1. Zero Tolerance & Anti-Bullying Policy

Zero Tolerance Policy

To help prevent physical assault, verbal abuse, and unsportsmanlike conduct, FTBL Academy has adopted a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY.

• Scope: This applies to all coaches, players, parents, spectators, and referees before, during, and after any event.

• Prohibited Behavior: Abusive/obscene language, violent play/conduct, fighting, racial abuse, and other detrimental behavior (including sarcasm and taunting) will not be tolerated.

• Consequences: We reserve the right to remove any participant found bullying, endangering others, or being generally disruptive from our courses without refund.

Anti-Bullying Stance

FTBL Academy provides a healthy and safe environment. We define bullying as unwanted, aggressive behavior involving a real or perceived power imbalance that is repeated or has the potential to be repeated.

Types of Bullying:

• Verbal: Saying or writing mean/threatening things.

• Social: Hurting someone’s reputation or relationships.

• Physical: Hurting a person’s body or possessions.

Strict Penalty: If a player is caught bullying another player, they will be immediately terminated from FTBL Academy.

2. Code of Conduct: Players

I agree to the following standards to encourage good sportsmanship and development:

• Respect: I will treat coaches, teammates, opponents, officials, and fans with respect at all times, regardless of race, sex, creed, or ability.

• Self-Control: I will control my temper and resist the temptation to retaliate.

• Fair Play: I will respect the rules of soccer and abide by them.

• Officials: I will respect game officials and refrain from commenting on their decisions during or after the game.

• Language: I will avoid abusive or profane language, taunting, racial/humiliating remarks, gestures, or physical assault.

• Humility: I will be humble in victory and courteous in defeat.

3. Code of Conduct: Parents & Spectators

Participation in FTBL Academy programs is a privilege. Parents and spectators are expected to represent our community with dignity.

Sideline Etiquette

• No Sideline Coaching: Spectators’ instructions often conflict with the coach’s plan and confuse the players. Please refrain from coaching from the sidelines.

• Respect Officials: Refrain from questioning decisions or challenging authority.

• Alcohol Policy: Coolers containing alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited at the field.

• Positioning: If stadium seating is unavailable, please stand or place chairs well behind touchlines to avoid interfering with the game.

Communication & Logistics

• Punctuality: Players should arrive 10 minutes prior to practice and 45 minutes prior to games.

• Absences: Notify the team manager or coach immediately if your child cannot attend.

• Disputes: Parents are required not to engage negatively with other parents or players. Allow the coach to settle disputes.

• Talking to Coaches: Speaking to coaches during a game or practice is forbidden. Please address concerns after the event or schedule a meeting.

• Chain of Command: Issues should be directed to the Coach first. If unresolved, a meeting with the Program Coordinator and then the Director of Coaching will be arranged.

Information

• Privacy: FTBL Academy staff will not discuss specific information regarding a player with anyone other than that player’s family.

4. Social Media Policy

When using social media in relation to FTBL Academy:

• Safety: Do not post the location of team hotels or photos from inside private hotel rooms during travel.

• Conduct: Do not use profanity, racial slurs, or speak negatively about players, coaches, opponents, officials, or the Academy.

• Positivity: We encourage you to post positive content using our hashtags (e.g., #FTBLAcademy).

5. Waivers & Releases

By registering for FTBL Academy activities, you agree to the following legal stipulations:

Assumption of Risk I understand that soccer activities involve inherent risks including, but not limited to, physical injury, fatigue, broken bones, concussion, paralysis, and death. I assert that my participation is voluntary and I knowingly assume all such risks. I understand FTBL Academy advises me to seek physician advice before participating and that I am responsible for my own health insurance coverage.

Hold Harmless, Indemnity, and Release I agree to defend, hold harmless, indemnify, and release FTBL Academy employees, agents, and volunteers from any claims regarding damage to personal property, personal injury, or death resulting from participation. This release includes claims based on negligence but excludes intentional misconduct or gross negligence.

Consent for Emergency Treatment I authorize FTBL Academy to consent to emergency medical care on my behalf if necessary and agree to be responsible for all charges incurred.

Media & Photo Release

• Usage: Photos and videos taken of the applicant are the property of FTBL Academy and may be used for promotional media, broadcasts, or publications without compensation or further consent.

• Privacy Protection: FTBL Academy will never publish a player’s address or telephone number. Last names will not be published in connection with an image unless previously published by a third party (e.g., a newspaper article).

6. Enforcement

Any parent, guardian, spectator, or player violating this Code of Conduct may face disciplinary action. Violations will be reported to the club and may result in immediate action, up to and including permanent ban/suspension from ALL FTBL Academy activities.