Southern Counties Hockey Association

 

CODE OF PITCHSIDE CONDUCT

 

It is the responsibility of the clubs to ensure that good manners and courtesy prevail towards the opposition, umpires and other officials before, during and after the game.

 

Once the pitch is available, the Match Delegate (if appointed) or home Captain shall assume authority for the pitch and its surrounding area.

 

Clubs are advised to ensure that they have adequate insurance cover and that they are aware of local health and safety legislation regarding the pitch and their facilities.

 

Captains, Umpires and Match Delegate (if appointed) should:-

 

  1. Agree the location of managers, coaches, substitutes and suspended players during their suspensions and from where substitutions will take place.

 

  1. Satisfy themselves as to the quality and safety of the pitch and its facilities and ensure that other pitch side furniture is removed to the safest location.

 

  1. Check the availability and location of an emergency telephone and first aid.

 

  1. Agree with home team officials the location and allowed proximity of spectators.

 

  1. Substitutes should warm up in clothing in a colour other than the participating teams in the agreed area of the pitch side.

 

  1. Coaches and managers must remain in their designated area.

 

  1. Vocal communication by team officials and players on the bench must not, in any way, be directed at the umpires or players of the opposing team.

 

  1. Players not taking part in the game, or those in subsequent or previous matches, must not knock up or cool down on or near the pitch while the match is in progress.

 

  1. Post match inquests should be held away from the pitch.

 

  1. Spectators should be advised, if necessary, of matters relating to their conduct and particularly in so far as this affects the game in hand.

 

k.      Small children should not be allowed to wander freely around the perimeter of the pitch while games are in progress. Children should remain under the control of the parent/guardian at all times.

 

  1. Babies in pushchairs should not be left parked on the side of the pitch

 

m.  In accordance with the Association’s Child Protection Policy clubs must provide an area where junior players, when suspended, can be supervised. (“Young players must not be left alone on the side-line without guidance or supervision, and they must wear adequate clothing in accordance with the weather conditions.”)

 

n.   Suspended players must not be allowed to go behind the back-line or goal.

 

 

Contravention of the Guidance Notes of Pitch Side Conduct should be included in any report. Umpires should advise County/League/Tournament Officials of any abuse of these Guidance Notes.

 

 

approved by Management Committee

September 2004

 

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