20070917-RAFCAA Coarse Angling Admin Directive 2007 Final-U

ROYAL AIR FORCE COMPETITIVE ANGLING ASSOCIATION COARSE ANGLING ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTIVE

Contents

Main Body 2 – 13 Annex A TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) Chairman 14 Annex B TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) Secretary 15 Annex C TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) Match Secretary 16 Annex D TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) Team Captain 17 Annex E TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) Team Manager 18 Annex F TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) Treasurer Annex G TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) PRO 19 Annex H TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) NFA Rep 20 Annex I TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) Trophies Rep 21 Annex J TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) League Chairmen 22 – 23 Annex K TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) Old Lags & HM Rep 24 Annex L TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) Specimen Rep 25 – 26 Annex M TORS – RAFCAA (Course) Sponsorship Rep Annex N RAFCAA (Coarse) League Structure 27 – 28 Annex O TORS - RAFCAA (Coarse) League Secretary 29 Annex P TORS - RAFCAA (Coarse) League Treasurer 30 Annex Q TORS - RAFCAA (Coarse) League Match Secretary 31 Annex R TORS – RAFCAA (Coarse) League Carp Rep Annex S RAFCAA (Coarse) Clubman Competition Rules Annex T RAFCAA (Coarse) Model Match Rules 32 – 34 Annex U Civilian Form of Declaration 35 Annex V RAFCAA (Coarse) Squad Nomination Form 36 – 38 Annex W RAFCAA (Coarse) Angling Safety Survey 39 Annex X RAFCAA (Coarse) Match Paperwork Template 40 – 41 AnnexY RAFCAA (Coarse) Match venue Nomination Form 42 43 – 44 Annex Z Template Check list for Match Organisers 45 - 46

1 RAFCAA/CCMAN/3

See Distribution 01 Apr 09

THE ROYAL AIR FORCE COMPETITIVE ANGLING ASSOCIATION COARSE ANGLING ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTIVE – EDITION FOUR

References:

A. AP3415 Section 2 Chapter 2.

INTRODUCTION

1. The RAFCAA (Coarse) Administrative Directive was first crafted in 1991 and has developed into a mature document, being updated on a regular basis. The purpose of the Directive is to provide an authoritative document as a reference for the rules, regulations and administration of all events and competitions linked to Coarse Angling within the RAF. It has RAF Sports Board approval, and has been formally agreed by the RAF Coarse Angling sub-committee. This is the fourth edition of the Directive, published to update the original, incorporate changes to the way RAF Coarse Angling is run as agreed by the RAF Coarse Angling sub-committee, and reflect current RAF sports policy.

2. Except where clearly detailed, rules and regulations detailed in the Directive are not open to interpretation, and are to be strictly followed by all members of the RAFCAA (Coarse) sub-committee and members, including regional leagues. All disputes concerning eligibility, format, and organisation of RAFCAA (Coarse) matches are to refer to this document for a definitive ruling. In the unlikely event that the ruling on a dispute is not covered in the Directive, the dispute is to be referred to the Chairman who will make a decision. Proposed amendments are to be made in writing to the Chairman, and, if appropriate, presented to the subsequent RAFCAA (Coarse) committee meeting for discussion and approval. If the proposal is approved, amendments will be made accordingly. The Coarse Angling Chairman is the only authority for amendments, and it is the responsibility of each committee member to ensure that personal copies of the Directive are kept up to date and available to all as required.

COMMAND AND CONTROL

3. The RAFCAA Chairman retains executive control over all elements of angling within the RAF, exercised through the RAFCAA Executive Committee. He appoints the Coarse Angling Chairman, who is delegated responsibility for the affairs of the coarse angling discipline, and for appointing members of the coarse angling sub- committee. The Coarse Angling Chairman is a member of the Executive Committee, and, whilst responsibility for routine administration and decision-making for RAF Coarse Angling is delegated to the Coarse Angling Chairman, the RAFCAA Chairman retains final executive control over the Sub-Committee.

2 THE RAF COARSE ANGLING SUB-COMMITTEE

4. Responsibilities. The RAFCAA (Coarse) sub-committee is responsible to the RAFCAA Chairman for the planning, organisation, administration and programming of all elements of Coarse Angling within the RAF. It is specifically responsible for:

a. Implementing the decisions of the RAFCAA Executive Committee.

b. Maintaining a viable and active regional coarse angling league structure at unit level.

c. Selecting and maintaining an RAF Representative Coarse Angling Squad to compete at the highest level of military and civilian standard possible, including Inter-Services and Angling Trust Divisional Championships.

d. The maintenance of a comprehensive fixture list as authorised by the RAF Sports Board, to encompass all levels of competition, from Inter-Unit, through Inter League to full Representative level.

e. The promotion and development of coarse angling within the RAF.

f. The external promotion of RAF coarse angling to maintain its high profile within the angling community and promote the RAF as a whole.

g. The maintenance of a coarse angling Administrative Directive as the authoritative document for all aspects of RAF coarse angling.

h. Any other initiatives in line with the above that will enhance coarse angling within the RAF and the reputation of the RAF as a whole.

5. Structure. The sub-committee is to be made up of the following appointments. Each appointment should have a nominated deputy, who is able to represent him in his absence. All posts are to be ratified by the sub-committee and approved by the RAFCAA (Coarse) Chairman.

a. Chairman. The Chairman is nominated by the RAFCAA Chairman and is usually a commissioned officer of sqn ldr level or above. TORs are given at Annex A.

b. Secretary. Appointed by the sub-committee Chairman, the Secretary is responsible for all administrative duties. TORs are given at Annex B.

c. Match Secretary. The Match Secretary is normally a NCO, and appointed by the sub-committee Chairman. He is responsible for the efficient running of RAF sponsored matches, including the RAF Inter-Unit Championships. TORs are given at Annex C.

d. Team Captain. The Team Captain is appointed by the sub-committee Chairman, following consultation with the Team Manager. The Team Captain can be any rank, and, although no set period is dictated for the tenure, would

3 normally be expected to be in post for a minimum of 2 seasons in order to gain experience, provide continuity and allow time for his team policy to take effect. TORs are given at Annex D.

e. Team Manager. The Team Manager is also appointed by the sub- committee Chairman, and is normally a commissioned officer. He is responsible for all aspects of the management of the RAF Squad. . TORs are given at Annex E.

f. Treasurer. The Treasurer is appointed by the sub-committee Chairman and is to be of at least SNCO rank. He is responsible for all sub committee financial matters. TORs are given at Annex F.

g. Public Relations Officer (PRO). The PRO is responsible for all RAFCAA (coarse) publicity, and can be of any rank. TORs are given at Annex G.

h. Angling Trust Representative. The Angling Trust representative can be of any rank and is the association’s link with the Angling Trust, coarse angling’s governing body. TORs are given at Annex H.

i. Trophies Representative. The trophies representative is to ensure that trophies are provided and maintained for all nominated events. He can be of any rank. TORs are given at Annex I.

j. League Chairmen. League Chairmen are selected by their own league at an EGM or AGM, but their selection must be approved by the sub-committee Chairman. League Chairmen are normally commissioned officers or warrant officers, but may be SNCOs. TORs are given at Annex J.

k. Old Lags & Honorary Members (OL & HM) Representative. An OL & HM representative is invited to sit on the committee as a volunteer, to represent the interests of Old Lags and Honorary Members. He may be an Honorary Member or Old Lag, but does not have voting rights. TORs are given at Annex K.

l. Specimen Representative. The Specimen Representative is to collate, maintain and publicise an RAF Coarse Record list. He may also arrange such competitions, teach-ins and meetings as there is appetite for. TORs and the eligibility and template claim form for a record are given at Annex L.

m. Sponsorship Representative. The Sponsorship Representative is to be the primary focal point for all matters relating to sponsorship, including ordering and distributing any equipment, ensuring agreements relating to publicity are adhered to, brokering any new deals and ensuring sponsors are kept updated with results and publicity initiatives involving the RAFCAA. The Sponsorship Rep should normally be a current member of the RAF Squad. TORs are given at Annex M

6. Meetings. The sub-committee has RAF Sports Board authority to hold 2 sub- committee meetings per year plus an AGM. The sub-committee Chairman chairs the

4 meetings, and all sub-committee members, or their nominated deputies are to attend. Where appropriate, meetings will be held the day of or the day before major RAF coarse angling events to ensure maximum attendance and financial prudence.

REGIONAL LEAGUE STRUCTURE

7. Organisation. Each RAF Station in the UK is located in 1 of 7 regional leagues for administrative purposes. These leagues are given below, and their member stns are listed at Annex N. Where minor units within each league are unable to field their own team, they may combine to form a team on a season by season basis, providing that this is agreed at their League AGM, ratified at the next sub-committee meeting and funded to the same level as other competing teams. Joint Service and other Single Service Units may join these leagues providing that this is agreed at the relevant League AGM and ratified by the sub-committee. They can only win trophies and prizes that are self-funded by the leagues however and not paid for through RAF Sports Board funding. The 7 league areas are as follows, with member stations as per Annex N:

Chiltern Angling League (CAL) East Anglian Wednesday League (EAWL) East Midlands Angling League (EMAL) Scottish Angling League (SCAL) South West Angling League (SWAL) Vale of York League (VOYL) West Midland Angling League (WMAL)

8. League Sub-Committees. Each league is to be run by a league sub-committee, comprising, as a minimum, a League Chairman, Secretary, Match Secretary, Treasurer and Carp Representative. TORs for these appointments are at Annexes J and O to R respectively. League sub-committees are to conduct an annual AGM and up to 2 additional sub-committee meetings per year, at the discretion of the League Chairman. They are also to maintain a League Constitution, and produce an end-of- season report each year as laid down in their TORs. Minutes of AGMs and end-of- season reports are to be forwarded to the sub-committee Chairman on request in time for them to be collated into the overall RAFCAA (Coarse) End of Season Report to be presented at the RAFCAA AGM.

9. League Competitions. Each league may run up to 12 matches per year, plus a ‘Fur and Feather’ match. The format of the matches is to be agreed at league level, and may include one year-round competition, or be divided into ‘Summer’ and ‘Winter’ leagues. However, the RAFCAA Coarse Angling Fixtures List must be consulted before league programmes are finalised in order to avoid date clashes wherever practicable.

10. Inter-League Competition. An Inter-League competition is to be held annually, details of which are at para 11 b.

RAFCAA SPONSORED MATCHES

5 11. RAFCAA Matches. The sub-committee is responsible for organising a number of Sports Board and RAFCAA sponsored matches throughout the year. These matches are as follows:

a. Inter-Unit Championships. This is the major internal event of the year, in which all RAF units are invited to enter teams of 3 anglers. Units may enter as many teams as they wish and individuals may also enter. The venue is selected by the sub-committee, which also organises and runs the event. An Old Lags Championship is run in parallel at the same venue.

b. Inter-League Championships. The Inter-League Championships are held annually at a venue selected by the sub-committee. However, while the overall responsibility for the match lies with the sub-committee, the planning and organisation of the event is the responsibility of the league in whose area the match is to be held. Each league may enter one team of 8 anglers, individual results of which count towards the overall team result on a points basis.

c. Clubman of the Year Competition. An RAFCAA (Coarse) Clubman of the year competition has been initiated as one method of developing and improving RAFCAA (Coarse) anglers. The competition is only open to RAF serving personnel who have never represented the RAFCAA (Coarse) team, and who have qualified through their regional leagues. This event is not run every year; rules for this competition as given at Annex S.

RULES FOR RAF COARSE ANGLING COMPETITIONS

12. A set of ‘model’ match rules for all RAF Coarse Angling competitions are provided at annex T. These are based upon current Angling Trust rules and are to be used for all RAF Sports Board and RAFCAA sponsored matches. The only exceptions to this are as follows:

a. Where local rules apply, these are to be strictly adhered to (e.g. bait bans, type of keepnets, hooks), and all other rules are to follow the RAF model.

b. Individual leagues may vote to incorporate their own rules at their AGM, providing that there is a majority agreement (e.g. allowing the use of bloodworm & joker), however the model rules should be used as a guide-line. Where leagues do amend their own rules, these are to be promulgated to all members of that league well in advance and ratified at the league’s AGM.

ELIGIBILITY TO ENTER RAF ANGLING COMPETITIONS

13. The rules on eligibility are clearly laid down at Reference A. They are endorsed by the RAF Sports Board and applicable elements are detailed below. They are to be strictly adhered to; there is no room for interpretation. To ensure this, all RAF match paperwork is to include a paragraph on eligibility, and match organisers and team captains are to ensure that only eligible personnel enter a match. Any team breaking these rules is liable to disqualification. Where the guidance is not clear, the Chairman will act as arbitrator.

6 14. Inter-Station Competitions. All regular Service personnel posted to a unit, personnel filling miscellaneous and special duty posts, which are functionally controlled by the Ministry of Defence and personnel serving on permanent detachments, are eligible to play for their local parenting unit if not required by their posted unit. During attachments exceeding 28 days, the parenting unit will have first claim on a player for the first 28 days. If this right is not exercised, and in any event, after 28 days, a player may represent the unit to which they are attached. The following are also eligible:

a. RAF University Cadets on permanent engagement.

b. RAF University Bursars who are members of the Reserve Forces.

c. Reserve Force personnel on Full Time Reserve Service (FTRS) and Additional Duties Commitment (ADC) terms of service.

d. Part-time reserve air forces personnel may be authorised by their CO’s to participate in Inter-Station and Inter-Command sports competitions on the understanding that there is no entitlement to pay, allowances or travel costs. The reservist will be deemed to be on unpaid duty and attendance is to be recorded as being under S27 of RFA 96 and as Cat C-2 vide AP 3392.

e. In the RAF Inter-Unit Championships, Honorary Members and Old Lags may not compete for an RAF Unit, but may be grouped together into teams of 3 for the purpose of the draw. Although pegged within the match length, they compete in a separately calculated match.

15. Inter-League Competitions. The eligibility for the Inter-League competition is as per para 14 with the following additions:

a. MoD Civilians. When employed on RAF units, MoD civilians may represent the League controlling the stn or unit on which they are employed; provided that they are insured as per para 20. They are not on duty when competing and must therefore take leave.

b. HM/OLs. HM/OLs may be selected as team members but only if they have attended more than 50% of the qualifying season’s matches. The rules at para 20 regarding insurance apply.

c. Prizes. In the Inter-League Competition, all eligible personnel may win individual prizes.

16. Individual Prizes – RAF Inter-Unit. Only RAF personnel are eligible to win individual prizes in the RAF Inter-Unit Championships. All others entering, either as part of a team or as individuals, are ineligible for individual awards (trophies), and as such they may not displace serving RAF personnel when awarded.

17. Eligibility for RAF competitions for personnel other than regular RAF personnel.

7 a. Other Services. Officers, other ranks and ratings of the Royal Navy, Army and Foreign Forces serving with the RAF for not less than 28 days are permitted to fish for the Station to which they are attached in Inter-Station Competitions.

b. MOD Civilians. MOD civilians may participate in Inter-Station competitions; however they will not be on duty when playing and must take leave. In all cases, Service personnel have priority over civilians for a place in a team. Where Service personnel are available to play; civilians are not to take their place. When Service personnel are not available, up to 49% of the team may be civilians.1.

c. Joint Units. Personnel of all 3 Services on the strength of any Joint Service Establishment may represent those establishments. Joint Service Establishments may enter teams in all 3 Service competitions, but individuals will be able to compete in only 1 such competition in any one year2.

18. Eligibility of Civilians to Compete in RAFCAA Competitions. In accordance with Reference A, civilians employed on RAF units may represent their stn, or compete as individuals, under the following conditions:

a. MoD employed civilians may compete in the RAF Inter-Unit Championships, Inter-League Championships, and regional league matches.

b. With the exception of MoD employed civilians employed on RAF units plus HMs, OLs, Associated League Members (ALMs), who are dealt with elsewhere in this Directive, no other categories of civilian may compete in RAFCAA competitions.

c. RAF Inter-Unit Championships. In the RAF Inter-Unit Championships, Service personnel have priority over civilians for a place in a team. When Service personnel are available to compete, civilians are not to take their place. Where Service personnel are not available, up to 49% of the team and up to 49% of the squad (ie the whole contingent including reserves) may be eligible civilians3.

d. RAF League Matches. A maximum of one MoD employed civilian may compete in a stn/unit team, selected upon their ability. Stns are not to enter teams containing more than one MoD civilian or contractor unless it would be impossible to field a team otherwise or unless all available Servicemen have been allocated places in higher teams.

e. MoD employed civilians are not on duty when competing and must take leave. f. 1 For RAF Coarse Angling events, as most Inter-Station competitions comprise teams of 3 anglers, 49% is to be interpreted as 1 angler. 2 E.g. an individual cannot compete in the RAF and Army or RN Championships in the same year. 3 49% is interpreted as one angler in a team of 3.

8 g. No civilians are permitted in Service representational competitions.

h. All civilians are to comply with the insurance requirements laid down in para 20 below.

i. Honorary Members and Old Lags. HM/OLs may compete in league matches either as individuals or within Old Lags teams, providing they have paid the same affiliation fees as participating RAF unit teams.

19. Insurance.

a. Service Personnel. All Servicemen are NOT considered to be on duty when competing in RAFCAA competitions unless specifically directed otherwise. Competitors should seriously consider taking out extra cover for ‘loss of potential’ etc, should they be forced to leave the Service due to injury, and also for personal liability in the event of private prosecutions being brought against them.

b. MoD Civilians. MoD Civilians may not be covered by MOD insurance while they are competing in RAFCAA competitions. Contractors may, equally, be uninsured for this type of activity. Therefore, before being eligible to enter any RAFCAA competition, MoD Civilians and contractors are, without exception, to insure themselves for third party liability in one of the following ways:

(1) By joining their stn’s Civilian Sports Club’; the joining fee for this should include a contribution to the cost of generic third party insurance and to non-public third party liability insurance.

(2) By joining the Civil Service Sports Insurance Scheme (MoD employed civilians only).

(3) By means of a private policy which specifically covers them for third party liability for this type of activity.

c. HM/OL/ALMs. HM/OL/ALMs are to be fully insured, with a minimum of third party liability cover, before entering any RAFCAA competition.

d. Responsibility for Insurance Cover. It is the personal responsibility of every civilian, of all categories, wishing to compete in RAFCAA competitions, to ensure that he/she is fully insured to do so. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of any Team Captain wishing to field a civilian to satisfy himself that the individual is insured before allowing him/her to compete.

e. Declaration. All civilians wishing to compete in RAFCAA competitions are to complete and sign the declaration at Annex U before they are allowed to compete in any competition. These signed declarations are to be held by the Old Lags Sec (for HM/OLs) and by League Chairmen for all other eligible civilians.

9 20. RAF Auxiliary Personnel. For the purposes of this Directive, RAF Auxiliary personnel are not allowed to compete in RAFCAA competitions.

21. Team Captain’s Responsibilities. It is the responsibility of the Team Captain entering a team into any RAFCAA competition to ensure that all team members are eligible to compete iaw the eligibility rules laid down in this Directive; any breaches of these rules will render the whole Team liable for disqualification.

22. Priority Claim on Competitors. Priority for Royal Air Force competitors is as follows:

Country

Group Station Civilian Club

THE RAF TEAM

23. The RAFCAA Coarse Team Manager, in close consultation with the Team Captain, is to select the RAF Team for any particular event. The RAF Squad is selected on an annual basis by a committee comprising the Team Manager, Team Captain, and Vice-Captain, and approved by the Chairman. The squad will comprise a total of 20 anglers with reserves as the selectors see fit. The Selection Committee sits either directly after the first Sub-committee meeting of the year or at a separate meeting as agreed by the Selection Committee. The Squad must be selected by the end of Feb at the latest for the following season. To assist in the selection process, the form shown at Annex V is to be distributed by the Team Manager to previous Squad members and to League Chairmen. On completion, these forms are to be returned to the Team Manager by 01 Dec each year. All anglers wishing to represent the RAF at Coarse Angling are to complete the application form in full. Where detachments or operational requirements dictate that individuals have to withdraw from the squad or are unavailable for the majority of the season, replacement squad members may be selected by the Team Manager and Captain, again endorsed by the Chairman.

RAF TEAM COMPETITIONS

24. Each year, the RAF Team is to enter a number of major competitions, these events are as follows:

a. The Inter-Services Competition. This match is fished, annually, between the RAF, the RN and the Army. Each Service takes turns in selecting the venue and organising the event. Each year’s competition is financed jointly. Team Managers are encouraged to hold a Joint Service meeting once a season in order to co-ordinate activities and agree formats and rules.

b. The NFA National Championships. This match is the major event in the civilian angling calendar; it is organised and run by the Angling Trust and the

10 Sub-committee is to ensure the entry of the best available and most prepared RAF Team possible.

c. The NFA Eastern Region Shield. This event is arranged, annually, by the Angling Trust; the Sub-committee is to arrange the entry of the RAF Team.

d. The RAF Team Challenge Competition. This event is arranged and financed, annually, by the RAF as a final practice for the Angling Trust National Championships. The competitors are the RAF Team and up to 8 of the most competitive civilian teams in the country.

e. Annual Overseas Competitions. These may include competitions between the RAF Team and teams from military units in Germany, or an RAF Team entry into a major competition such as the NATO Angling Championships, the European Military Angling Championships or the Danish Open. It is the responsibility of the Sub-committee to arrange, or arrange entry into, one of these competitions.

f. Other Competitions. At the discretion of the RAFCAA (Coarse) Chairman, and on the advice of the Team Captain and the Team Manager, the Team may also enter other competitions such as the Jeffries Cup, the Drennan or Angling Times Leagues, the Trent, Thames or Nene Championships, although these are unlikely to attract travel authority.

HONORARY MEMBERS SELECTION PROCEDURE

25. In order to become an Honorary Member (HM) of the RAFCAA an individual must be considered to have made a significant contribution to RAF Angling. The procedure is as follows:

a. The individual must be proposed, in writing, for consideration at a Sub- committee meeting; the Sub-committee’s acceptance of this individual must be unanimous.

b. The Coarse Chairman then puts the proposal forward at an RAFCAA Execs meeting; the RAFCAA Execs’ acceptance must be unanimous.

c. The Coarse Chairman then puts the proposal forward at the next RAFCAA AGM and a vote conducted for acceptance of the individual.

OLD LAGS SELECTION PROCEDURE

26. In order to become an Old Lag (OL) of RAF Coarse Angling, the procedure is as follows:

a. An ex-RAF individual may be nominated for Old Lag status of the League in whose ‘catchment area’ he lives. To be nominated, he must be considered to have made a significant contribution to RAF Coarse Angling at RAF, Command, League or Stn Level

11 b. A written nomination is to be submitted by the League Chairman, to the Sub-committee to be considered at the next Sub-committee meeting.

c. Acceptance is voted upon at a Sub-committee meeting, or extraordinarily, by a ‘postal vote’. A simple majority is required and the Coarse Chairman has the casting vote.

ASSOCIATED LEAGUE MEMBER SELECTION PROCEDURE

27. Any Ex-serviceman not eligible to become either an HM or OL may be nominated as an Associated League Member (ALM) of the League in whose ‘catchment area’ he lives. The procedure is as follows:

a. A written nomination is to be submitted, by a League Member, to the League Sub-committee.

b. Acceptance is voted upon at a League AGM, a League Sub-committee Meeting or an Extraordinary Meeting; at the League Chairman’s discretion, there may be a postal vote.

c. Only the League Execs, ie one representative per stn, the Treasurer, the Sec and the Match Sec are eligible to vote for acceptance or not. A simple majority is required and the League Chairman has the casting vote.

RAFCAA COARSE ANGLING SPECIMEN FISH LIST

28. RAF Coarse Angling maintains a Specimen Fish List in order to record the largest fish of each coarse species captured by a serving member of the RAF. The maintenance of this list is the responsibility of the Specimen Rep. Full details are at Annex L.

HEALTH AND SAFETY (H&S) RESPONSIBILITIES

29. The Match Sec is appointed as the H&S Rep to the Sub-committee; however, it is the responsibility of the individuals organising matches, normally the Match Sec and League Match Secs, to ensure that:

a. No pegs are placed within a close proximity to overhead power lines.

b. All pegs are safe to be fished from.

c. A briefing is given, before the draw, covering any H&S issues peculiar to that venue; this is to include power lines, deep water, steep banks and any road safety or parking considerations.

d. Where there is any doubt whatsoever concerning a safety matter, the organising committee is to err on the side of caution, even if this means cancelling the event (e.g. in extreme flood conditions, electrical storm etc).

12 e. In the event of an incident (such as an angler falling in, or becoming seriously ill), the match is to be halted, or cancelled, at least until the incident has been satisfactorily dealt with. The results may stand, the match re-fished, or re-commenced at the organising committees discretion.

f. A copy of the RAFCAA (Coarse) Safety Survey, Annex W, is to be attached to all match paperwork.

CONCLUSION

30. There will inevitably be situations arising which are not covered by this Directive; under these circumstances the RAFCAA Chairman, the Coarse Chairman and, exceptionally, the Deputy Coarse Chairman, are the only authorities for granting special dispensations or modifying the rules laid down in this document. Finally, it is incumbent upon every member of RAF Coarse Angling, whatever their position in the organisation, to do their utmost to uphold and foster the good name of RAF Angling and to exhibit the sportsman-like attitude for which the RAFCAA is well-known and respected.

A J K JOHNSTONE Wg Cdr Chairman RAF Coarse Angling

Authentication:

D I Ogg Gp Capt Chairman RAFCAA

Distribution:

Action:

RAFCAA (Coarse) Sub-Committee Members

Information:

RAF Sports Board: Attn DSB 1 DSB 1a Chairman RAFCAA

13 ANNEX A TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE CHAIRMAN (CC)

1. The CC is responsible for all elements of RAF Coarse Angling. In particular, he is responsible for:

a. Implementing the decisions of the RAFCAA Execs.

b. Making recommendations to the RAFCAA Execs on the running of RAF Coarse Angling.

c. The organisation and administration of all RAF Sports Board-sponsored and RAFCAA-sponsored coarse angling competitions.

d. The selection and smooth, effective running of the RAF Representative Coarse Angling Team.

e. The participation of the RAF Team in major Overseas Angling Competitions.

f. The publication and amendment of the official match rules for RAF Coarse Angling.

g. Liaison with the Angling Trust.

h. Public relations in support of RAF Coarse Angling.

2. The CC is also to carry out any other tasks as directed by the RAFCAA Chairman.

14 ANNEX B TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE SECRETARY (COARSE SEC)

1. The Secretary is responsible to the CC for the following:

a. Attending all Sub-committee meetings and performing normal secretarial duties at them. If unavailable, he is to provide a suitable deputy.

b. Arranging the dates and venues for the RAFCAA (Coarse) Sub-committee meetings and producing timely agendas.

c. Providing draft minutes of Sub-committee meetings for the RAFAA CC’s approval (within 14 days of a meeting) and subsequently distributing the final minutes.

f. Updating the RAF Coarse Angling Contacts List, assisting the OL/HM Representative with updating the Honorary Members List and the Old Lags List, as changes occur, and distributing these documents with the minutes of Sub-committee meetings.

g. The promotion of RAF Coarse Angling at all levels and in all arenas.

h. Conducting any other tasks as directed by the CC.

15 ANNEX C TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE ANGLING MATCH SECRETARY (MATCH SEC)

1. The Match Sec is responsible to the CC for the organisation, co-ordination and associated paperwork of all RAFCAA and Sports Board sponsored matches, including:

a. The Inter-Unit Championships.

b. The RAF Team Challenge.

c. On rotation, the 5/7 Services Competition.

d. The RAF vs Old Lags Competition.

e. On rotation with the Army and RN, the Inter-Services Championships.

f. The co-ordination and command and control of the Inter-League as required.

2. The Match Sec is to ensure that the venue is booked, paperwork issued, and Headquarters arranged, for each match well in advance to allow Inter-Service reps, league chairmen, unit reps and the Old Lags rep to enter and prepare for the event in good time.

3. The Match Sec, with the assistance of other members of the sub-committee as directed, is to organise the draw on match day, and collate and announce the results in a timely manner immediately following the match.

4. The Match Sec is to publish detailed results of each of the above matches, within 2 weeks of the end of the match copying them to the CC, League Chairmen, Secretary and Team Manager.

5. The Match Sec is also to:

a. Select a deputy Match Sec to cover for absences and assist in the Match Secs duties.

b. Attend all sub-committee meetings, or if unavailable, ensure that a deputy attends with updated information regarding match organisation.

c. Issue a full RAFCAA Coarse match calendar for each season by April each year.

d. Carry out other duties as detailed by the CC.

16 ANNEX D TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE TEAM CAPTAIN

1. The RAF Team Captain is responsible to the CC through the Team Manager for the captaincy of the RAF Coarse Angling Team. In particular he is responsible for:

a. In close conjunction with the Team Manager, the selection of the best available team from the squad to represent the RAF at each individual match in the calendar.

b. Sitting on the RAF Squad Selection Committee and preparing any ensuing documentation for distribution.

c. Selecting venues, together with the Team Manager and Match Secretary, for the following season.

d. Gathering information on tactics and methods to be used in forthcoming matches, and together with the Team Manager, setting the team plan.

e. Informing the Team about forthcoming matches and practise days.

f. Maintaining a high level of morale and team spirit within the Team.

2. The Team Captain is also to:

a. Nominate and fully brief a Deputy Team Captain, with the approval of the CC and Team Manager.

b. Attend all Sub-committee meetings or, if unavailable, send a Deputy.

c. Conduct any other tasks as directed by the CC.

17 ANNEX E TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE TEAM MANAGER

1. The Team Manager is responsible to the CC for the overall command and control of the RAF Squad, including its effective organisation and administrative support. In particular, he is responsible for:

b. Presiding over the RAF Squad Selection Committee when selecting the RAF Squad.

c. Ensuring that all Squad members are notified of their selection and of the representative matches planned for that season.

d. Issuing an administrative instruction for each RAF representative match, notifying team members of their selection and of match and practise details.

e. Ensuring that all Squad members are kept informed as to representative events and selection criteria throughout the season.

f. Administering each representative event, ensuring, where appropriate, that venues have been booked and paid for, that tactics, venue information, bait and tackle advice has been promulgated to anglers well in advance of competitions and official practices, and that the team is as prepared for each event as fully as possible.

g. Together with the Team Captain, informing squad members of their selection for specific events and, as importantly, the reasons for not being selected for matches.

2. The Team Manager is also to:

a. Nominate a deputy to assist with Team Managers duties throughout the season and deputise for the Team Manager in his absence.

b. Attend all Sub-committee meetings or, if unavailable, provide a suitable deputy.

c. Carry out any other duties as detailed by the CC.

18 ANNEX F TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 SEP 07

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE TREASURER

a. The day-to-day management of financial affairs in support of the RAF Team, using a non-public audited account, and liaising closely with the CC on all matters regarding finance.

b. Compiling bids for funds from the Sports Lottery as required.

c. Requesting travel Authorities for RAF coarse angling competitions and Sub Committee meetings from the RAF Sports Board

19 ANNEX G TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE ANGLING PRO

1. The PRO is responsible to the CC for actively publicising all elements RAF Coarse Angling. In particular he is to:

a. Report all RAF Team match results to the national angling media and the RAF News, as appropriate, as soon as practical after each event.

b. Arrange coverage for RAF events with major national magazines.

d. Act as the POC for sponsors of the RAF Team.

e. Act as the point of contact for RAF Coarse Angling in all matters relating to RAFCAA publications and publicity.

f. Ensure all League and domestic results forwarded to him by event organisers and League Chairmen are publicised in the National Angling press.

g. Procure and operate the PA system for major sub-committee organised competitions.

h. Attend all Sub-committee meetings or, if unavailable, send a nominated replacement.

2. The PRO is also to conduct any other tasks as directed by the CC.

20 ANNEX H TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE ANGLING ANGLING TRUST REPRESENTATIVE (ANGLING TRUST REP)

1. The Angling Trust Rep is responsible to the CC for representing RAF Coarse Angling in all matters relating to the Angling Trust. In particular, he is responsible for:

a. Attending as many of the quarterly regional Angling trust meetings on behalf of the RAF Coarse Angling as required by the extant Angling Trust constitution, in order to qualify the RAF Team for the National Angling Championships4.

b. Ensuring that the Angling Trust annual subscriptions are paid by 1 January each year.

c. Ensuring that the Regional Subscription for the current year is paid by 31 March in that year, IAW Angling Trust rules

d. Ensuring that entry forms for the National Angling Championships and the Regional event are completed and forwarded to the Angling Trust on time.

e. Attending the 2-day Annual Angling Trust Conference on behalf of the RAF Coarse Angling.

f. Representing the RAF Coarse Angling in all matters relating to the Angling Trust.

g. Informing the sub-committee of all Angling Trust rule changes, constitution changes, and other changes in Angling Trust policy.

h. Informing the sub-committee of all Angling Trust sponsored competitions in a timely enough manner to enter them if required.

2. The Angling trust Rep is also to:

a. Attend all sub-committee meetings or, if unavailable, provide a suitable deputy.

b. Conduct any other tasks as directed by the CC.

4 Currently there is no minimum number of regional meetings required to ensure entry into the National Championships, however the NFA Rep should attend at least 1 meeting a year, plus the AGM.

21 ANNEX I TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE ANGLING TROPHIES REPRESENTATIVE (TROPHIES REP)

1. The Trophies Rep is responsible to the CC for the upkeep, maintenance and safe custody of all RAFCAA Coarse Angling trophies. In particular, he is responsible for:

a. Purchasing and supplying keepsake trophies for appropriate matches.

b. Maintaining a comprehensive record of all permanent RAFCAA trophies, to include a description, a photograph, current insurance valuation, and a record of current whereabouts. This record is to be available for inspection by the RAFCAA Executive Committee Treasurer when required.

c. Maintaining the trophies in good condition, reporting damage or general wear and tear to the sub-committee and making recommendations for repair or replacement.

d. Providing the CC with an annual status report giving details of condition and insurance valuation of all trophies.

2. The Trophies Rep is also to:

a. Attend all sub-committee meetings or, if unavailable, ensure that a deputy attends.

b. Carry out any other duties as detailed by the CC.

22 ANNEX J TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – RAFCAA COARSE ANGLING LEAGUE CHAIRMEN

1. As a League Chairman, your primary responsibilities are to foster and develop the sport of Coarse Angling in your region and maintain a viable competitive league structure. You are the primary link between the Coarse Angling sub-committee and the League of which you are the Chair.

2. You are responsible for the efficient running and command and control of your league, including a full league programme, as follows:

a. The maintenance of a League Constitution, agreed by League Members at the AGM, and containing the league objectives, structure of the league sub- committee, frequency and types of meetings, membership of the league, duties and responsibilities of league officials, and match rules.

b. You are to ensure that member stns are fully informed of all league and general RAFCAA (Coarse) business, and feedback information regarding the league at executive sub-committees and through an end of season report. The end of season report is to contain the following information:

(1). A summary narrative of competitions, initiatives, charity events and other significant occurrences within that league over the season.

(2). A statistical summary of the total number of different anglers competing in at least 1 league match during the season, the average attendance for league competitions, and the minimum and maximum attendance for a league match.

(3). A detailed report of league team and individual results for all matches held throughout the season.

(4). An up-to-date list of League Appointments and any changeover of incumbents throughout the season.

c. You are to ensure that all paperwork distributed by the sub-committee is distributed in a timely manner to all units in your league catchment area. This is particularly the case with entry forms for the RAF Inter-Unit Championships, which are to be distributed to stn reps no less than 6 weeks prior to the event.

d. Meetings. You are to:

(1). Arrange and chair league general and committee meetings, minutes of which are to be recorded and distributed to all units in your area.

23 (2). Attend all RAFCAA Coarse sub-committee meetings. If unavailable you are to inform the Sec and arrange for a fully briefed and empowered deputy to attend and represent your league.

e. Competitions. You are to:

(1). Oversee the selection, booking and organisation of all waters for league and other matches run by your league.

(2). You are responsible for arranging entry and team selection for the RAFCAA Coarse Angling Inter-League Competition.

(3). Where the venue for the Inter-League Competition is in your area, you are to assist the Match Sec with the organisation of the event.

(4). You are to co-ordinate nominations for RAFCAA sponsored competitions originating from your league and present them to the RAFCAA Coarse Sub-Committee in the format given at annex U.

f. Financial Responsibilities. You are personally responsible for the maintenance and handling of your league’s financial matters. These are to be conducted in strict accordance with AP 3223 and current accounting procedures. If your league treasurer is stationed at another unit, then the accounts must be lodged with that unit’s NONPAS. You are not to enter into any long term agreements or contracts without specific permission of the PSIF.

g. Property. You are to maintain a Property Book detailing all property purchased on behalf of the league, such as scales or clothing. Loan cards are to be kept and updated, reviewed annually and an annual assessment made as to its value for insurance purposes.

h. Insurance. You are to ensure that the league has adequate insurance cover for property loss, employer’s liability fidelity guarantees and specified activities and risks as appropriate. You are to liase with OIC NONPAS prior to taking out any insurance, to determine if existing SIF will suffice. You are to ensure that the instructions laid down at para 19 to this Directive are meticulously followed, and that any civilian fishing a league match has signed the declaration stating that the have adequate cover (template at annex Q).

3. In addition to the above, you are to carry out any additional duties as detailed by the Coarse Chairman.

24 ANNEX K TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – OLD LAGS AND HONORARY MEMBERS REPRESENTATIVE

1. The Old Lags Rep is to be a retired member of the RAF and is responsible to the Coarse Chairman for all elements of the administration for Coarse Old Lags and Honorary Members (OL/HMs). In particular, he is responsible for:

a. Maintaining an up-to-date OL/HM contacts list.

b. Distributing invitations to all OL/HMs for the RAF Inter-Unit Championships.

c. Selecting an Old Lags team for the RAF vs Old Lags competition, NATO Championships, and any other matches to which the Old Lags are invited.

d. Ensuring that all OL/HMs are aware of, and comply with, the eligibility and insurance rules laid down in this Directive.

e. Liasing with League Chairmen and other sub-committee members on all matters pertaining to OL/HM administration.

f. Where possible, attending RAFCAA (Coarse) sub-committee meetings.

2. The OL/HM Rep may be asked to assist with other miscellaneous tasks by the Coarse Chairman.

25 ANNEX L TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – SPECIMEN REPRESENTATIVE

1. As the Specimen Representative, you are primarily responsible for the publication, maintenance and update of the RAFCAA (Coarse) Record list as laid down below:

RAFCAA (COARSE) RECORD LIST CLAIMANT RULES & CLAIM FORM

a. For an angler to claim a RAFCAA (Coarse) Record fish, the following criteria are to be met:

i. The fish must have been caught on rod and line by legal and fair means by a member of the RAF, within the boundaries of the UK. Furthermore, all the rules of the water from which the fish was caught must have been adhered to in the capture of the fish.

ii. The claimant must have hooked, played and landed the fish on his/her own, with no assistance from a third party.

iii. The fish must have been weighed on an accurate set of scales that have been zeroed in front of a witness prior to weighing, and which must be available for inspection and calibration if required.

iv. One witness to the weighing of the fish must be provided. If the claimant knows the witness, a second witness may be required, if photographic evidence is not comprehensive.

v. Measurements of the fish would add credibility to the claim; these should include the length of the fish (from the fork of the tail to the tip of the nose), and the girth of the fish at its greatest.

vi. Unless caught in an official RAFCAA (Coarse) match and weighed independently, photographic evidence of the fish must be provided. Photographs must show the entire body of the fish, in relation to an object of known size (which can be accurately measured).

vii. A claim will be accepted as a new record provided it meets the above criteria and is unanimously accepted by the RAFCAA(Coarse) sub-committee during one of its meetings. The decision of the committee is final and cannot be appealed against unless further verified evidence is produced.

26 ROYAL AIR FORCE COMPETITIVE ANGLING ASSOCIATION COARSE RECORD FISH CLAIM FORM

When Complete please return this form, together with photographic evidence to:

Name: Contact No:

Address: E-mail:

Species:

Weight: Date of Capture:

Venue: Bait:

Length: Girth:

Method & Amplifying Details:

Details of Witness (1): Details of Witness (2):

27 ANNEX M TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – SPONSORSHIP REPRESENTATIVE

28 ANNEX N TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09 RAFCAA COARSE LEAGUE STRUCTURE

Chiltern Angling League (CAL)

Member Units:

RAF Benson

RAF Halton

RAF High Wycombe

RAF Northolt

RAF Odiham

RAF Uxbridge/PJHQ Northwood/West Drayton

East Anglian Wednesday League (EAWL)

RAF Brampton/Wyton/Henlow

DISC Chicksands

RAF Honington

RAF Marham

RAF Wittering

East Midlands Angling League

RAF Coningsby

RAF Cottesmore

RAF Cranwell

RAF Digby

RAF Scampton/Kirton in Lindsey

RAF Waddington

Scottish Angling League (SCAL)

RAF Kinloss

29 RAF Leuchars

RAF Lossiemouth

South West Angling League (SWAL)

RAF Boscombe Down

RAF Brize Norton

RAF Lyneham

JCSC Shrivenham

Vale of York League (VOYL)

RAF Boulmer

RAF Leeming

RAF Linton-On-Ouse

RAF Staxton Wold/Fylingdales

West Midlands Angling League (WMAL)

RAF Cosford

RAF Sealand

RAF Shawbury

RAF Valley

30 ANNEX O TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – LEAGUE SECRETARIES

1. Each League is to nominate a Secretary responsible to the relevant League Chairman for the following:

a. Arranging and attending all league meetings, producing agenda, draft minutes within 14 days of these meetings for approval of the League Chairmen, and distributing approved minutes to all member stns.

b. Distributing any paperwork to member stns, as directed by the League Chairman.

c. Liasing and, where necessary, assisting the Match Sec with organising league matches and distributing match paperwork.

d. Co-ordinating bids from stns for annual fixtures, and, when agreed at an AGM, promulgating a Fixtures List to all member stns, and the RAFCAA (Coarse) Sub-Committee Sec.

e. In conjunction with the League Match Sec, recording match results and league positions, distributing them to member stns and the RAFCAA (Coarse) Sub-Committee Sec periodically throughout the season.

f. Maintaining an accurate up-to-date contact list for all member stns and the league committee, periodically feeding updates to the RAFCAA (Coarse) Sub- Committee Sec.

g. Maintaining a current list of all RAFCAA HM/OLs within the league’s area, and ensuring they are informed of all league fixtures and events.

h. Maintaining a record of the whereabouts of all league trophies and equipment, and ensuring that they are properly insured and maintained.

2. As a member of the League Sub-Committee, you may act as a League representative to resolve any waterside dispute.5

3. Any other tasks as directed by the League Chairman.

5 Individual leagues may decide on the composition of a body authorised to rule on any waterside disputes prior to, during or immediately after league matches.

31 ANNEX P TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TERMS OF REFERENCE – LEAGUE TREASURERS

1. The League Treasurer is responsible to the League Chairman for the following:

a. Maintaining the League’s account IAW AP 3223 and lodging it with NONPAS at his unit.

b. Handling and recording all financial transactions relating to the League.

c. Arranging for the payment of all pegging fees and other expenses relating to league matches and activities, including the selection, ordering and payment of the League’s trophies.

d. Maintaining the League’s perpetual trophies in good condition, ensuring they are regularly re-valued and fully insured, and ensuring that engraving is kept up-to-date.

e. Maintaining a log of the whereabouts of all League trophies.

f. Maintaining a full up-to-date Property Book listing all League property holdings, including clothing, scales, trophies and other equipment.

g. Preparing and presenting statement of accounts and financial reports to EGMs and AGMs for audits as required.

h. Carrying out any other duties as detailed by the League Chairman.

32 ANNEX Q TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 SEP 07

TERMS OF REFERENCE – LEAGUE MATCH SECRETARIES

1. League Match Secretaries are responsible to their League Chairman for the following:

a. Co-ordinating and publicising a full match programme for the League.

b. Co-ordinating the booking and pegging for each match.

c. Informing all member units of the details of matches in good time (no less than 2 weeks prior to a specific match), including the date, time, venue, draw time, start and finish time, local water rules and league rules.

d. The efficient running of each league match, including the co-ordination of the weighing, and the recording and distribution of the results to member units, League Chairman, Coarse Chairman, and Team Manager.

e. Co-ordinating RAF fixtures with the sub-committee Match Secretary for matches held in that league’s area.

f. Other duties as detailed by the League Chairman.

2. The League Match Secretary is also appointed as the Health & Safety Rep for the League. As such, he is to carry out the duties detailed at Annex W to this Directive.

33 ANNEX R TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 SEP 07

TERMS OF REFERENCE – LEAGUE CARP REPRESENTATIVES

34 ANNEX S TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

RAFCAA (COARSE) CLUBMAN COMPETITION RULES

1. The competition shall be known as the RAFCAA(Coarse) Clubman of the Year and is open only to serving RAF personnel who have not represented the RAF at full representative level6.

2. 3 anglers from each league will qualify for the final, and leagues are granted the authority to decide the qualification criteria of the 3 finalists. However, the following guidelines apply:

a. Leagues are not simply to take the top 3 finishing non-RAF representative anglers from their league over the match season, as this may reflect more attendance than angling ability.

b. Qualifying matches may be either integrated into normal league matches or held as stand-alone events, although there is no additional travel authority for matches over and above the annual league entitlements.

c. Qualifying matches must be notified to potential participants in sufficient time to ensure maximum participation and opportunity to practice.

d. No coaching is allowed during the qualifying matches.

e. Qualifying matches may be a one-off, a series or a knockout competition.

f. Results of the qualifying events are to be forwarded to the RAFCAA (Coarse) Match Secretary, Secretary and Chairman within one week of qualification, and qualifiers notified at least 6 weeks prior to the final.

g. In the event of any of the 3 qualifiers in each league being unable to attend the final, a reserve will be allowed to fill that place, providing they would have been the next to qualify during the leagues qualification phase.

3. The final will be conducted, where practicable, as a stand-alone event, but in parallel to another RAFCAA sponsored event or meeting (such as the RAFCAA AGM) to ensure travel authority.

4. The winner shall be the individual with the highest total weight in the final.

5. An annual trophy has been commissioned for the event (not for retention) and a permanent trophy and small tackle prize will be awarded to the winner.

6 ‘Representative level’ in this case is defined as having been formally selected for the RAF Coarse Angling Squad at the beginning of any season (as far back as existing records), including the current one.

35 ANNEX T TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

RAFCAA COARSE ANGLING MODEL MATCH RULES

INTRODUCTION

1. These model rules combine the most up-to-date Angling Trust rules, with those previously approved by the RAFCAA (Coarse) sub-committee, which are to be followed for all RAF coarse angling matches, at whatever level. Local fishery rules, where applicable, over-ride these rules unless the fishery owner has given prior permission.

GENERAL

2. Water Closure. All sections used in a match are to be closed for angling to all competitors in the match for the 24 hrs directly preceding the match. If the match is held on a commercial fishery, the decision to close the water for 24 hrs will be at the discretion of the organising committee. However, the decision must be clearly laid out in the match paperwork, which is to be distributed to participants no later than 2 weeks prior to the match.

3. Pegging. Matches are to be pegged down. Pegs should preferably be 20 yards apart and no less than 15 yards apart, and are to be staked out and numbered prior to fishing. Pegs must be of a state to give competitors a practicable and reasonable chance to fish their swim. On drawing his number, each competitor is to proceed to his designated swim. Competitors may receive assistance to or from their peg, for themselves or their tackle. The peg must remain in position until the weigh-in is completed. Every competitor must fish from within 1 metre of his designated peg. No competitor may move his peg without an organiser’s official consent. On flowing water, the competitor may fish in the direction of the flow as far as the next peg. On still water, he may fish as far as half the distance between his peg and the pegs on either side. Where competitors are drawn on opposite banks, the limit of the swim is the line midway between each bank. The competitor will restrict their activities completely to these boundaries; neither his hookbait or groundbait must intrude into his neighbours swim. In extremis, (e.g. snagged tackle or fish) an angler may seek permission from his neighbour before moving from his peg to remedy the situation. A competitor must not cause annoyance to, or seek to interfere with another competitor during the course of the competition.

4. Health & Safety. It is the responsibility of the Health & Safety Rep on the sub- committee to ensure that all pegs are safe and usable. Particularly, he is to ensure that any areas containing overhead electrical power lines are suitably restricted, and that there is safe access to the water.

5. Fish Retention. Competitors must retain all fish in keepnets that comply with the relevant EA Byelaws. Competitors must take every practicable step to keep their fish alive, and, after weighing them, must ensure their careful return to the water. Any rough handling or mistreatment of fish may lead to disqualification. If, for any reason

36 fish are seen to be in distress, a competitor or match official has the right to demand that they be weighed immediately and returned to the water during the match.

THE MATCH

6. Tackle. A competitor shall have in use one rod or pole, one line and one single hook at a time, but may have other rods or poles or tackle assembled for use in position behind him, providing no such other tackles are baited.

7. Bait. Any bait, subject to local rules, can be used, except live or dead fish, frogs, spinning baits or artificial lures. No competitor shall have live or dead fish in his possession before a match. All competitors must submit to a search if requested by an official.

8. Preparation. Before the starting signal, no competitor must, on any count, groundbait or loose-feed the swim, but will be allowed to wet a line, plumb the depth and test the float, mix and wet groundbait, clear his peg of weed or obstructions and position his equipment. On no account must a feeder be used before the starting signal.

9. Introduction of Bait. All groundbait and loose-feed may be thrown in by hand, or by use of one or two-handed catapults, throwing sticks, swim feeders, bait droppers and bait cups, but no other mechanical means of projecting groundbait is allowed. No bait shall be introduced with a pole cup or bait dropper attached to an extra rod/pole whilst continuing to fish.

10. During the Match. A competitor must strike, play and land his own fish. No bait or equipment can be given to any competitor during the course of a match. Competitors withdrawing from the match are not allowed to give their bait or groundbait or to approach another competitor during the course of a match. A competitor may wade provided that the water does not extend above the knees unless he can touch the bank with his fingertips. A competitor must cease fishing at the ‘all-out’ signal. Should he still be playing a fish hooked before the signal is given, he will be permitted no more than 15 minutes after time has been called to land the fish.

11. Lead Weights. The use of lead, including any alloy or compound lead, in the form of split shot or other weight, is prohibited unless in sizes below No 8 Shot or when fishing in countries that allow the use of lead. This does not apply to weights of lead if incorporated into the construction of swimfeeders or floats.

THE WEIGH-IN

12. Eligibility. All fish caught are eligible for weighing with the exception of game fish and crustaceans, unless local rules dictate. For example, some associations do not count pike or zander. Any fish suspected of being weighted, or any fish considered suspicious by the scales-man must be presented to the match organisers and a ruling made. In the case of match officials recommending the disqualification of a competitor, they are to weigh in the competitors fish in case the ruling is not upheld.

37 13. Recording the Weight. All catches are to be weighed to the nearest quarter of an ounce or ten grammes and rounded up. Each competitor is responsible for ensuring the correct weight of their catch is recorded by the steward. In any dispute, the decision of the scalesman and organising committee is final. All fish must be weighed at the competitors peg. Unless the bankside terrain renders impossible, no catch shall be carried more than 10 yards to the scales.

14. Litter. All litter, whether produced by the competitor or not, is to be removed from the peg. Failure to adhere to this rule may result in disqualification.

THE FINAL WORD

15. Any competitor or team proved to have been in contravention of these rules is liable to disqualification. If an individual contravening these rules is representing a team, then that team may also be disqualified. In the event of any unresolved dispute on the day of the match, the weights are to be recorded but no result announced until the RAFCAA (Coarse) Chairman has made a ruling. Any pools money is to be held pending the result, or returned to every competitor.

38 ANNEX U TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

FORM OF DECLARATION TO BE SIGNED BY ALL CIVILIANS TAKING PART IN ACTIVITIES ORGANIZED OR ENDORSED BY RAF SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS

1. I have read and understood the rules and conditions of the Association, and will be bound by them.

2. In the event of a dispute, I will accept the eventual findings of the dispute procedure.

3. I understand that the Ministry of Defence will discharge claims on the basis of its legal liability to do so. As the Ministry of Defence has no liability to meet claims which result from pure accident, Acts of God etc, I also understand that it is my responsibility to make adequate provision in the form of an insurance policy to cover personal liability and personal accident, which will include personal liability and personal accident which will include when competing outside the United Kingdom, medical expenses and casualty evacuation cover.

Signed………………………………. Witnessed……………………………...

Name……………………………….. Name…………………………………..

Date………………………………… Date……………………………………

39 ANNEX V TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

RAFCAA (COARSE) SQUAD NOMINATION FORM

1. Please complete the questionnaire as fully as possible and return it, along with the fixture list, personal angling record and nomination form, to the RAF Team Manager by [date].

2. Time off from work is increasingly difficult to guarantee. Would you be prepared to take leave to ensure that you could fish for the RAF?

Answer:

3. Is it reasonable to ask anglers to make a personal financial contribution to support RAF angling? If you believe that it is, how much would be a reasonable amount to spend, per match, of your own money?

Answers:

4. Why do you want to fish for the RAF?

Answer:

5. How many times per week/per month do you fish competitively?

Answer:

6. What are your best and worst angling methods?

Answers:

7. RAF squad anglers are expected to buy team clothing and luggage. Even though this is subsidised by the team sponsors and the team fund there is still a personal contribution. Are you prepared to meet these costs?

Answer:

8. Do you prefer to fish in team matches or as an individual? Please explain the reasons for you answer?

Answer:

9. Do you fish for a civilian team? If you do, would it take priority over RAF angling?

Answer:

40 10. If you could make one change to improve RAF angling, what would it be?

Answer:

11. What do you most like about RAF angling?

Answer:

12. What attributes make a good team angler?

Answer:

13. Would you consider being a team official, such as the Public Relations Officer or NFA Representative?

NAME……………………………………………..

41 NOTABLE ANGLING RESULTS (CIVILIAN AND MILITARY) [YEAR] MATCH DATE VENUE WEIGHT METHOD SECTION MATCH COMMENTS POSN POSN

43 ANNEX W TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

RAFCAA (COARSE) ANGLING SAFETY SURVEY

1. Introduction. Statistically, angling is the most dangerous sport in the UK in terms of numbers of deaths per year. However this is a reflection more on the number of participants and their average age rather than an inherent ‘danger’ factor. Within the Armed Forces therefore, a relatively physically fit demographic group, there is little correlation with the wider population. However the following health and safety issues are to be considered for every RAFCAA (Coarse) sponsored match and the Match organiser is to conduct a risk assessment based on these criteria.

2. Environmental.

a. Access to the Water. All water features are inherently dangerous due to the risk of drowning. This risk is enhanced by deep and/or flowing water and full consideration must be given to accessibility to a peg, including steepness of bank, under bank erosion, flooding and marginal drop-offs. It is the responsibility of all match organisers/pegging officials to ensure that all pegs included in RAF matches are stable accessible and do not require wading in deep water. If there is any doubt as to the ‘fishability’ of a particular peg, it is to be left out of the competition or made safe.

b. Electricity Pylons. Aside from heart attacks, electrocution from overhead power cables is the greatest cause of angling fatalities in the UK. The carbon fibre construction of modern rods and poles makes almost the perfect electrical conductor and the arcing effect does not require the rod to actually make contact with the power line to conduct the electricity to the angler. Legally, on club or water authority owned venues no pegs are to be placed within 30m either side of a power-line and signs are to be erected to warn of the danger. However an independent assessment by the match organiser of RAF sponsored matches is also to be conducted and the 30m rule is to be strictly adhered to.

c. Lightning. Again due to the high carbon content of most modern poles and rods, they make excellent lightning conductors. Competitors are therefore strongly advised not to use poles during thunderstorms.

d. Weils Disease. Weils disease is transmitted through rats urine and is particularly prevalent along river and lake banks. It can be contracted by humans through open cuts directly into the blood stream. Symptoms are akin to flu and unless identified early, the disease is usually fatal. However it is fairly hard to contract and simple measure can greatly reduce the risk. Fresh cuts and abrasions should be covered up prior to fishing and any cuts and abrasions should be treated with clean, fresh water (not from the venue and covered up immediately.

44 e. Roadside Venues. Some venues, such as the North Bank of the River Nene and the Fosdyke Canal are located adjacent to busy main roads. Anglers are to ensure that all cars are parked well off the road and that all tackle is also well clear of the road. Particular care is to be taken when unshipping poles. Anglers are also to ensure that they tackle up and pack away well away from the road verge.

3. Procedural.

a. Wading. Some venues require anglers to wade into the water in order to fish. Where this is necessary, anglers may only wade to a depth where the water does not extend beyond the knees unless he can touch the bank with his fingertips. In addition, anglers are strongly encouraged to test the nature of the lake/riverbed with a bank stick or landing net handle prior to wading.

b. Playing Fish. On commercial fisheries a recent method for landing big fish has been to play the fish directly off the pole elastic (effectively hand- lining). This is extremely dangerous practice as a broken line or pulled hook has the potential to embed a float into a hand or face. This method is therefore banned in all RAF sponsored matches.

4. Mitigation. Many of the potential risks can be minimised through the application of common sense. In addition, health and safety briefs are to be given by the match organiser prior to every match, focusing on the items specified above and any other local H&S issues. There are few if any costs associated with mitigation, other than consideration for booking a reserve venue when the primary venue is a river prone to flooding.

45 ANNEX X TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

RAFCAA (COARSE) ANGLING MATCH PAPERWORK TEMPLATE

TITLE OF COMPETITION AND YEAR

1. This paperwork details all the necessary information for the [year] RAFCAA Coarse [competition title].

2. Match.

a. Date. Day, date, month, year.

b. Venue. Name of venue, stretch or phase.

c. Match Timings.

d. Team Composition.

e. Eligibility to Compete.

f. Reserves.

g. Match Rules. Annex T to the RAFCAA (Coarse) Admin Directive is to be attached as Annex A. This paragraph is to include venue restrictions and local rules that apply. Non-eligible fish are also to be listed here.

h. Practice. The venue will normally be closed to competitors for 24 hrs before the event, depending on the venue. However, this must be stipulated here, together with details of any alternative pegs/venues available for practice.

3. Administration.

a. Match HQ. Name, address, Tel No, Organisers Mobile.

b. Map. A map of the match HQ and venue with access & parking is to be provided as Annex B.

c. Draw Timings. The draw will be conducted between [time] and [time]. Anyone arriving after this time will be ineligible to fish unless prior agreement with the match organiser and a nominated individual has drawn for the late participant.

d. Refreshments. This paragraph is to detail refreshments available at the match HQ, particularly breakfast, and whether this needs to be per-booked.

46 c. Costs. This is to detail the cost per team/individual, and to whom the money should be paid by when.

d. Insurance. It is the responsibility of all captains to ensure that any civilians in their team is fully insured and has completed and returned a copy of Annex U to the Admin Directive.

e. Licences. All competitors are to be in possession of a valid EA Rod Licence. Any angler without a licence will not be allowed to fish, or will be disqualified.

f. Travel Authority. Travel Authority for the match is granted under QR 2484(5) and RAF Sports Board letter reference PTC/………………

4. Health and Safety. Power-lines, steep banks and parking considerations are to be considered as required, and a verbal briefing conducted prior to the competition.

5. Other Information. As required.

NAME Rank Appointment

Annexes:

A. Match Rules. B. Maps C. Entry Form.

47 ANNEX Y TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

RAFCAA (COARSE) MATCH VENUE NOMINATION FORM

RAFCAA (COARSE) COMPETITION FOR WHICH NOMINATED

1. League/Sub-Committee Member Nominating.

2. Venue.

a. Location.

b. No of Pegs Available.

c. Predominant Species.

d. Expected Weights.

e. Cost.

f. Facilities Available.

g. Venue Contact Details.

h. Likely Methods.

i. Suggested Match HQ.

3. Recommended Date/Time of Year.

4. Nearest Service Accommodation/Availability.

5. POC For Assistance With Match Organisation.

NAME Rank Appointment

49 ANNEX Z TO RAFCAA/CCMAN/3 DATED 01 APR 09

TEMPLATE CHECK LIST FOR MATCH ORGANISATION

6 months before the Match

Book the Venue(s) and HQ and Parking.

Ensure that the Match is on the RAF (or League) match calendar.

3 months before the Match

Distribute paperwork to all Units in the format given in Annex X.

Order Trophies.

Retrieve perpetual trophies.

Weighing-in (fishery owners or RAF team or competitors on Section end pegs etc)

Scales (are Units to bring scales/weigh-slings)

Miscellaneous (Inform competitors of any special requirements eg awkward banks, platforms, waders, styles/gates, trolleys, and that a health & safety Brief will be provided on match day).

Local accommodation details.

2 weeks before the match

Confirm number of anglers fishing and plan pegging, sections etc.

Prepare Weigh Sheets and weigh boards with pens.

Prepare Team Sheets for use by captains to list their team.

Confirm whether or not pegs will need to be cut out I (early season or natural venues).

If pegs need to be cut out arrange a working party to do so in good time and brief them accordingly (eg every 20 yds, leave out narrows on canals, leave out pegs near powerlines etc).

1 day before the match

Peg the match length (in daylight, taking account of powerlines, snags, boat launch areas, mooring etc etc) or determine which pegs to be used if permanently pegged).

50 Pegging requires much thought to make the match as fair as possible (never put in a peg which you would be unhappy with).

Have pegs for draw already. Be able to prove that the draw is random and fair.

Have plenty of spare maps to venue with directions.

Match Day

Arrive early and have tables set up for draw.

Have a list of Units/individuals participating from the returns.

Give Health and Safety Brief before the Draw.

Remind captains of venue-specific rules/bait bans etc

After the Match

Find a quite corner/room and work out the results (with a small team) – take your time and get it right.

Request that a senior representative gives out prizes.

Thank venue owners, organisers, food makers etc.

Keep a log of who won each perpetual trophy.

Compile full peg-by-peg match results and distribute to all units and the webmaster.