 & Under Reserves
Kathy Haintz
0400 516 372
11 & Under Seniors
Lisa James
0400 096 823
11 & Under Reserves
Emma Watson
0417 509 866
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
BALLARAT STORM JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS Director
Jed Manley
0437 987 453
jed@pepperbrandmanagers.com
Secretary
Kelly Stewart
0414 409 012
littlekelbel1212@gmail.com
Football Manager
Mark Verberne
0409 391 512
verberne.mark.m@edumail.vic.gov.au
Netball Manager
Cindy Sullivan
0401 280 109
stormnetball@ballaratfnc.com.au
Under 13 Reserves
Owen Talbot
0408 532 125
Under 11 Seniors
Matt Curran
0400 094 995
Under 11 Reserves
Andrew Madigan
0412 051 990
FOOTBALL
NETBALL 17 & Under Resereves
Georgia Edwards Kelli Howlett
15 & Under Seniors
Adam Butler
15 & Under Reserves
Tracey Dalton Jacqui King
13 & Under Seniors
Sophie Jones
13 & Under Reserves
Ben Hando
11 & Under Seniors
Cassie Schiltz Michelle Jarvis
11 & Under Reserves
Nicole Jenkins Cindy Sullivan
12
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
CARISBROOK CLUB OFFICIALS President
Phil Hooper
0409 571 651
phil@hooperinsurance.net.au
Vice President
Greg Butler
0418 863253
gregbutler20@hotmail.com
0427 320 386
carisbrookfnc@gmail.com
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Carlene Dowie Treasurer
Bec Edwards
0447 152737
bec@driscollag.com.au
COVID Safety Officer
Maree Nalder
0488 420 170
maree.nalder@education.vic.gov.au
Ground Manager - Matchday
Peter Herd
0477 380 210
FEMALE FOOTBALL Football Manager
Jo Butler
0429 612 975
gregjobutler@hotmail.com
Football Coaching Coordinator
Greg Butler
0418 863 253
gregjobutler@hotmail.com
Womens Football Coach
Damien Wilson
0407 151 450
U/18 Youth Girls Coach
Greg Butler
0418 863 253
U/14 Junior Girls Coach
Clint Bennett
0477 282 281
gregjobutler@hotmail.com
bfnl.com.au
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
DARLEY CLUB OFFICIALS President
Mark Shelly
0418 518 862
mshelly@stockdaleleggo.com
Vice President
Dane Grenfell
0403 543 102
danegrenfell@hotmail.com
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Lorissa Edwards
0417 566 319
lorissa_dfc@yahoo.com.au
BFLW Secretary / Administrator
Melissa O'Rourke
0414145399
sharniabbi@yahoo.com
Treasurer
Marika Barnes
0412 502 236
accounts@darleyfnc.com.au
COVID Safety Officer
Lorissa Edwards
0417 566 319
lorissa_dfc@yahoo.com.au
Ground Manager - Matchday
Colin Wells
0403 263 738
wells@bigpond.net.au
BFLW Ground Manager - Matchday
TBA
Court Manager - Matchday
Hayley Inglis
0488 343 620
hayley@bacchusmarshdancestudio.com.au
FOOTBALL Football Manager
Craig Baker
0419 502 640
craigb@brimbank.vic.gov.au
Football Coaching Coordinator
Craig Baker
0419 502 640
craigb@brimbank.vic.gov.au
Senior Coach
Dan Roy
0407 107 501
danroy7@outlook.com
Reserves Coach
Drew Edwards
0406 540 655
conpavevic@bigpond.com
U/19 Coach
Doug Hawkins
TBC
TBC
FEMALE FOOTBALL Football Manager
Natalie Wilks
0432074824
laceyrayeloulou@gmail.com
Football Coaching Coordinator
Natalie Wilks
0432074824
laceyrayeloulou@gmail.com
Womens Football Coach
Jack Hanneysee
0421415338
hanno.1@hotmail.com
NETBALL Netball Manager
Hayley Inglis
0488343620
hayley@bacchusmarshdancestudio.com.au
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Hayley Inglis
0488343620
hayley@bacchusmarshdancestudio.com.au
A Grade Netball Coach
Dianne McCormack 0407953831
diannemccormack1@gmail.com
B Grade Netball Coach
Dianne McCormack 0407953831
diannemccormack1@gmail.com
C Grade Netball Coach
Ailish McCormack
0425 129 559
ailishmccormack13@gmail.com
D Grade Netball Coach
Kaylee Smith
0419 703 678
kaylee.smith2708@gmail.com
E Grade Netball Coach
Dayna Inglis
0405130272
daynainglis@hotmail.com
19 & U Netball Coach
Melanie Sutton
0457892572
mel.sutton@bigpond.com
14
bfnl.com.au
2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
DARLEY JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS President
Warren Smith
0418 315 969
president@darleyjnrfc.com.au
Secretary
Rohan Matthews
0423 842 027
secretary@darleyjnrfc.com.au
Football Manager
Warren Smith
0418 315 969
president@darleyjnrfc.com.au
Netball Coordinator
Jacqui Christie
0408 819 426
netball@darleyjnrfnc.com.au
Under 17 Seniors
Anthony Closter
0488 027 000
Under 17 Reserves
Damien Gleeson
0409 335 220
Under 15 Reserves
Pawel Bankowski
0401 690 265
Under 13 Seniors
Paul Growcott
0429 914 322
Under 13 Reserves
Rod Watts
0400 289 189
Under 11 Seniors
Justin Watkins
0409 238 587
Under 11 Reserves
Josh Coy
0409 432 910
17 & Under Seniors
Nichole Gleeson
0410 258 390
email address
17 & Under Resereves
Nichole Gleeson
0410 258 390
email address
15 & Under Seniors & Reserves
Kelly Tanner
0407 349 650
email address
FOOTBALL
Under 15 Seniors
NETBALL
Elise Jordan
0416 148 511
email address
13 & Under Seniors
Teresa Densley
0402 525 182
email address
13 & Under Reserves
Teresa Densley
0402 525 182
email address
11 & Under Seniors
Jacqui Christie
0408 819 426
email address
11 & Under Reserves
Jacqui Christie
0408 819 426
email address
bfnl.com.au
15
McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
EAST POINT CLUB OFFICIALS President
Gary Wilson
0418380984
gary.willo.13@gmail.com
Vice President
Paul Koderenko
0408765372
koders9@live.com
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Deb Martin
0412238804
debbrian1@bigpond.com
Treasurer
Deb Martin
0412238804
debbrian1@bigpond.com
COVID Safety Officer
Dean Hetherington
0448377735
cdhetherington@bigpond.com
Ground Manager - Matchday
Stephen Blomely
53326648
blomars12@gmail.com
Court Manager - Matchday
Maddie Moran
0431024700
maddie.moran@live.com
Football Manager
Dean Hetherington
0448377735
cdhetherington@bigpond.com
Senior Coach
Jake Bridges
0439630366
jake.bridges@leadingteams.net.au
Reserves Coach
Kane Tolliday
0439818078
kanetolliday18@gmail.com
U/19 Coach
Phill Canny
0402310374
philcanny@yahoo.com
Netball Manager
Maddie Moran
0431024700
maddie.moran@live.com
A Grade Netball Coach
Matt Blomely
0422889018
B Grade Netball Coach
Tayla Banham
0407252679
taylabanham@hotmail.com
C Grade Netball Coach
Rachel Wilson
D Grade Netball Coach
Jemma Mirabella
0409447970
jemmamirabella@hotmail.com
E Grade Netball Coach
Courtney McCrow
19 & U Netball Coach
Gabrielle Watson
0447722354
gabriellewatson00@outlook.com
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
16
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
EAST POINT JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS President
Glenn McKenzie
0408 524 994
glenn_mckenzie@bigpond.com
Treasurer
Paul Foley
0419 355 921
paul@cooke-foley.com.au
COVID Safety Officer
Kirrily Caldow
0434 839 264
kirrily.caldow@effem.com
Ground Manager - Matchday
Simon Charleson
0421 846 859
simonc@carlislehomes.com.au
Football Manager
Leanne Willems
0409 563 003
lwillems@ncable.net.au
Football Coaching Coordinator
Chris Gleeson
0403 554 119
cgleeson@spats.vic.edu.au
U/17 Senior Football
Steve McCulloch
0409 353 783 stephenmcculloch@jelliscraig.com.au
U/17 Reserve Football
Simon Clark
0459 439 218
simonwclark@hotmail.com
U/15 Senior Football
Bart Jones
0418 508 347
bart@vicroofingandrails.com.au
U/15 Reserve Football
Warren Black
0437 213 123
wazn@live.com.au
U/13 Senior Football
Simon Geljon
0407 515 227
simon@gelcon.com.au
U/13 Reserve Football
TBA
U/11 Senior Football
James Castes
0432 682 047
jrcastles@gmail.com
U/11 Reserve Football
Craig Cheesman
0438 317 693
cdchesse@outlook.com
U/9 Football
Cameron Snowden
0407 004 886
ceeju10@hotmail.com
U/9 Football
Jole Spratling
0400 225 839
straightlineplaster@hotmail.com
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Jodie Kenna
0407 487 275
jodiekenna11@gmail.com
17 & U Senior Netball
Matt Stevens
0438 327 123
matt.stevens@eefem.com
17 & U Reserve Netball
Richard McClure
0438 988 039
richard@carnations.com.au
15 & U Senior Netball
Shannon Harris
0438 301 471
shannyn@ballaratalliedhealth.com.au
15 & U Reserve Netball
Kelli Aggett
lkaggett@hotmail.com
13 & U Senior Netball
Felicity Cheesman
felicity@salostrategics.com.au
13 & U Reserve Netball
Aimee Kirby
sakirbs@gmail.com
11 & U Senior Netball
Annabel Hodge
AnnabelH@bgs.vic.edu.au
11 & U Reserve Netball
Marcelle Geljon
marcelleperry@hotmail.com
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
bfnl.com.au
17
McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
LAKE WENDOUREE CLUB OFFICIALS President
Chris Brennan
0419463758
cbrennan@unitedequipment.com.au
Vice President
Gav Mahar
0448103116
gavin.maher@porterutilities.com.au
0409609824
lakerssecretary@outlook.com
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Tom McKay Treasurer
Nat McKay
0400681870
lakersaccts@outlook.com
COVID Safety Officer
Julie Mahar
0434474441
JulieM@jgking.com.au
Football Coaching Coordinator
Mick Taylor
0408379149
michael@tayloredleadership.com.au
Senior Coach
Ash Simpson
0438781627
Reserves Coach
Jesse Mclean
0427876969
U/19 Coach
Jake Lohmann
0439455316
Netball Manager
Cassie Yueng
0409093829
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Katie Williams
0400732444
A Grade Netball Coach
Katie Williams
0400732444
B Grade Netball Coach
Courtney Mclean
0435411480
C Grade Netball Coach
Katie Williams
0400732444
D Grade Netball Coach
Molly Boyle
0409514754
E Grade Netball Coach
Steff Mahar
0413629565
19 & U Netball Coach
Kara Hart
0468952656
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
18
bfnl.com.au
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
LAKE WENDOUREE JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS Glenn Plamer
0411 417 389
glennp@ppt.com.au
Mitchell Gilbert
0419 369 700
mitchell.gilbert@sca.com.au
Secretary
Lucy Loader
0417 561 830
lloader3005@outlook.com
Football Manager
Brad Wootton
0417 389 227
brad@sovpress.com.au
Netball Manager
Catherine Hurdsfield
0417 343 724
c3thurdsfield@bigpond.com
Under 17 Seniors
Nathan Vercoe
0427 304 526
Under 17 Reserves
Darren Leech
0488 333 623
Under 15 Seniors
Jake Lohmann
0439 455 316
Under 15 Reserves
James Lovison
0432 211 365
Under 13 Seniors
Steve Eichler
0422 915 592
Under 13 Reserves
Phil McDonald
0408 435 305
Under 11 Seniors
Dan McPhan
0456 755 163
Under 11 Reserves
Nick Clark
0408 990 468
17 & Under Seniors
Kristie Cowan
0427 253 382
17 & Under Reserves
Karina Palmer
0413 687 998
15 & Under Seniors
Jacqui Clifton
0488 270 788
15 & Under Reserves
Casey Mason
0409 093 829
13 & Under Seniors
Ella Bibby
0497 265 383
13 & Under Reserves
Angela Speechley
0438 503 197
11 & Under Seniors
Rhonda Tighe
0418 130 660
11 & Under Reserves
Jill James
0418 130 332
President
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
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19
McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
MELTON CLUB OFFICIALS President
Brian Mc Nabb
0418 536 489
brian@meltontoyota.com.au
Vice President
Brad Jamison
0423 827 255
bradjamison18@hotmail.com
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Raelene Allen
0422 851 379
enquiries@meltonfnc.com.au
Treasurer
Andrew Button
0438 301 374
treasurer@meltonfnc.com.au
COVID Safety Officer
Jack Hibbert
0426 480 737
jack@goaheadgroup.com.au
Court Manager - Matchday
Tracey D'Antonio
0437 607 713
tracey.dantonio@gmail.com
Football Manager
Brad Jamison
0423 827 255
bradjamison18@hotmail.com
Senior Coach
Aaron Tymms
0418 365 766
aaron.tymms@hotmail.com
Reserves Coach
Daniel Dimech
0428 072 068
dimma15@icloud.com
Netball Manager
Mardi Button
0408 364 824
mardi.button@ororagroup.com
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Mardi Button
0408 364 824
mardi.button@ororagroup.com
A Grade Netball Coach
Ros Baker
0420 712 942
roselyn.meredith@gmail.com
B Grade Netball Coach
Ros Baker
0420 712 942
roselyn.meredith@gmail.com
C Grade Netball Coach
Leanne Newman
0433 781 672
leanne34hotchick@hotmail.com
D Grade Netball Coach
Mardi Button
0408 364 824
mardi.button@ororagroup.com
E Grade Netball Coach
Mardi Button
0408 364 824
mardi.button@ororagroup.com
19 & U Netball Coach
Sharnelle Hamilton
0427 422 887
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
20
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
MELTON SOUTH CLUB OFFICIALS President
Brendan Morrissey
0451826669
blmorrissey@bigpond.com
Vice President
Mathew Collins
0408031423
zippy_7@live.com.au
0487788997
pam.hill@healthcareaustralia.com.au
0402006725
leighm@melton.vic.gov.au
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Pam Hill Treasurer
Leigh Morcom
COVID Safety Officer
TBA
Ground Manager - Matchday
Scott Agnew
473445348
Court Manager - Matchday
Melissa Dawson
0411425125
Football Manager
Sean Sutton
0400356256
Football Coaching Coordinator
Travis Chapman
0412958172
Senior Coach
Heath Pritchard
0408148006
Reserves Coach
Shane Geddes
0411414811
U/19 Coach
TBA
melissa.dawson@hentys.com.au
FOOTBALL
NETBALL Netball Manager
Melissa Dawson
0411425125
melissa.dawson@hentys.com.au
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Anna Edmonds
0433276993
Anna.Edmonds@outlook.com.au
A Grade Netball Coach
Anna Edmonds
0433276993
Anna.Edmonds@outlook.com.au
B Grade Netball Coach
Anna Edmonds
0433276993
Anna.Edmonds@outlook.com.au
C Grade Netball Coach
Anna Edmonds
0433276993
Anna.Edmonds@outlook.com.au
D Grade Netball Coach
Rata Hunia
0423343599
E Grade Netball Coach
Anna Edmonds
0433276993
Anna.Edmonds@outlook.com.au
19 & U Netball Coach
Anna Edmonds
0433276993
Anna.Edmonds@outlook.com.au
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
22
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
MOUNT CLEAR JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS President
Ashley Madigan
0437 388 526
adm@foleywilson.com.au
Vice President
Tom Molan
0417 352 540
tom.molan@elders.com.au
Secretary
Leeona McGuane
0422 654 294
lmrdgm@hotmail.com
Treasurer
Tanya Mills
0408 530 604
millsy.tanya@gmail.com
COVID Safety Officer
TBA
Football Coordinator
Mick Dwyer
0407 488 140
michael.dwyer@chw.net.au
Netball Coordinator
Breeanna Jones
0429 362 762
mountiesnetball@gmail.com
Auskick Coordinator
Daniel O’Kelly
0438 315 136
d-okelly@hotmail.com
FOOTBALL U/9 Reserves
To be confirmed
U/9 Seniors
Leigh Jones
0424 884 183
leigh@ljplumbing.com.au
Andrew Dellaca
0400 162 132
AndrewD@selkirk.com.au
U/11 Reserves
TBA
U/11 Seniors
Adrian Mills
0419 675 210
millsy.adrian@gmail.com
U/13 Reserves
Bryan Gosney
0428 169 961
bryangosney@gmail.com
U/13 Seniors
Brett Vallance
0409 397 773
brettv@bchc.org.au
U/15 Reserves
Ash Bennett
0409 960 853
U/15 Seniors
Mick Dwyer
0407 488 140
michael.dwyer@chw.net.au
U/17 Seniors
Brendan Hughes
0418 584 745
bhughes@rabbit.com.au
Tom Molan
0417 352 540
tom.molan@elders.com.au
U/11 Reserves
Milla Gosney
0418 540 842
siobhangosney@gmail.com
U/11 Seniors
Cass Turner
0417 136 545
casscompton@yahoo.com
U/13 Reserves
Nicole Humphrey
0409 950 636
Nicolehumphrey22@outlook.com
U/13 Seniors
Renee Vallance
0410 043 637
reneebrettvallance@bigpond.com
U/15 Reserves
To be confirmed
U/15 Seniors
Siobhan Gosney
0418 540 842
siobhangosney@gmail.com
U/17 Reserves
Kay Hitchens
0492 830 643
s-ambre@hotmail.com
0492 830 643
s-ambre@hotmail.com
NETBALL
Missy Reiling U/17 Seniors
Kay Hitchens Missy Reiling
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23
McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
NORTH BALLARAT CLUB OFFICIALS President
Leon Jones
0417303736
Vice President
John Nevitt
0498413221
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Scott Seward
0416243234
Treasurer
Mark Seery
0407015774
COVID Safety Officer
Michael Lucas
0407188278
Ground Manager - Matchday
David Linane
0419557549
Court Manager - Matchday
Ali Driscoll
0413011125
Football Manager
Michael Lucas
0407188278
Football Coaching Coordinator
Brendan McCartney
0407874018
Senior Coach
Brendan McCartney
0407874018
Reserves Coach
Paul Aikman
0417361082
U/19 Coach
Tom Burke-Finn
0400350305
Netball Manager
Michael Lucas
0407188278
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Ali Driscoll
0413011125
A Grade Netball Coach
Annie McCartin
B Grade Netball Coach
Deb hutchinson
C Grade Netball Coach
Neve Claffey
D Grade Netball Coach
Samantha Hay
E Grade Netball Coach
Georgia Lowry
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
24
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
NORTH BALLARAT JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS President
Leon Jones
0417303736
Vice President
John Nevitt
0498413221
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Scott Seward
0416243234
Treasurer
Mark Seery
0407015774
COVID Safety Officer
Darren Trigg
0408031421
Ground Manager - Matchday
Darren Trigg
408031421
Court Manager - Matchday
Ali Driscoll
0413011125
Football Manager
Michael Lucas
0407188278
Football Coaching Coordinator
Darren Trigg
0408031421
U/17 Senior Football
Justin Abrams
U/17 Reserve Football
Gerard Fulkner
U/15 Senior Football
Peter Bowman
U/15 Reserve Football
Darren Smith
U/13 Senior Football
Ben Gallagher
U/13 Reserve Football
Shaune Moloney
U/11 Senior Football
Peter Kane
U/11 Reserve Football
Peter Kane
U/9 Football
Louis Franc
U/9 Football
Selena Beattie
FOOTBALL
NETBALL Netball Manager
Michael Lucas
0407188278
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Ali Driscoll
0413011125
17 & U Senior Netball
Mandy Polkinghorne
17 & U Reserve Netball
Kayla Mallet
15 & U Senior Netball
Brydi Hutchinson
15 & U Reserve Netball
Alan Bodey
13 & U Senior Netball
Gina Haase
13 & U Reserve Netball
Sally DeLoza
11 & U Senior Netball
Sarah Jones
11 & U Reserve Netball
Ange Abrams
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
REDAN CLUB OFFICIALS President
Garry Goyne
0417 390 250
osls1@bigpond.com
Secretary
Karen Baker
0408 033 625
kaz.baker.63@gmail.com
Football Manager
Grant Polkinghorne
0419 107 455
Netball Director
Ainslee McDougal
0438 324 715
ainsmac1@icloud.com
Sharryn Francis
0438 303 566
sharrynf@nigpond.com
Ground Manager
Karen Baker
0408 033 625
kaz.baker.63@gmail.com
Netball Court Manager
Ainslee McDougal
0438 324 715
ainsmac1@icloud.com
Sharryn Francis
0438 303 566
sharrynf@nigpond.com
Senior Coach
Jarrett Giampaolo
0402 732 277
jgiampaolo@stpats.vic.edu.au
Reserves Coach
Jeromy Johnson
0439 811 046
jjplumblingandroofing@gmail.com
Under 19 Coach
Steven Kane
0428 506 869
steve_kane6@hotmail.com
A Grade Coach
Hayley Munro
0424 919 640
hayleymunro98@hotmail.com
B Grade Coach
Ginger Woollermann
0419 430 616
C Grade Coach
Gabrielle Hayes
0414 566 798
D Grade Coach
Hannah Walter
0429 823 773
Keely Hasselhoff
0427 270 200
E Grade Coach
Ashlyn McCurdy
0407 819 287
19 & Under Coach
Emille Stephenson
0499 933 799
FOOTBALL
NETBALL
26
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
REDAN JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS President
Anthony O'Brien
0418355011
anthony.obrien@chw.net.au
Vice President
Darren Evans
0417380324
darren.evans@prp.com.au
0438044128
langrob71@gmail.com
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Rob Lang COVID Safety Officer
TBA
FOOTBALL Football Manager
Rob Lang
0438044128
langrob71@gmail.com
Football Coaching Coordinator
Tim Beacham
0431167578
tim.beacham@yahoo.com.au
U/17 Senior Football
Tim Beacham
0431167578
tim.beacham@yahoo.com.au
U/17 Reserve Football
Darrin Carroll
0429627997
darrinc@gforce.org.au
U/15 Senior Football
Neil McCahon
0412860223
neil@mulcahy.com.au
U/15 Reserve Football
Grant Wooller
0457025349
grant@dequarry.com.au
U/13 Senior Football
Justin Catley
0407025517
JCatley@bunnings.com.au
U/13 Reserve Football
Nic Crellin
0418367364
ncrellin@tpg.com.au
U/11 Senior Football
Lachlan Stephen
0487333358
lachystephen@yahoo.com.au
U/11 Reserve Football
Craig Atkinson
0438452298
CraigA@bartlett.net.au
U/9 Football
Trent Bursill
0409407417
trentbursill@ballarat.vic.gov.au
Netball Manager
Lyndel Roberts
0418 398 864
lyndel.roberts@ncable.net.au
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Lyndel Roberts
0418 398 864
lyndel.roberts@ncable.net.au
17 & U Senior Netball
Rebecca Scott
0448 135 445
kailahbec@gmail.com
17 & U Reserve Netball
Damian Mullane
0458 475 263
damien.mullane@courts.vic.gov.au
15 & U Senior Netball
Damian Mullane
0458 475 263
damien.mullane@courts.vic.gov.au
15 & U Reserve Netball
Michelle Jackson
0411 700 517
pmkh123@gmail.com
13 & U Senior Netball
Michelle Ward
0425 750 502
michelle.ward@visionaustralia.org
13 & U Reserve Netball
Mel Peters
0448 845 451
melpeters75@icloud.com
11 & U Senior Netball
Leah McDonald
0408 134 735
lj_macdonald@bigpond.com
NETBALL
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
SEBASTOPOL CLUB OFFICIALS President
Darren Hammill
0408 102 243
Vice President
Georgia Cann
0409 439 801
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Cain Edwards
0477 418 374
Treasurer
David Cutler
Ground Manager - Matchday
Lucky Phil
FOOTBALL Football Manager
Shawne Dummett
Senior Coach
Michael Searl
Reserves Coach
Steve Medwell
U/19 Coach
Jake Wilkinson
0457 301 684
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Phillipa Dodd
0404 272 442
A Grade Netball Coaches
Georgia Cann & Narelle Perkins
B Grade Netball Coach
Steph Burns
C Grade Netball Coaches
Nikki Allen & Lizzie Dodd
D Grade Netball Coach
Sally Noble
E Grade Netball Coaches
Phillipa Dodd & Bridgett Brady
19 & U Netball Coaches
Lachie Cooper & Olivier Cottier
0410 577 447
NETBALL
28
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
SEBASTOPOL JUNIORS CLUB OFFICIALS President
Darren Hammill
0408 102 243
Vice President
Georgia Cann
0409 439 801
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Cain Edwards
0477 418 374
Treasurer
David Cutler
Ground Manager - Matchday
Phil (Lucky Phil)
president@sebasfnc.com.au
0408 596 601
FOOTBALL Jeff Mihel
0412 505 171
Rall Cromb
0417 380 117
Football Coaching Coordinator
Brett Dean
0438 347 002
U/17 Senior Football
Glenn Miller
0417 392 548
U/17 Reserve Football
Rick Dixon
0418 382 252
U/15 Senior Football
Brett Dean
0438 347 002
U/15 Reserve Football
TBC
U/13 Senior Football
Tony Lovett
0417 589 449
U/13 Reserve Football
Rick Coyle
0439 003 972
U/11 Senior Football
Chris Grant
0439 666 615
U/11 Reserve Football
TBC
U/9 Football
Tim Vawdry
0409 628 206
U/9 Football
Tim Vawdry
0409 628 206
Netball Coaching Coordinator
Chenay Wilkinson
0428 930 444
17 & U Senior Netball
Kyah Erberle
0428 930 444
17 & U Reserve Netball
Chelsea Mason
15 & U Senior Netball
Samantha Lawler
15 & U Reserve Netball
Sally Noble
13 & U Senior Netball
Tahlia Watts-Holmes
13 & U Reserve Netball
Olivia King and Rebecca Young
11 & U Senior Netball
Eloise Sheridan and Caitlin Filmer
11 & U Reserve Netball
Izzy Sheridan
Football Manager
NETBALL chenay@y7mail.com
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
SUNBURY CLUB OFFICIALS President
Hedley Duhau
0421594225
janandand@hotmail.com
Vice President
Darren Eales
0412290005
dkeales@bigpond.com
0407357926
allanfoconnor@gmail.com
Secretary / Administrator / Manager Allan O'Connor Treasurer
Kat Muir
0409335308
katmuzz@bigpond.com
COVID Safety Officer
Kat Muir
0409335308
katmuzz@bigpond.com
Ground Manager - Matchday
Ray McInnes
409003225
raymondmc1948@gmail.com
Court Manager - Matchday
Ray McInnes
409003225
raymondmc1948@gmail.com
FOOTBALL Football Manager
Braken Fenton
0423085440
braksie01@bigpond.com
Football Coaching Coordinator
Travis Hodgeson
0434701242
travisjhodgson14@gmail.com
Senior Coach
Travis Hodgeson
0434701242
travisjhodgson14@gmail.com
Reserves Coach
Dylan Coventary
0434553933
dylancovo@hotmail.com
U/19 Coach
Andrew Hall
0413514926
vmcphysio@vineyardmedicalcentre.com.au
NETBALL Netball Coaching Coordinator
Tammi Hardwick
0405474737
A Grade Netball Coach
Josh Burns
0413197801
B Grade Netball Coach
Josh Burns
0413197801
C Grade Netball Coach
Renee Hulls
0439377849
D Grade Netball Coach
Tammi Hardwick
0405474737
19 & U Netball Coach
Jannie Hodgson
0411090263
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
Bacchus Marsh
Ballarat Seniors
Ballarat Juniors
Ballarat Storm
Darley
East Point Juniors
East Point Seniors
Lake Wendouree
Melton
Melton South
Mount Clear
North Ballarat
Redan
Sebastopol
Sunbury
Woady Yaloak
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
32
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2021 OPERATIONS MANUAL
The following Operations Manual and content is current until a new edition is released by the Ballarat Football Netball League. Additional resources are available from the league website
bfnl.com.au
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
2021 STANDARD START TIMES SENIOR FOOTBALL Grade
Start Time
Ground
Quarters
Breaks
Senior Football
2:15pm
Full
4 x 20min PLUS time on
5min - 20min - 5min
Reserve Football
12:00pm
Full
4 x 24min No time on
5min - 12min - 5min
9:50am
Full
4 x 22min No time on
4min - 10min - 4min
Grade
Start Time
Court
Quarters
Breaks
A Grade
2:45pm
Full
4 x 15min
3min - 5min - 3min
B Grade
1:30pm
Full
4 x 15min
3min - 5min - 3min
C Grade
12:15pm
Full
4 x 12min
2min - 4min - 2min
D Grade
11:10am
Full
4 x 12min
2min - 4min - 2min
E Grade
10:05am
Full
4 x 10min
2min - 3min - 2min
19 & Under
9:00am
Full
4 x 12min
2min - 4min - 2min
U/18.5 Football
SENIOR NETBALL
JUNIOR FOOTBALL Grade
Start Time
Ground
Quarters
Breaks
3:15pm
Full
4 x 20min No time on
3min – 5min – 3min
U/17 Reserve
1:35pm
Full
4 x 20min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/15 Senior
12:15pm
Full
4 x 15min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/15 Reserve
11:00am
Full
4 x 15min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/13 Senior
9:55am
Full
4 x 12min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/13 Reserve
8:55am
Full
4 x 12min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/11 Senior
8:00am
Half
4 x 10min No time on
2min – 2min – 2min
U/11 Reserve
8:00am
Quarter
4 x 10min No time on
2min – 2min – 2min
U/17 Senior
JUNIOR NETBALL Grade
Start Time
Court
Quarters
Breaks
17 & Under Senior
3:10pm
Full
4 x 12min
2min - 4min - 2min
17 & Under Reserve
2:00pm
Full
4 x 12min
2min - 4min - 2min
15 & Under Senior
1:00pm
Full
4 x 10min
2min - 3min - 2min
15 & Under Reserve
12:00pm
Full
4 x 10min
2min - 3min - 2min
13 & Under Senior
11:00am
Full
4 x 10min
2min - 3min - 2min
13 & Under Reserve
10:00am
Full
4 x 10min
2min - 3min - 2min
11 & Under Senior
9:00am
Full
4 x 10min
2min - 3min - 2min
11 & Under Reserve
8:00am
Full
4 x 10min
2min - 3min - 2min
BFLW FOOTBALL Grade
Start Time
Ground
Quarters
Breaks
Women’s
12:45pm
Full
4 x 20min No time on
5min – 10min – 5min
Under 18
11:15am
Full
4 x 15min No time on
5min – 7min – 5min
Under 16
9:45am
Full
4 x 15min No time on
5min – 7min – 5min
Under 14
8:30am
Full
4 x 12min No time on
5min – 7min – 5min
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
TIME ON & USING THE INTERCHANGE FORM Senior Football quarters will remain 20 minutes plus time on. Please see below for timekeeping processes and all matters associated with time on. This also includes the processes of the Interchange Steward and the use of the interchange gate.
Time On for All Senior Ballarat Football League Matches: Continuing this year, all quarters will be 20 minutes plus time on. Time on shall be blown in accordance with AFL Victoria Country Rule 10.5.1: The Timekeepers shall stop the clock which is used for the timing of a match when:
a) directed to do so by a field Umpire in accordance with Law 10.5.3;
b) the goal Umpire signals that a Goal has been scored;
c) the goal Umpire signals that a Behind has been scored;
d) the boundary Umpire signals that the football is Out of Bounds or Out of Bounds on the Full; or
e) When the field Umpire crosses his or her arms to indicate he/she is going bounce or throw the ball up.
Please Note: This is for SENIOR football only. Please refer to BFNL By-Law Sounding of the Siren policy for rules on
making sure games run to time.
Interchange & Order Off Forms: All matches playing for premiership points (seniors and juniors) will require each side to provide one Interchange Steward. On match days, Interchange Stewards will sit together at the interchange gate and record all the numbers of all players starting on the bench at the start of each quarter. In the case where coaches boxes are on opposite sides of the ground (eg. White Flat Oval), the Interchange Steward from the ‘Home’ team will record bench players of the ‘Away’ team and visa versa. All Interchange Stewards will be required to fill out the Interchange & Order Off Form during every BFNL match. The Ballarat Football Netball League has developed an ‘easy to use’ Interchange & Order Off Form for clubs to use on a weekend and Interchange Stewards need to record information on red and yellow cards and when the blood rule is applied. Simple transaction of players do not need to be recorded.
Runners: Runners are not required to use the interchange gate, however, clubs using two runners must ensure that only one runner is on the playing surface at a time. If two runners are found to be on the ground at the same time, the Umpire will pay a free kick against the offending team.
Order Off & Blood Rule: Interchange Stewards need to be provided with a time clock so they can time players who are sent from the ground with a red or yellow card. It is the responsibility of the Interchange Steward to control the amount of time a player is remain off the ground as a result of a red or yellow card.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
GROUND MANAGER DUTIES All Ground Managers employed by the BFNL or by Clubs affiliated with the BFNL shall be required to undertake the following as a minimum requirement of that position. 1. Open umpires rooms 1 hr before commencement of first game & ensure rooms are clean & showers turned on. 2. Organise match ball (selection of 2 for Seniors) making sure they are tight before going to meet coaches & players. 3. Escort umpires to change rooms to collect team sheets, meet coaches, players & check boots & escort back to their rooms. 4. Escort umpires to ground centre & wait there until umpires warm-ups are completed. 5. Collect umpires tracksuit tops & store in a secure place. 6. Organise spare ball which the INTERCHANGE STEWARDS shall hold. 7. Ensure that both teams are on the ground 5 minutes before the appointed starting time. 8. Supply drinks (Home Club should provide) & tracksuits to umpires at each break. 9. Escort umpires in conjunction with INTERCHANGE STEWARDS off ground at halftime & at the conclusion of the game. 10. Ensure that a stretcher is placed by the home team inside the playing arena fence at the interchange area prior to the commencement of the game. 11. Ensure the only occupants of the press boxes are Club timekeepers, members of the media & the ground manager. 12. At junior level, there is no time on. Except when a stretcher is required on the playing arena. It is the responsibility of the Ground Manager to request for the clock to be stopped. Time on is from when the stretcher crosses the boundary line onto & off the playing arena. 13. Ensure the score board attendant is accurate & watching the game & ensure that scoreboard signs are changed at the end of each match. 14. Ensure that the number in each coaching box doesn’t exceed the maximum number allowed by the Ballarat Football Netball League. 15. Ensure that NO players or Spectators approach the umpires in the centre of the square during the quarter & three quarter time break. 16. Ensures that nobody enters the Umpires room at any stage. 17. Escort umpires to after match function if requested, then escort umpires to their car on leaving venue. 18. Ensure that Water Carriers and /or Trainers do not linger on the ground, and that they perform their duties and quickly remove themselves from the ground. Further, the Ground Manager will ensure that Water Carriers and /or Trainers are correctly attired and that each sides number of Water Boys and Trainers do not exceed the maximum number allowed by the Ballarat Football Netball League.
Additional Finals Duties 1. Prior to the commencement of each match, make it quite clear to clubs that their five best players & all goal kickers are required to be handed to yourself at the completion of the game. This applies at all levels. It is not sufficient that the Courier has this information. You must also collect it. 2. Footballs are to be presented to the umpire at the beginning of the match & returned to the Ground office. Each Ground Manager will be issued with a ball per match & a spare. 3. Complete incident report sheet should any incident occur that needs to brought to the Ballarat Football League’s attention. Incident report sheets should be sent in with the match day paperwork. 4. Ensure all clubs tidy up after themselves prior to leaving the facilities.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
MATCH REVIEW PANEL PROCESS The Ballarat Football Netball League introduced a Match Review Panel of five members who were appointed to review incidents raised from official BFNL footage and asked to make a determinations on whether the player(s) in question may have breached one of the AFL Victoria Country rules as outlined on the official report sheet.The process for incidents raised by clubs and referred onto the Match Review Panel is as follows:
Step 1: Incident Raised with the League Any on-field incident that may have been missed by the officiating Umpire(s) can be raised with the league for further review. Requests to review footage must be submitted through a club’s Executive or Umpiring Association and incidents must be raised with the league via email prior to 12pm on a Tuesday following a round of matches. From there, the league puts in a request to our media partners to send a copy of the footage in three different speeds which is then forwarded on to all Match Review Panel members. If footage of the incident cannot be found, the person requesting the review will be informed and the case shall go no further. NOTE: At this point a club may wish to take the incident to investigation if they feel the incident still requires attention. At this point, both clubs involved as well as the Umpiring Association are informed that a case is currently sitting with the Match Review Panel and a decision is pending on an incident that occurred during the game in question.
Step 2: Review of the Incident by the Match Review Panel Once the footage has been found, it is sent to all panel members along with a copy of the official report sheet. Panel members are asked to review the footage and determine if an AFL Victoria Country rule (as listed on the report form) has been breached.
Step 3: Informing the BFNL of Final Decision Once all Match Review Panel members have had a chance to review the footage, each member must then inform the Operations Manager via email by the close of business on the same day of their decision on whether or not an AFL Victoria Country rule has been breached. The Match Review Panel is made up of an odd number of members at all times meaning the majority rules on any decision made on whether or not a case is referred to the tribunal. With a five member panel, if three members vote that a player may have a case to answer to, then the case is referred to the tribunal and visa versa.
Step 4: Informing the Club of the Match Review Panel Outcome Once a decision has been determined by the Match Review Panel, all clubs will be informed of the decision made. Either of the following will happen: a) The Match Review Panel will determine a player or players may have a case to answer to and the case will be referred to the Independent Tribunal for hearing; or b) The Match Review Panel will determine that a player or players have no case to answer to and the case will go no further NOTE:At this point a club may wish to take the incident to investigation if they feel the incident still requires attention. If a case is referred to the tribunal, both clubs and the Umpiring Association will be filled a completed report sheet informing everyone of the breach AFL Victoria Country rule, this sheet will also be used during the tribunal case.
Step 5: Case Moves on to Tribunal Hearing (If Applicable) Should the case be referred to the Independent Tribunal, the case shall run the normal course that any other tribunal case would run. NOTE:A fee of $200 shall apply for Match Review Panel requests in the following instances: - To the club who requests a MRP incident and it DOES NOT proceed to the Tribunal - To the club who has a player sent to the Tribunal resulting from a MRP case review IMPORTANT: This fee is in addition to any guilty verdict fees or fees handed down by the Tribunal.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
CONSTITUTION Preamble This Manual was prepared by the General Manager Shane Anwyl and Football Manager Scott Carey of the Ballarat Football & Netball League. The Manual is designed to act as a reference source for all Ballarat Football & Netball League Clubs and should be read in conjunction with the most recently published AFL Victoria Country Handbook. Should any Club or Club representative have suggestion for improvement of this publication, it would be appreciated if they could be passed on to the Operations Manager of the League, to ensure that the publication is as beneficial as it is intended. The Manual includes the following: Statement of Purposes
38
Rules 38 Football By-Laws
47
Match Day Guidelines
83
Netball By-Laws
91
Appendices 103
Statement of Purposes of the Ballarat Football & Netball League Inc The purposes of the Ballarat Football & Netball League Incorporated are as follows: 1. To provide an organised framework for the control and management of all Football & Netball matches in all grades of football & netball played by clubs affiliated with the Ballarat Football & Netball League Incorporated. 2. To set up Tribunals to resolve all disputes that may arise in connection with matches played between Clubs affiliated with the League including disciplining players. 3. To establish Tribunals to resolve disputes that may arise between various clubs affiliated within the League. 4. To provide an organised framework for conducting football & netball matches between the various Clubs affiliated with the League. 5. To generally promote the games of Australian Rules Football and Netball. 6. To purchase, take on lease, borrow or otherwise acquire any land, buildings, easements or property both real and personal for the purposes of being used in connection with the purposes of the Association. 7. To enter into any arrangements, contracts, agreements or otherwise that are conducive to achieving the purposes of the League. 8. To engage and employ any persons as may be necessary for the carrying out of the purposes of the League.
Ballarat Football & Netball League Inc. Rules 1. Name: 1.1. The name of the Incorporated league is The Ballarat Football & Netball League incorporated (in these Rules called “the League”).
2. Definitions: 2.1. In these Rules, unless the contrary intention appears “Board” means the independent Board of Directors constituted pursuant to Rule 21. “Financial Year” means the year ending on 30th September. “General Meeting” means a General Meeting of Members convened in accordance with Rule 11. “Member” means a Member of the League. “The Act” means the Associations Incorporation Act 1981. “The Regulations” means regulations under the Act. 2.2. In these Rules, a reference to the Regional General Manager of the League is a reference:
2.2.1. W here a person holds office under these Rules as Regional General Manager of the League to that person; and
2.2.2. I n any other case, to the public officer of the League.
2.3. Words or expressions contained in these Rules shall be interpreted in accordance with the provision of the Acts Interpretation Act 1958 and the Act as in force from time to time.
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3. Membership: 3.1. The Members of the League shall be as follows:
3.1.1. E ach Club or Incorporated Body affiliated with the League shall appoint one Member each for participating eams in the 1st & 2nd eighteen competitions, one Member between the 3rd and 4th eighteen competition, and one Member between the U14, U/12 and U/10 competitions, subject to any one Club or Incorporated Body being limited to a maximum of four members so appointed.
3.1.2. D uly appointed life Members of the League who shall have no voting rights at any meeting of the League.
3.1.3. T he duly elected Directors of the League.
3.2. A person who is not a Member of the League at the time of the Incorporation of the League (or who was such a Member at that time but has ceased to be a Member) shall not be admitted to Membership:
3.2.1. u nless he is nominated as provided in sub-clause 3.3; and
3.2.2. h is or her admission as a Member is approved by the Board.
3.3. A nomination of a person for Membership by the League:
3.3.1. S hall be made in writing in the form set out in appendix 1; and
3.3.2. S hall be lodged with the Regional General Manager of the League.
3.4. As soon as is practicable after the receipt of a nomination, the Regional General Manager shall refer the nomination to the Board 3.5. Upon a nomination being referred to the Board, the Board shall determine whether to approve or to reject the nomination. 3.6. Upon a nomination being approved by the Board, the Regional General Manager shall, with as little delay as possible, notify’ the nominee in writing that he/she is approved for Membership of the League and request payment within the period of 28 days after receipt of the notification of the sum payable under these Rules as the entrance fee and the first year’s annual subscription. 3.7. The Regional General Manager shall, upon payment of the amounts referred to in sub-clause (3.6) within the period referred to in that sub-clause, enter the nominee’s name in the register of Members kept by him and, upon the name being so entered, the nominee becomes a Member of the League. 3.8. A right, privilege, or obligation of a person by reason of his Membership of the League:
3.8.1. I s not capable of being transferred or transmitted to another person; and
3.8.2. T erminates upon the cessation of his Membership whether by death or resignation or otherwise
3.9. Any Member of the League whom the Board shall by resolution declare to have rendered outstanding service to the League may be recommended for life Membership of the League and may be so elected to a life Membership by a majority of the Members present at any Annual General Meeting of the League. Any such Members so elected a life Membership shall there after be relieved from the payment of any subscriptions otherwise payable. The Annual General Meeting shall have the power to elect a maximum of two Life Members each year.
4. F ees for Membership: 4.1. The entrance fee shall be if any, as the Board shall from time to time determine. 4.2. The annual subscription shall be if any, as the Board shall from time to time determine, and shall be payable in advance on or be fore the 1st day of July in each year.
5. R egister of Members: 5.1. The Regional General Manager shall keep and maintain a register of Members in which shall be entered the full name, address and date of entry of the name of each Member and the register shall be available for inspection by Members at the address of the Regional General Manager.
6. R esignation of Members: 6.1. A Member of the League who has paid all monies due and payable by him to the League may resign from the League by first giving one months notice in writing to the Regional General Manager of his intention to resign and upon the expiration of that period of notice, the Member shall cease to be a Member. 6.2. Upon the expiration of a notice given under sub-clause 6.1, the Regional General Manager shall make in the register of Members an entry recording the date on which the Member by whom the notice was given, ceased to be a Member.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 7. Expulsion and Suspension of Member 7.1. Subject to these Rules, the Board may by resolution:
7.1.1. E xpel a Member from the League;
7.1.2. S uspend a Member from Membership of the League for a specified period; or
7.1.3. F ine a Member in accordance with the regulations if the Board is of the opinion that the Member
7.1.3.1. h as refused or neglected to comply with these rules; or
7.1.3.2. h as been guilty of conduct unbecoming a Member or prejudicial to the interests of the League.
7.2. A resolution of the Board under sub-clause 7.1
7.2.1. D oes not take effect unless the Board, at a meeting held not earlier than 14 and not later than 28 days after the service
7.2.2. W here the Member exercises a right of appeal to the League under this clause does not take effect unless the League
on the Member of a notice under sub-clause 7.3 confirms the resolution in accordance with this clause; and confirms the resolution in accordance with this clause. 7.3. Where the Board passes a resolution under sub-clause 7.1, the Regional General Manager, as soon as practicable, cause to be served on the Member a notice in writing
7.3.1. s etting out the resolution of the Board and the grounds on which it is based;
7.3.2. s tating that the Member may address the Board at a meeting to be held not earlier than 14 and not later than 28 days after service of the notice;
7.3.3. s tating the date, place and time of that meeting;
7.3.4. i nforming the Member that he may do one or more of the following:
7.3.4.1. a ttend that meeting.
7.3.4.2. g ive to the Board before the date of that meeting a written statement seeking the revocation of the resolution; and
7.3.4.3. n ot later than 24 hours before the date of the meeting, lodge with the Regional General Manager a notice to the effect that he wishes to appeal to the League in General Meeting against the Resolution.
7.4. At a meeting of the Board held in accordance with sub-clause 7.2, the Board
7.4.1. s hall give to the Member an opportunity to be heard;
7.4.2. s hall give due consideration to any written statement submitted by the Member; and
7.4.3. s hall by resolution determine whether to confirm or to revoke the resolution.
7.5. Where the Regional General Manager of the League receives a notice under sub-clause 7.3, he shall notify the Board and the Board shall convene a General Meeting of the League to be held within twenty one days after the date on which the Regional General Manager received the notice. 7.6. At a General Meeting of the League convened under sub-clause 7.5
7.6.1. n o business other than the question of the appeal shall be transacted;
7.6.2. t he Board may place before the meeting details of the grounds for the resolution and the reasons for the passing of
7.6.3. t he Member shall be given an opportunity to be heard; and
7.6.4. t he Members present shall vote by secret ballot on the question whether the resolution should be confirmed or
the resolution;
revoked. 7.7. If at the General Meeting
7.7.1. t wo thirds of the Members vote in person or by proxy in favour of the confirmation of the resolution, the resolution is
7.7.2. i n any other case, the resolution is revoked.
confirmed; and
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 8. Annual General Meeting: 8.1. The League shall in each calendar year convene an Annual General Meeting of its Members. 8.2. The Annual General Meeting shall be held on such day as the Board determines. 8.3. The Annual General Meeting shall be specified as such in the notice convening it. 8.4. The ordinary business of the Annual General Meeting shall be
8.4.1. T o confirm the minutes of the last preceding Annual General Meeting and of any Special General Meeting held since that meeting;
8.4.2. T o receive from the Board reports upon the transactions of the League during the last preceding financial year;
8.4.3. T o elect Directors of the League;
8.4.4. T o receive and consider the Statement submitted by the League in accordance with Section 30(3) of the Act; and
8.5. The Annual General Meeting may transact special business of which notice is given in accordance with these Rules. 8.6. The Annual General Meeting shall be in addition to any other General Meetings that may be held in the same year.
9. S pecial General Meetings: 9.1. All General Meetings other than the Annual General Meeting shall be called Special General Meetings.
10. Meetings. 10.1. T he Board may, whenever it thinks fit, convene a Special General Meeting of the League and, where, but for this sub-clause, more than 15 months would lapse between Annual General Meetings, shall convene a Special General Meeting before the expiration of that period. 10.2. T he Board shall, on the requisition in writing of Members representing not less than five percent of the total number of Members, convene a Special General Meeting of the League. 10.3. T he Requisition for a Special General Meeting shall state the objects of the meeting and shall be signed by the Members making the requisition and be sent to the address of the Regional General Manager and may consist of several documents in a like form, each signed by one or more of the Members making the requisition. 10.4. I f the Board does not cause a Special General Meeting to be held within one month after the date on which the requisition is sent to the address of the Regional General Manager, the Members making the requisition, or any of them, may convene a Special General Meeting to be held not later than three months after that date. 10.5. A Special General Meeting convened by Members in pursuance of these Rules shall be convened in the same manner as nearly as possible as that in which those meetings are convened by the Board and all reasonable expenses incurred in convening the meeting shall be refunded by the League to the persons incurring the expenses.
11. Procedure for General Meeting: 11.1. T he Regional General Manager of the League shall, at least 14 days before the date fixed for holding a General Meeting of the League, cause to be sent to each Member of the League at his address appearing in the register of Members, a notice by prepaid post stating the place, date and time of the meeting and the nature of the business to be transacted at the meeting. 11.2. N o business other than that set out in the notice convening the meeting shall be transacted at the meeting. 11.3. A Member desiring to bring any business before a meeting may give notice of that business in writing to the Regional General Manager, who shall include that business in the notice calling the next General Meeting after the receipt of the notice.
12. Special Business: 12.1. A ll business that is transacted at a Special General Meeting and all business that is transacted at the Annual General Meeting with the exception of that especially referred to in these rules as being the ordinary business of the Annual General Meeting shall be deemed to be special business. 12.2. N o item of business shall be transacted at a General Meeting unless a quorum of Members entitled under these rules to vote is present during the time when the meeting is considering that item. 12.3. F our Members personally present (being Members entitled under these rules to vote at a General Meeting) shall form a quorum at a General Meeting. 12.4. I f within half an hour after the appointed time for the commencement of a General Meeting, a quorum is not present, the meeting if convened upon the requisition of Members shall be dissolved and in any other case shall stand adjourned to the same day in the next week at the same time and (unless another place is specified by the Chairman at the time of the adjournment or by writ ten notice to the Members given before the day to which the meeting is adjourned) at the same place and if at the adjourned meeting the quorum is not present within half an hour after the time appointed for the commencement of the meeting, the Members present (being not less than 3) shall be a quorum.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 13. Chairman: 13.1. T he Chairman, or in his absence, the Deputy Chairman, or if both are absent, one of the Directors of the Board, shall preside as Chairman at each General Meeting of the League. 13.2. I f the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman are absent from a General Meeting, the Members present shall elect one of their Members to preside as Chairman at the Meeting.
14. Adjournment: 14.1. T he Chairman of a General Meeting at which a quorum is present may, with the consent of the meeting, adjourn the meeting from time to time and place to place, but no business shall be transacted at an adjourned meeting other than the business left unfinished at the meeting at which the adjournment took place. 14.2. W here a meeting is adjourned for fourteen days or more, a like notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given as in the case of the General Meeting. 14.3. E xcept as provided in sub-clauses 14.1 and 14.2, it is not necessary to give notice of an adjournment or f the business to be trans acted at an adjourned meeting.
15. Voting: 15.1. A question arising at a General Meeting of the League shall be determined on a show of hands and unless before or on the declaration of the show of hands a poll is demanded, a declaration by the Chairman that a resolution has, on a show of hands, been carried or carried unanimously or carried by a particular majority, or lost, and an entry to that effect in the Minute Book of the League is evidence of the fact, without proof of the number or proportion of the votes recorded in favour of, or against, that resolution.
16. Casting Vote: 16.1. U pon any question arising at a General Meeting of the League, a Member has one vote only. 16.2. A ll votes shall be given personally or by proxy. 16.3. I n the case of an equality of voting on a question, the Chairman of the meeting is entitled to exercise a second or casting vote.
17. Poll: 17.1. I f at a meeting a poll on any question is demanded by not less than three Members, it shall be taken at that meeting in such manner as the Chairman may direct and the resolution of the poll shall be determined to be a resolution of the meeting on that question. 17.2. A poll that is demanded on the election of a Chairman or on a question of an adjournment shall be taken forthwith and a poll that is demanded on any other question shall be taken at such time before the close of the meeting as the Chairman may direct.
18. Entitlement to Vote: 18.1. A Member is not entitled to vote at any General Meeting unless all monies due and payable by him to the League have been paid, other than the amount of the annual subscription payable in respect of the current financial year.
19. Proxies: 19.1. E ach Member shall be entitled to appoint another Member as his proxy by notice given to the Regional General Manager no later than 24 hours before the time of the meeting in respect of which the proxy is appointed. 19.2. T he notice appointing the proxy shall be in the form set out in Appendix 2.
20. Independent Board of Directors: 20.1. T he affairs of the League shall be managed by an Independent Board of Directors as constituted as provided in Rule 21. 20.2. T he Board
20.2.1. s hall control and manage the business and affairs of the League;
20.2.2. m ay, subject to these Rules, the Regulations and the Act, exercise all such powers and functions as may be exercised by the League other than those powers and functions that are required by Rule 22 of these Rules to be exercised by General Meetings of the Members of the League and which powers and functions are known as reserved powers.
20.2.3. s ubject to these Rules, the Regulations and the Act, the Board has power to perform all such acts and things as appear to the Board to be essential for the proper management of the business and affairs of the League.
20.2.4. m ay appoint such sub-committees and on such terms as it sees fit and delegate any of its functions to such subcommittees as it deems desirable for the efficient management of the League.
20.2.5. s hall have the power from time to time to make, alter and repeal such regulations and by-laws as the Board deems desirable for the proper conduct and management of the affairs of the League.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 21. Constitution of the Independent Board: 21.1. T he persons constituting the Independent Board shall be known as Directors of the League 21.2. T he Directors of the League shall be
21.2.1. A Chairman of Directors 21.2.2. A Director of Finance 21.2.3. A Director of Marketing / Special Events 21.2.4. A Director of Interleague 21.2.5. A Director of Operations 21.2.6. A Director of Netball 21.2.7. T wo Directors of Junior Football 21.2.8. U p to four Executive Directors
21.3. T he provisions of Rule 23 so far as they are applicable and with the necessary modifications, apply to and in relation to the elections of persons to any of the directorships mentioned in sub-clause 21.2. 21.4. E ach Director of the League shall hold office for a term of two years expiring at the second Annual General Meeting after the date of his election but shall be eligible for re-election. 21.5. I n the event of a casual vacancy in any of the directorships referred to in sub-clause 21.2 the League at a General Meeting called for that purpose may elect a person to the vacant office and the person so appointed, may continue in office up to and including the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting next following the date of his appointment. 21.6. A person shall not be eligible to hold office as a Director of the League if that person also holds office on a Committee of an affiliated club, apart from two (2) Directors of Junior Football. This exception is to be reviewed on an annual basis and confirmed at the Annual General Meeting. 21.7. N othing in the foregoing paragraph shall operate to prevent a person holding office with an affiliated club from offering himself for election as a Director of the League provided that immediately upon election he resigns his office with the affiliated club.
22. Reserved Powers: 22.1. T he following powers and functions of the League shall be exerciseable only by the General Meetings of the Members of the League. 22.2. T he expulsion of any Club or Incorporated Body affiliated with the League.
22.2.1. A Club or incorporated body affiliated with the League may be expelled from the League for acting in Breach f the By-Laws of the League or in a manner which is otherwise detrimental to the interests of the League.
22.3. T he admission of any club or Incorporated Body seeking to become affiliated with the League. 22.4. S uch other powers and functions as may from time to time be reserved to the General Meetings of the Members of the League by the Annual General Meeting of the League.
23. Nomination of Candidates: 23.1. N ominations of candidates for election as Directors of the Independent Board of the League
23.1.1. S hall only be made in writing, and proposed and seconded by a Member of the League accompanied by the written consent of the candidate (which may be endorsed on the form of nomination); and
23.1.2. S hall be delivered to the General Manager of the League not less than fourteen days before the date fixed for the holding of the Annual General Meeting.
23.1.3. N eed not be limited to current Members of the League, provided that such persons shall become Members of the League if elected to the Board.
23.2. I f insufficient nominations are received to fill all vacancies on the Board, the candidates nominated shall be deemed to be elected and further nominations shall be received at the Annual General Meeting. 23.3. Each candidate nominating for election as a Director shall nominate specifically for one of the directorships detailed in Rule 21. 23.4. If only one nomination is received for a particular position to be filled the person so nominated shall be deemed to be elected. 23.5. I f the number of nominations exceeds the vacancy to be filled, a ballot shall be held. 23.6. T he ballot for the election of Director of the Board shall be conducted at the Annual General Meeting in such usual and proper manner as the Board may direct. 23.7. A candidate may nominate for election for more than one directorship provided however that if elected to one of the positions his nomination shall then be declared invalid for any other positions and a candidate may not hold more than one directorship on the Board, save and except for the position of Deputy Chairman which may be appointed in accordance with rule 2. 23.8. T he position of Deputy Chairman need not be part of port folio in its own right and may be a member of the Independent Board holding another position, elected by a majority of Board Members at the First meeting of the Board following the Annual General Meeting.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 24. Cessation of Membership: For the purposes of these Rules, the office of Director becomes vacant if the Director 24.1. C eases to be a Member of the League; 24.2. B ecomes an insolvent under administration within the meaning of the Companies (Victoria) Code; or 24.3. R esigns his office by notice in writing given to the Regional General Manager of the League.
25. Board Meetings: 25.1. T he Board shall meet at least eight times in each year at such place and such times as the Board may determine. 25.2. S pecial Meetings of the Board may be convened by the Chairman or by any three of the Directors. 25.3. N otice shall be given to Directors of the Board of any Special Meeting specify the general nature of the business to be transacted and no other business shall be transacted at such a meeting. 25.4. A quorum of the Board shall be a majority of those entitled to attend. 25.5. N o business shall be transacted unless a quorum is present and if within half an hour of the time appointed for the meeting a quorum is not present the meeting shall stand adjourned to the same place and at the same hour of the same day in the following week unless the meeting was a Special meeting in which case it lapses. 25.6. A t meetings of the Board 25.6.1. t he Chairman or in his absence the Deputy Chairman shall preside; or
25.6.2. i f the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman are absent, such one of the remaining Directors of the Board as may be chosen by the Directors present shall preside.
25.7. Q uestions arising at a meeting of the Board or of any sub-committee appointed by the Board shall be determined on a show of hands or, if demanded by a Member, by a poll taken in such manner as the person presiding at the meeting may determine. 25.8. E ach Director present at a meeting of the Board or of any sub-committee appointed by the Board (including the person presiding at the meeting) is entitled to one vote and, in the event of an equality of votes on any question, the person presiding may exercise a second or casting vote. 25.9. W ritten notice of each Board meeting shall be served on each Director by delivering it to him at a reasonable time before the meeting or by sending it by e-mail at least two business days before the date of the meeting. 25.10. S ubject to Clause 25.4 the Board may act notwithstanding any vacancy on the Board.
26. Football Netball Operations Manager: 26.1. T he Football Netball Operations Manager of the League shall keep minutes of the resolutions and proceedings of each General Meeting and each Board meeting in books provided for that purpose together with a record of the names of persons present at Board Meetings.
27. Duties of Directors: 27.1. E ach of the Directors shall perform such duties and functions as may from time to time be directed by the Board 27.2. S ubject to such directions from the Board the Directors shall perform the following functions.
27.2.1. T he Chairman of Directors. Shall act as Chairman of the Board and shall preside at all General Meetings of the League and may sit on all subcommittees of the League. He shall be responsible for the supervision and assessment of the League.
27.2.2. T he Director of Finance. Shall act as the Treasurer of the League and shall be responsible for preparation of the budget and shall collect and receive all monies due to the League and make all payments authorised by the League. He shall keep correct accounts and books showing the financial affairs of the League with full details of all receipts and expenditure connected with the activities of the League which accounts and books shall be available for inspection by the Members. At the completion of each financial year the Director of Finance shall cause all books of account of the League to be audited by the registered Company Auditor appointed at the preceding Annual General Meeting.
27.2.3. T he Director of Marketing / Special Events. Shall be responsible for the public relations activities and all publicity associated with the League and its activities. He shall liaise with the print and electronic media and shall be responsible for producing all publications of the League. He shall also be responsible for coordinating the special events under taken by the League including the Final Series Promotions, the Henderson Medal Dinner, Annual Dinner and the SmokeFree Championships. He shall also be responsible for such other special activities undertaken by the League from time to time and as directed by the Board.
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27.2.4. D irector of Operations. Shall be responsible for liaising with the Regional General Manager and shall act as Chairman (in the absence of the Chairman) of any Disputes Committees and Ground Committee or Wet Weather Committee as may be appointed by the Board from time to time. In addition, he shall be responsible for maintaining the records of the League and shall undertake the duties associated with keeping a Register of Players registered with the League and the responsibilities of dealing with clearances and registrations of players. He shall act as a coordinator of the Tribunal established by the League pursuant to its By-Laws.
27.2.5. D irector of Netball Shall act as Chairperson of the Ballarat Football & Netball League Netball Association and shall responsible for the supervision and assessment of the Netball Association.
27.2.6. E xecutive Directors. The two Executive Directors shall perform such duties and functions as will be directed by the Board.
27.2.7. D irectors of Junior football Shall act as Chairpersons of the Ballarat Football & Netball League Junior Coordinators and shall responsible for the supervision and assessment of the junior section of the Ballarat Football & Netball League.
28. Removal of Director: 28.1. T he League in General Meeting may by resolution remove any Director before the expiration of his term of office and appoint an other Director in his stead to hold office until the expiration of the term of the first mentioned Director. 28.2. W here the Director to whom a proposed resolution referred to in sub-clause 28.1 makes representations in writing to the Regional General Manager or Chairman of the League (not exceeding a reasonable length) and requests that they be notified to the Members of the League, the Regional General Manager or the Chairman may send a copy of the representations to each Member of the League or, if they are not so sent, the Member may require that they be read out at the meeting.
29. Cheques: 29.1. A ll cheques, drafts, bills of exchange, promissory notes and other negotiable instruments shall be signed by any two (2) of the Chairman, Director of Finance, Football Netball Operations Manager or Regional General Manager
30. Common Seal: 30.1. T he common seal of the League shall be kept in the custody of the Regional General Manager. 30.2. T he common seal shall not be affixed to any instrument except by the authority of the Board and the affixing of the common seal shall be attested by the signatures of two Directors of the Board.
31. Alterations: 31.1. T hese Rules and the Statement of Purposes of the League shall not be altered except in accordance with the Act.
32. Notices: 32.1. A notice may be served by or on behalf of the League upon any Member either personally or by sending it by post to the Member at his address shown in the Register of Members. 32.2. W here a document is properly addressed pre-paid and posted to a person as a letter, the document shall, unless the contrary is proved, be deemed to have been given to the person at the time at which the letter would have been delivered in the ordinary course of post.
33. Winding Up: 33.1. I n the event of the winding up or the cancellation of the incorporation of the League, the assets of the League alter payment of all just debts and liabilities shall not be distributed to Members but shall be distributed to a Fund or Funds with similar purposes or objects and/or to a Fund or Funds exclusively for charitable purposes.
34. Books: 34.1. E xcept as otherwise provided in these Rules, the Regional General Manager shall keep in his custody or under his control all books, documents and securities of the League.
35. Funds: 35.1. T he funds of the League shall be derived from entrance fees, annual subscriptions, donations and such other sources as the Board determines.
36. Auditor: 36.1. T hat the appointment of an Auditor, who shall be registered Company Auditor, be left to the discretion of the Independent Board, which shall be required to ensure League accounts are each audited each financial year.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 37. Netball Victoria: 37.1. T he Ballarat Football & Netball League Netball Association shall be affiliated with Netball Victoria, and all matches shall be played according to Netball Victoria rules & regulations where Ballarat FL Netball Association By Laws do not
38. AFL Victoria Country 38.1. T he Ballarat Football & Netball League shall be affiliated with AFL Victoria Country on an annual basis. All Ballarat FNL matches shall be played according to the AFL Laws of the Game, AFL Victoria Country Rules and under Ballarat Football Netball League By-Laws.
39. Disputes and Mediation 39.1. T he grievance procedure set out in this rule applies to disputes under these rules between –
39.1.1. a member and another members; or
39.1.2. a member and the association (league)
39.2. A ll parties to the dispute must meet and discuss the matter in dispute, and, if possible, resolve the dispute within 14 days after the dispute comes to the attention of all the parties. 39.3. I f the parties are unable to resolve the dispute at the meeting, or if a party fails to attend that meeting, then the parties must, within 10 days, hold a meeting in the presence of a mediator. 39.4. T he mediator must be
39.4.1. A person chosen by agreement between the parties; or
39.4.2. I n the absence of an agreement-
39.4.2.1. I n the case of a dispute between a member and another member, a person chosen appointed by the Board of the League: or
39.4.2.2. I n the case of a dispute between a member and the League, a person who is a mediator appointed by the AFL Victoria Country, or a mediator employed by the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria (Department of Justice)
39.5. A member of the League can be a mediator. 39.6. T he mediator cannot be a member who is a party to the dispute. 39.7. T he parties in the dispute must, in good faith, attempt to settle the dispute by mediation. 39.8. T he mediator, in conducting the mediation, must –
39.8.1. G ive the parties to the mediation process every opportunity to be heard; and
39.8.2. A llow due consideration by all parties of any written statement submitted by any party; and
39.8.3. E nsure that natural justice is accorded to the parties to the dispute throughout the mediation process.
39.9. T he mediator must not determine the dispute. 39.10. I f the mediation process does not result in the dispute being resolved, the parties may seek to resolve the dispute in accordance with the Act or otherwise at law.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
2021 FOOTBALL BY LAWS
The following by laws apply across all Ballarat FNL football competitions. Additional resources are available from the league website
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
FOOTBALL BY-LAWS In accordance with the powers given it under Rule 20.2.5 of the Rules of the Ballarat Football & Netball League Incorporated, the Board of Directors has adopted the following By-Laws for the upcoming season.
Operational 1. Interpretation In these By-Laws, unless the contrary intention appears;
a) “ League” means the Ballarat Football & Netball League Incorporated.
b) “ Seniors” are defined as First, Second & Third Eighteen Teams
c) “ Juniors” are defined as Under 17 Seniors, U/17 Reserves, Under 15 Seniors, U/15 Reserves, Under 13 Seniors, U/13 Reserves & U/11 Senior, U/11 Reserve, U/9 Senior and U/9 Reserves.
d) “Board” means the Board of Directors constituted pursuant to Rule 21.
e) “Rules” means the Rules of the Ballarat Football & Netball League Incorporated.
f) “ Penalty Unit” is defined as $10.
2. Powers The League shall, subject to its Statement of Purposes, and to its Rules, comply otherwise with the Laws of Australian Football (released by the AFL) and AFL Victoria Country.
3. M atters not Provided for In the event that any matter arises which is not provided for in the Rules; in these By-Laws; or in the Rules of the Australian Football Foundation, or the AFL Victoria Country rules, the Board shall have full power and discretion to determine such matter.
4. A dmission Prices Admission prices will be determined by the Board prior to the commencement of each season, with sufficient time for clubs to complete their budgets for the coming year. Disbursement of gate receipts is covered by By-Law 21.
5. C hange of Venue The Fixture Committee consisting of the Director of Operations, Chairman of Directors, General Manager and Football Manager shall review all match venues on a weekly basis and determine any venue change not later than 5pm on the Wednesday preceding the round of matches. Match programming is covered in By-Law 34.
6. C learance & Permit Curfew In accordance with AFL Victoria Country Rules, the League imposes a clearance & permit curfew. No clearance or permit shall be handled after 5pm on the Friday preceding a round of matches, until 9am on the Monday following a round of matches unless & except where by exceptional circumstances apply and approval is granted by the General Manager or Football Manager.
7. C lub Officials, Notification of Office Bearers & Annual Reports The General Manager shall circulate each year a Club Information Review Form to be completed and returned by a date nominated by the Board. The information on the form will be included in the Season Information Booklet and circulated to all other clubs and members of the media. Clubs must inform the League immediately of any change of personnel after submission of the form or changes of communications details for any individual listed on the form. All affiliated Clubs must, within fourteen days of the holding of their Annual General Meeting, notify the General Manager of the League, in writing, of the names of all office bearers, their address, telephone number(s) and email address. Clubs must also submit to the League a copy of their audited Annual Report as presented at their Annual General Meeting by the 31st December. Failure to provide a copy of a clubs audited Annual Report will see the Ballarat Football & Netball League impose a fine of 25 penalty units.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 8. F ootball Guide/Records Each home club will be allocated an amount of Football Guides/Records for distribution at matches. The Guides should be distributed at both senior and junior venues. Each senior club must supply notes via email (only) to shane@bfnl.com.au prior to 5 pm on the Tuesday preceding each round. The notes must not be of more than 250 words for the senior record. Notes exceeding this amount may have any text after 250 words deleted. Failure to provide such notes will see a fine of 20 penalty units imposed on the offending club/s. The Home club must make arrangements for the allocation of Guides to be collected from the printer.
9. H ome Game Levy & Statement The Board will determine the Home Game Levy to be paid as the name suggests each occasion a club has a home game, prior to the commencement of each season, giving clubs sufficient notice for budgeting purposes. The Home Game Levy will be set by the Board prior to the commencement of the season, and payment of HGL invoices must be paid by 12 noon on the Wednesday following the completion of any given home game. Failure to provide payment in full along with the invoice receipt within such time frame will incur a 10 penalty unit fine. The Home Game Levy is calculated to cover the following direct expenses:
• Umpires
• Advertising
• Programs
• Footballs
• Netballs; and
• Other items determined by the board.
The fundraising efforts of the BFNL cover other indirect expenses relating to football each week. Staff Salaries, Phone, Fax, Postage, Printing & Stationary and other sundry costs.
10. Interleague Policy The Ballarat Football Netball League has a long tradition in the WorkSafe Victorian Country Championships and is recognised as one of the most successful Leagues ever. The League expects all member clubs to support the Interleague campaign and encourage players and officials who are selected to participate. From time to time, the League may approach clubs for the use of its facilities for training and/or matches. The Match Committee, comprising of four Selectors plus one Chairman of Selectors and the Coach, shall coordinate the selection of the training squad, and from time to time any additions or deletions can be made. All squad members (fit & injured) are expected to attend training unless excused by the coach or a member of the selection panel. Players who fail to attend training without notification or make themselves unavailable for Interleague may incur a suspension of a minimum of one match. At the discretion of the match committee, allowances may be made for playing coaches and those who have given good service to the BFNL Interleague campaign in previous years, or to any other player in exceptional circumstances that are approved by the BFNL Board. All senior and junior Interleague representatives will be supplied with shorts and socks if selected to represent the league.
11. Jumpers All jumpers in both Senior and Reserve matches must carry different numbers. Players must be wearing the number that corresponds to the Official League Program and the team sheet. Refer By-Law 116.
12. Submission of Selected Sides Seniors: Each club must submit their selected sides in the Senior, Reserve and U/19 grades into the system prior to 8:30pm on the Thursday night preceding a round of matches. Players must be named in their corresponding position and must also have their allocated number entered into the system.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE Should any player take the field outside the 22 named players and up to 5 emergencies, a 25 penalty unit fine per player not named will be enforced upon that club unless the club can provide evidence to support a valid reason for the change. The system will generate an automatic email that will be distributed to all media contacts for publishing each Friday. Clubs participating in matches that are scheduled to play of a Sunday will be permitted to submit an extended bench of 7 players (4 interchange plus 3 emergencies) however sides still need to submit all players in position and with jumper numbers. Failure of a Club to correctly submit a side to the system shall result in a fine of 25 Penalty Units.
Juniors & BFLW: Each club must submit their completed team lists into the system any time prior to the commencement of their game with enough time to print out and use as the club’s official team sheet for match days. All grades must print off copies of their team sheet from the system. Team sheets must represent a 100% accurate account of the players who take the field on a weekly basis. Late changes may be recorded by hand on the official match day team sheet however these changes must be made prior to the start of the match and submitted on the system immediately following each game in time for submission of results deadline. Refer to By-Law 13. Any changes made must also be replicated on any other team sheet in circulation on the day.
13. Submission of Final Results All clubs will be responsible for the submission of final results immediately following the completion of each game. It will be the responsibility of the HOME club to enter the final scores of each game however each club is responsible for entering their own best players and goal kickers for every match. The deadline for submission of all results for each match day is 6pm. For night matches, the deadline will be 11pm. All final scores, best players and goal kickers must be submitted by this time, clubs failing to meet this deadline shall incur a penalty of 5 penalty units per offence.
14. Incorrect Team Sheet Listings In the case where a club submits their team sheet prior to the start of the match to the Umpires and Opposition and it has been determined that specific players, who end up participating in the same match and have not been included on the official team sheet for that match, shall be subject to penalties as deemed appropriate by the BFNL Board of Directors. Penalties may be distributed in the way of a fine, the loss of premiership points and percentage or a combination of both, depending on the set of circumstances surrounding the scenario. These penalties are on top of those issued for breaching other BFNL By-Laws in relation to the selection of sides.
15. Live Scores For Senior competition football matches only, it will be the responsibility of the HOME club to conduct live scores via the program supplied by the league. Failure of a club to conduct the live scores service (without a valid excuse) shall incur a fine of 10 penalty units. For all other competitions, live scores are recommended but not compulsory.
16. Media Commitments Each club should attempt to make personnel available to the media as requested in order to aid the promotion of the League.
17. Player Milestones The Ballarat Football Netball League will present player milestone certificates to players having reached 100 senior BFNL games, 200 senior BFNL games and every 50 games thereafter. It is the responsibility of the player’s club to inform the League of when a milestone is about to be reached, so the General Manager can organise a presentation.
18. Practice Matches The League must be notified of all practice matches, including the participating grades, clubs, date, times and venue to ensure Clubs & Players are insured. It is recommended that all Practice Matches be officiated by Official Umpires.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL Clubs must ensure local government policies and procedures are followed to ensure booking of all venues and facilities are finalised well in advance to the commencement date of each practice match. It is also the responsibility of each club to place a booking at least 2 weeks prior to any practice match for any required umpires. Umpire bookings placed inside 2 weeks of any practice match cannot be guaranteed they will be filled.
19. Turf Wickets Clubs with turf wickets bear the responsibility of arranging the wickets to be covered and uncovered throughout the season.
20. Umpires The Ballarat Football Umpires Association caters for all BFNL Matches and supplies umpires as negotiated on a year to year basis.
21. Gate Receipts The Board shall have power to establish policy from year to year in respect of the disbursement of gate receipts of the minor round of matches and the finals series matches.
22. Special Arrangements The Board may in its discretion, make special allowances to affiliated Clubs in the defraying of expenses in conducting the affairs of the League and in so doing, shall honour agreements entered into or arrangements made with affiliated Clubs. The Board shall determine any such special allowances prior to the commencement of any season and advise all affiliated Clubs of any decisions in relation to special allowances and expenses.
23. Duties of League Officers The Officers of the League appointed pursuant to its Rules, shall carry out such functions and perform such duties as are set out in the Rules and in addition such duties and functions as may be directed by the Board from time to time.
24. Honorarium Office Bearers of the League shall be entitled to receipt of an Honorarium, such Honorarium to be fixed at the Annual General Meeting of the League.
25. Other Duties The Board may in its discretion, delegate any one of its number to perform other duties and functions and if appropriate, may recommend that Honorariums relating to such duties, be fixed at the Annual General Meeting of the League and shall further have power to appoint from time to time, committees to carry out any of its duties and functions.
26. League Passes The following outlines what passes entitle bearer to:
Ticket Admits BFNL Life Members ticket - bearer & vehicle BFNL League Partner Pass - bearer & vehicle BFNL League Official Pass - bearer & vehicle BFNL Media Pass - bearer only & vehicle AFL Victoria Country Directors Pass - bearer & vehicle + 1 guest AFL Victoria Country Goldfields Region Pass - bearer only Dual Gate Pass - 2 x adults & children U/17 free (cars cost $1)
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 27. Life Membership The major criteria must be service to the League, and such service must incorporate recognisable achievement over a period of time.
28. Smoking Smoking is prohibited within BFNL Headquarters and at all official BFNL functions. Smoking is prohibited at all Junior and Youth Girls matches. The BFNL has also adopted AFL Victoria’s Smoke Free Policy.
29. Surplus In the event a surplus is shown in the accounts at the completion of the season, the League may in its discretion, and prior to the declaration of a dividend, transfer to a Reserve Fund, such sum to be decided by the Board and such Reserve Fund shall be deemed to be the property of the League and any affiliated Club ceasing to be a member of the League shall have no equity in any monies then contained in such Reserve Fund.
30. Dividend The League shall not declare a dividend in cash form. However, funds may be made available for all clubs to finance capital improvements (e.g. time clocks at all grounds, wind socks, Interchange Steward Shelters, nets behind goals, etc.) from time to time subject to the availability of funds.
31. Affiliation
a) T he League shall admit such Football Clubs as it may from time to time determine provided such Football Clubs comply or are capable of complying with the Rules and these By-Laws and the Regulations of AFL Victoria Country. Refer Rule 22.3.
b) E ach Football Club affiliated with the League during the previous season shall be deemed to be an affiliated member of the League for the following season subject to payment of such affiliation fees as are specified and fixed by the League at its Annual General Meeting and any other outstanding monies due to the League.
32. Affiliation Fee
a) E ach affiliated Club shall pay to the League such affiliation fee as is fixed at the Annual General Meeting of the League.
b) A ffiliated Clubs neglecting or refusing to pay its affiliation fee; its declared share of any loss that may be incurred; any levy that may be made; or any fine as imposed by the Rules or these By-Laws, and such failure or refusal continues for one month after due notice has been given by the Board, shall be subject to the next following ByLaw, be subject to expulsion.
33. Expulsion A two thirds majority of members of the League present at a Special General Meeting called for that purpose, may expel such Club from the League or take such other action as it may determine in relation to the Club’s affiliation with the League or permit its continued affiliation on such terms and conditions as it may deem advisable.
34. Programming The Board shall arrange the programming of all matches and shall have the power to re-arrange the order of games and the grounds upon which matches are to be played if at any time, the question of suitability or availability of grounds arises.
35. Fixture Procedure The General Manager and Football Manager in conjunction with the Chairperson and Director of Operations, shall determine the fixture for each season. Each club shall be entitled to make a submission to the League on issues to be taken into consideration, although no guarantee is made that all situations will be catered for. Such submission should be received by the League not later than a date as nominated by the General Manager, for the following season. The fixture will be released publicly prior to Christmas each year, for the following season.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 36. Other Matches No affiliated Club shall, without the prior approval of the Board, engage in any match other than those programmed. All pre-season practice matches are to be umpired by official Umpires including Central, Boundary and Goals. Any BFNL club wishing to take part in any football competition that is not administered by the Ballarat Football & Netball League, must write to the General Manager seeking approval from the BFNL Board to compete. This excludes any preseason competition organized by a club outside the league.
37. Points In all matches four points shall be counted for a win, two for a draw and zero points for a loss. At the conclusion of the minor rounds, if two or more Clubs have gained an equal number of points, the position of such Clubs on the Premiership ladder, shall be determined by the percentage of goals and behinds scored for and against any such Clubs. In the case the BFNL fixture contains a bye, for the purpose of ladder calculation 4 points will be awarded to the team with the bye in a given round of matches.
38. Forfeiture If any Club forfeits a match, provided such opposing Club has a completed team sheet, four points shall be awarded to the Premiership score of the opposing Club, which also shall have added to its percentage account, the average number of goals and behinds scored in matches against the defaulting Club during the season. Fines will be imposed by the BFNL to Clubs who forfeit scheduled fixtures or any scheduled match within the Ballarat Football & Netball League. The following fines will apply • Senior Football
300 penalty units
• Reserves Football
150 penalty units
• U/19 Football
50 penalty units
• Any Junior Football fixture
20 penalty units
• A Grade Netball
100 penalty units
• B Grade Netball
50 penalty units
• C Grade Netball
25 penalty units
• D Grade Netball
25 penalty units
• E Grade Netball
25 penalty units
• 19 & Under Netball
25 penalty units
• Any Junior Netball fixture
20 penalty units
• Any BFLW football fixture
20 penalty units
39. Expenses Any Club which forfeits its engagement, shall on top of any penalty imposed by the league (see By-Law 38) be responsible for the expenses incurred in the arrangements of such match, unless it gives notice to the General Manager of the League not less than twenty-four hours prior to the commencement of such match of its notice of intention to forfeit. This will be in addition to the fine imposed by the League.
40. Calling off Games The Ballarat Football Netball League has a fixture committee comprising of the General Manager and Football Manager in conjunction with the Chairperson and Director of Operations who shall monitor the condition of venues and make a judgement call as to whether matches shall proceed for a given round. Individual matches called off by clubs are deemed as forfeiture and nil points awarded for the fixture. If agreement is reached between clubs to call off a match, it is to be in writing, endorsed by the controlling umpire on the day and forwarded to the League General Manager immediately and premiership points shall be shared. For all other matters not catered for in this By-Law, refer to the AFL Laws of the Game in the AFL Victoria Country handbook.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE Team sheets must still be submitted for games even in the event that a match is called off. In the event of a forfeit, the opposing team shall submit a team sheet and those players named are deemed to have played in the game. This information is important when determining finals eligibility. In the event where a suspended player is a representative of the non-forfeiting side, these games shall count as games served in reference to the suspension the player in question has received.
41. Match Day Paperwork Not later than 7pm on the night of a match, all match day paperwork as listed below, must be returned to BFNL headquarters (or an alternative location nominated by the League). All paperwork of Clubs playing in such matches must be collected by either the home team’s delegates or other accredited representative on the day and submitted to the league headquarters. The Home Club shall be responsible for ensuring all documentation is submitted to the League by 7pm on the night of a match. Failure to comply shall result in a fine of 20 Penalty Units. The following list of match day paperwork will be required for submission:
SENIORS
JUNIORS & BFLW
NETBALL
Match day checklist
Match day checklist
Match day checklist
Team sheets
Team sheets
Scorecards
League B&F vote cards (sealed)
League B&F vote cards (sealed)
League B&F vote cards (sealed)
Report sheet (if applicable)
Report sheet (if applicable)
Report sheet (if applicable)
Timekeeper cards
Timekeeper
Goal Umpire cards
Goal Umpire cards
Match results sheets
Match results sheets
Interchange/order off sheets
Interchange/order off sheets
Permits of any kind
Permits of any kind
Match day report sheets
Spirit of Sport
42. Scoreboards Each venue used for BFNL matches, both senior and junior, must be equipped with an operational scoreboard. Scoreboard attendants must be of a suitable age and competent to do a satisfactory job. Scoreboards should operate throughout all games and must be kept as accurate as possible. Clubs must supply scoreboard attendants for each and every game. A fine of 10 penalty units will be issued for each game where the scoreboard fails to be attended and/or operational.
43. Time Clocks All time clocks displayed to the general public at BFNL venues must run from zero upward without stopping for time on. A fine of 2.5 penalty units per occasion the clock is not used (or used incorrectly) will be imposed. Time clocks used by timekeepers may count down towards zero (stopping for time on in senior competition only).
44. Board Meeting Format Correspondence raised by the General Manager to be restricted only to that which requires a decision from the Board. All other items will be listed, but only raised if questioned. General Business will take place immediately after Correspondence and any Director with an item requiring discussion or a decision should have the Chairman or General Manager list it as General Business rather than raise it in the report. Director’s reports will be held at the end of the meeting, and these will be circulated with the meeting notice for review. Director’s reports will only report on activity - issues requiring a decision should be listed in General Business. Directors with questions on reports should contact the reporting director, Chairman or General Manager. These reports will be duplicated and circulated with minutes.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 45. Match Report Sheet It is the responsibility of the home club to ensure that umpires fill out and sign off on a match report sheet for each competing team in each football game for seniors down to U/13’s and have it inserted in the match day paperwork envelope. Penalty 10 units per offence.
46. Umpire Signature Book All Umpires will be required to sign the Umpire signature book prior to their match indicating they have officiated in the corresponding match. The sheet from the Umpire signature book that shall contain signatures from all Umpires who have officiated at the ground each match day, shall be submitted to the league in the match day paperwork and one copy of the sheet shall be retained by the home club. Failure of clubs to submit an Umpire signature sheet shall result in a fine of 5 penalty units.
47. Use of Two Footballs In the event of extreme weather conditions, two footballs may be used in a match with the change of footballs occurring at each quarter time break to ensure no advantage is gained by either club. Both clubs must agree to the use of two footballs. If no agreement is met, only one football may be used.
48. Ground Lighting If natural light is deteriorating during a game, Clubs or Umpires shall have the authority to turn on ground lighting to improve conditions to allow a fixture to continue. The Umpire shall however have the authority to call a game off if he/she considers the conditions unsafe. Prior to a venue being considered suitable for night or twilight games, clubs must apply to the League for permission to host a night or twilight game, and meet criteria as determined by the League.
49. Fundraising At venues, is the right of the Home Team, however Visiting Teams should be permitted to conduct activities that are internal based and which form a part of a Club’s week to week activities. E.g. Best player tickets, first goal tickets etc.
50. Interchange/Area Agreement On an annual basis, all leagues affiliated with AFL Goldfields and AFL Central Victoria shall enter into an Area Agreement to allow those Clubs with Junior teams in those competitions to Interchange players to assist with player numbers. The League shall also enter into a separate agreement with the Riddell District FNL. Clubs need to be aware of the terms and conditions associated with the agreement and must have the appropriate approvals in place prior to allowing any player to take the field on an interchange/area agreement.
51. Outstanding Debt to League All clubs must ensure any outstanding debt to the League does not exceed 60 days from the date of the invoice. The following process shall apply to clubs who have outstanding debt that reaches the 60 day mark:
a) C lubs shall be given written formal notice and provided with seven (7) days to pay all outstanding debt exceeding 60 days.
b) S hould a club fail to pay the full amount that has exceeded 60 days within the seven (7) day period provided, the Board / Executive shall determine which of the following penalty/ies shall be applied:
i) Additional financial penalty at the discretion of the Board / Executive
ii) Loss of premiership points for the current and/or following season, which may be applied to age groups at the discretion of the Board / Executive
iii) Application to the AFL Goldfields Commission to apply for the loss of Community Club Sustainability Program points and/or a reduction in the CCSP salary cap under the player points system for the current and/or following season
c) C lubs who have any debt exceeding 60 days on the 1st August in each season, and where and unless approval has been given by the Board, may be deemed ineligible to compete in the Leagues finals series. In addition, the club will not be considered eligible to host any finals matches or provided with any Catering/Bar/Fundraising rights.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
d) All clubs must settle all outstanding debts with the League prior to the League’s AGM in each year (with the only exception being debts relating to FootyMart orders placed after November 1st). Clubs who have not paid all debts (excepting Footymart orders as stated) will not be eligible to vote at the Leagues AGM.
e) Clubs who carry debt into the new year may be subject to the above stated penalties in point b) being applied for the upcoming season.
Clubs may apply to the Board / Executive for special consideration by providing a written submission outlining how the club’s debt has exceeded 60 days and outlining the club’s commitment to a repayment plan to clear in full all debt in a timely manner. Submissions will only be accepted on club letterhead submitted via email and if the Board /Executive is satisfied that the above criteria is met.
52. Hire of Facilities The maximum charge for any club charging another Club for the use of their ground & facilities during the home & away season are as follows: • Junior games: $100 • Senior game: $200 If clubs wish to use the social rooms at a venue during or following the completion of their match, then they must approach the venue’s President to arrange a price and conditions of use for the social room and facilities.
53. Use of Facilities for Finals In the event where the League requires the use of club facilities for the BFNL Finals match day, a fee of $200 per day of use shall be paid to the Home club to account for the cost and use of utilities on that match day.
54. Junior Club Alignment With Seniors Every junior club shall have alignment with a senior club in the Ballarat Football Netball League that will provide a pathway from junior football to senior football for all club members. The Mount Clear JFC are the only junior club with no alignment to any senior club in the competition and all MCJFC players shall have an open clearance to play with any AFL Victoria Country club upon completion of their final year in the U/17 competition. An interchange agreement will also exist for MCJFC players wishing to play senior football in the BFNL. This agreement will allow MCJFC top age U/17 players to play senior football with one selected BFNL club on permit. The BFNL club structure is as follows: Therefore, the East Point FNC, East Ballarat JFC and Golden Point JFC equal one club and have the same voting rights as a club with senior and junior alliance. The North Ballarat City FNC is an affiliate of the North Ballarat JFC therefore they fall under the banner of the juniors even though they are senior club. The below table reflects the criteria used by the BFNL to determine memberships of the League (as per the BFNL’s constitution). Clubs will be allocated the following membership/votes: BFNL Bacchus Lake Ballarat Darley East Point Melton Marsh Wendouree I I I I I Bacchus East Point Lake Swans Jnrs Darley Jnrs Marsh Jnrs Jnrs Wendouree Jnrs I
Melton South
Mount Clear
North Redan Sebastopol Sunbury Ballarat I I I North Ballarat Sebastopol Redan Jnrs Juniors Jnrs
Storm Jnrs
Bacchus Marsh
4
Ballarat Swans
4
Darley
4
East Point
4
Lake Wendouree
4
Melton
3
Melton South
3
Mount Clear
2
North Ballarat
4
Redan
4
Sebastopol
4
Sunbury
3
Board
12
TOTAL
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 55. BFNL Sounding of Siren Policy The BFNL understands the importance of keeping to the running sheet for match days and ensuring all games finish at their scheduled finishing times. Therefore, the following policy must be adhered to for all matches (except Senior football) competing in any BFNL competition: - Both Timekeepers must make an assessment of time at half time of every match (except Senior football) - If it is determined that the match is running behind schedule, the time remaining until the scheduled finishing time shall be split equally in half also factoring in enough time for a three quarter time break (see division of breaks in By-Law 111). - If further time is lost throughout the second half, regardless of how long the final quarter has been running for, the siren MUST be sounded at the scheduled finishing time. A penalty of 5 penalty units will apply for clubs who fail to sound the siren at scheduled times as per the official BFNL running sheet provided to clubs prior to each season.
56. Pre-Match Warm Ups The Ballarat FNL has an expectation that clubs will avoid the opposing side during their entry onto the ground both at the start of the game and at half time, and during any on-ground “warm up”. The Ballarat FNL requires that each club will warm up at opposing ends of the ground, with the clubs using the easternmost Coach’s Box to warm up at the eastern end of the ground, and the remaining club (who shall be using the most western of the Coach’s boxes) to warm up at the westernmost end of the ground. It is understood and accepted that when clubs enter the ground they shall do a lap of the centre square, and when doing so they need to ensure they avoid the other side and their warm up area if the opposing side is already at one end of the ground. This By Law shall apply to ALL grades. It may also be applied to junior grades of football if an incident arises. Clubs who breach this policy shall be determined to have acted in a provocative manner and may be fined up to an amount of $500. In instances where this By Law is breached and the breach results to a more serious incident (e.g a melee) the offending Club may face more serious charges as determined by the Board.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
DISCIPLANARY The following Disciplinary By-Laws should be read in conjunction with the AFL Goldfields Tribunal, Match Review Panel and Investigations Overview documents available to clubs.
MELEE MATRIX Where a melee occurs during any senior or junior football match, the following process shall be followed when a melee matrix form is completed: 1. Umpires to complete Melee Matrix form (one per club) noting the following:
a) P layers actively involved from the one team
b) D uration of the melee
c) L evel of aggression in melee
d) Umpires intervention in melee
e) Officials involved
2. The WHITE copy is submitted to the League. The YELLOW copy is retained by the Umpire. The PINK copy is retained by the away club and the BLUE copy is retained by the home club. 3. The League’s Operations Manager will contact the clubs involved in the melee upon receiving a copy of the melee matrix form. At this point, clubs will be provided with an opportunity to:
a) A ccept the resulting fine; or
b) D ispute the details completed in the form by provision of official club submission that outlines their version of events and witnesses who can attest to what is written
4. The club submission will be forwarded to the League Board to make final determination on:
a) W hether the initial fine shall remain in place and apply
b) W hether the initial fine may be reduced to a lower amount
c) W hether the initial fine should be overturned; or
d) Whether the initial fine should be increased
5. Clubs will be informed of the League’s final decision (if Board intervention is required) and sent an invoice (if applicable) that must be paid within 30 days of the invoice being issued 6. Failure of clubs to adhere to the melee matrix process or pay a melee invoice within the 30 day terms may see the Clubs subjected to additional penalties that may range from additional fines, reduction of Player Points, loss of premiership points and percentage, etc
57. Codes of Conduct The Ballarat FNL has adopted various codes of conduct, whicyh include (and are available from the league website): • Junior Coaches & Club Officials • Junior Players & Parents and Spectators of Junior Football • Senior Coaches & Team Officials • Senior Players & Spectators • Club Officials
58. Investigations Investigation procedure is dictated by AFL Victoria Country Rule concerning Unbecoming Conduct in the AFL Victoria Country Handbook. When the League Investigations Officer conducts an investigation in the League he/she shall provide at least 48 hours’ notice in writing to a club notifying of any interviews. All interviews will be conducted at League Headquarters, or at a place to be determined by the Investigations Officer.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 59. Investigation Fees In instances where a club lodges a request for an investigation in accordance with AFL Victoria Country Rule 5.0 (Unbecoming Conduct) the required fee of $500 shall be lodged, the full amount of $500 shall be retained by the league. The following policy will be enforced by the league for investigations:
a) W hen the Investigations Officer determines that there is no case to answer, the club that has requested the investigation shall receive a refund of $200, and the balance of $300 will be paid to the Investigations Officer as payment for his/her services.
b) I n cases where the Investigations Officer refers the matter to the Ballarat Football Netball League Independent Tribunal, and a verdict of not guilty (or case not proven) is determined, the club that has requested the investigation shall receive a refund of $200 and the balance of $300 will be paid to the Investigations Officer as payment for his/her services.
c) I n cases where the Investigations Officer refers the matter to the Ballarat Football Netball League Independent Tribunal and a guilty verdict is determined, the club that has requested the investigation shall receive a full refund of their $500. The club of the player/official that has the guilty verdict applied to it shall be fined $300 (In addition to any additional Tribunal fine) which shall be used by the League for payment to the Investigations Officer for his/her services.
NOTE: The above financial policy shall be applied in cases where the Investigations Officer shall be paid the standard fee of $300. In extenuating circumstances (e.g. more difficult, complex or lengthy investigations) the Investigations Officer may request an amount over & above the flat rate of $300 and which will be negotiated with the Ballarat Football Netball League accordingly. In such instances, the Ballarat Football Netball League will adjust the amount of $300 to the revised amount in the above case. Should a club fail to be able to commit to attend investigation interviews at Saxon House and as such the venue is changed to suit the need of the club affected, a flat fee of $100 shall be charged to that club which shall be payed to the Investigations Officer. Clubs who fail to cooperate with the investigation process shall be fined a minimum of $200. The League, in conjunction with the Investigations Officer, shall determine if a club has failed to cooperate with the investigation process. Examples of failing to cooperate include players/officials not turning up for interviews, clubs failing to confirm availabilities for interviews or clubs withholding members from the investigation process. Any other fines implemented as a result of recommendations from the Investigations Officer or as a result of a subsequent Tribunal hearing shall be issued to the club in question on top of any other fines or fees that apply.
60. Tribunal The AFL Goldfields Tribunal is held on the Tuesday following a round of matches at BFNL Headquarters. Investigations hearings may commence from 6.00 pm, Under age cases commence at 6:00pm and senior cases may commence from 7:00pm. If clubs wish to apply for a set penalty, then the club must notify the Operations Manager by 12 noon on the Monday following a match if the charge is to be contested. After 12 noon, it will be assumed the club is happy to take the set penalty if it is available to be taken. Either club, the reporting Umpire or the Ballarat Football Netball League may request the hearing proceed, prior to 12 noon on the Monday. Tribunal will not commence a new case after 10.30pm with any pending cases held over until a later night. Club attire or smart casual attire must be worn at all tribunal cases. Clubs not represented at Tribunal hearings shall incur a fine of 25 Penalty Units in addition to any fine imposed by the Independent Tribunal. The BFNL will provide a TV and a couch in the foyer for those waiting to attend a case. Wednesday nights will be used as a backup night for cases overflowing to the next day in any given week. Statutory Declarations Statutory Declarations may be accepted if any party to a report (ie. the reported player, the player allegedly offended against and the reporting umpire), is unable to attend owing to work or study commitments, or in the case of illness or injury.
NOTE: A “letter” submitted as evidence will not suffice, and the Statutory Declaration must be signed by a certified signatory (E.g. Justice of Peace, Police Officer, etc.) and date stamped at least 12 hours earlier than the scheduled start time for a tribunal case.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE Providing the Ballarat Football Netball League is notified as early as possible after the report (no later than 12pm Monday), and that such Statutory Declaration is lodged with the Ballarat FNL no later than 12 hours prior to start time on the day of the hearing, the Statutory Declaration may be accepted. Any Statutory Declaration submitted must set out:
i) The reason for the missing party’s inability to attend the hearing of the person cannot attend the Tribunal on the scheduled night
ii) A full description of the incident (or incidents) being the subject of the report. This must include – Time of incident (e.g. early in 3rd quarter), location of incident (e.g. right side wing), location of ball, any provocation, details of incident (e.g. blow with right hand), force of blow, result of impact / collision / blow, etc.
Any reported player who fails to attend or fails to submit a Statutory Declaration as outlined above, or fails to give notice as above, may have the charge or charges heard in their absence. Similarly, any witness who fails to attend or submit a Statutory Declaration or fails to give notice as above, may be dealt with as the Tribunal sees fit. Any such non-attendance may result in action as determined by the Tribunal and can includes fines upon a Club or the suspension of the player. Any reported player, witness or umpire who has a legitimate request for an early hearing e.g. work or study commitments, must submit such request by telephone to the Ballarat FNL as early as possible, and no later than 12 noon on the day of the hearing. Advocates / Appearance The Ballarat Football & Netball League also requires that both the reported player and the offended player / witness bring along a Club Advocate with them to the hearing. The Ballarat Football Netball League also requires that both the reported player and the offended player / witness, and their advocates, do dress in an appropriate manner (minimum of smart casual or Club attire) that recognizes and respects the sanctity of the Tribunal. No tracksuits or hats will be allowed into the tribunal. Anyone who is a Barrister or Solicitor or is qualified to act as a Barrister or Solicitor is prohibited from acting as an Advocate. Video/DVD Evidence If clubs wish to use their own video/DVD evidence they must provide a signed Statutory Declaration, which certifies that the video/DVD has not been altered or tampered with. League video evidence does not require a statutory declaration to be used as part of any tribunal case or investigation.
61. Independent Tribunal and Appeal Board An Independent Tribunal and Appeals Board, (The Tribunal), shall be appointed by the Board at its first meeting after the Annual General Meeting. Three members of such Tribunal shall form a quorum. Nominations for membership of the Tribunal and Appeals Board shall be advertised and intending nominee’s names shall be forwarded to the Operations Manager seven days prior to the first meeting of the Board after the AGM.
62. Tribunal Duties The Tribunal shall deal with and decide protests, disputes, and charges against Clubs, players, officials, and office bearers of Clubs and to fine, suspend or otherwise deal with such protests, disputes or charges as they think fit.
63. Match Review Panel A Match Review Panel, comprising up to 5 members, shall be appointed by the Board at its first meeting after the Annual General Meeting. The Match Review Panel is an independent panel of members who shall be asked to review incidents raised by clubs and Umpiring Associations from official league video evidence and asked to determine if a specific player or players in question may have a case to answer to under AFL Victoria Country rules (as stipulated on the AFL Victoria Country report form).
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL See page 35 for an overview of how the Match Review Panel process is conducted. A fee of $200 shall apply for Match Review Panel requests in the following instances:
a) I f an MRP case is requested and the MRP determines there is no case to answer to, the club who requested the case to be reviewed will be charged a $200 fee.
b) I f an MRP case is requested and the MRP refers the case to the Tribunal then the following shall apply:
i) If the reported player(s) is found guilty, the club of the guilty player shall be charged a $150 fee.
ii) If the reported player(s) is found not guilty, the club requesting the case shall be charged the $150 fee.
c) I f the MRP determine a player may have a case to answer and the set penalty applies, the reported player may accept the set penalty and the club of the guilty player shall be charged a $150 fee.
Match Review Panel fees are to be invoiced and retained by the League in which the player competes in.
64. Tribunal & Match Review Panel Membership The members of the Tribunal and Match Review Panel shall not hold any other office in the League, nor be an official of any Club affiliated with the League, nor have been an official of any Club affiliated with the League for a period of 12 months. Any person wishing to become a member of the AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal or Match Review Panel must have not played for a period of 24 months. A person may not be a member of both the Tribunal and Match Review Panels at the same time.
65. Unsatisfactory Evidence The Tribunal shall have the power to fine any player or official who, in the opinion of the Tribunal, does not present his/her evidence in a satisfactory manner.
66. Representation If desired, any Club or player concerned in any protest or charge, may be represented by a delegate or representative, provided such delegate or representative is not a qualified member of the legal profession. Refer to AFL Victoria Country Handbook “Tribunal Procedure Information”.
67. Decisions Final Notwithstanding any appeals to the AFL Victoria Country Appeals Board, the Tribunal’s decisions and penalties shall be final and such penalties may extend beyond its term of office.
68. Optional Penalties Optional penalty for players reported for some field offences, and the guidelines for their implementation are annexed in the AFL Victoria Country handbook:
a) I f a player has accepted the optional penalty in the current or preceding season he must front the tribunal if reported again in that time frame, unless in special circumstances approval is provided by the Ballarat Football Netball League for a further set penalty to be applied.
b) U mpires shall report and charge players in the manner provided for in these regulations but the report shall not be heard by the Tribunal unless so requested by one or more of the umpires who lodged the report, the reported player, the player allegedly offended against or an official of either club.
Such request shall be made via email to the league operations manager no later than 12.00 Noon on the Monday immediately following the match. If the tribunal subsequently finds the charge sustained it shall have the power to impose such penalty as it deems fit.
69. Sustained Reports A Club who, in a grade, has six (6) sustained reports for the season shall show the League why they should not be suspended from the League.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 70. Lack of Quorum In the absence of a Quorum at a meeting of the Tribunal, or if for any other reason it is unable to meet, any players charged shall be eligible to play for their Club until the matter is heard and determined by the Tribunal. In the event of a member of the Tribunal reporting a player or an official of a Club, such person charged shall be dealt with by the officers of the League.
71. Player Unavailability for Tribunal Hearing In instances where a charged player is unable to attend a scheduled hearing of the AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal, he/she shall be ineligible to play until the matter is heard and determined by the Tribunal.
72. Tribunal Sentencing - Umpiring Games In 2007, the Independent Tribunal introduced the concept of requiring suspended players to voluntarily Umpire games of football as part of their sentence/suspension. The following rules apply to players Umpiring matches as part of their sentence from the Tribunal:
a) I f a player is sentenced to serve weeks on the sideline as well as Umpire games of football, players will not be asked to Umpire more games than they are suspended for.
a. Players are restricted to Umpire 2 competition games per weekend
b) G ames umpired must be within the Ballarat FNL
c) P layers who Umpire are to serve their matches with a qualified BFUA Umpire and not a Club Umpire
d) If a player does not turn up to fulfil their Umpiring duties without a suitable explanation (which is to be approved at the discretion of the BFNL), a further 2 weeks will be added to the suspension from playing per offence, and/or a fine may be applied to their club.
73. Guilty Verdict Fee for Independent Tribunal Hearing Outcomes Any Club whose player is found guilty of an offence by the Independent Tribunal shall be fine $150 per guilty offense in addition to any other penalty handed down by the Independent Tribunal. This is to assist with the increasing costs associated with hosting tribunal cases. Funds received via this fee shall be retained by AFL Goldfields
74. Reports Resulting from Match Review The Match Review Panel shall have the power to lay a report following the analysis of BFNL footage that has been raised with the league from any club or Umpiring Association. The Match Review Panel shall follow AFL Victoria Country rules when laying a report from video footage. The BFUA shall provide an advocate to prosecute all Match Review Panel cases that have been referred to the tribunal and at no point shall a member of the Match Review Panel be present during a tribunal case. The two systems shall remain independent of each other.
75. Using Video Evidence in Tribunal Cases Where video evidence is available from a Ballarat Football Netball League authorised media outlet video production team, this evidence WILL be shown in accordance with AFL Victoria Country guidelines for video evidence at the commencement of the case. Where a Club wishes to tender a Club or non-Ballarat Football Netball League video as evidence in a particular case, the Club must notify the Ballarat Football Netball League no later than 10am on the day of the hearing and such video must be delivered to the Ballarat Football Netball League no later than Noon on the scheduled day of the tribunal hearing. The video evidence MUST also be accompanied by a signed statutory declaration confirming that the footage provided is true and correct and has not been altered in any way (excluding slow motion footage). Video evidence received after this time, unless agreed to by the league, will not be accepted as evidence in the case. A member of the BFNL Board, Regional General Manager or Operations Manager and the Umpiring Association General Manager or Umpiring Association Chairman have the right to lay a report and/or request an investigation based on video footage presented to them.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 76. Club Umpire Reporting Powers Under AFL Victoria Country Rules and BFNL By-Laws any person who takes the field and acts as an Umpire (whether a BFUA official or a Club Volunteer) does have the full powers of an “officially accredited” Umpire, and therefore can report or send off players at their discretion. Volunteer Club Umpires who lodge a report are also represented by the BFUA advocate at any subsequent tribunal hearings. It is further worth noting the following rules from the AFL Victoria Country Rules Handbook to clear up any confusion – In the AFL Victoria Country Rule Book the definition of an umpire includes all field, boundary and goal umpires officiating or at a match. Volunteer Club Umpires shall register with the AFL Victoria Country Football Development Manager and Players can be umpires if there are insufficient numbers of umpires available. Therefore, once we establish that any Volunteer Club Umpires are “official umpires” they have an obligation to report as part of their duties as an umpire. To ensure that your Volunteer Club Umpires are registered as Volunteer Club Umpires and that they have the full power as outlined above, all Clubs must ensure that these Volunteers do complete the official AFL Victoria Country Clearance/ Registration Form – circling the Registration field, and then write at the top of this form “CLUB UMPIRE”. The League shall then register these Umpires with the AFL Victoria Country Football Development Manager as a Club Umpire. Clubs must also carry out this step to ensure that your Club Umpire is covered by the AFL Victoria Country Insurance Policy.
77. BFNL Board Members/Umpires Observer Power to Report Where a BFNL Board Member or Umpires Observer is in attendance at a junior game (Under 17, Under 15, Under 13, Under 11 and Under 9, they shall have the same powers of reporting offences as the appointed umpire.
NOTE: In addition to the above, any official BFUA Umpires Observer/coach at any League game also has the power to report players/officials and due process will be followed under AFL Victoria Country Rules.
78. Tribunal Audio Files Clubs will be provided with a copy of the audio file from a Tribunal Hearing when requested. The BFNL shall charge a fee of $100 for providing this copy.
79. Comments in the Media Any Club Member (player or official) found to have made inappropriate comments in the media towards a member of the Ballarat Football & Netball League (BFNL), AFL Victoria Country (AFL Victoria Country) or Umpiring Association (BFUA or RDFUA) shall be fined an amount at the discretion of the Board. The BFNL Board shall decide appropriateness of the comments made and the offending party will be given the opportunity to explain their actions prior to a fine being handed down.
80. Teams not Breaking from the Huddle When the single siren is blown to indicate the end of a break the club/s not breaking from the huddle will be fined 5 penalty units per occasion with clubs to be named on the umpire’s match report sheet.
81. Leaving Playing Field Senior, Reserve & Third Grade (Under 19) sides, shall be permitted to leave the playing field during the half time interval including the Finals Series. Junior grade sides must remain on the field at ½ time, except under extreme weather conditions. Clubs leaving the playing field inappropriately shall be liable to a fine of 20 penalty units for all Senior, Reserve and Under 19 teams and a fine of 10 penalty units shall apply to all Junior teams. Failure of Clubs to return to the playing field by the specified time will result in a fine of 2 Penalty Units per Minute being applied.
82. Late Appearance Clubs who fail to appear on the playing arena at the scheduled time shall receive a fine of 2.5 penalty units per minute. The offence shall be recorded by the officiating Umpire on the match report sheet following the match and the club will be informed of their fine by the General Manager.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 83. Incorrect Program Listings Players participating who are not listed in the program or are listed with a number that does not correspond to the number worn during a match shall be fined 5 penalty units.
84. Non-Attendance at Club Delegates Meetings Clubs who fail to attend or apologise for non-attendance of Club delegate at General Meetings held by the league will be fined 5 penalty units.
85. Failure to Appear at BFNL or AFL Victoria Country Training Session Any Club that fails to be represented at an official BFNL or AFL Victoria Country Training course will be fined 10 penalty Units per offence.
86. Bringing the BFNL into Disrepute Any club that in the view of the Board brings the Ballarat Football Netball League into disrepute can be fined any amount as determined by the Board. In such instances clubs will be given the opportunity to show due course as to why further action should not be taken against them.
87. Suspension In the event of the Tribunal deciding at any time that a player of any Club shall not be permitted to play with such Club the Club upon receiving such notice from the Operations Manager of the League shall discontinue to play such player until such notice is withdrawn by the Tribunal.
88. Disqualifications A Club expelling a player or official from its Club shall forward within a week of such decision, particulars of such person and offence to the General Manager of the League. The person so expelled shall have the right of appeal against his expulsion to the Board. No Club shall be permitted to play such player, nor shall an official be entitled to hold office until his appeal has been determined by the League.
89. Unauthorised Entry Onto Playing Arena Any Player or Official who enters the playing arena during the course of a match and somehow involves themselves in any type of incident shall receive an automatic four (4) match suspension. Suspensions are subject to approval from the Board of Directors of the Ballarat Football Netball League and further sanctions may also apply depending on the severity of the incident. Supporters from clubs who conduct similar behavior shall be banned from attending BFNL matches for a period of time to be determined by the Board.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
AWARDS 90. Henderson Medal
a) A n award known as the “Henderson Medal” shall be made each year to the fairest and best player or players in the senior grade competition.
b) S ecret voting for such award shall be made by the Central Umpires officiating at all senior grade matches.
c) T he Field Umpires officiating at each senior grade fixture, shall immediately following the conclusion of the match, select their idea of the three fairest and best players in the match. They shall then number one, two and three in order of preference in a sealed addressed envelope their three nominations. Their number one nomination to receive three votes, number two selection to receive two votes, and number three selection to receive one vote. They shall then hand the sealed envelope to the Ground Manager.
d) In the event that the two Central Umpire system is in operation, then the two Central Umpires shall confer, agree upon a joint nomination and otherwise comply with paragraph (c) hereof.
e) At the end of the minor rounds of matches, the League shall gather all votes made during the minor rounds and the votes shall be counted and the player or players receiving the largest number of votes shall be awarded the medal. In the case of an equal number of votes being awarded to more than one player, then players receiving such equal number of votes shall be declared joint winners and separate medals shall be struck and awarded.
f) A ny player who has incurred disqualification during the season shall be ineligible to receive the medal unless they have been suspended for the following reasons: Time Wasting, Wrestling or refusing to play inter-league football for the Ballarat Football Netball League. Players who are suspended from an incident that occurred while playing inter-league football will be eligible to win the medal.
g) All senior clubs will receive a minimum of 20 tickets with the option to purchase more while stand alone junior clubs will receive a minimum of 2 tickets to the Henderson Medal which is the premier evening on the Ballarat Football & Netball League calendar.
91. George King Medal An award known as the “George King Medal” shall be made each year to the fairest and best player/s in the Reserve Eighteen competition and rules in relation to the George King Medal shall be identical to those provided for the Henderson Medal.
92. Dick Rees Memorial Trophy An award known as the “Dick Rees Memorial Trophy” shall be made each year to the fairest and best player/s in the Third Eighteen competition and rules in relation to the Dick Rees Memorial Trophy shall be identical to those provided for the Henderson Medal.
93. Gordon Wise Memorial Trophy An award known as the “Gordon Wise Memorial Trophy” shall be made each year to the fairest and best player/s in the Under 17 Senior competition and rules in relation to the Gordon Wise Memorial Trophy shall be identical to those provided for the Henderson Medal.
94. Keith Rawle Trophy An award known as the “Keith Rawle Trophy” shall be made each year to the fairest and best player/s in the Under 15 Senior competition and rules in relation to the Keith Rawle Trophy shall be identical to those provided for the Henderson Medal. 95. Lloyd Sims Trophy An award known as the “Lloyd Sims Trophy” shall be made each year to the fairest and best player/s in the Under 13 Senior competition and rules in relation to the U/13 Senior Best & Fairest Trophy shall be identical to those provided for the Henderson Medal.
96. Robert Allan Medal An award known as the “Robert Allan Medal” shall be awarded to the player who is regarded to have the most potential to further his football in the following grades (U/13, U/15 & U/17). The award will be voted upon by all coaches in that particular grade, Inter-league coaches, votes by umpires if applicable & Talent Scouts within the region. All junior Clubs will receive a minimum of 20 tickets with the option to purchase more.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 97. Club Championship Shield On an annual basis, the league will award a Club Championship Shield which will be presented at the Henderson medal. The award will be known as the Merv & Mary Howard Memorial Shield, and it will be awarded to the Champion Junior Club, and to the Champion Senior Club. Points towards this award will be accrued as follows: Merv & Mary Howard Memorial Shield
Merv & Mary Howard Memorial Junior Shield
Senior football win
3 points
U/17 Sen & Res win
3 points
A Grade netball win
3 points
U/15 Sen & Res win
2 points
Reserve football win
2 points
U/13 Sen & Res win
1 point
B Grade netball win
2 points
17 & Under Sen & Res netball win
3 points
C Grade netball win
1 point
15 & Under Sen & Res netball win
2 points
D Grade netball win
1 point
13 & Under Sen & Res netball win
1 point
E Grade netball win
1 point
U19 football win
1 point
19 & Under netball win
1 point
Draw - Points halved
98. Recognition of Service Award The Ballarat Football & Netball League will, on an annual basis, award a “Recognition of Service Award” to a Club/League volunteer for providing outstanding service. The Award will be known as “The Keith Lawrence Recognition of Service Award”, and will be awarded at the Ballarat FNL Annual General Meeting. Officials
99. Coaches/Umpires Meeting Two meetings will be convened annually between BFNL Coaches and representatives of the BFUA. The structure of the meetings will be determined by the league with one meeting to be directed more towards senior football and the second meeting relating to junior football matters. A penalty of 5 penalty units per coach for non attendance will be imposed on the offending club.
100. Stretchers Clubs must ensure a sports medicine approved ‘MES Scoop Frame’ style stretcher is placed at the interchange area. It is recommended an additional stretcher is also placed at the interchange area. Failure to comply shall result in a fine of 10 Penalty Units.
101. Coaches Accreditation All Coaches from seniors through to U/9 Reserves and Youth Girls within the Ballarat Football & Netball League shall be registered with the Ballarat FNL and shall be so accredited to the level as determined by the AFL Victoria Coaches Accreditation policy. This policy is provided to clubs prior to the commencement of the season and is available from AFL Victoria Football Development Managers. It is now compulsory for U/11 and Youth Girls Coaches to have their level 1 accreditation.
102. Officials in Bench Area Only persons authorised may enter the playing arena during the playing of a match and Match Day Officials must remain within the marked area around the interchange box. Clubs competing in the BFNL senior competition are permitted to have up to 4 officials (including Coach, Asst Coach, Chairman of Selectors, etc) within the marked confines of the Interchange box. Junior clubs shall be permitted to have a maximum of one (1) coach and one (1) assistant coach. Furthermore, Clubs (Junior & Senior) are permitted to have up to two (2) runners, six (6) trainers and/or water carriers, and four (4) interchange players. Junior clubs can refer to By-Law 119 for requirements on interchange players. Clubs will be allowed to use an additional two (2) water carriers in extreme weather conditions, however, this must be approved by the Umpire.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL All, apart from Trainers and Water Carriers, are to remain seated in the coach’s box at all times during play, or within the confines of the perimeter lines surrounding the Coach’s Box. If no lines are marked, all must remain within the confines of the Coach’s Box. If there is insufficient space within the coach’s box, or no box is provided, then remaining officials are to be situated outside the boundary line. Trainers and Water carriers may be spread around the ground but must be positioned against the fence and not on the boundary line when at rest. All other personnel not mentioned above are considered unauthorized, and umpires have been instructed to remove them from the ground. Any Club desiring authorisation of any other officials must apply to the League for such authorisation, prior to the commencement of the match. Coaches and their coaching staff who don’t remain within the perimeter lines surrounding the coaches box will be penalised 10 penalty units per offense. For junior football – the head coach must wear the league approved and supplied coaches vest at all times during the game. This is to allow easy identification by the umpires of the coach of that particular team. If there are joint coaches, both coaches must wear the approved vest. Clubs will be fined 10 penalty units per offence where a coach is not correctly attired with the approved coaches vest.
103. Club Runner Refer to AFL Victoria Country Handbook, “Runners”. Clubs may use up to two (2) club runners for each match however only one (1) runner is permitted to be on the field of play at any time. There is no requirement for runners to use the interchange gate.
104. Ground Manager For Senior match days, the Secretary, or an approved representative of the first named Club in any match arranged by the League, or alternatively a person so appointed by the Board, shall be regarded as Ground Manager. For Junior match days, the Junior Coordinators of both clubs, or an approved representative of both Clubs in any match arranged by the League, or alternatively a person so appointed by the Board, shall be regarded as Ground Manager. The Ground Manager’s duties shall include the supervision of arrangements for the proper conduct of such matches and attend to the duties set forth on page 34, and to any other special instructions that may be issued from time to time by the League. A fine of 5 penalty units shall be imposed for each occasion these officials are sighted not correctly attired, and a fine of 5 Penalty Units will apply if the Ground Manager of a Club is not listed in the Football Program. A fine of 10 penalty units shall be applied if the Ground Manager, in the opinion of the umpires or the Ballarat Football & Netball League, does not correctly perform his/her duties. Ground Managers will be supplied with a vest from the Ballarat Football & Netball League and this vest must be worn on match days to ensure the Ground Manager stands out in the crowd on match days. Any club who fails to supply a Ground Manager, a penalty of 10 penalty units shall apply.
105. Water Carriers A maximum of up to 4 Water Carriers can be used by Senior & Junior Clubs. Water carriers must be of sufficient age that they do not impose risk to themselves and others. In extreme weather conditions, clubs will be permitted to appoint a further two (2) water carriers however this must first be approved by the Central Umpire(s). Water carriers must be competent and able to fulfil the required duties of a water carrier and must be a minimum of 12 years of age. Water carriers are to run water to players and umpires and remove themselves from the playing arena immediately. At no stage should a water carrier remain out on the ground if they are not handing water to players. A fine of 5 penalty units will apply to clubs found guilty of using water carriers to fill spaces on the ground.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 106. Timekeepers A Club shall for all grades provide a Timekeeper. The home club will be responsible for the provision and location of an audible signaling device and a backup device for the use of Timekeepers. Timekeepers at all matches shall be required to keep the scores. The Goal Umpires scorecards are to be used on the day, but in case of a dispute, the timekeeper’s scores will be forwarded as evidence to the League. A fine of 10 Penalty Units will apply should a Club fail to provide a Timekeeper for any BFNL fixtured match. A fine of 20 Penalty Units shall apply if a Club fails to provide an audible signaling device and “back up” siren or bell.
107. Interchange stewards The home and visiting clubs must each appoint one Interchange Steward per match at all levels. The steward will perform such functions as set out in rule 3.2 of AFL Laws of the Game, in the AFL Victoria Country Handbook. A fine of 2.5 penalty units will be imposed for each occasion these officials are sighted not correctly attired. Both Interchange Stewards must sit with each other by the fence to record each player transaction and keep track of time a red or yellow carded player has spent off the ground, except in extreme weather conditions when it is permissible to sit in a covered area where all interchange exchanges are still highly visible. A fine of 10 Penalty Units will apply should a Club fail to provide an Interchange Steward for any BFNL fixtured match.
108. Trainers & the AFL Goldfields Trainers Association (AFLGTA) The requirement for Qualified and Registered Trainers shall be: • Basic Qualification Required - Level 2 First Aid, • Sports Trainers Certificate All Clubs will be required to have one (1) representative from each club at ALL AFLGTA meetings. All clubs will submit a list of their trainers, including accreditation, to the AFLGTA and your league administrator prior to the commencement of each season. Clubs shall have accredited trainer in attendance at every match in which all clubs are participating. Clubs (Junior & Senior) are permitted to use up to four (4) trainers in a game: Trainers can be spread around the ground but must be positioned against the fence and not on the boundary line when at rest. It will be a requirement for all clubs to register at least one (1) trainer with the AFL Goldfields Trainers Association (AFLGTA). Furthermore, at senior level all trainers that take the field must be qualified as per the minimum requirements as set out by AFL Victoria Country Furthermore, at junior level each club must have a minimum of one (1) trainer that can take the field who is qualified and registered. ATTIRE: Trainers are to be attired as per the guidelines as set out by the AFL Goldfields Trainers Association and will be advised to clubs prior to the start of the season. STRETCHERS Clubs are to ensure that an approved First Aid stretcher is placed at the interchange area in plain sight. Additional stretchers may if available be kept in this area. Failure to carry out this instruction shall incur a fine or such other sanction as seen fit by the league board.
109. Boundary Umpires A Club shall, where required, provide a Boundary Umpire who shall be attired in a white shirt or jumper. The Central Umpire(s) shall adjudicate in regard to the competency of the person, which must be complied within five minutes or the match is forfeited. Should a club fail to provide a Boundary Umpire where advised, a penalty of 5 penalty units may be imposed. This By-Law is relevant for all BFNL competitions when competing for points (senior and junior).
110. Goal Umpires A Club shall, where required, provide a mature person as a Goal Umpire who shall be attired in a white coat. The Central Umpire(s) shall adjudicate in regard to the maturity of the person, which must be complied within five minutes or the match is forfeited. All Goal Umpires supplied by clubs are to wear white coats and use white flags. A 2.5 penalty units fine will occur for any of the above per item for Junior Fixtures, and 5 Penalty Units for Senior Fixtures.
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PLAYING GUIDELINES 111. Commencing Times All matches shall commence at such times that are fixed and appointed by the Board. Any Club unable to field 12 registered players (with the exception of By-Law 137 in junior football only) at the appointed time shall be fined such sum as is fixed by the Board, and if not ready by half an hour after the appointed time, shall forfeit the match (fines as per By-Law 38 for forfeiture of match also apply). Goal umpires must synchronize their watches with the timekeepers prior to the commencement of the match. Commencement times will be as follows:ball
Senior Football Grade
Start
Ground
Qtrs
Breaks
Senior Football
2:15pm
Full
4 x 20min PLUS time on
5min - 20min - 5min
Reserve Football
12:00pm
Full
4 x 24min No time on
5min - 12min - 5min
U/18.5 Football
9:50am
Full
4 x 22min No time on
4min - 10min - 4min
Grade
Start
Ground
Qtrs
Breaks
U/17 Senior
3:15pm
Full
4 x 20min No time on
3min – 5min – 3min
U/17 Reserve
1:35pm
Full
4 x 20min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/15 Senior
12:15pm
Full
4 x 15min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/15 Reserve
11:00am
Full
4 x 15min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/13 Senior
9:55am
Full
4 x 12min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/13 Reserve
8:55am
Full
4 x 12min No time on
2min – 4min – 2min
U/11 Senior
8:00am
Half
4 x 10min No time on
2min – 2min – 2min
U/11 Reserve
8:00am
Half
4 x 10min No time on
2min – 2min – 2min
Junior Football
Fines of 1 penalty unit per minute shall apply for clubs who fail to adhere to the running sheet. The Central Umpire is to make note of clubs who do not comply with starting times of all matches. For all competitions where time on does not apply (Reserves through to U/11 Reserves), if a match is interrupted by an injury to a player preventing the match from continuing, the clock must continue to run and scheduled finish times must still be adhered to. Only when the safety of the player has been guaranteed and removed from the playing arena can a match restart. Lost time cannot be made up.
112. Colours and Uniforms Each Club shall register its uniforms and priority of registration shall determine the exclusive right to wear such colours and uniforms. Any Club desiring to register new uniforms must submit a sample to the Board and seek approval for such registration. The following concessions have been granted
a) M elton South FNC has been granted approval to use an alternate jumper (which is the opposite in design to their home strip) which must be worn for all away matches with exception of point
b) T he Melton South FNC must wear their ‘traditional’ jumper (Navy with white yoke) for all games (Home & away) against the Darley FNC.
c) T he North Ballarat City FNC must wear an alternative strip against the Darley FNC, Bacchus Marsh FNC, Melton South FNC (away only) and Sunbury FNC (away only). The traditional strip may be worn for all other matches.
d) The Sunbury FNC has been granted permission to wear an alternate strip (which is the opposite in design to their home strip) in away matches against Melton South, North Ballarat City and Sebastopol.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE Below is a complete list of clubs who must wear alternate strips for both home and away games Club
Away Games
Home Games
Darley (Jnrs)
Bacchus Marsh
Nth Ballarat
Bacchus Marsh
Melton South
Nth Ballarat
Sebastopol
Nth Ballarat
Bacchus Marsh
Darley
Melton Sth
Sunbury
Melton Sth
Nth Ballarat
Sebastopol
Sunbury
Nth Ballarat
Sebastopol Sunbury
Bacchus Marsh
Darley
Sebastopol
113. Footballs The League will supply one football per senior home game per club, plus one spare for the season. The Ballarat Football Netball League will supply all junior clubs with one leather and one synthetic football at the beginning of the season. The footballs to be used in Junior Grades are as follows • U/9 Senior & Reserves
Size 3 (Red or Yellow) Synthetic
• U/11 Seniors & Reserves
Size 3 (Red or Yellow) synthetic
• U/13 Reserves
Size 4 (Red or Yellow) synthetic
• U/13 Seniors
Size 4 (Red) Leather
• U/15 Seniors & Reserves
Full Size (Red) leather
• U/17 Seniors & Reserves
Full Size (Red) leather
114. Excess Numbers on the Ground Any side who is found to have breached the pre-determined number of players allowed on the field during play will have the following sanctions imposed:
- The time of the quarter and score at the point in time the incident occurs shall be noted.
- The incident will be referred to the League to investigate the matter and if proven:
•A ll points scored in the quarter that the breach occurred will be forfeited: and
• I n addition, offending clubs may be issued a fine at the BFNL Board’s discretion.
115. Logos on Uniforms A maximum of four logos may be attached to the front of playing Guernsey, each of which must not exceed 10 cm x 6 cm, one of which must be the AFL Victoria Country & AFL Victoria Country Sponsor logo (if applicable) and one the BFNL Major Sponsor logo. One logo would be permitted under the number on the back of the Guernsey, it would not exceed 35cm by 15cm. Four logos 10cm x 6cm would be permitted on shorts. In special instances, clubs may apply to the Ballarat Football & Netball League for permission for an additional sponsor on the front or rear of their Guernsey, and such requests will be determined at the discretion of the Board.
116. Numbers, Shorts & Socks All players must wear AFL Victoria Country approved uniforms complying with the registered colours of their club and including numbered jerseys, and wear shorts and socks of registered colours. The numbers worn by players must correspond with the player’s card and official League program, otherwise the Club shall be liable to a minimum fine of 5 penalty units for each such offence. In the event of replacement of a jersey during a match, the Ground Manager and Central Umpire must be notified of the change of player’s number or the Club shall be liable to a fine of 5 penalty units. In the BFNL junior competition, ALL clubs in U/11 Senior, U/13 Senior & Reserve, U/15 Senior & Reserve and U/17 Senior & Reserve competitions will be asked to wear white shorts for all away games. The U/11 Reserves and Under 9 Senior & Reserves competitions will continue with wearing coloured shorts for all games. There shall continue to be no requirement for Youth Girls clubs in terms of the colour of shorts that need to be worn however it is recommended that clubs wear socks and shorts in registered club colours.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 117. Bike Shorts Bike shorts may be worn by players under their playing shorts however they must be flesh toned. A fine of 2 penalty units will be imposed on clubs for each player on each occasion coloured bike shorts are worn.
118. Uniform Policy • Trainers
All white with a number
• Water Carriers
Light Blue shirt, with navy shorts/pants
• Runners
Fluorescent Pink shirt with pink shorts
• Interchange stewards
White coat must be worn
• Goal Umpires
White coat must be worn
• Club Volunteer
Umpire White shirt must be worn
• Mentor Top
Purple shirt must be worn.
• Ground Manager
Fluro Yellow Vest must be worn
• Umpire Escort
Orange Vest
Club Officials not wearing uniforms as outlined above shall be removed from the ground by the Central Umpire and shall not be allowed to return until correctly attired. Clubs who have incorrectly attired officials shall be fined 2.5 penalty units per offence.
119. Interchange Players For Senior, Reserve and U/19 age groups, clubs will be allowed a maximum of twenty-two (22) players that may be listed on the team sheet and participate in any given match. Where a duplicate copy of Team Sheets is exchanged between competing clubs, that copy must be identical to which is handed to the Umpire. Failure to comply - 5 Penalty Units. At junior level, U/9 Reserves through to U/17 Seniors, the Ballarat Football Netball League will take the following stance in regard to interchange players:
a) C lubs will be allowed to have up to six (6) interchange players per side in U/11 Senior, U/13 Senior, U/15 Senior & U/17 Senior competitions.
b) C lubs will be allowed to have up to eight (8) interchange players per side in U/9 Senior & Reserves, U/11 Reserve, U/13 Reserve, U/15 Reserve & U/17 Reserve competitions.
c) P ermission from opposition club is no longer required to arrange additional numbers on the bench.
d) Clubs are encouraged to assist their opponent with numbers if sides are uneven.
e) Clubs failing to follow this process will risk losing points and percentage
120. Registration Every club is responsible for the registration of their own players; however, all registrations expire on the 31st day of October. Players must be reregistered with their club on an annual basis should they wish to continue to play with that club control of the League and such registration must be filed with the League before that player will be permitted to play provided:
a) I n the case of such registration being signed on the day of the match, the Form must be signed by the player and handed to the Ground Manager for lodgment with the League.
b) A ny Club playing an unregistered player at any level will be penalised as per AFL Victoria Country Rule 1.3. Such penalties will include loss of match points and fines not less than $500 (Senior, Reserve & U/19 games) or not greater than $250 (Junior games). A player participating without signing a form is not insured and the club may be held liable for any injury via negligence, therefore, such a process exists to protect clubs.
c) C lubs will forfeit points from match that an unregistered player plays in, unless extraordinary circumstance exist and the decision is over ruled by the board of the Ballarat Football & Netball League and the AFL Victoria Country Area Manager.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 121. Illegal Clearances Any player who illegally obtains a clearance or permit shall be disqualified and the League after consultation with the AFL Victoria Country may impose such penalty it considers appropriate upon the Club playing such ineligible player. Further sanctions may also be applied by the AFL Victoria Country.
122. Clearances Refer AFL Victoria Country Handbook, “Clearances”.
123. Football Stops Aluminum stops are not permitted. Magnesium stops are acceptable.
124. Talking Devices Used on the Field of Play Listening/talking devices (such as a walkie talkie) are banned from being used by club officials whilst on the field of play. This includes the banning of use by water carriers, trainers and runners. The only exception to this rule is for Coaching staff sitting in an elevated position away from the Coaches box where players cannot hear their instructions.
125. Wearing Gloves During Competition Gloves are permitted to be worn in all BFNL competitions.
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FINALS 126. Finals – Venue In accordance with By-Law 127, the Board will determine all finals venues. Factors that will be considered include ground condition, participating teams, amenities, spectator attraction and the respective positions on the ladder of the participating senior teams. a) Catering The Board will conduct a draw for the Catering rights for both the Senior Finals series and the Junior Finals series. All clubs in each competition are included. The catering rights once awarded apply to the entire finals series. Once a club has been drawn for either Junior/Senior catering, they will not be eligible for catering in that section until each club has had the opportunity to cater. The Board will determine a fee on a commercial basis for the catering rights. Clubs may “on sell” their opportunity only to another BFNL Club, or pass up their opportunity, but will not be replaced in the draw until all other clubs have had the opportunity. b) Booth The Board will conduct a draw, in which all clubs are included, for booth rights for the entire Senior finals series. Once a club has been drawn, they will not be eligible for booth rights until each club has had the opportunity. The Board will determine a fee on a commercial basis for the booth rights. Clubs may pass up their opportunity but will not be replaced in the draw until all other clubs have had the opportunity.
NOTE: Where required, the league will instruct Clubs as to any “exclusivity arrangements” that must be adhered to for Catering and Booth sales. This will occur to protect agreements with League Sponsors and must be adhered to for both Finals Catering / Booth and the regular season where advised. Failure to comply will result in a fine of 50 Penalty Units Year
Senior Catering
Senior Booth
Junior Catering
2019
East Point
Sunbury
Redan
*Cancelled due to COVID-19
2020 2021
Sunbury
Lake Wendouree
Mount Clear
2022
Redan
Sebastopol
Sebastopol
2023
Bacchus Marsh
Melton South
East Point
2024
Sebastopol
East Point
New Draw Required
2025
Melton South
Ballarat
2026
Darley
Bacchus Marsh
2027
Lake Wendouree
Redan
2028
Melton
Ntrh Ballarat City
2029
New Draw Required
c) Raffle For Junior football, the club who has the catering rights will also be given the rights to the ground raffle for each match day during the finals series. For Senior football, the two competing Senior sides on the day will be allowed to conduct a ground raffle. d) Rooms The Ballarat Football Netball League reserves the right to allocate the use of rooms to clubs during the senior and junior finals series. Consideration will be given to clubs who have more than one team participating in a finals series and clubs will be kept together as much as possible.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE e) Shorts The Ballarat Football Netball League reserves the right to allocate what colour shorts each club is required to wear during the course of senior and junior finals series. f) Final 6 Week 1 A - 1 v 2
Qualifying Final
B - 3 v 6*
2nd Elimination Final
If third wins, advances to 2nd Semi Final. If 6th Wins advances to 1st Semi Final C - 4 v 5*
1st Elimination Final
Winner advances to 1st Semi Final EXCEPT when 6th beats 3rd in 2nd Elimination final. When 6th beats 3rd in 2nd Elimination Final, winner of 1st Elimination Final advances to 2nd Semi-Final. Week 2 D - Winner A v Winner B*
2nd Semi Final
If 3rd team wins 2nd Elimination Final. If 6th team wins 2nd Elimination Final, winner of 1st Elimination Final will advance to 2nd Semi-Final. E - Winner C v Loser A*
1st Semi Final
If 6th team wins 2nd Elimination Final it advances to 1st Semi Final while winner of 1st Elimination Final would advance to 2nd Semi-Final. Week 3 F - Winner E v Loser D
Preliminary Final
Week 4 G - Winner D v Winner F
Grand Final
127. Finals All playing arrangements, and the grounds upon which all finals matches are to be played, shall be determined at the discretion of the Board. The main criteria when scheduling will be the ability to attract the biggest crowd and profile for the league, ability to secure and collect the full gate revenue, suitable facilities for players and spectators and neutrality where possible. Ground raffles at finals matches will be allocated to the two competing senior teams. The league may at its discretion, allocate final matches to the higher placed senior side provided the club’s venue meets the relevant criteria (e.g. suitable spectator and player facilities, ability to collect a gate etc.).
128. Drawn Football Finals In the event of a drawn game in any Finals match (including the Senior Football Grand Final), the following shall apply:
a) T he teams will change ends following a break of no more than three minutes.
b) A five-minute quarter will be played (including time-on) before immediately changing ends for another five-
c) I f at the end of the second five minute quarter scores are still level, no change of ends will occur, play will be
minute quarter (including time-on). There is to be no break between these quarters. restarted at the centre bounce and the first score will win.
NOTE: For Junior Football ONLY, there will be no time-on in Junior Finals. If the ball is kicked over the fence and cannot be retrieved in a timely manner, the spare ball located with the Interchange Steward shall be used.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 129. Eligibility for Finals When reading the Finals Eligibility by-laws, the above hierarchy of competitions, with Senior Football at the top and Under 11 Senior Football at the bottom, should be taken into consideration when trying to figure out where a player can compete during the finals. When players qualify to compete in finals they qualify for that competition and any competition that sits above them on the hierarchy (eg. If a player qualifies in the U/17 Reserves, that player qualifies for finals in competitions 5 up to 1, but not competitions 6 down to 10). SENIORS (Senior, Reserve and U/19 Grades)
a) A player must play in at least three matches for his Club in the minor rounds (home and away games) to qualify to play in the final series.
A player selected as an interchange player and whose name is on the list of players exchanged before the commencement of the match and who is on the ground in uniform and ready to play and remains so ready until the conclusion of the match, shall for all purposes be deemed to have played in such match.
b) A player must play in at least three matches in a grade to be eligible to play in the final series in that grade, except in the following cases:
i) Where an Under Age player is selected to play in an open age side (Seniors or Reserves)
ii) If a Reserves player is selected to play in the Senior side
iii. Where a registered Junior player is selected to play in the Under 18 ½ or any open age side
c) A player shall not be permitted to take part in the finals series of matches unless he has previously played not less than three minor round matches (home and away) with his Club during the current season.
Any player who changes Club mid-season shall be deemed a new player for the Club, with which he has been granted a permit to play and shall be required to therefore complete no less than three minor round matches with his new Club before being eligible to play in the final series of matches.
d) A registered player, playing three games during the minor rounds (home and away) in any one season in a competition, shall be eligible to play finals in that competition and any competition that sits above it on the competition hierarchy provided all other finals eligibility criteria is met.
e) Any player who, during the currency of the season, has played MORE THAN 50% of matches in the minor rounds (home and away) with a specific competition shall be ineligible to compete in a final series of any competition that sits below that competition in the BFNL competition hierarchy.
The only exception to this rule is if the side in a specific competition that the player has an allocation of more than 50% of games played in is still in the competition, competing on the same weekend and all other finals eligibility criteria is met. Only then will a player be allowed to play in the competition that sits lower on the BFNL competition hierarchy. If the side competing in the competition that a player has an allocation of more than 50% games played in is knocked out of the finals, that player shall not be eligible to compete in a finals series with any other side unless they have met the finals eligible criteria.
f) A player may only participate in one finals match in the age group the player has qualified for in any round of a finals series.
No player is allowed to play in more than one finals match during the same round of finals, the only exceptions to this rule are mentioned in By-Law 131 and if a club has senior, reserve and U/19 teams in the finals and find themselves short of players in the reserves or U/19 competitions, it is then permissible to bring a player up from a lower age group to fill any vacancies.
g) NAB League games are counted as senior matches played.
h) RDFNL Club 18 matches are NOT counted towards player eligibility
i) T he GWV Rebels are not recognised as a player’s home club.
j) V FL games are not counted as senior matches played. Players may only play with their nominated home club after being released by their VFL club on an Interchange Agreement which is sent to the league on a weekly basis. Clubs found playing players who have not been released by their VFL club risk losing points and percentage.
k) Finals eligibility is calculated using home and away matches only. Finals matches played are not included when determining finals eligibility.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE JUNIORS (U/17 Seniors down to U/11 Seniors)
a) A player must play in at least three matches for his Club in the minor rounds (home and away games) to qualify to play in the final series. A player selected as an interchange player and whose name is on the list of players exchanged before the commencement of the match and who is on the ground in uniform and ready to play and remains so ready until the conclusion of the match, shall for all purposes be deemed to have played in such match.
b) A player must play in at least three matches in a grade to be eligible to play in the final series in that grade, except in the following cases:
i) Where an Under Age player is selected to play in an open age side (Seniors or Reserves)
ii) Where a registered Junior player is selected to play in the Under 19 or any open age side
iii. Where a registered junior player is selected to play in a higher age group on the BFNL Competition Hierarchy (e.g. Under 15 players playing Under 17). This is not to be at the expense of a registered and available player in that age group.
c) A player shall not be permitted to take part in the finals series of matches unless he has previously played not less than three minor round matches (home and away) with his Club during the current season.
Any player who changes Club mid-season shall be deemed a new player for the Club, with which he has been granted a permit to play and shall be required to therefore complete no less than three minor round matches (home and away) with his new Club before being eligible to play in the final series of matches.
d) A registered player, playing three games during the minor rounds (home and away) in any one season in a competition, shall be eligible to play finals in that competition and any competition that sits above it on the competition hierarchy.
e) A registered player in any BFNL Junior Competitions having played MORE THAN 50% of games with a higher grade, as listed on the BFNL Competition Hierarchy, shall be ineligible to play with the lower grade in the final series of matches, except in the following cases –
i) If a player participates in more than one game of a H&A match day, the first match played on that day is the only match that counts in terms of finals eligibility. For example, if a player has played in ten (10) U/15 Senior games but during 4 of those rounds, he also played in the U/15 Reserves, this will only count as six (6) games played in the U/15 Senior side when trying to determine finals eligibility.
ii) If a player has participated in more than 50% H&A matches in a higher age group on the BFNL Competition Hierarchy, that player can be dropped to the lower grade during the currency of the H&A season. When it comes to finals however this player will not be eligible to play finals in the lower grade accept in the situation where the higher side in which the player has competed in more than 50% of games in is still in the finals series, then the player will be allowed to play in the lower grade, except in the scenario as outlined in rule 129 h). However, if the higher side were to be knocked out of the finals, the player in question will no longer be allowed to compete in the lower grade’s finals matches if they are still in the competition. Essentially, this player’s fate is tied to the higher side and as soon as they are eliminated, so is the player in question.
NOTE: Rule 129 e) ii) DOES NOT apply to players moving between age groups, this will only be allowed for players within the same age group. For example, a U/17 Reserve player who has played too many games in that age group (more than 50%) cannot come down and play finals with the U/15 Seniors if they are both in the finals unless they are qualified in that age group under other finals eligibility criteria.
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f) A player who has played more than one minor round match in a day (e.g. U/15 Reserves and U/15 Seniors) shall only have their first game recorded as a game played when determining finals eligibility. The second game will not count when determining finals eligibility.
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g) A player may only participate in one finals match in the age group the player has qualified for in any round of a finals series. No player is allowed to play in more than one finals match during the same round of finals, the only exceptions to this rule are mentioned in By-Law 131.
h) Any player having played more than 50% of home and away games in a higher age group and is part of a side that wins the 2nd Semi Final, skips the Preliminary Final and progresses to the Grand Final, shall be ineligible to compete in the lower age group for the Preliminary Final even though both age groups are still in the competition.
i) T he GWV Rebels are not recognised as a player’s home club.
j) F inals eligibility is calculated using home and away matches only. Finals matches played are not included when determining finals eligibility.
k) Where it states 50% of home and away games in this By-Law, it relates to the 50% of the junior competition and not the competition the player is also competing in. For example, if an U/17 player competes in the U/19 competition, as they play two more games than the U/17 competition, 50% of games played would relate to the U/17 competition and not the U/19 competition. This also accounts for players who might compete in more than one age group above where they normally compete. For example, an U/17 Reserve player may play games in the U/17 Senior and U/19 competitions, if this players competes in more than 50% of games in those age groups, they shall be ineligible to compete in the U/17 Reserves finals series (see 129 e for exceptions this rule).
130. Interchange of Grades Where a Club competes in more than one grade, a free interchange of players between grades shall be permitted. However, a player shall not be eligible to play in the final series of matches of any grade unless he has played at least three games in that grade or a lower grade (save and accept as provided for in the previous Finals Eligibility By-Law).
131. Replacements Where a Club is involved in finals matches on a Saturday or Sunday of the same weekend in more than one grade, the following eligibility of player’s requirements shall apply:
a) A player who has participated for the Senior side on the Saturday shall not be eligible to play with the Reserve side on the Sunday.
b) A player being in the twenty-two for the Reserves on Saturday will, save as provided below, be ineligible to play with the Seniors on the Sunday, however a Senior team playing on Sunday will be permitted, where a replacement player is required due to a late withdrawal of a selected senior player, to draw a replacement from the Reserves team that has played on the Saturday. For all under age teams the above rule will apply to the Interchange between Grades from Saturday to Sunday.
132. Clubs making Grounds available for Finals Each club shall, as part of their standard User Agreement with their respective local government authority (LGA) for the use of their Reserve for the forthcoming season, shall arrange for their ground and facilities to be available for use by the Ballarat FNL for Finals fixtures, as and when required. The BFNL will pay host clubs the following to assist with covering costs of hosting a final: Junior Clubs: $100 per day Senior Clubs: $100 per day In most cases, such usage will include the use of the home / tenant club, but in some cases may not do so.
133. Protected Sponsors The Ballarat FNL at times will enter in to partnerships that provide exclusive arrangements. These arrangements shall be protected and no club shall be permitted to enter in to a naming arrangement that conflicts with these protected partners. Clubs who enter into naming agreements with sponsor that directly conflict with league partners shall be fined an amount determined by the board of the league. Protected partnerships of the league are implemented for the overall benefit of the league and member clubs. Protected partners of the league shall be issued to clubs from time to time.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
SPONSORSHIP & MARKETING 134. Naming Rights or Ground Sponsorship No BFNL Clubs shall be permitted to enter into a “Club Naming Rights” Sponsorship without the written authority of the BFNL. All proposals must be submitted to the BFNL by the 1st March each calendar year to be considered.
NOTE: The BFNL will not consider any Club Naming Rights Sponsorship proposals where such agreements may conflict with any existing BFNL Sponsorship.
135. BFNL Sponsors Clubs shall, where requested:
a) D isplay BFNL sponsor signage at their venue, at no charge to the Ballarat FNL. The Ballarat Football & Netball League will be responsible for maintenance of such signs.
b) O ffer BFNL Sponsors products for purchase at their venue. Failure to do so shall result in a fine of 10 penalty units per offence.
136. Ambush Marketing Ballarat FNL Clubs shall not be permitted to include inserts in or to provide handouts with the official Ballarat FNL Footy Record without the explicit permission of the Ballarat FNL. The Ballarat FNL will only provide permission for Ballarat FNL Clubs to include inserts within or to provide handouts with the Footy Record when such inserts, handouts or promotions do not conflict with any Ballarat FNL Sponsor or licensee arrangement. Ballarat FNL Clubs shall be permitted to issue handouts at or in the vicinity of BFNL venues to promote games, club events, social activities & forthcoming functions, only when such handouts do not include logos, promotions or offers which conflict with any Ballarat FNL Sponsor or licensee arrangement. Clubs found breaching this By Law shall be fined an amount up to $500 at the discretion of the Ballarat FNL Board.
137. Football - Minimum Numbers to Constitute a Game For ALL football competitions (NOT including Senior Football), the following shall apply:
a) C lubs who field a side with 12 (registered or borrowed) or more players will be eligible to play for points. This means, the score, percentage, best players and all goal kickers will stand.
b) P lease note, if one club lends another club players and the game progresses with 12 or more players per side, point a) shall apply.
c) C lubs who field a side with 11 or less players will forfeit the points to the other side. Both teams are encouraged to still conduct a game with whatever players are available. The size of the ground can be reduced if need be.
d) Where possible, clubs MUST assist their opposition to field a side of 12 or more players.
e) In the event where one club assists another by lending them players, both sides must contain the same number of players for the game to go ahead. If there is an odd number, the team who has the most players (registered to their club) may play one extra player.
f) I n the event where both sides cannot field a side of 12 or more players, the points will be split. Clubs again are encouraged to still conduct a game however the score, percentage and goal kickers will not stand.
g) In any round, the team that has been allocated the bye should assist other clubs by supplying them with as many players as they can.
h) Borrowed players cannot receive Best & Fairest votes and goals kicked do not count in all League awards.
i) I f one team has less than 18 players, the opposition team must lend players to ensure even numbers take the field. Players must not be left to sit on the bench.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL Junior Football (U/17 Seniors Down) 138. Fielding a Senior Side First Where a club only has enough players to field one side in a particular age group, the club must compete in the senior competition of that age group unless they are provided with approval from the League to compete in the Reserves.
139. Yellow Cards (Juniors Only) The following shall apply to all players in the Ballarat Football & Netball League junior competition (U/17 Seniors and below) to coincide with the BFNL Junior Code of Conduct:
a) A ny player who receives a red card during the course of any match, shall be asked to front the independent tribunal unless the set penalty applies. Red cards are shown for reportable offences.
b) A ny player who receives their first yellow card during the course of a season shall consider this as their first and only warning.
c) A ny player who receives a second yellow card during the course of a season shall be handed an automatic one match suspension.
d) Any player who receives a third yellow card and every yellow after that, shall receive a two match suspension.
e) Clubs wishing to appeal a card shown by an Umpire should do so by emailing the Football Operations Manager by no later than the close of business on the first business day after the match has taken place.
f) T he Tribunal shall deal with offending players via normal AFL Victoria Country procedures.
140. Under Age Grades Qualification for underage competitions will be as follows for each age group:
• U/9 - Must be born prior to April 30th 2014
• U/11 - Must be under the age of 11 years on the 1st January 2021. Therefore must have been born on or after 01/01/2010
• Under 13 - Must be under the age of 13 years on the 1st January 2021. Therefore must have been born on or after 01/01/2008
• Under 15 - Must be under the age of 15 years on the 1st January 2021. Therefore must have been born on or after 01/01/2006
• Under 17 - Must be under the age of 17 years on the 1st January 2021. Therefore must have been born on or after 01/01/2004
• Under 19 - Must be under the age of 19 years on the 1st January 2021. Therefore must have been born on or after 01/01/2002
Junior Age Dispensation – The By-Law to permit junior players to play as an overage player in lower age groups after special consideration against selected criteria has been abolished. Players must compete in the age group in which they are eligible, or in a higher age group.
141. Minimum Age A player must have turned 7 years of age prior to April 30th of the calendar year to play U/9 football. Therefore must have been born on or prior to 30/04/2014.
142. Police Checks & Working With Children Checks Police checks are no longer required in the Ballarat Football & Netball League, however, Team Officials of all junior clubs must complete a Working With Children Check to comply with state law. Clubs are responsible for ensuring that all Team Officials undergo a Working With Children Check. Forms can be collected from any Post Office and WWCC are free of charge for volunteers. It is the responsibility of the club to have all Club Officials who have contact with children under the age of 18 undergo a WWCC. The club must then record the details of each Club Official’s WWCC on the IT system.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 143. Junior Football Cap In 2009, the Ballarat Football & Netball League introduced a cap on players per junior age group to the junior competition to assist clubs in spreading players across the competing clubs. All grades of junior football from Under 11 to Under 17 shall have a cap of 50 players. The cap for Under 9 football shall be 45 players. Any club found to have deliberately breached the cap by clearing or registering new players will be severely dealt with by the Board and the resulting punishment will be left up to the Board’s discretion. The only way a club can register more than 50 players in any age group is if they have more than 50 players wanting to reregister with the club from the previous year only. Any players who are not recognised as a registered player of the club in the previous year will be subject to the cap.
144. Niggling in Junior Football Matches (U/9 Reserves to U/13 Seniors) For junior football in age groups from U/9 Reserves to U/13 Seniors, any player in the opinion of the Club Voluntary Umpire to be making unnecessary contact or “niggling” their opponent whilst the ball is not in the immediate area of play, shall be paid a free kick against them in the first instance. If the behavior continues throughout the course of the match, the Club Volunteer Umpire may use their discretion and issue the offending player a yellow card and send them from the ground.
145. Underage Players Attendance at Tribunal Hearing Players competing in U/9 and U/13 age groups who have been reported for an offence that has been referred to the Independent Tribunal for hearing shall not be forced to attend in person. Instead of attending the hearing in person, the player will be asked to provide a written account of the incident and the player’s parent or guardian and/or advocate will be asked to present the letter and related information on the player’s behalf. This written account does not need to be a statutory declaration.
146. More Than One Match Per Match Day Clubs who have 44 or more registered and available players on any given match day in a specific age group shall only be allowed to play in one match that day. Clubs may only allow junior players to participate in senior and reserve games if clubs are short of numbers. Clubs who breach this By-Law risk losing premiership points and a fine.
147. Restrictions on Players and officials Betting The Ballarat FNL strictly prohibits Ballarat FNL registered players and officials from placing bets or wagering in a game or competition where players or officials are engaged. For the purposes of clarity, Ballarat FNL players and officials are not permitted to place Bets on the Ballarat FNL premiership. This restriction does not apply to players being registered on the Website and betting on contingencies not related to the game or competition in which they are engaged and on the broad range of contingencies in racing and sports wagering and gaming offered by the Website. The Ballarat FNL shall have access to live reporting facilities on the Website in order to allow the League to view customer details and transaction histories, and in cases where Players and / or Officials do breach this BY Law they shall face sanction/s as determined by the Board of the Ballarat FNL.
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POLICIES Numerous different Policies apply to football across Victoria and Australia, in relation to a number of different topics. The Ballarat Football & Netball League has adopted the following AFL Victoria Policies & Forms. Please visit the BFNL website – bfnl.com.au to access further information on any of these Policies and Forms.
Rules and Regulations
• Laws of Australian Football 2021
• AFL Victoria Country Handbook 2021
Player Transfer & De-registration
• 2020 National Player Registration and Transfer Regulations
• 2020 National Player and Official De-registration Policy
Online Media
• AFL Social Media Engagement Policy
Coaches and Trainers
• AFL Coaches Code of Conduct
• AFL Trainers Policy
Duty of Care
• Negligence and the Law in Football
National Age Dispensation Policy 2019
• Age Dispensation Application Template
AFL Respect & Responsibility Policy:
• This document is a renewed Respect and Responsibility Policy, supplemented by a new protocol for managing complaints and incidents. Find the Policy HERE
AFL Victoria Smoke Free and Alcohol Management Policy & Resources:
• AFL Victoria acknowledges its role in promoting healthy environment standards amongst all Leagues & Clubs, who are required to have in place appropriate Smoking and Alcohol Management Policies. Find the AFL Victoria Smoke Free Policy HERE. or for the Alcohol Management Policy, CLICK HERE.
Infectious Disease Policy:
• AFL Victoria acknowledges its role in dealing with the issue of the spread of Infectious Diseases within football. Find the Policy HERE
Anti-Doping: All AFL Victoria Affiliates are governed by the AFL Anti-Doping Code. The clauses of the AFL Anti-Doping Code that are legally enforceable by ASADA at community football level are the ones that are taken directly from the WADA Code. There are a number of other clauses in the AFL Anti-Doping Code that have been included by the AFL (with the approval of ASADA) to specifically relate to the AFL competition where the resources & support systems exist to be able to manage and administer such obligations.
• Find the AFL Anti-Doping Code HERE
• Find an Anti-Doping Message for Community Football Leagues HERE
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE Safeguarding Children and Young People
• Safeguarding Children Commitment Statement
• Safeguarding Children Policy
• Safeguarding Children Code of Conduct
• Safeguarding Children Reporting Procedure
Affiliate Regulations:
• AFL Vic Community League Affiliate Regulations
• AFL Vic Member to Member – Movement of Clubs or Teams
Additional Resources:
• AFL Victoria Extreme Weather Policy
• Member Protection Policy
• AFL Privacy Policy
• AFL Vilification Policy
• AFL Match Policy
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BFNL FOOTBALL MATCH DAY POLICY Please see below for match day policies for every junior grade of football in the Ballarat Football & Netball League:
U/9 Reserves & Seniors:
a) T he U/9 competition shall be a 15 player per side competition with as many players on the interchange as the club likes. Clubs must do everything in their power to ensure both sides have the same amount of players on the ground at the same time meaning clubs MUST lend the opposition players if they do not have enough to field a full side.
b) G ames will be played on Friday night with U/9 reserves to commence at 6:00pm and U/9 seniors to commence at 7.00pm
c) P layers must be Under 9 years of age at the 1st January 2021
d) Clubs will compete in registered club colours, including shorts
e) A size 3 synthetic football (red or yellow) will be used for all U/9 matches
f) G ames will be played as 4 x 10 minute quarters with a 3 minute break at quarter, half and three quarter times.
g) In line with AFL Victoria rules, females shall be allowed to compete in the U/9 Reserve competition
h) 15 metre penalties only (not 50m) shall apply in all U/9 games
i) T he AWAY club will provide a club umpire to officiate the U/9 Reserve game
j) T he HOME club will provide a club umpire to officiate the U/9 Senior game
a) M entors are permitted in U/9 matches. Only 1 mentor is permitted on the ground at any time per club and be the team coach.
k) Gloves are permitted in all BFNL junior competitions.
l) Generally speaking, first year players and/or players who are slow to develop in this age group will be selected in the U/9 Reserve side.
U/11 Reserves:
a) T he U/11 Reserve competition shall be a 18 player per side competition with as many players on the interchange as the club likes. Clubs must do everything in their power to ensure both sides have the same amount of players on the ground at the same time meaning clubs MUST lend the opposition players if they do not have enough to field a full side.
b) G ames will commence at 8:00am.
c) P layers must be Under 11 years of age at the 1st January 2021.
d) Players must have turned 7 years of age prior to April 30th in the calendar year to register with a club.
e) Clubs will compete in registered club colours.
f) A size 3 synthetic football (red or yellow) will be used for all U/11 matches.
g) In line with AFL Victoria rules, females shall be allowed to compete in the BFNL U/11 Reserve competition.
h) 15 metre penalties only (not 50m) shall apply in all U/11 Reserve games.
i) T he AWAY club will provide a club umpire to officiate all U/11 Reserve games.
b) M entors are permitted in U/11 Reserve matches. Only 1 mentor is permitted on the ground at any time per club.
j) A ll players competing in the U/11 Reserve competition may not change teams midway through a game and finish a match with the U/11 Senior side. Swapping of teams is not permitted.
k) Gloves are permitted in all BFNL junior competitions.
l) Generally speaking, first year players and/or players who are slow to develop in this age group will be selected in the U/11 Reserve side.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE U/11 Seniors:
a) T he U/11 Senior competition shall be a 18 player per side competition with as many players on the interchange as the club likes. Clubs must do everything in their power to ensure both sides have the same amount of players on the ground at the same time meaning clubs MUST lend the opposition players if they do not have enough to field a full side. b) G ames will commence at 8:00am c) G ames will be played of 4 x 10 minute quarters d) Players must be Under 11 years of age at the 1st January 2021. Therefore, they must have been born on or after the 1st January 2010. Players must have turned 7 years of age prior to April 30th in the calendar year to register with a club. e) Clubs will compete in registered club colours f) A size 3 synthetic football (red or yellow) will be used for all U/11 matches g) In line with AFL Victoria rules, females shall be allowed to compete in the BFNL U/11 Senior competition h) 15 metre penalties only (not 50m) shall apply in all U/11 Senior games i) T he HOME club will provide a club umpire to officiate all U/11 Senior games c) M entors are permitted in U/11 Senior matches. Only 1 mentor is permitted on the ground at any time per club. j) A ll players competing in the U/11 Senior competition may not change teams midway through a game and finish a match with the U/11 Reserve side. Swapping of teams is not permitted. k) Gloves are permitted in all BFNL junior competitions. l) Generally speaking, second year players and/or players who are faster to develop in this age group will be selected in the U/11 Senior side.
In addition to the above mentioned guidelines for U/9 and U/11 football, all U/9 and U/11 matches (seniors, reserves) will run under the following modified rules:
Modified Rules for U/9 and U/11 Matches: 1. U /11 Reserve Matches: Club Volunteer Umpires: As there are no points or percentage at stake only one club umpire will be required for each of the U/11 Reserves games.
a) B oth clubs shall supply an umpire for U/11 Senior games
2. T eam Numbers: Each team shall consist of the same number of players on the ground at all times. At no time should one side out-number the other. As per agreement, a minimum of 10 players per side can constitute a game and there has been no maximum placed on interchange numbers in U/9 and U/11 games as long as both sides have even numbers on the ground. 3. T eam Members: Teams can be made up of both male and female players 4. R esuming Play: To start play, at the beginning of a quarter or after a goal has been kicked, the Umpire shall choose two players of equal size to contest the centre bounce. Each side may have 4 players each, usually the on-ball players, to be inside the centre square (or within a 20m radius if no square is available) to contest for the football. If there are 15 players or less, only 3 players per side may compete for the ball at the start of each quarter or after a goal has been kicked. 5. Ball Ups: The ball must be hit out of the ruck and shall only be contested by the two nominated players. At no stage can a third player contest in the ruck and at no stage can the ball be taken out of the ruck and kicked or handballed. 6. Around the Ground Ball Ups: Rules 2 and 4 apply to all field ball ups as well. 7. O ut of Bounds: When the ball has been kicked out of bounds without being touched, a free kick shall be awarded to the nearest opponent. Where the ball has been touched and called by the umpire, play shall be restarted by a ball-up 10 metres in from the boundary line where the ball went out. Rules 2 and 3 shall now be applied. 8. R unning & Bouncing with the Ball: A player is permitted only one bounce and then must dispose of the football by kicking or handballing to another player. If a player takes more than one bounce, a free kick shall be awarded to the nearest opponent. The player touching the ball on the ground constitutes as a bounce and the same rule shall apply. 9. K icking Off the Ground: A player is not permitted to deliberately kick the ball off the ground. If a player is found to have deliberately kicked the ball off the ground, a free kick shall be awarded to the nearest opponent. 10. B umping and Tackling: Bumping is permitted only from the side, any front on bumps shall be penalised by awarding a free kick. Tackling is permitted, normal tackling rules apply here. Sling tackles are illegal, and the tackler shall be penalised with a free kick awarded to the player who was tackled.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 11. H olding the Ball: A player must not attempt to barge past their opponent, they must try to evade them. Failure to do this shall result in a free kick being awarded to the nearest opponent. 12. S coring: Normal scoring rules apply. No score will be kept by goal umpires. 13. S ize of Ground: Clubs may choose to reduce the size of the ground for these two age groups using portable goal posts. Rules 2 to 4 apply for ball-ups. 14. M arking: A mark shall be paid when the ball is disposed of by foot. There is no restriction on distance travelled at this level. 15. R unners: Runners may be used at this level of football. Runners are to deliver a message to the player and leave the ground straight away. Runners are only permitted on the ground to talk to players who are not in the direct play. At no stage should a runner be anywhere near the ball. Runners are not allowed to carry a coaches board on the field whilst the match is being played. 16. M entors: Club mentors can be the coach of the side. Mentors are not allowed to carry a coach’s board on the field whilst the match is being played. Club mentors are only permitted on the ground to talk to players who are not in the direct play. At no stage should a mentor be anywhere near the ball. Mentors are to deliver their message to the player and return to the coach’s box straight away. The difference between a runner and a mentor is that the mentor can deliver coaching advice whilst on the ground whereas a runner cannot. A runner is to deliver a message and leave the playing field immediately. 17. M entors Inside the Forward 50m During a Kick-Out: As long as the mentor is nowhere near the play, mentors are allowed inside the forward 50m during a kick-out to provide coaching advice to the players. No free kick shall awarded for mentors who do not get out of the forward 50m. 18. R unners Inside the Forward 50m During a Kick-Out: Runners are not permitted inside the forward 50m arc when there is a kick out. A free kick may be awarded against a runner of either side if they are inside the forward 50m arc when the ball is being brought back into play from a kick out. 19. J umpers: Each team should be attired as per other sides who play within the club. Numbered jumpers should be worn and each player should be assigned their own number. 20. I nterchange: Teams shall use the interchange bench as they see fit. There is no limit as how many kids can play in each team however there must only be 15 players on the ground per side at any one time and rule 2 must also apply. 21. O rder-Off Rule: A Club Volunteer Umpire may order a player to leave the field for any of the below offences:
a) F ighting or unduly rough play
b) P ersistent or deliberate breaking of the rules
c) D isputing the Umpire’s decision
d) Objectionable language, remarks or behavior
e) Swearing at or abusing another player or the Umpire
22. If a player has been ordered off the ground, they shall not return to the playing field for the rest of the match. The Umpire shall then choose whether or not they wish to take the issue further with their own club and punishment shall be handled internally. If the incident is deemed to have been serious enough, the Umpire may then refer the incident onto the League by filling out a report sheet and the League shall follow up accordingly. 23. 1 5 Metre Penalty: There are no 50m penalties at this age level, the penalty shall be 15 metres. The Umpire shall award a 15m penalty as per normal rules. 24. A buse from Official or Supporter: If it is obvious that the Umpire is being abused by a Team Official or Supporter, the Umpire should ask the offending person to control their actions as they are at a junior match. If the abuse continues, they can hold play up and ask the home and/or visiting side to remove the person in question. Play shall be suspended until such an issue has been resolved. The League must be informed if such an incident has occurred. Unfortunately, due to a tight schedule for the rest of the day, time cannot be made up. 25. D ecisions Final: The Club Volunteer Umpire is in charge of the match and every decision made by that Umpire is considered final. Players and Officials must abide by the Umpire’s decisions and at no stage shall they dispute any decision made. Any issues arising from the performance of a Club Volunteer Umpire should be referred to the league for further investigation.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE U/13 Reserves: 1. The U/13 Reserve competition shall be a 18 player per side competition with as many players on the interchange as the club likes.
NOTE: BFNL interchange player policy (BFNL By-Law 119) must be followed 2. Games will commence at 8:55am. 3. Games will be played of 4 x 12 minute quarters. 4. Players must be Under 13 years of age at the 1st January 2021. Therefore, they must have been born on or after the 1st January 2008. 5. Clubs will compete in registered club colours. 6. A size 4 synthetic football (red or yellow) will be used for all U/13 matches. 7. In line with AFL Victoria rules, female shall be allowed to compete in the BFNL U/13 Senior competition. 8. 15 metre penalties only (not 50m) shall apply in all U/13 Reserve games. 9. Each club will provide one club umpire each to officiate all U/13 Reserve games. 10. Gloves are permitted in all BFNL junior competitions. 11. Generally speaking, first year players and/or players who are slow to develop in this age group will be selected in the U/13 Reserve side.
U/13 Seniors: 1. The U/13 Senior competition shall be a 18 player per side competition with up to six (6) players on the interchange.
NOTE: BFNL interchange player policy (BFNL By-Law 119) must be followed. 2. Games will commence at 9:55am. 3. Games will be played of 4 x 15 12 minute quarters. 4. Players must be Under 13 years of age at the 1st January 2021. Therefore, they must have been born on or after the 1st January 2008. 5. Clubs will compete in registered club colours. 6. A size 4 leather football (red or yellow) will be used for all U/13 senior matches. 7. In line with AFL Victoria rules, female shall be allowed to compete in the BFNL U/13 Senior competition. 8. 15 metre penalties only (not 50m) shall apply in all U/13 Senior games. 9. Each club will provide one club umpire each to officiate all U/13 Senior games. 10. Gloves are permitted in all BFNL junior competitions. 11. Generally speaking, second year players and/or players who are faster to develop in this age group will be selected in the U/13 Senior side.
U/15 Reserves: 1. The U/15 Reserve competition shall be a 18 player per side competition with as many players on the interchange as the club likes.
NOTE: BFNL interchange player policy (BFNL By-Law 119) must be followed. 2. Games will commence at 11:00am. 3. Games will be played of 4 x 15 minute quarters. 4. Players must be Under 15 years of age at the 1st January 2021. Therefore, they must have been born on or after the 1st January 2006. 5. Clubs will compete in registered club colours. 6. A size 5 red leather football will be used for all U/15 matches. 7. In line with AFL Victoria rules, female shall be allowed to compete in the BFNL U/15 Reserve competition. 8. 15 metre penalties only (not 50m) shall apply in all U/15 Reserve games. 9. If the BFUA do not appoint Umpires, each club will provide one club umpire each to officiate all U/15 Reserve games. 10. Gloves are permitted in all BFNL junior competitions. 11. Generally speaking, first year players and/or players who are slow to develop in this age group will be selected in the U/15 Reserve side.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL U/15 Seniors: 1. The U/15 Senior competition shall be a 18 player per side competition with up to six (6) players on the interchange.
NOTE: BFNL interchange player policy (BFNL By-Law 119) must be followed 2. Games will commence at 12:15pm. 3. Games will be played of 4 x 15 minute quarters. 4. Players must be Under 15 years of age at the 1st January 2021. Therefore, they must have been born on or after the 1st January 2006. 5. Clubs will compete in registered club colours. 6. A size 5 red leather football will be used for all U/15 matches. 7. In line with AFL Victoria rules, female shall be allowed to compete in the BFNL U/15 Senior competition. 8. 15 metre penalties only (not 50m) shall apply in all U/15 Senior games. 9. Gloves are permitted in all BFNL junior competitions. 10. Generally speaking, second year players and/or players who are faster to develop in this age group will be selected in the U/15 Senior side.
U/17 Reserves: 1. The U/17 Reserve competition shall be a 16 (for 2021) player per side competition with as many players on the interchange as the club likes.
NOTE: BFNL interchange player policy (BFNL By-Law 119) must be followed. 2. Games will commence at 1:35pm. 3. Games will be played of 4 x 20 minute quarters 4. Players must be Under 17 years of age at the 1st January 2021. Therefore, they must have been born on or after the 1st January 2004. 5. Clubs will compete in registered club colours. 6. A full size red leather football will be used for all U/17 matches. 7. In line with AFL Victoria rules, female shall NOT be allowed to compete in the BFNL U/17 Reserve competition. 8. 50 metre penalties shall apply in all U/17 Reserve games. 9. If the BFUA do not appoint Umpires, each club will provide one club umpire each to officiate all U/17 Reserve games 10. Gloves are permitted in all BFNL junior competitions. 11. Generally speaking, first year players and/or players who are slow to develop in this age group will be selected in the U/17 Reserve side.
U/17 Seniors: 1. The U/17 Senior competition shall be a 16 (for 2021) player per side competition with up to six (6) players on the interchange.
NOTE: BFNL interchange player policy (BFNL By-Law 119) must be followed. 2. Games will commence at 3:15pm. 3. Games will be played of 4 x 20 minute quarters. 4. Players must be Under 17 years of age at the 1st January 2021. Therefore, they must have been born on or after the 1st January 2004. 5. Clubs will compete in registered club colours. 6. A full size red leather football will be used for all U/17 matches. 7. In line with AFL Victoria rules, female shall NOT be allowed to compete in the BFNL U/17 Senior competition. 8. 50 metre penalties shall apply in all U/17 Senior games. 9. If the BFUA do not appoint Umpires, each club will provide one club umpire each to officiate all U/17 Senior games. 10. Gloves are permitted in all BFNL junior competitions. 11. Generally speaking, second year players and/or players who are faster to develop in this age group will be selected in the U/17 Senior side.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE U/19 Football: 1. The U/19 competition shall be strictly an 18 player per side competition with 4 players on the interchange bench. 2. Games will commence at 9:50am. 3. Games will be played of 4 x 22 minute quarters with no time on. 4. Players must be Under 19 years of age at the 1st January 2021. Therefore, they must have been born on or after the 1st January 2002. 5. Clubs will compete in registered club colours. 6. A full size red leather football will be used for all U/19 matches. 7. In line with AFL Victoria rules, female shall NOT be allowed to compete in the BFNL U/19 competition. 8. 50 metre penalties shall apply in all U/19 games. 9. If the BFUA do not appoint Umpires, each club will provide one club umpire each to officiate all U/19 games. 10. Gloves are permitted in any BFNL Senior, Reserve and U/19 competition.
Under 19 Football - 23rd Player Development Policy The Ballarat FNL will introduce a policy whereby clubs may use a 23rd player in the Under 19 competition to further promote and develop junior (Under 17) players. • Each team is allowed to utilise one (1) player from their aligned junior club (Under 17 team) for each home and away game to play as a 23rd player in an Under 19 game. This policy will not apply through finals games. • The 23rd player is to be selected from a senior clubs aligned junior club. In the instance of the Mt Clear JFNC, senior clubs may select an Under 17 player from this club by agreement of the Mt Clear JFNC • Competing clubs may only play a 23rd player if this position is utilized by both clubs competing in a fixtured match. • The 23rd player is not restricted by position or amount of game time. • An individual player will be restricted to a maximum of three (3) games as the 23rd player in a given season. • NAB League (or equivalent) listed players will not be eligible to play as the 23rd player. • Once an Under 17 player makes his debut in the senior/reserve team at his club, he will no longer be eligible to be selected as a 23rd player. • Players selected as the 23rd Player are to be noted on official team sheets for opposition clubs and umpires. They shall have “23P” recorded next to their name. • Selected players shall not be eligible for league votes or awards in the U19 grade.
Reserve Football: 1. The Reserve competition shall be strictly an 18 player per side competition with 4 players on the interchange bench. 2. Games will commence at 12:00pm. 3. Games will be played of 4 x 24 minute quarters with no time on. 4. The Reserve competition is an open age competition and any male may compete provided all eligibility and registration criteria is fulfilled. 5. Clubs will compete in registered club colours. 6. A full size red leather football will be used for all Reserve matches. 7. In line with AFL Victoria rules, female shall NOT be allowed to compete in the BFNL Reserve competition. 8. 50 metre penalties shall apply in all Reserve games. 9. If the BFUA do not appoint Umpires, each club will provide one club umpire each to officiate all Reserve games. 10. Gloves are permitted in any BFNL Senior, Reserve and U/19 competition.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL Senior Football: 1. The Senior competition shall be strictly an 18 player per side competition with 4 players on the interchange bench. Senior sides will be allowed to use four (4) interchange players for all matches. 2. Games will commence at 2:15pm. 3. Games will be played of 4 x 20 minute quarters PLUS time on. 4. The Senior competition is an open age competition and any male may compete provided all eligibility and registration criteria is fulfilled. 5. Clubs will compete in registered club colours. 6. A full size red leather football will be used for all Senior matches. 7. In line with AFL Victoria rules, female shall NOT be allowed to compete in the BFNL Senior competition. 8. 50 metre penalties shall apply in all Senior games. 9. If the BFUA do not appoint Umpires, each club will provide one club umpire each to officiate all Senior games. 10. Gloves are permitted in any BFNL Senior, Reserve and U/19 competition.
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NOTES
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL
2021 BFLW BY LAWS
The following By Laws are specific to the BFLW competitions and are to be read in conjunction with BFNL Football By Laws. Additional resources are available from the league website
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
BFLW BY LAWS The following BY LAWS is to be read in addition to the Ballarat Football Netball League Football BY LAWS and are specific only to the BFLW competitions.
1. MENTORS (Junior Girls competition only) It is the role of a Club Mentor to provide on-ground coaching to young players in competitions where Mentors are allowed (Under 14 Junior Girls ONLY). The role of a Mentor is to provide on-ground coaching to young players learning to play the game and teach them the basics of the game whilst out on the ground. Where permissible, clubs are only allowed to have one (1) Mentor out on the ground at a time and the Mentor needs to ensure they do not involve themselves in the play at any stage. Mentors must avoid barracking at all times and must keep their instructions clear and concise in relation to the positioning of players on the ground, the movement of play and the provision of feedback to player’s decision making out on the ground. Club Umpires or appointed Umpires are well within their rights to remove a Mentor from the ground if they feel the Mentor is not behaving in an appropriate manner and they may also refuse to allow a club to have a Mentor on the ground if they deem it necessary. Mentors must wear the League’s approved Mentor top.
2. EVENING UP RULE The League expects all team officials to understand and adhere to the ‘spirit’ of this rule, which is, the team that has the greater number of players available shall lend as many players as possible to equalize numbers with the other team so that all players available to participate in that match shall have the opportunity to play in as much of that match as possible. If both teams have full sides, an 18 a side game shall be played. Where one team has between 14 and 18 players (Women’s) or 12 and 18 players (Youth Girls & Junior Girls) and the second team has more players than the first team, both teams shall field the same number of players, therefore an equal number of players shall take the field. If a team begins with less than 14 players (Women’s) or 12 (Youth Girls & Junior Girls) the match will be forfeited, however a match must still occur as a scratch match. If during a match, a team’s playing numbers drop to below 14 players (Women’s) or 12 players (Youth Girls & Junior Girls) a forfeit will occur, and the match must continue with an equal number of players on the field for both sides. If players are not offered to the team with less than 18 players, then playing numbers must be reduced so that both teams field the same number of players on the ground. If players are offered, but not accepted, then the team with the greater number of players is not required to reduce playing numbers, i.e., the evening up rule does not apply. If players are not offered, the team refusing to offer players will have their interchange bench capped at 3 players and on-field playing numbers must be equal. The players on the field and the 3 interchanges are the only players permitted to participate in the match. Team Managers, particularly from the Team that requires the evening-up rule to apply, must ensure the process is organized as early as possible and prior to the teams taking the field.
a) L ate Arrivals Should a player arrive late, that player may take the field at any time provided the following procedure is adhered to:
i) The Team Manager shall inform the Officials of the other Team.
ii) The opposition team is to be informed when the players are ready to take the field that the playing numbers of each side are to be increased.
iii) Addition to the playing numbers on the field can only be made providing the numbers on the field remain equal for both teams.
iv) Where a head count is conducted and uneven playing numbers are evident the scores at the time of the head count shall be noted and the matter referred to the League for determination of the result of the match.
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b) L oss of players during the match due to injury or illness Should a player be removed from the field due to injury or illness and the team has no interchange players, as soon as practicable but no later than at the next quarter break teams should even the playing numbers. If the injured player is available to play after being taken from the fields, the player is only able to do so through the interchange gate once the opposition team and umpire is notified. Where a player is ordered off by the Field Umpire and there is no replacement available there is no requirement to even-up the playing numbers on the field.
c) D aily loan of players When players are loaned, the Team Manager of both teams shall note on the team sheet the number of players loaned. Players may be loaned on a quarter-by-quarter rotating basis or for the whole match as appropriate. Any dispute regarding this rule will be referred to the League who will determine penalties, if any, to be applied. Penalties may include loss of premiership points and/or score by the offending team and/or the Club of the offending team shall be penalized as the League deems fit.
3. REPRESENTATIVE FOOTBALL
a) A ll Ballarat FNL affiliated Clubs will support the representative program for all grades, where the league delegates have approved the leagues participation in representative football for the upcoming season.
b) A ll costs for Interleague Matches will be shared equally across the League.
c) A ll ancillary services and personnel shall be drawn from the Clubs, other than for the position of Coach.
d) The League Board shall, in conjunction with the General Manager and Football Manager, appoint the BFLW Interleague Coaching staff at their discretion.
e) All players in all affiliated Clubs are to make themselves available for selection in any representative game.
f) A ny Club that does not participate fully or support the League in representative matches or who does not comply with the League request to ensure their players attendance at the required sessions may incur a fine of an amount determined by the League, or the loss of premiership points.
g) Should a player have a legitimate reason for non-attendance at any session called by the coach, then an acceptable reason should be e-mailed to the coach or League Football Manager prior to the session in question.
h) The League shall supply jumpers, shorts, socks, and off field apparel of the appropriate colour for all teams at the cost of each player to which each club will be invoiced for each player registered to their club. All players and coaching staff will keep all apparel after the representative program.
i) S hould any player receive serious injury in any Inter-League match, Players must lodge any insurance claims through their Home Clubs insurance policy.
4. AWARDS
a) B est & Fairest Awards An award shall be made to the best and fairest player in all grades of competition. Votes for these awards shall be made in secret by the Central Umpires, or controlling umpire or their representative, as the case may be, at the end of each game and handed or sent to the Football Manager of the League as soon practical after the completion of the match. At the end of the home and away rounds, the league shall count all votes as cast during that time and arrive at the conclusion as to whom has attained the greatest total of votes. No player who has been found guilty of any charge by the AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal or accepted a set penalty shall be eligible to win a Best and Fairest award. In the event of a tie, additional awards will be made available.
b) O ther awards that may be awarded include: Goal kicking all grades, and any other presentation that may be required or approved by the League Board.
c) G rand Final Trophies An award shall be made to the best on ground in all grades of competition in football based on their performance in the BFLW Grand Finals, this will be determined by the officiating umpires on the day.
Other awards that are to be awarded at the Grand Final include: • Premiership Medallions in all grades of competition • Premiership Cup for all grades of competition
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 5. BFLW FOOTBALL COMPETITION HEIRARCHY 1. Women’s Football 2. Youth Girls U/18 Football 3. Youth Girls U/16 Football 4. Junior Girls U/14 Football
6. PLAYER ELIGIBILITY
a) E ligibility of players to play between the BFLW and VFL Women’s
i) A maximum of 3 VFL Women’s listed players can play for any Open Women’s team in the BFLW competition for each round of football without prior consent from League Board.
ii) A maximum of 5 VFLW players can be registered with any Ballarat FNL affiliated club in any one season.
iii) In the event that a bye occurs in the VFLW competition, a VFL Women’s player is only eligible to play in any BFNL team, if they have been listed and played the previous fixtured game with said club in the BFLW competition.
iv) Any player included on an official VFLW list can, provided she has qualified under the Rules described in (finals eligibility rule 8), return to play with their registered club in finals.
v) Any player that plays 50% or more games in any season in the VFLW Competitions is ineligible to play any BFLW finals in that season.
7. FINALS ELIGIBILITY
a) H ome and Away Matches to Qualify for finals:
i) A player must play in at least three (3) matches for her Club in the home and away season to qualify to play in the final series.
ii) A player selected on the team sheet that is exchanged before the commencement of the match and who is on the ground in uniform and remains so until the conclusion of the match, shall for all purposes be deemed to have played in such match.
iii) A player must play in at least three (3) matches in a grade to be eligible to play in the final series in that grade, except in the following cases:
a) Where an underage player is selected to play in an open age side
b) W here a registered junior player is selected to play in a higher age group on the BFLW Competition Hierarchy (e.g., under 14 players playing under 18).
This is not to be at the expense of a registered and available player in that age group.
iv) A player shall not be permitted to take part in the finals series of matches unless she has previously played no less than three (3) matches during the home and away season with her club.
v) Any player who changes club mid-season shall be deemed a new player for the club, with which she has been granted a permit to play and shall be required to therefore complete no less than three home and away matches with his new club before being eligible to play in the final series of matches.
vi) A registered player, playing three (3) games during the home and away season in any one season in a competition, shall be eligible to play finals in that competition and any competition that sits above it on the competition hierarchy.
vii) A player who has played more than one minor round match in a day (e.g. U/14 and U/16) shall only have their lowest age group game recorded as a game played when determining finals eligibility. The higher age group game will not count when determining finals eligibility.
viii) A player may only participate in one finals match across any weekend in the age group the player has qualified for, in any round of a final’s series. No player can play in more than one final’s match during the same round of finals.
NOTE: Junior competition 50% eligibility rule does not apply when a player plays a game for a team in the Junior boy’s competition e.g., BFNL. An U/13 Junior girl can play in the boys competition without the game counting towards their 50% eligibility criteria over the course of the season.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL The Greater West Victorian Rebels are not recognised as a player’s home club. Final’s eligibility is calculated using home and away matches only. Finals matches played are not included when determining finals eligibility.
8. GAME DAY & MATCH CONDITIONS a) G ame start times and quarter lengths
The League will be flexible with start times, below are approx. times for ALL Home and Away Rounds:
BFLW Football Grade
Start
Ground
Qtrs
Breaks
Women’s
12:45pm
Full
4 x 20min No time on
5min – 10min – 5min
Under 18
11:15am
Full
4 x 15min No time on
5min – 7min – 5min
Under 16
9:45am
Full
4 x 15min No time on
5min – 7min – 5min
Under 14
8:30am
Full
4 x 12min No time on
5min – 7min – 5min
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
NOTES
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2021 NETBALL BY LAWS
Additional resources are available from the league website
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
NETBALL BY-LAWS 1. Controlling Body
a) T he controlling/administering body of the BFNL will be known as the “Netball Management Committee”
b) T he Netball Management Committee, through the chair, will meet in each year as often as deemed necessary by the Committee.
c) T he Netball Management Committee will report directly to the Ballarat Football Netball League Board of Directors.
2. N etball Victoria Membership All players must be registered with their club via the Netball Victoria’s My Netball System.
a) A ll new players to the league must have registered themselves on the Netball Victoria My Netball System before taking the court on Match Day.
b) A ll players continuing with their home club from a previous season must have re-registered themselves via the My Netball System. All contact details must be kept up-to-date, including current postal address, mobile phone and email address.
c) A ll Coaches and Umpires must have registered themselves through My Netball prior to undertaking their roles within their BFNL Club.
d) Co-ordinators are not permitted to register any players – registrations must be completed by the individual.
e) Failure to comply with the above will result in a $50 fine per player/coach/official
3. M atch Rules
a) A ll BFNL matches shall be conducted according to Netball Australia Rules unless otherwise stated in these by laws, however BFNL by-laws should be referred to before any other rules.
b) S tarting times and match duration times will be set each season by the Management Committee.
c) B FNL senior competition (including under 19 and under, please refer clause) and BFNL junior competition are considered to be two separate competitions.
4. Venues
a) E ach Club plays their home matches within the confines of the ground where their football club is playing.
b) E ach home club will be responsible for providing a court in fit condition, which must be approved by Netball Victoria & the Ballarat Football Netball League.
c) T he Netball Australia Safe Netball Checklist must be completed via the Safe Netball app prior to the commencement of the first game of the day.
d) All courts are to be situated outdoors, as the BFNL is an outdoor competition. In the event that a scheduled home and away match is unable to be played on the netball court at the scheduled venue, an alternative outdoor venue will need to be sought by the home club.
5. Umpires Umpires must be registered with Netball Victoria.
a) E ach Club will be responsible for payment of umpires on match day, for all grades, excluding the finals series.
b) I t is not acceptable to only have one umpire per game as this is a risk management issue. If a club can not obtain an umpire the below is the procedure that must be followed:
i) The home team has the opportunity to supply a badged umpire in a reasonable time, if not,
ii) The away team has the opportunity to supply a badged umpire in a reasonable time, if not,
iii. Both teams agree on an unbadged umpire.
c) I f clubs do not supply an umpire and a second umpire is supplied by the other competing team, the club who cannot supply the umpire are required to pay for the second umpire.
d) If clubs are unable to supply an umpire for any game in which their club competes, that Club may be asked by the BFNL to show due course why further action should not be taken against their Club.
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e) Umpires are not permitted to umpire more than 3 matches on the one day (this applies to both junior and senior games played on the same day) and must not umpire more than 2 consecutive games. If a club umpire intends to play for their club, they are only permitted to umpire two games on that day, and they must not be consecutive.
1st offence – official warning
2nd offence - $50
f) U mpires must be a current C grade badge under Netball Australian Accreditation requirements to be eligible to umpire in either A or B Grade.
g) To be eligible to umpire all other junior and senior matches the umpire must have:
- Completed the Umpires Online Theory Examination and obtained a pass mark of 70%, as well as completing the Online Foundation Umpires Course
- Each Umpire must supply the BFNL Netball Manager with proof of accreditation prior to officiating their first game
h) Umpires are required to be in uniform from the 13/unders through to A Grade. Uniform must be a white skirt or shorts with a white polo shirt/T shirt or long sleeve white top. Umpires may wear a white spray jacket if required. Umpires who are umpiring an 11/under game, are required to wear a white polo shirt/T shirt or long sleeved white top however can wear pants if they choose to do so.
6. Officials The Match officials are umpires, scorers and timekeepers. The Team officials are coach, assistant coach, team manager, and up to three (3) other personnel, one of whom must be a Primary Care Person who is qualified to diagnose and treat injured or ill players.
a) A ll coaches, team managers & umpires must have a Current Netball Victoria registration and be registered with the BFNL.
b) A maximum of five players not on court at start of play, shall constitute the team bench
c) T eam officials and bench players MUST NOT engage in any inappropriate comments or any form of inappropriate behaviour; including moving up and down the side lines or along the goal lines, during play.
d) Club coaches and team officials must stay in the designated bench area during all home & away and finals matches.
e) The appointed specified coach is the only member of the club that can coach on match day
All coaches of all age groups and grades, must have the minimum Foundation level coaching qualification by Round 1 of the season.
7. E quipment & Match Day Paperwork Please Note: 11 /under reserve results are NOT required to be entered into My Netball.
a) T he BFNL will supply all relevant paperwork.
b) H osting clubs are required to print out the day’s games score sheets for each grade for match day. Please Note: 11 & under reserve results are NOT required to be entered into My Netball.
c) A ll Clubs are required to enter the results from their home game matches into My Netball by 7.00pm on game day. These results include scores, best players and goal statistics.
d) Finalised team sheets must be entered into the My Netball system by 12.00pm on the Friday before match day to enable the home team to print out all game’s score sheets.
e) In relation to finals series sheets, failure to enter into the My Netball system by 12.00pm on Friday before match day will result in a $100 fine.
f) F ailure to submit completed best & fairest vote cards will incur a penalty of $50 fine to the home club
g) All clubs are required to purchase and have as part of their match day equipment, a Hart Megaphone 6 watt. The megaphone is to be used for all senior and junior home and away games. The megaphone replaces air horns, which are not acceptable for use.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 8. A ge Requirements
a) M inimum age requirement for the senior competition is turning 15 years of age by the 31st of December, ‘in the current year’.
b) 19&Under: Players must be 19 years of age or younger as of 31st December ‘of the current year’. Therefore, players cannot turn 20 this year. This is a female only competition.
c) 1 7&Under: Players must be 17 years of age or younger as of 31st December ‘of the current year’. Therefore, players cannot turn 18 this year. This is a female only competition.
d) 15&Under: Players must be 15 years of age or younger as of 31st December ‘of the current year’. Therefore, players cannot turn 16 this year. This is a female only competition.
- For 17 & under grade competition the minimum age limit set for participants must be turning 14 years old in the year of competition.
- For 15 & under grade competition the minimum age limit set for participants must be turning 12 years old in the year of competition.
e) 13&Under: Players must be 13 years of age or younger as of 31st December ‘of the current year’. Therefore, players cannot turn 14 this year. This competition is open to both girls and boys.
- For 13 & under grade competition the minimum age limit set for participants must be turning 10 years old in the year of competition.
f) 1 1&Under: Players must be 11 years of age or younger as of 31st December ‘of the current year’. Therefore, players cannot turn 12 this year. This competition is open to both girls and boys.
g) The minimum age for 11&U is 9 years old at the commencement of the said season.
h) Special age exemptions will be considered to assist with junior numbers. These must be submitted in writing to the BFNL Manager and BFNL Netball Director/s for approval.
i) T he BFNL senior netball competition is a female only competition.
j) T he BFNL Junior Netball competition is as a modified mixed competition and will allow boys to participate according to the following guidelines;
k) 11&U Competition – Eligible boys will be permitted to play in this age group, but only one (1) boy is permitted in each third at any one time. There is no limit to the number of boys named on the score sheet.
l) 13&U Competition – Eligible boys will be permitted to play in this age group, but only one (1) boy is permitted to take the court at any one time. There is no limit to the number of boys named on the score sheet.
9. J unior Netball Cap The BFNL places a cap on players per junior age group to the junior netball competition to assist in the distribution of players across the 10 competing clubs. The cap is 24 players per age group. Clubs found to have deliberately breached the cap by clearing or registering new players will be presented to the BFNL board for further management. The only circumstance in which a club can register more than 24 players in any age group, is if they have more than 24 players wanting to re-register with the club from the previous year only. Any players who are not recognised as a registered player of the club in the previous year will be subject to the cap. Penalty: Loss of 4 premiership points and games score. $100 fine.
10. Working with Children Check This check replaces the police check and is free for volunteers. This is applicable to all persons working with juniors up to the age of 18 years. It is mandatory by law as of January 2007 for coaches, officials and volunteers to obtain this check if they undertake any of the following roles:
a) C lub personnel including coaches, umpires, trainers etc appointed or seeking appointment for reward.
b) V olunteer personnel who will or are likely to travel away overnight with teams of players under 18 years of age and
c) P ersons appointed or seeking appointment to a role in which that person is likely to have individual and unsupervised contract with players Under 18 years of age.
The Working with Children Check Application Guide and Form is available from all Australia Post outlets or for further information see website: www.justice.vic.gov.au/workingwithchildren/
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL All coaches and officials associated with the junior BFNL competition (and senior competition where under aged players are participating) require a current working with children check. Each club affiliated with the BFNL are required to maintain their own records of WWCC of their members on a yearly basis.
11. Clearances
a) A clearance is required if a player wishes to transfer to another BFNL Club before or during the current home & away season. b) A clearance will not be granted after the 1st of July of the current year d) Each club must process a clearance through the My Netball Database System e) No player will be granted more than one (1) clearance per season. f) P layers who owe outstanding playing fees or are in possession of club property will not be granted a clearance. g) The existing club has seven (7) days to approve or deny the clearance. If the club fails to deny the clearance within 7 days, the My Netball Administration system will automatically clear the player to the new club. The league will make the final approval through the My Netball Database System for all player clearances. h) All clearance notifications will be generated and sent via the My Netball Database System to all relevant members involved with the clearance. i) P enalty for playing without clearance is $100 and loss of any competition points for the match(es) the player played in. j) A clearance form is not required to the league before processing the clearance on the My Netball Database system. If the league does request the clearance form, it must be received and signed by the player or parent/ guardian (if under 18 years) within 24 hours of the request. k) If the Club refuses to clear the player, the League will write to the player advising the reason why and forward a copy to both clubs. Any dispute arising from clearance restrictions will be dealt with according to the Grievance Procedure outlined by Netball Victoria.
12. Uniform
a) E ach Club must register its uniform with the Netball Executive b) T he Netball Executive must approve all uniform colours, designs and styles. c) C lubs must notify the BFNL Netball Executive in writing of any proposed changes to their uniform. d) Players will not be permitted to take the court unless they are in full uniform. If uniforms are not ready, approval must be sought and given by the Netball Executive. Uniform includes suitable sports footwear (spiked soles are not permitted). e) Bike pants or boy legged briefs can be worn but shall be no longer than the dress when a player is standing upright. f) S ocks must be white with club logo (if preferred) and must be purchased through BFNL approved supplier g) In the event of extreme weather, long sleeved tops can be worn underneath the uniform. It must be a similar colour to the uniform. For the 11 & under competition, players may wear black leggings and long sleeve tops (that match their dress) underneath the uniform. The directive of extreme weather will be communicated via the Netball Manager. h) Gloves are only permitted to be worn for certified medical conditions. This needs to be approved by the Netball Board Directors and Netball Manager. A medical certificate will need to be provided in support of the request. A letter from the league, outlining the approval of the exemption should be carried by the player at all matches. Only plain cotton gloves with no metal clips, sharp adornments, Velcro, rubber spikes or any other covering to enhance the catching of the ball shall be allowed to be worn. i) P layers may not wear anything that could endanger themselves or other players, specifically: a) N o adornment or jewellery may be worn other than a wedding ring or medical alert bracelet, which must be covered with tape – appropriate sports tape is to be used (Band-Aids are not permitted) c) Fingernails must be short and smooth – taping of nails is not permitted d) Hair must be suitably tied back. e) Tongue piercings are to be removed. f) Elastic headbands are acceptable during play. Plastic headbands must not be worn during matches. j) S ponsors logos are not permitted on bibs with the exception of required official BFNL major sponsor.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 13. Timekeepers/Scorers
a) A ll teams must provide their own scorer/timekeeper for all matches. Scorers/timekeepers must sit together at the section provided at the court. One team member must stand down if the team has no scorer.
b) T he home club shall be required to supply all the necessary paperwork for the match including a printed scoresheet from the My Netball database management system. Clubs will be provided with all required paperwork by the League prior to the season.
c) O ne official scoresheet will be used for each match. This scoresheet must list the complete and full names (both given and surname) of all players intending to take court. This scoresheet shall also indicate the positions played each quarter and the match score.
d) A team may have up to 12 players on a team sheet
e) The first named team is responsible to return the scoresheet to the League.
f) A Club Official may add players to the team sheet up until the commencement of the game. Each club needs to be across this rule by round three. A fine of $200 will be imposed on clubs who are found to be in breach of this bylaw, after round 3 of the season.
g) At the game conclusion, to indicate their satisfaction that the information on the official scoresheet is correct, the official scoresheet is to be signed by:
a) T he captains of both competing teams, and
b) T he scorers
c) T he officiating umpires only sign the score sheet to state they have officiated that game.
h) If a scorer, team or club believes the score sheet is incorrect, they must not sign it and follow the grievance procedures to protest.
i) A team wishing to protest must:
a) N ot sign the official scoresheet and notify the Club Committee and BFNL Netball Manager of the intention to protest.
b) L odge the protest in writing with the BFNL Netball Manager within 48 hours of the game completion.
j) T he BFNL Netball Manager will advise the result of the protest and this decision shall be final.
k) Clubs who fail to provide a timekeeper/scorer will be fined $50 for each offence.
14. Conduct of Matches
a) G ame rules shall be those of Netball Australia, except:
i) Timing - Refer by law 30
ii) Late Start - Refer part (d)
b) T he Netball Executive shall determine a fixture and any changes to the competition inclusive of the starting times, venues and days of play for all matches
c) O ther than where prior arrangements have been made by the Executive, games shall commence at the following times and shall consist of four quarters:
Senior Competition Grade
Start Time
Quarter Length
Break Time
A Grade
2.30pm
4 x 15 mins
3-5-3
B Grade
1.15pm
4 x 15 mins
3-5-3
C Grade
12.00pm
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
D Grade
11.00am
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
E Grade
10.00 am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
19 & Under
9.00am
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL Junior Competition Grade
Start Time
Quarter Length
Break Time
17 & Under Senior
3.00pm
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
17 & Under Reserve
2.00pm
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
15 & Under Senior
1.00pm
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
15 & Under Reserve
12.00pm
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
13 & Under Senior
11.00am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
13 & Under Reserve
10.00am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
11 & Under Senior
9.00am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
11 & Under Reserve
8.00am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
d) Teams are to change ends at each quarter time break
e) The Board of Management may vary the starting times, game day and match conditions in finals.
f) L ate Start
i) A ll clubs are to be in position and ready to start at the time set by the League or the mutually agreed, prearranged time.
ii) T eams require a minimum of 5 players in order for play to commence.
iii) L ate arrivals may join at goal intervals, quarter time break or injury time.
iv) If one is not ready to commence the game at the scheduled times and the umpires, scorers, timekeepers and opposition team are in position and scheduled start time has passed the following action may be taken:
v) If a team does not take the court at the required time - the clock shall commence. The Umpires shall instruct the scorer to award a 5 goal penalty to the non-offended team. If the offending team still does not take the court within a further 30 seconds, the game will be awarded to the non-offending team. Four premiership points will be awarded to the non-offending team. There will be no changes to a either team’s percentage. The offending team will be fined $50.00.
vi) HOWEVER, all due consideration must be given when a change of venue has occurred. When a delay has occurred due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control, both clubs are to arrange a start time within 10 minutes of the scheduled start time.
vii) If a club wishes to alter the starting time of a match during the Home and Away season then the club must notify the opposing Club’s netball Delegate 72 hours prior to the match starting time. All changes must be notified and approved by the league.
g) I njury/illness/blood Policy
i) T he umpires hold time for blood when noticed or for injury/illness when requested by an on-court player (in extreme circumstances the umpires may hold time without a request being made).
ii) T he player concerned MUST leave the court within 30 seconds and receive any treatment off the court. The timekeepers advise the umpires when 10 seconds remain.
iii) O nly primary care person/s are permitted on the court to assess the player’s medical condition and to assist the player from the court.
iv) In the event the primary care person/s advise the umpires that the player concerned cannot be removed safely within 30 seconds, the umpires will extend the time for the player to leave the court.
v) The umpires may authorise other persons (including team officials) to assist the player to leave the court if needed.
vi) Any blood on the ball or the court must be cleaned before play restarts and any blood-stained clothing replaced.
vii) During the stoppage both teams may make substitutions and/or team changes, provided these are completed within the time allowed for the stoppage by the umpires.
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viii) If no substitution is made for the injured/ill player, or for a player who is bleeding, play may resume with the position left vacant. If the player is the Centre and no substitution is made, one player must move to play as Centre to allow the match to continue.
ix) I f the position is left vacant the player concerned or a substitute may subsequently, after advising the umpire, take the court immediately after one of the following:
a) A goal has been scored (in this case the player or the substitute must play in the position left vacant)
Sanction: Free pass where ball was when play stopped – the player is sent from the court until the correct time for entry. (i.e.: a stoppage for injury/illness or blood, or an interval)
h) Other Stoppages
i) T he umpires may hold time or extend an interval if considered appropriate. Examples for which time may be held include (but are not limited to):
a) Emergencies such as serious injury/illness of a player, injury/illness of an umpire or technical official/s, the equipment, the court the weather, or technical equipment
b) Retrieving the ball
c) Disciplining a player, team official or bench player.
ii) The umpires decide the length of such a stoppage and ensure play restarts as soon as possible.
iii) Team officials are not permitted on the court during a stoppage other than specified in Rule 14g(iii).
j) T eam Lists
i) C lubs must submit all coaches’ names on the team sheet. Both a player’s first name and surname must be printed clearly on the team sheet and must be easy to read.
Team sheets must be submitted to the Ballarat Football Netball League with the rest of the club’s match day paperwork and sent to Saxon House after the completion of the last match and no later than 7pm on the night of the match played. Clubs who breach this deadline will be warned on the first occasion and fined $50 for a second breach. Clubs who continually fail to send their paperwork in before the deadline will be asked to explain their actions and why the league should take no further action against them.
15. Game Cancelled/Forfeits
a) I f a game is cancelled before the match begins due to weather conditions, as long as both umpires agree, points shall be shared between the two competing sides.
If a match is cancelled after ½ time due to weather conditions, the scores will be recorded from the point at when the match was cancelled. If umpires disagree to cancel the game, a Ballarat Football Netball League Official is to be contacted where possible, and they shall make the decision on whether the game shall continue or not. If a Ballarat Football Netball League Official can’t be contacted the match must continue.
b) I f a team wishes to forfeit, they must notify the Ballarat Football Netball League General Manager or BFNL Netball Manager, opposing team, and umpires, at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled starting time.
The following fines for a forfeit will apply for the following grades: - A Grade Netball - $1000. - B Grade Netball - $750. - C Grade Netball - $500 - D Grade - $250 - E Grade - $150 - 19 & Under Netball - $100. - 17 & UNDER Netball - $100. - 15 & UNDER Netball - $100. - 13 & UNDER Netball - $100. - 11 & UNDER Netball - $100.
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c) I f a team forfeits and fails to notify authorities an additional $100 fine per team, plus all umpire’s costs will be imposed.
d) A team may submit a score sheet on the day of a scheduled game in the case where the opposing registered team forfeits.
A team can name a maximum of 12 players on a score sheet where a forfeit applies which will count as a game played for all listed players when determining finals eligibility.
16. Drawn Game In the event of a drawn game the points shall be shared, 2 points per team. No extra time will be played for drawn matches during the home & away season.
17. Drawn Netball Finals During any final including the grand final where at the end of the game the scores are tied there is a two (2) minute break during which time there may be substitutions and / or team changes. At the end of the 2 minutes, there are a further 2 halves played, these times include; Grade
Extra Time
A&B
2 x 7 Minutes
C, D, and 19&U Grades
2 x 6 Minutes
E grade, 17&U,15&U,13&U,11&U (seniors only
2 x 5 Minutes
At the end of the first interval played there will be an interval of one (1) minute where substitutions again can be made. Teams change ends to begin the second half of time on. If at the end of the second interval the scores are still level, then play continues until one team has a two (2) goal advantage. During extra time, normal injury or illness procedures shall apply.
18. Representative Games The Ballarat Football Netball League will appoint a senior, 17 & under, 15 & under and 13 & under coach on a minimum term of one year for all representative games involving the BFNL. Please Note: Players must play for a BFNL club to be eligible for representative teams. The BFNL Netball Manager will organise the representative squad selection trials. Selection trials will be conducted under the following circumstances: All players who have submitted a player registration form, if required shall be informed of the date, time and place where selections will be held. 1. A minimum of three selectors may be appointed for each team and shall be made up of the team coach and two other selectors. 2. Selectors may be appointed to more than one panel. 3. Teams will be published via BFNL website/Facebook page which have been selected within seven (7) days of the final selection trial. 4. The selector’s decision shall be final.
19. BFNL Best and Fairest Votes 1. BFNL Best and Fairest votes shall be awarded in each game, as 3, 2, 1 votes, jointly by both umpires after consultation regardless of the match results. Umpires are to print both the Christian and Surname CLEARLY of the players receiving votes. 2. BFNL Best and Fairest votes shall be completed on the appropriate colour coded league vote card, relevant for each grade or age group, signed by both umpires, and sealed in the league envelope provided. 2. BFNL Best and Fairest votes shall be forwarded immediately to the League and kept in strict secrecy. 3. Should clubs fail to submit best & fairest vote cards for each match, on the first instance clubs will be warned and asked to submit the card as soon as possible, on the second instance, the club will be fined $50. 4. Club Umpires failing to fill out the correct best & fairest card that corresponds to the grade they officiated in will result in a $50 fine per in discretion.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 20. Reports In the event of a report being made on a player, coach or official by an umpire, the Ballarat Football Netball League will resolve the matter through the Ballarat Football Netball League Independent Tribunal. The umpire must notify the individual/s & club of the report being made and fill in the appropriate paperwork and include in the match day paperwork that will be forwarded back to the League. Members will then be informed of the next step taken by the Ballarat Football Netball League. BFNL report forms must be filled out by the reporting umpire and submitted to the league.
21. Investigations – Fees In instances where a club lodges a request for an investigation in accordance with the Ballarat Football Netball League bylaws the required fee of $500 shall be lodged, the full amount of $500 shall be retained by the league. The following policy will be enforced by the league for investigations:
a) W hen the Investigations/Hearing Officer determines that there is no case to answer, the club that has requested the investigation shall receive a refund of $300, and the balance of $200 will be paid to the Investigations Officer as payment for his/her services.
b) I n cases where the Investigations/Hearing Officer refers the matter to the BFNL Independent Tribunal, and a verdict of not guilty (or case not proven) is determined, the club that has requested the investigation shall receive a refund of $300 and the balance of $200 will be paid to the Investigations/Hearing Officer as payment for his/her services.
c) I n cases where the Investigations/Hearing Officer refers the matter to the BFNL Independent Tribunal and a guilty verdict is determined, the club that has requested the investigation shall receive a full refund of their $500. The club of the player/official that has the guilty verdict applied to it shall be fined $200 (In addition to any additional Tribunal fine) which shall be used by the League for payment to the Investigations/Hearing Officer for his/her services.
NOTE: The above financial policy shall be applied in cases where the Investigations/Hearing Officer shall be paid the standard fee of $200. In extenuating circumstances (e.g. more difficult, complex or lengthy investigations) the Investigations/ Hearing Officer may request an amount over & above. the flat rate of $200 and which will be negotiated with the BFNL accordingly. In such instances, the BFNL will adjust the amount of $200 to the revised amount in the above case.
22. Player Qualifications
a) A ny player having played 8 OR MORE games of the total home and away season in any grade or age group shall NOT be permitted to compete in any remaining home and away games in a lower grade or age group. For example, a club may not drop an A Grade player to their B Grade once that player has competed in more than 8 games of the season in the A Grade team. It is the HIGHEST graded game played on the day that will be recorded as a qualifying game. Any other game played on that day will not be recorded as a qualification game in a lower game, with the exception of a 19&U player who will have both the 19/under & seniors grade recorded for qualification purposes.
b) P layers may play a maximum of 2 (two) games per round during the home and away season with their club e.g. one 19s & 1 A grade or 1 D Grade & 1 C Grade. (normal qualification rules apply – see 22(c))
Please Note: Junior and senior are separate competitions.
c) A ny player who has played less than 8 games of the total home and away season in any grade or age group shall be allowed to move freely between grades or age groups.
d) Finals matches do not count when determining whether a player has competed in 8 OR MORE games during the season
e) Any player that has played in a higher level than A Grade, e.g. Suncorp Super Netball, Australian Netball League or the Victorian Netball League within the last 12 months will be permitted to play NO LOWER than A Grade in the BFNL home and away and finals competition.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL 23. Finals
a) T he BFNL shall operate under the same final system used by the football arm of the league for the finals series.
b) T eams found playing an ineligible player during the finals will be considered to have lost that match.
c) A ll BFNL finals shall be played at a venue determined by the Ballarat Football Netball League.
d) A senior player can only play in one (1) finals match on the same weekend with the exception of players in the 19 & Under competition who can play in two (2) matches maximum on the same weekend, provide all the qualifications requirements have been met
24. Finals Eligibility A player must play in at least five (5) matches for their club in the home and away rounds, in a grade, to qualify to play in the finals series in that specific grade. Example: Player A plays 5 games in B grade, 3 games in C grade & 5 games in A grade – then Player A is only eligible to play finals in either A or B grade: If Player A plays at least 8 games in 19&U & at least 5 games in A grade in the home and away rounds – then Player A is only eligible for 19s & A grade.
Rule 25 – Disciplinary Procedures Part (i) Interfering with League Officials Any official, coach, player, committee member or member of a club who by word, or writing, electronic means, physical nature or by violent, abuses, harasses, threatens or attacks any official or witness of the League or any member of the Tribunal or any member of a league appointed committee because of any official action of that official shall be dealt with as the Board deems fit.
Part (ii) Bringing the Game into Disrepute Any official, coach, player, committee member or member of a club that has been involved in conduct which is, in the opinion of the Board, unbecoming or likely to prejudice the interest or reputation of the League and/ or the game of Australian Football and/or the game of Netball or to bring the game of football or netball or the League into disrepute shall be dealt with as the Board deems fit.
Part (iii) Discipline of a Member Notwithstanding anywhere contained in these Rules, the Netball Committee shall be empowered to take such disciplinary action as it considers necessary against the club, club official, player, umpire or other person where in the Netball Committee opinion such club, club official, player, umpire or other person has been guilty of any act, practice, conduct, matter or thing that is unbecoming or prejudicial to the interest of the league or calculated to bring or in fact bringing discredit on the league or any of its Constituent Clubs or a person connected therewith, or impair or affect the enjoyment by any club or person of the privileges associated with membership of or association with the league.
26. Record
a) T eams must supply the Ballarat Football Netball League with team lists for A Grade, B Grade, C Grade, D Grade, E Grade and 19 & Under sides prior to round 1 for publication in the BFNL Record. All player’s names with correct spelling and the position in which they play must be supplied.
b) J unior Teams must supply the Ballarat Football Netball League with team lists for 11 & Under, 13 & UNDER, 15 & UNDER and 17 & UNDER sides prior to round 1 for publication in the BFNL Junior Record. All player’s names with correct spelling and the position in which they play must be supplied.
c) A ny changes to the three sides should be passed on to the Netball Operations Coordinator by no later than 5pm on Tuesday before the match so that the record can be changed in time for printing.
27. First Aid
a) C lubs must have a first aid kit on standby for all BFNL matches.
b) P rimary carer must hold a current/valid first aid certificate.
c) C lubs who fail to have a first aid kit on standby for all matches will be fined $100.
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McDONALD’S BALLARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE 28. Fixture
a) T he BFNL shall run in accordance to the Ballarat Football Netball League Senior fixture.
b) T he BFNL Junior Competition shall run in accordance with the Ballarat Football Netball League Junior fixture.
c) T he Ballarat Football Netball League reserves the right to make changes to the fixture at any point throughout the season.
29. Commencement Times The BFNL shall have the following commencement times of matches: The commencement times will remain the same for a dual gate game. If there is a night game, all games will commence two hours later. Example: 19 & Under would usually commence their game at 9am, if the game is a night match they would then commence at 11am (2 hours later). Grade
Start Time
Quarter Length
Break Time
A Grade
2.30pm
4 x 15 mins
3-5-3
B Grade
1.15pm
4 x 15 mins
3-5-3
C Grade
12.00pm
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
D Grade
11.00am
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
E Grade
10.00 am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
19 & Under
9.00am
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
17 & Under Senior
3.00pm
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
17 & Under Reserve
2.00pm
4 x 12 mins
2-4-2
15 & Under Senior
1.00pm
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
15 & Under Reserve
12.00pm
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
13 & Under Senior
11.00am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
13 & Under Reserve
10.00am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
11 & Under Senior
9.00am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
11 & Under Reserve
8.00am
4 x 10 mins
2-3-2
a) F or finals day, commencement times may vary depending on how many games are played.
b) T he BFNL reserves the right to change these times from season to season.
c) I f a club wishes to alter the starting time of a match during the Home and Away season then the club must notify the opposing Club’s netball Delegate and Coach no later than 72 hours prior to the match starting time. All changes must be approved by the League.
30. Special Circumstances / Provision Clause Where these By-Laws are silent, the BFNL will have full authority to make any decision that ensures the integrity of the Ballarat Football League Netball League is maintained at all times. The Executive may in using its reasonable discretion and, in exceptional or extenuating circumstances, alter, vary or waive the requirements set out in the By-Laws relating to the Ballarat Football League Netball League.
31. Indemnity Clause Except where provided or required by laws and such can’t be excluded, the (Ballarat Football League Netball League) and its respective directors, officers, members, servants or agents are absolved from all liability however arising from injury or damage, however caused, arising whilst participating as a member.
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APPENDICES
Additional resources are available from the league website
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Worksafe AFL Victoria Country CYBER SAFETY POLICY Rationale WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country has an obligation to maintain a safe physical and emotional environment for league officials, staff, registered players, umpires, coaches, club members, parents, spectators and sponsors. This responsibility is increasingly being linked to the use of the Internet and Information & Communication Technologies (ICT), and has seen the emergence of a number of related Cybersafety issues. The Internet and ICT devices/equipment bring great benefits to all users and to the effective operation of the WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country, individual leagues and clubs. WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country places a high priority on the acceptable use of ICT devices/equipment which will benefit members however; it recognises that the presence in the sporting arena of these technologies can also facilitate anti-social, inappropriate, and even illegal behaviour and activities. WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country aims, therefore, to maximise the benefits of these technologies, while at the same time to minimise the dangers and manage the risks.
UNDERLYING PRINCIPLES The policy is written in light of the Mission Statement of WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country whereby WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country aims: To Develop, Foster, Co-ordinate and Sustain Australian Football at the Club and League level throughout Country Victoria
Policy WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country and its member clubs will develop and maintain rigorous and effective Cybersafety practices which aim to maximise the benefits of the Internet and ICT and allow for the effective operation of WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country and member leagues and clubs, whilst minimising and managing any risks. These Cybersafety practices will aim to not only maintain a cyber safe sporting environment but also to address the needs of the league officials and club members to receive education about the safe and responsible use of present and developing information and communication technologies. Associated issues the League will address include the need for relevant education about Cybersafety for WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country and its leagues & clubs, the need for ongoing funding for Cybersafety practices through inclusion in the annual budget, implications for the design and delivery of the cybersafety program, the professional development and training, disciplinary responses to breaches of the cybersafety policy and the availability of appropriate professional support. WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country takes seriously its responsibility in providing robust policy, guidelines and education for its members in relation to what is deemed acceptable and appropriate online behaviours. The League and/or club name, motto, crest, logo and/or uniform must not be used in any way which would result in a negative impact for the league or club and its members. Members of WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country and its clubs have a responsibility to ensure that all online communications are in keeping with the leagues expectations in relation to appropriate and respectful interactions with officials, coaches, umpires, players, parents, spectators and sponsors. Players will not post inappropriate comments about individual WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country or club members which if said in person during the playing of a game would result in disciplinary action being taken.
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2021 INFORMATION BOOKLET & OPERATIONS MANUAL “Cyberbullying is a way of delivering covert psychological bullying. It uses information and communication technologies to support deliberate, repeated and hostile behaviour, by an individual or group that is intended to harm others.” (Belsey 2007) Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to, the following misuses of technology: harassing, teasing, intimidating, racially vilifying or threatening another person by sending or posting inappropriate and hurtful e-mail messages, instant messages, text messages, phone messages, digital pictures or images, or Web site postings (including social network sites eg facebook or blogs) and the sending, receiving and/or possession of naked or sexually explicit images of a person. Club members must also be aware that postings from their individual accounts, whether done by themselves or another person will remain the responsibility of the account owner. All members of WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country and individual clubs must be aware that in certain circumstances where a crime has been committed, they may also be subjected to a criminal investigation by Police over which the league and/or club will have no control. This particularly applies to ‘sexting’ where the image is of a person under the age of 18 years whereby Police will be informed immediately a club becomes aware of the situation.
Procedure WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country and/or club officials or members who feel that they have been the victims of such misuses of technology should save and store the offending material on their computer, mobile phone or other device. They should then print a copy of the material and immediately report the incident to the relevant club/league representative. All reports of cyberbullying and other technology misuses will be investigated fully in accordance with WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country Rule 5.0 and may result in a notification to Police where the WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country, league or club is legally obliged to do so. If the WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country and/or individual League’s executive receives a complaint about an online issue, the allegations will be forwarded to the relevant League Investigation Officer. If there is evidence, charges will be laid and the complaint will proceed to the league’s Independent Tribunal, exactly the same as if the investigation relates to physical violence or other reportable offences.
Penalties Any proven charges will automatically lead to a minimum of a two (2) match suspension for a registered player. In deciding the final penalty, consideration will be given to the seriousness of the act, the impact on the victim, the impact on the club/league/WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country and the prior good history or otherwise of the player. Players charged with these types of offences for a second or subsequent time and where a suspension has been previously imposed will face deregistration. Any player presented before the tribunal for the first or subsequent time on a cyberbullying offence must be aware that the penalties available to the tribunal members will cover the complete range including deregistration. In the case of a non playing club member being proved to have engaged in harassment or bullying, the club employing, engaging or otherwise associated with the person at the time of the conduct shall be deemed to be vicariously liable for the conduct of the person and shall pay to the League a penalty to be determined by the league
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AFL Goldfields EXTREME WEATHER POLICY AFL Goldfields affiliates the following Leagues: - Ballarat Football Netball League - Maryborough & Castlemaine District Football Netball League - Riddell District Football Netball League - Central Highlands Football League AFL Goldfields recognises that Victorian weather can throw up all kinds of challenges for community Football Clubs. Clubs may be confronted with weather conditions that vary from extreme heat to extreme cold. The following policy has been developed to assist clubs in making a decision on the continuation of play should they be presented with an extreme weather situation. Severe cold, extreme wind, extreme rain, hail etc. The umpires may determine if it is not safe to continue a match. The match may be terminated immediately, but in the first instance, a match should be halted for a 20 minute period. If, on further assessment, the conditions have not improved, the match shall be abandoned. Clubs must immediately report the situation to their League Operations Manager who will determine the outcome of the match in accordance with the Laws of Australian Football.
Extreme heat 1. Temperature equal to or greater than 36 degrees. If the temperature is equal to or greater than 36 degrees, the match is to be halted immediately. The match may be terminated immediately, but in the first instance, a match should be halted for a 20 minute period. If, after 20 minutes the temperature has not decreased, the match shall be abandoned. Clubs must immediately report the situation to their League Operations Manager who will determine the outcome of the match in accordance with the Laws of Australian Football. 2. Temperature between 32 and 36 degrees. All quarters, in seniors, reserves, under 18.5 and under 16 competitions are to be reduced to 18 minutes plus time on if applicable; All other junior competitions shall be halted for a period of 20 minutes. If, after 20 minutes the temperature has not decreased, the match shall be abandoned. Clubs must immediately report the situation to their League Operations Manager who will determine the outcome of the match in accordance with the Laws of Australian Football. The umpires may increase the time after a goal to allow for additional hydration; Additional water-carriers may be permitted. An additional 5 minutes per break is permitted. The umpires should offer this to both captains, if either agrees timekeepers are to be instructed to add the time.
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CODES OF CONDUCT The Ballarat FNL, in conjunction with AFL Goldfields and AFL Victoria have adopted a number of codes of conduct that have been developed over a number of years. These codes of conduct are to ensure all players, coaches, spectators and members of the public can both enjoy and participate in the games of football and netball in a safe environment that shows respect to fellow participants. The codes of conduct adopted include: • Junior Players, Parents and Supporters • Junior Coach & Team Official • Senior Coach & Team Official • Senior Player & Supporter • Club Official The Ballarat FNL take seriously any breaches of the codes of conduct that relate to an individuals role in football and netball and will refer any breaches firstly to the board of the league, or should the matter be deemed serious, breaches shall be referred to the AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal. A copy of all codes of conduct can be found under the resources section of the league website at bfnl.com. au
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NAMING RIGHTS PARTNER OF THE BALLARAT FOOTBALL & NETBALL LEAGUE INC.
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