Central Murray Football & Netball League
BY-LAWS 2015
CONTENTS
1 OUR VISION: CMFNL, PROVIDING A QUALITY SPORTING ENVIRONMENT. 2 2 DEFINITIONS & INTERPRETATIONS 2 3 POWERS 2 4 CLUB DELEGATES 3 5 CLUB LEVIES & FINANCES 3 6 REGISTRATIONS, PERMITS & CLEARANCES 5 7 NEW CLUBS 5 8 BOARD AND LEAGUE COMMITTEES 6 9 INDEPENDENT TRIBUNAL 6 10 UMPIRING COMMITTEE 7 11 CODE OF CONDUCT BREACHES 7 12 CLUB COLOURS 9 13 PROTESTS 10 14 LIFE MEMBERS 10 15 COURSES, SEMINARS AND TRAINING 11 16 SECESSION OF CLUB 11 17 PLAYER EXPULSION - DISQUALIFICATION 11 18 GENERAL MEETING STANDING ORDERS 11 19 INVESTIGATIONS OFFICER 11 20 COMMUNICATION TO THE LEAGUE 11 21 MEDIA STATEMENTS 11 22 GENERAL ITEMS 12 23 APPENDIX 1 – CMFNL CODE OF CONDUCT 13 24 APPENDIX 2– MEETING STANDING ORDERS 15 25 APPENDIX 3 - FOOTBALL COMPETITION RULES FOR ALL GRADES 16 26 APPENDIX 4 - NETBALL COMPETITION RULES 16
Page 1 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules
1 OUR VISION: CMFNL, PROVIDING A QUALITY SPORTING ENVIRONMENT.
2 DEFINITIONS & INTERPRETATIONS
2.1 Definitions
Affiliated Clubs shall be deemed to mean and relate to one or more of the clubs comprising or represented on this League. CMFNL means Central Murray Football & Netball League. In these rules referred to as “CMFNL” or “the League”. NV means Netball Victoria. Laws of Australian Football means the laws of the game of Australian Football adopted by the Australian Football League as modified by the League set out in these By-Laws. Board means the Board of Management of the League. Junior means a player who is ?? years of age on or after the 1st January of the current playing season. Player(s) shall be deemed to mean football or netball player Umpire shall be deemed to mean in the context of football or netball as ‘Field Umpire, Boundary Umpire and Goal Umpire’, unless such interpretation is expressly excluded, or unless repugnant to the sense and context. The appendices and schedules attached should be read in conjunction with and form part of the By-Laws of the CMFNL. 2.2 Interpretations Words and expressions contained in this constitution will be interpreted in accordance with the provisions of the Interpretation of Legislation Act 1984 (Vic) and the Act as in force from time to time.
3 POWERS
Solely for the purpose of furthering the objectives set out above:
3.1 The CMFNL shall have powers to control and manage all football and netball matches arranged by this League, and shall also have the power to settle all disputes which may arise in connection with any of such matters or in connection with the matches played under its patronage, and may do all such acts and things it may consider conducive to the League’s interests or the game of football.
3.2 For football the League shall be affiliated with The WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country and for netball with Netball Victoria. 3.3 The Board reserves the right to bring; spectators or club members at a CMFNL managed venue, a person acting in an official capacity for a club or player before it at any time for any purpose whatever. In the event of any player or person acting in an official capacity for a club receiving notification to attend a meeting of the Board or of any committee, and failing to do so, he/she shall be stood down and be suspended until his/her case is finally settled, unless he/she can give a suitable excuse, which may be accepted by the Board, for his/her non-attendance.
3.4 The Board shall have the power from time to time to make such changes to its By-Laws or Competition Rules as may be deemed advisable for carrying out the Leagues purpose or objects. These changes shall be carried out in accordance with the CMFNL Constitution.
Page 2 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 3.5 Clubs, players, or members or spectators infringing any By-Laws of this League shall in any case where no penalty is hereinbefore expressly provided for, shall be dealt with as the Board may think fit. 3.6 Should any matter in connection with the By-Laws or business of the League, other than already provided for in the By-Laws, be brought before the Board for its consideration, the Board may deal with such matter, as it shall deem advisable in the best interests of the game League and the game of football and/or netball. 3.7 The Laws of the Australian Football League, as well as Netball Victoria, as far as the same can reasonably be applied to this League shall be deemed to be incorporated in and form part of these By-Laws, but subject nevertheless to such additions and modifications thereof as are contained in these By-Laws. 3.8 Any club failing to keep its engagements or appointments as arranged by the Board shall be dealt with as the Board sees fit.
3.9 The Board may from time to time have to power to change the value of a penalty unit in the penalty unit system of the League. 3.10 The value of ONE PENALTY UNIT shall be $10.00
4 CLUB DELEGATES
4.1 Each club shall nominate 2 delegates to attend General Meetings of the League. Each Club has only one vote when a vote is taken on any matter. Failure to attend a General Meeting or other League function where attendance is compulsory shall result in a fine of 20 units. The Board has the power to waive the fine where there are special circumstances given by the club.
4.2 Any delegate or representative of a club attending a General Meeting or any other League function, or Board meeting or its committees in an unfit state, or being guilty of unseemly or disorderly conduct or any other conduct detrimental to this League, will be dealt with in accordance with the Discipline procedures of the Constitution. That person may be fined, suspended or expelled from the League.
4.3 No delegate shall represent more than one affiliated club, or be a delegate (member) to, or office-bearer in any club, or be a delegate (member) to, or office-bearer in any other League or Association or other combination of clubs controlling football and/or netball, unless written consent has been given by the Board.
4.4 All clubs must be represented when requested at all official League meetings and functions. Failure to comply shall result in a fine of 20 units. 4.5 Each Club is required to have its President, Secretary and Senior Coaches, football and netball in attendance at the League’s Presentation Night. Penalty: 10 units
4.6 The Operations Manager must be notified with relevant contact details of all office bearers elected or incumbent immediately after the club’s Annual General Meeting and before the Annual General Meeting of the League each year, and of any resignations, changes or replacements as they occur during the year.
4.7 The Operations Manager must be notified of any changes to Club Constitutions or By-Laws and these changes must be consistent with the Constitution and the By-Laws of the CMFNL.
5 CLUB LEVIES & FINANCES
5.1 Each club represented on the League shall subscribe to the League an affiliation fee of $11.00 (GST Inc.) not later than the Annual General Meeting each year; and no delegate member
Page 3 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules shall be allowed to take his/her seat or take part in the proceedings of the Annual General Meeting or following meetings of the League until such fees have been paid.
5.2 The Board may also at any time during the year, call on each of the affiliated clubs comprising the League, to contribute an additional sum of money to its funds. Each club shall pay the amount of any such request within 14 days after notice thereof having been given to pay the same or any fine that may for any reason, have been imposed. At the CMFNL Board’s discretion a Club can be fined the sum of 10 units for each seven days that such payment is overdue or can be suspended or disqualified from any representation thereon until such payment of such requests has been made.
5.3 The Board shall determine each year by the February Board meeting the Club levies to be paid by each Club to meet the budgeted expenses of the League. These expenses shall be documented in the League’s Annual Budget and conform to the Object and By-Laws of the League.
5.4 Each club shall pay the club levies or any fine that may for any reason, have been imposed within 14 days after notice thereof having been given to pay the same. Unless contrary arrangements are specifically authorised by the Board, late payment will attract penalties of 10 units for each seven days that such payment is overdue or the Club can be suspended or disqualified from any representation thereon until such payment of such requests has been made. 5.5 No club which has outstanding debts from the previous season will be eligible for match points until the account is remitted in full, unless written permission has been granted by the Board. Percentages for any game played while ineligible for match points will be calculated on final scores submitted for each game and awarded. Premiership points lost in this period cannot be regained.
5.6 Any club that has not paid its outstanding fines, levies or fees to the CMFNL, to the satisfaction of the CMFNL Board prior to the last two rounds of the home and away season, will not be eligible to participate in the final series of that season in any grade of football and netball. 5.7 All clubs are required to lodge with the Operations Manager a complete set of the Club’s financial accounts from the most recent year end, no later than one month from the date of the Club’s AGM.
5.7.1 If the club operates more than one incorporated entity, then financial statements from each incorporated entity should be submitted,
5.7.2 All of the financial statements must be verified by a qualified auditor,
5.7.3 Penalty: 10 units for each month (or part there-of) late.
5.8 The Board shall have authority, and control all arrangements at all venues on which matches between affiliated clubs are played throughout the season.
5.8.1 The monies paid at the gate for entry to home and away games shall be the property of the home club.
5.8.2 The gate takings from the final series shall be collected by the Board and all expenses paid by the League.
5.8.3 The entrance fees to all games, including finals, will be set by the Board at the commencement of the season.
5.9 Adults, refers to persons over the age of 18, 5.10 Pensioner Concession cardholders (including Aged, Disability, Carer & Veteran Affairs),
Page 4 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 5.11 Students – young people still at secondary school.
6 REGISTRATIONS, PERMITS & CLEARANCES
6.1 The Operations Manager and Assistant Manager shall meet as required during the season for the following purposes: has been empowered by the Board to:
6.1.1 Approve all registrations, clearances and permits to play, 6.1.2 Investigate infringements and irregularities arising from match reports, team sheets etc and issue penalties in accordance with other rules herein,
6.1.3 Retain a record of games played by players in all grades of the competition and at the competition of each home series compile a record of votes in the League Best and Fairest Awards,
6.1.4 Regularly report these matters to the Board.
6.2 Providing the amount of penalty has been paid, a Club or player may within fourteen (14) days of being advised of any penalty, appeal to the League’s Independent Tribunal against the decision,
6.3 One week prior to the start of the season each club is to provide the name of one club member each year who is willing to be trained and coached to achieve Level 1 Umpiring Accreditation. This process to continue until each club has three accredited umpires. This number is be maintained into the future.
6.4 Penalty: for failing to submit the information by date - 25 units and another 25 units for each week after.
7 NEW CLUBS
7.1 Applications by new clubs for admission to this League may be made to the Operations Manager in writing, not later than 7 days, prior to the Annual Meeting in each year. A deposit of $11.00 (GST Inc.), which will be refunded in the event of the application being refused, must accompany each such application. Provided, however, that the League at the Annual or any other General meeting, may, by a resolution passed by a majority of Clubs present and voting at the meeting, admit any new club notwithstanding that the provisions of the By-Law have not fully complied with by such new club, if satisfied that such non-compliance was due to inadvertence to the Central Murray Football League the Club transferring must have complied with all AFL VIC COUNTRY rules relating to the transfer of the Club.
7.2 No new club shall be admitted to this League except by a three-quarter majority vote of all member Clubs within the League.
7.3 Each new Club admitted to this League shall, within ten days of its admission, notify the Operations Manager of the full given and family names, as well as, contact details of its delegates. 7.4 Subject as here in after mentioned, each club with this League shall field the following teams: Football - Senior, Reserve, Colts, U16, U14 and U12 grade teams, and Netball - at least six netball teams; three being senior teams and three being junior teams, other than reserve teams. In the event of the League that any club is unable to field one or more teams, the Board may at its discretion admit any club to fill such vacancy in the competition on terms determined by the Board to be confirmed at every Annual General meeting or a meeting specially called.
Page 5 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 8 BOARD AND LEAGUE COMMITTEES
Committees shall deal with all matters that may from time to time be delegated by the Board but shall at all times be limited by the specific powers vested in such Committee or Sub-Committee by the Board. Committees shall not be empowered to incur debts or enter into contracts on behalf of the League without prior approval of the Board. 8.1 The Board may appoint Committees to assist in the conduct of the business of the League.
8.2 The duties and responsibilities of each Committee shall be determined by the Board.
8.3 The League Chairman (or his nominee) shall be ex-officio member of all committees, except the Independent Tribunal.
9 INDEPENDENT TRIBUNAL
9.1 An Independent Tribunal consisting of at least nine persons not connected with any clubs of the League, as hereinbefore constituted, shall be selected annually, and the decision and penalties imposed by such Independent Tribunal shall be final. Five members is the maximum number of any hearing, and three members shall form a quorum. This Independent Tribunal will deal with players and officials reported in accordance with the appropriate rules of the AFL VIC COUNTRY, The CMFNL including Code of Conduct breaches, and the Laws of Australian Football as well as any appeals disputes that may arise from such rules. They may also sit in judgement on any dispute or matters at the direction of the Board. It has the power to determine and impose penalties. 9.2 Such Independent Tribunal shall deal with also all charges against officials and players, who may give unsatisfactory evidence. It shall be competent of the Board from time to time and at any time to appoint a substitute or substitutes on such Independent Tribunal in place of any member or members therefore who may be unable at any time or times to act, and any such appointment or appointments may be for such period as the Board determines. No such substitute or substitutes appointed hereunder shall be connected with the League as hereinbefore constituted. Three members of such Independent Tribunal may grant a re- hearing of any dealt with by it, and decided upon, if, in its absolute discretion, it thinks necessary or advisable to do so, and that the fresh evidence or facts proposed to be submitted would or might have led to a decision different form that arrived at.
9.3 The Independent Tribunal shall also hear charges referred to it by the Operations Manager, Board or Investigation Officer and has the power to determine and impose penalties. 9.4 The Tribunal Secretary or appointed substitute shall represent the League in presenting charges to the Independent Tribunal and may summon or arrange for any persons to appear to give evidence on the hearing of any charges against a player under Law 19 of Australian Football. 9.5 Any player charged with an offence to appear before the Independent Tribunal, shall have the right to be represented at the inquiry by a representative of the Club.
9.6 All applications for expenses incurred by witnesses attending Independent Tribunal cases, or by persons charged, shall be made to the CMFNL Board who will deal with it. 9.7 Any person having been suspended by the Independent Tribunal shall be eligible to resume playing after his club’s Senior, Reserve or Third team has played the number of matches equivalent to his suspension period providing that he otherwise would be eligible to play in such game or games. For the purpose of this rule the Senior, Reserve and Colts match played on the one day shall count as one match only.
Page 6 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 9.8 Any player, or official failing to appear before the Tribunal when advised to do so without an acceptable reason shall be disqualified for a minimum period of two matches, this to be additional to any penalty arising from the hearing for that time. 9.9 A deposit as prescribed by the AFL VIC COUNTRY shall accompany all appeals by clubs or player’s advocate with any player charged before the Independent Tribunal.
9.10 Clubs concerned shall send a player’s advocate with any player charged before the Independent Tribunal on all occasions. Such advocates must not be members of the Legal Profession. Failure to comply shall result in a 20 unit penalty.
9.11 Players or officials charged with an offence MUST attend the Independent Tribunal meeting. If necessary the Meeting will be adjourned and the player or official penalized as the Tribunal deems appropriate until attendance is confirmed.
10 UMPIRING COMMITTEE
10.1 The Umpiring Committee has been appointed by the Board to provide advice and support for the management and administration of all aspects of football umpiring in the CMFNL. The Committee will be composed of the following members; one Board member, the Operations Manager and up to three (3) CMFNLU members selected by the Board for their leadership capabilities. The role of the Umpiring Committee is to assist the Board in its oversight of: compliance with applicable AFL, AFL Vic Country and regulatory requirements associated with umpiring matters, AFL umpiring initiatives, other umpiring related matters, and making recommendations to the Board on umpiring issues that need resolution by the Board.
10.2 The Dispute Procedure set out in these rules applies to disputes and/or grievances created by breaches of the Code of Conduct (Umpires or CMFNL) and occurs;
i. Between a Club and an umpire,
ii. Between umpires,
iii. Between umpires and umpire coaches, iv. Between the Operations Manager and a league employee.
10.3 The person or Club making the complaint must submit to the Operations Manager within 5 days of the incident; a report of the grievance or dispute, action that the aggrieved person would like to have actioned and any other evidence to support the allegation. The procedures in the CMFNL Employee Dispute & Grievance Policy will be used to resolve the grievance.
10.4 The Operations Manager assesses the situation and can use the Investigation Officer to collect further information. The course of any future action is at the discretion of the Operations Manager. Where a dispute arises between a Club and or player(s) and an umpire that does not become a matter for investigation by the league it may be referred to the CMFNL Umpiring Committee for mediation and or adjudication. If necessary it can then be referred to the Board of the CMFNL or the Independent Tribunal for resolution under the Code of Conduct.
11 CODE OF CONDUCT BREACHES
The League’s code of conduct has been incorporated into its by-laws and penalties are now in place where breaches are found to have occurred. See the Appendices for the full Code of Conduct. [For the purposes of the rule the Home Club’s executive assumes responsibility for dealing with the complaint.]
Page 7 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules Note: Clubs are responsible for the conduct of their players, parents/carers of players, coach’s, officials and spectators.
11.1 Person(s) attending a CMFNL venue shall not: 11.1.1 Use offensive, abusive, intimidating, or obscene language to any player, coach, umpire, official or other spectator; 11.1.2 Enter the playing surface during the course of a game without the prior approval of the home club and/or CMFNL; 11.1.3 Dispute the decision of an umpire either during or after a game; 11.1.4 Assault or act with aggression to any person(s); 11.1.5 Behave in a way contrary to this Code of Conduct and/or the spirit of the game; 11.1.6 Behave in a way which disturbs the enjoyment of the match by any other person(s), or brings discredit to the home club and/or the CMFNL; 11.1.7 Act in such a way as to exhibit racial, religious or ethnic intolerance, by language or other conduct, to any other person(s); 11.1.8 Refuse to accept the reasonable direction of an official of the home club and/or CMFNL, or official of the team/club which that person(s) is supporting. 11.2 Any person(s) contravening the above rule may be reported by a home club official, Umpire or opposing club official to the Team Manager or other official of the team which that person(s) is supporting. Where it is not clear what club the offender(s) is supporting the person(s) shall be reported to the home club. Where a team does not have a Team Manager present, a request or direction from the Ground Manager to any official of the team or the team’s club shall be regarded as a direction to the Team Manager for the purposes of this rule/code. Where an umpire is making a report; a request to the team’s Interchange Steward shall be regarded as a direction to the Team Manager for the purposes of this rule/code.
11.3 The matters shall be detailed on the Code of Conduct Notice of Report Form and the official/spectator(s) Club (s) shall be summoned before the Independent Tribunal to answer charges for Breach of the CMFNL Code of Conduct. 11.4 The Operations Manager is the only person empowered to decide after studying a Club’s history whether a Club can accept the minimum prescribed penalty or will be required to attend the Tribunal hearing. If a Club wishes to accept the minimum set penalty the Club secretary must contact the Operations Manager, no later than 12 noon on the first working day immediately following the game for approval. Such requests shall be made in writing, delivered by facsimile or email to the Operations Manager.
11.5 If the Report requests the set penalty and the Operations Manager agrees, the minimum fine for the level of the breach of the Code of Conduct shall be automatically imposed. 11.6 Where a Club has the opportunity to take the set penalty and contests the Report at the Tribunal, and is subsequently found guilty, the maximum penalty for that level of the breach of the Code of Conduct will be automatically imposed, as well as any other fines or individual sanctions of the Tribunal. 11.7 A Club Official and/or Team Manager must advise the offending person(s) of the relevant breach of the Code of Conduct. The Ground Manager, Club or CMFL Official or Umpire must note the details of their report and where possible the name(s) of the offending person(s) to the Team Manager on the Notice of Report Form. 11.8 In the event that the inappropriate conduct continues, home club officials and/or Team Manager shall request the offender(s) to immediately leave the vicinity of the ground. This should also be noted on the team sheet. This should also be noted on the Notice of Report Form. (Police will attend if requested by Club officials).
Page 8 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 11.9 In the event the person(s) refuses to obey the direction of the Ground Manager and/or Team Manager, the Ground Manager may direct the umpire to terminate the match and shall endorse this decision in writing on Notice of Report Form. In the event that the match is so terminated, the CMFNL Board shall refer the matter to the Independent Tribunal, where at its absolute discretion the tribunal may award the competition points and to the non-offending team, or declare that neither side shall be awarded competition points or percentage for that match. 11.10 In the event of inappropriate behaviour involving an umpire, (as described in the Breaches of the Code of Conduct) occurring at a social function of a club, the CMFNL or the Central Murray FNL Umpires, the incident shall be reported to the Operations Manager. The report shall be in writing, delivered, sent by facsimile or email no later than 5.00pm on the first business day immediately following the incident. The Operations Manager has the discretion to determine the most appropriate action to resolve this dispute; instruct the League Investigation Officer to investigate the incident and make recommendations, implement the Grievance Policy or send the incident to the Independent Tribunal within 21 days. Any penalties outlined in ‘Code of Conduct Penalties’ or whatever the Independent Tribunal deems appropriate, shall apply.
11.11 Clubs which do not exercise control over their players, parents/carers of players, coach’s, officials or spectators may be called upon by the CMFNL Board to accept responsibility for their actions. The following penalties may apply (in addition to any penalties which may be imposed by the CMFNL’s Independent Tribunal)
11.12 Code of Conduct Penalties
11.12.1 First Offence: A fine not less than $250 and not exceeding $500, and/or suspension of the player from playing, and/or suspension of the offender(s) from attending future matches.
11.12.2 Second Offence: A fine not less than $500 and not exceeding $1000, and/or loss of competition points, and/or suspension of the player from playing, and/or suspension of the offender(s) from attending future matches.
11.12.3 Third Offence: A fine not less than $2000 and not exceeding $5000, and/or loss of competition points, and/or suspension of the player from playing, and/or suspension of the offender(s) from attending future matches. 11.12.4 The Code of Conduct penalties shall hold for a three year rolling period. That is, if a club breaches the Code of Conduct this year and there is one other previous offence four years ago this becomes the first offence.
12 CLUB COLOURS
12.1 Each club shall register its team colours (Football & Netball) with the League, priority of registration to determine the exclusive right to wear such colours.
12.2 No player shall take part in any match with an affiliated club, unless he or she is wearing the colours of his/her club as registered with the Board. A club shall be fined 2 units for each player who plays in any such match contrary to this by-law, provided, however, that any club may, without fine, change the colour of its uniform in any one or more matches during the season if authorized to do so by the Board. This by-law applies for footballers to jumpers, shorts and socks, for netballers to team uniforms and bibs.
12.3 Umpires shall note on the Club Excellence Award players out of uniform; indicating their club, their name(s) and the inappropriate uniform.
Page 9 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 13 PROTESTS
13.1 All clubs preferring protests, complaints, charges or disputes in connection with any League match, either football or netball, shall forward particulars of the matter to the Operations Manager no later than twelve noon on Tuesday following the match in respect of which such protest, complaint, charge or dispute is preferred, together with a fee of $300. Such fee is to be returned if the protest, charge or dispute is considered not to have been frivolous.
13.2 The Operations Manager shall immediately on receiving such protest, complaint, charge or dispute being lodged, notify the Secretary of the protested club, who shall furnish a reply within 72 hours of receipt of such notice by him. The Operations Manager shall thereupon after consultation with the Chairman of the Board, proceed to call a special meeting of the Board to deal with the protest, charge or dispute or call on the League’s Investigation Officer to investigate the matter. Upon receipt of the Investigation Officer’s report within 21 days, the Board will determine how the matter shall be dealt with. 13.3 If any club, knowing that any player of an opposing club is ineligible to play, does not prior to the match notify the team captain or manager of the club with which such player intends to play, of the fact, a protest by such first mentioned club in respect of such player will not be entertained by the League. 13.4 Any player knowing that he/she is ineligible to play, and who does not notify the captain of his own team shall be liable to disqualification or otherwise as the Board or Tribunal may think fit.
13.5 Clubs preferring complaints against players, officials or umpires for alleged offences during a League match shall report same to the Operations Manager no later than twelve pm on the Tuesday following the match committal of such offence or offences. A deposit of $200 shall accompany all complaints under this By-Law; such deposit is to be forfeited if the Investigation Committee Board considers the complaint frivolous.
13.6 Clubs preferring complaints against players, officials and umpires under the AFL Rule for Unbecoming Conduct or under NV must follow the prescribed procedures as laid down in the relevant AFL or NV Handbook.
14 LIFE MEMBERS
The Board shall elect life members of the League as per the CMFNL constitution. A nomination for life membership shall be made by a Board Member and shall be lodged with the Operations Manager not less than fourteen (14) days before the election takes place. The Operations Manager shall refer nominations to the Board for consideration and approval. This election shall be by ballot, and the person or persons nominated shall not be present in the room during the course of the discussion or election. No life member shall have a vote as such in any League meetings.
14.1 There shall be not more than two life memberships awarded annually. 14.2 The nomination of a person for Life Membership shall be in writing signed by a proposer and seconder both of whom shall be members of the Board and shall be lodged with the Operations Manager.
14.3 A person may only be elected a Life Member if three-quarters of those present at the Board meeting vote in favour thereof.
14.4 Life Members shall receive a Life Membership Badge and Certificate in recognition of their service.
14.5 Life Members’ names shall be entered on the League’s Life Membership Honour Board.
Page 10 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 14.6 Life Members shall receive a free gate pass to all games throughout the season (including finals) and a free invitation to all official functions.
15 COURSES, SEMINARS AND TRAINING
15.1 The CMFNL shall provide notification of opportunities for all members to improve their skills by attending courses, seminars and other personal development or training activities. 15.2 The CMFNL shall encourage and support members who wish to attend appropriate courses, seminars and other personal development and training activities.
16 SECESSION OF CLUB
No club having once become one of the clubs comprising or represented on the League shall be allowed to leave without the consent of the Board.
17 PLAYER EXPULSION - DISQUALIFICATION
Any Club expelling or suspending a player from its ranks shall forward to the Board within one week of expulsion or suspensions the name of such player together with particulars of the offence and the reason for such expulsion or suspension. The player shall have the right to appeal to the Independent Tribunal, within fourteen (14) days for the date of such player receives notification of such expulsion or disqualification from the club. No player whilst under suspension or disqualification shall be permitted to play any League match. No club shall be allowed to play any player who has been suspended or disqualified until the Board has finally decided his case. The League shall endorse no clearance for any player under expulsion or disqualification.
18 GENERAL MEETING STANDING ORDERS
The meetings of the CMFNL shall be convened according to the Standing Orders detailed in the Appendices of these By-Laws.
19 INVESTIGATIONS OFFICER
An Investigation Officer will be appointed by the Board to investigate any matter referred to him pursuant to the relevant AFL VIC COUNTRY Rule for Unbecoming Conduct or for any other matters at the Operations Manager or Board’s discretion.
20 COMMUNICATION TO THE LEAGUE
Any Club correspondence directed to the League by hand, post, facsimile, e-mail must be written on official Club Letterhead stationery which includes the Club incorporation number and/or Australian Business Number. Should any correspondence be received by the League that is not on official Club letterhead stationery, then it shall not be recognised as received from such Club. Any Club correspondence directed to the League by Email will only be recognised if it is received from the President, Secretary or Treasurer of the Club.
21 MEDIA STATEMENTS
The Board’s policies and media statements are conveyed through the Chairman and operational issues through the Operations Manager. If clubs have an issue with actions and intent of the Board or any of its employees they must address their concerns through the Operations Manager or the Board Chairman.
Page 11 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 22 GENERAL ITEMS 22.1 Clubs must submit Club Social notes for publication in The Footballer to the League’s printers by 10 am on Tuesday before their match. Club having the bye need not submit club notes in the upcoming round. Penalty: 10 units
22.2 Smoke Free -The CMFNL will adopt a Smoke Free policy as prescribed by Quit Victoria. This will include indoor venues and outdoor court surroundings
22.3 Sun Protection - The CMFNL will adopt a SunSmart policy as prescribed by the Cancer Council Victoria
22.4 The CMFNL has adopted the following AFL Victoria/AFL VIC COUNTRY/NV policies. These policies may be accessed on the CMFNL website:
22.4.1 Infectious Diseases Policy,
22.4.2 Smoke Free Policy
22.4.3 Alcohol Management Policy, 22.4.4 Racial & Religious Tolerance Policy,
22.4.5 Anti-Doping Policy,
22.4.6 Gender Policy,
22.4.7 De-Registration Policy, 22.4.8 Privacy Policy,
22.4.9 Cybersafety Policy
22.4.10 Hot/Cold weather policy
22.4.11 Member Protection Policy
Page 12 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 23 APPENDIX 1 – CMFNL CODE OF CONDUCT
ADMINISTRATORS On-Field Ensure appropriate rules and regulations are implemented that emphasise fair play and encourage enjoyment and sportsmanship. Administer in a just, fair and supportive manner. Role model appropriate behaviour by demonstrating integrity, equity and fairness. Respect the rights, dignity and wish of every person regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion. Off-Field At all times act responsibly and represent yourself and your league in the best possible way and in a socially acceptable manner. Respect the rights and property of others at all times. Be willing to act responsibly and mentor those who come under your direct control where you see them acting outside acceptable standards of behaviour. PLAYERS On-Field Play by and adhere to the rules of the game. Accept the authority of all umpires and game officials. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion. Off-Field At all times act responsibly and represent yourself, your club, CMFNL in the best possible way and in a socially acceptable manner. Respect the rights and property of others. COACHES On-Field Always operate within the rules and spirit of the game, teaching your players to do the same. Role model appropriate behaviour by acting with integrity and professionalism. Ensure that the time players spend with you is a positive experience. Be responsible for decisions and the consequence of actions having utmost regard for high standards. Ensure that all equipment and facilities meet safety standards. Do not tolerate behaviour that may incite players and spectators against any on field official or public display of displeasure. Show concern and caution towards sick and injured players. Follow the advise of physicians or trainers when determining whether an injured player is ready to recommence training or playing. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every player regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion. Off-Field At all times act responsibly and represent yourself, your club and the league and the AFL VIC COUNTRY in the best possible way and in a socially acceptable manner. Respect the rights and property of others at all times. Be aware that your role as the coach does not stop once the game has finished. OFFICIALS On-Field Be responsible for the conduct of players, spectators and other officials. Emphasise the spirit of the game. Be consistent, objective and courteous when making decisions. Set the example by role modelling behaviour, which is positive and supportive and demonstrates integrity and fairness. Accept responsibility for the safety and welfare of players, umpires and other officials above all else. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion. Ensure adequate supervision by qualified and competent coaches Promote respect for opponents and condemn unsporting behaviour Off-Field
Page 13 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules At all times act responsibly and represent yourself, your league/umpiring association and the AFL VIC COUNTRY in the best possible way and in a socially acceptable manner. Respect the rights and property of others at all times. SPECTATORS Respect the decisions of officials and teach young people and players to do the same Accept responsibility for your actions Refrain from any form of harassment or abuse of others (did not use foul language or harass players, coaches, officials or other spectators) Provide a safe environment for the conduct of the game Be fair, considerate and honest in dealing with others Appreciate that people participate in sport for their own enjoyment and benefit not necessarily yours Applaud good performance and efforts from all individuals and their team regardless of the outcome Condemn the use of violence in any form whether it is by other spectators, coaches, players, or officials Show respect for your team’s opponents without whom there would be no game Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.
Page 14 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 24 APPENDIX 2– MEETING STANDING ORDERS 24.1 The order of Business, except at the discretion of the Chairman shall be as follows:
Apologies Minutes of previous meeting Business arising out of minutes Confirmation of minutes Correspondence Treasurers report Other reports General Business 24.2 No member shall speak to a motion more than once without the permission of the Chairman, except the mover of the motion who shall have the right to reply. 24.3 No more than one amendment shall be accepted at one time, however, notices to future amendments may be given (foreshadowed). 24.4 A motion “that the question be now put” cannot be debated, and if seconded, such a motion shall be submitted without delay. 24.5 In dealing with correspondence, every letter after having been read or tabled, shall be taken as formally received unless a motion to the contrary be submitted and every letter be dealt with immediately after the contents have been made known. 24.6 No discussion shall take place except on a motion or amendment moved, seconded or put into writing if so demanded by the Chairman. 24.7 If the amendment is carried it shall become the substantive motion, the original motion lapsing, and there will be no necessity to put the original to the meeting. It will be competent, whether the amendment is carried or not, to receive other amendments one at a time to be decided in like manner until the subject before the Chair is finally disposed of. 24.8 Amendments No member shall propose more than one amendment. No member shall speak more than once upon the same question without the permission of the Chairman, except the mover of the amendment to the motion, thereupon all discussions shall cease and questions shall be put. Any member seconding a motion or amendment without remark shall not be held to have spoken thereon. In any case of amendments being lost, the Chairman shall put the original motion to the vote without further discussion. 24.9 A motion or amendment having been moved and seconded, debate may ensue, but not more than two speakers shall follow successively on the same side of the question. If after two speakers have so spoken, there be no other speaker to take the opposite view, the question shall be put forthwith. 24.10 Any member with consent of the Chairman may offer an explanation of any particular expression used by him, but must confine him strictly to such. 24.11 No member shall enter or leave the meeting whilst a vote or division is being taken. 24.12 In all cases where a point of order is raised, the member is speaking he shall cease until the point of order is decided, the Chairman to decide the matter and not to allow discussion.
Page 15 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules 25 APPENDIX 3 - FOOTBALL COMPETITION RULES FOR ALL GRADES These rules will form part of the By-Laws of the CMFNL.
26 APPENDIX 4 - NETBALL COMPETITION RULES FOR ALL GRADES These rules will form part of the By-Laws of the CMFNL.
Page 16 Version: March 2015 By-Laws and Rules