West Lancashire Football League Rules 2024-25
The West Lancashire League Rules 2024 – 25
This document contains the Standard Code of Rules developed by The Football Association for open age football (the “Standard Code”).
The Standard Code is mandatory for all Competitions at Regional NLS Feeder League level and below, and Tier 7 and below of The FA Women’s Pyramid
Competitions seeking sanction must draft their Rules in conformity with the Standard Code, using the same numbering and standard headings.
The mandatory rules are printed in normal text and the optional rules in italics.
It should be noted that in many cases rules are so printed because they are alternatives and the procedure to apply should be retained and the others omitted.
In all cases where a [ ] is shown the necessary name, address, number, or wording to complete that rule must be inserted.
Competitions may add to the core of the Standard Code, which is mandatory, providing the additions are approved by the Sanctioning Authority and do not conflict with the Mandatory rules or any relevant principles and policies established by the FA.
1. DEFINITIONS
(A) In these Rules:
“Affiliated Association” means an Association accorded the status of an Affiliated Association under the rules of the FA
.
“AGM” shall mean the annual general meeting held in accordance with the constitution of the Competition
.
“Club” means a club for the time being in membership of the Competition.
“Club Portal” means the system used by Clubs to affiliate teams as determined by the FA from time to time
“Competition” means the Orsted West Lancashire League.
“Competition Match” means any match played or to be played under the jurisdiction of the Competition.
“Contract Player” means any Player (other than a Player on a Scholarship) who is eligible to play under a written contract of employment with a Club.
“Deposit” means a sum of money deposited with the Competition as part of the requirements of membership of the Competition.
“Equality” means that contained in The FA Equality Policy as shown in the Appendices at the end of these rules
“Fees Tariff” means a list of fees approved by the Clubs at a general meeting to be levied by the Management Committee for any matters for which fees are payable under the Rules, as set out at Schedule A.
“Fines Tariff” means a list of fines approved by the Clubs at a general meeting to be levied by the Management Committee for any breach of the Rules, as set out at Schedule A.
“Ground” means the ground on which the Club’s Team(s) plays its Competition Matches.
“Management Committee” means in the case of a Competition which is an unincorporated association, the management committee elected to manage the running of the Competition and where the Competition is incorporated it means the Board of Directors appointed in accordance with the articles of association of that company.
“Match Officials” means the referee, the assistant referees and any fourth official appointed to a Competition Match.
“Non-Contract Player” means any Player (other than a Player on a Scholarship) who is eligible to play for a Club but has not entered a written contract of employment.
“Officer” means an individual who is appointed or elected to a position in a Club or Competition which requires that individual to make day to day decisions.
“Participant” shall have the same meaning as set out in the rules of The FA from time to time.
“Player” means any Contract Player, Non-Contract Player or other player who plays or who is eligible to play for a Club.
“Player Registration System “means The FA System to register players as determined by The FA from time to time. (ExWGS)
“Playing Season” means the period between the date on which the first competitive fixture in the Competition is played each year until the date on which the last competitive fixture in the Competition is played.
“Rules” means these rules under which the Competition is administered.
“Sanctioning Authority” means The FA and the Lancashire County Football Association Limited.
“Safeguarding” means that contained in The FA Safeguarding Children Policy as shown in the appendices at the end of these rules
“Scholarship” means a Scholarship as defined in The FA Rules.
“Season” means the period between one AGM and the next AGM.
“Secretary” means such person or persons appointed or elected to carry out the administration of the Competition.
“SGM” means a special general meeting held in accordance with the constitution of the Competition.
“Team” means a team affiliated to a Club, including where a Club provides more than one team in the Competition in accordance with the Rules.
“The FA” means The Football Association Limited.
“Virtual Meetings” means meeting held electronically
“Written” or “in writing” means the representation or reproduction of words or symbols or other information in a visible form by any method or combination of methods, whether sent or supplied in electronic form or otherwise.
(B) Unless stated otherwise, terms referring to natural persons are applicable to both genders. Any term in the singular applies to the plural and also the other way round.
GOVERNANCE RULES
2. COMPETITION NAME CONSTITUTION
(A) The Competition will be known as Orsted West Lancashire League (or such other name as the Competition may adopt). The Clubs participating in the Competition must be members of the Competition. A Club which ceases to exist, or which ceases to be entitled to play in the Competition for any reason whatsoever shall automatically cease to be a member of the Competition.
(B) This Competition shall consist of not more than 48 Clubs approved by the Sanctioning Authority.
(C) The geographical area covered by the Competition membership shall be Lancashire and Cumbria
(D) The administration of the Competition under these Rules will be carried out by the Management Committee in accordance with the rules, regulations, and policies of the FA.
(E) All Clubs shall adhere to the Rules. Every Club shall be deemed, as a member of the Competition to have accepted the Rules and to have agreed to abide by the decisions of the Management Committee in relation to them subject to the provisions of Rule 7.
(F) The Rules are taken from the Standard Code of Rules (the “Standard Code”) determined by The FA from time to time. In the event of any omissions from the Standard Code then the requirements of the Standard Code shall be deemed to apply to the Competition.
(G) 1. All Clubs must be affiliated to an Affiliated Association
2. This Competition shall apply annually for sanction to the Sanctioning Authority and the constituent Teams of Clubs may be grouped in divisions, each not exceeding 16 in number.
(H) Inclusivity and Non-discrimination
(i) The Competition and each Club must be committed to promoting inclusivity and to eliminating all forms of discrimination and should abide and adhere to The FA Equality Policy and any legislative requirements (including those contained in the Equality Act 2010).
(ii) This Competition and each Club must make every effort to promote equality by treating people fairly and with respect, by recognizing that inequalities may exist, by taking steps to address them and by providing access and opportunities for all members of the community, irrespective of age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability, or disability or otherwise.
(iii) Any alleged breach of the Equality Act 2010 legislation must be referred to the appropriate Sanctioning Authority for investigation.
(I) Clubs must comply with the provisions of any initiatives of The FA which are adopted by the Competition including, but not limited to England Football Accredited and RESPECT programs. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(J) All Participants shall abide by The Football Association Regulations for Safeguarding Children and Regulations for Safeguarding Adults at Risk as determined by The FA from time to time.
(K) Clubs shall not enter any of their Teams playing in the Competition in any other competitions (except for FA and County FA Competitions) except with the written consent of the Management Committee. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff. A Club must immediately inform the Competition of the details of any fixture(s) in any other competition in which the Club has entered, for which written consent from the Management Committee has been obtained.
(L) At the AGM or an SGM called for the purpose, most of the delegates present shall have power to decide or adjust the constitution of the divisions at their discretion. When necessary, this Rule shall take precedence over rule 22.
(M) Only one Team from a Club shall be permitted to participate in a single division unless there is no viable alternative because of logistical issues and/or reasons linked to participation and geographical boundaries in which case the Competition will obtain the prior approval of the Sanctioning Authority. This Competition will ensure that, where permission is given, Teams from a Club operating in the same division are run as separate entities with no interchange of players other than by transfers of registration in accordance with these Rules.
3. CLUB NAME
Any Club wishing to change its name must obtain permission from the Sanctioning Authority in the event that permission is granted, the Club must advise the Competition Secretary. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
4. ENTRY FEES, SUBSCRIPTION, DEPOSIT
(A) Applications by Clubs for admission to the Competition or the entry of an additional Team(s) from the same Club must be made in writing to the Secretary on or before 31st March and must be accompanied by an Entry Fee for each Team as set out in the Fees Tariff, which shall be returned in the event of non-election.
Applications, of which due notice has been given, will be received at the AGM or SGM if confirmed by the majority of the accredited voting members present
When Rule 22(B) is applied or a Team seeks a transfer or is compulsorily transferred to another division, no Entry Fee shall be payable.
(B) The annual subscription shall be payable in accordance with the Fees Tariff for each Club/Team payable at a date agreed at the AGM or set by the Competition.
(C) In the event of any issue concerning the membership of any Club with the Competition the Management Committee may require a Deposit to be paid (in accordance with the Fees Tariff) by or on behalf of the Club on such terms and for such period as it may in its entire discretion think fit. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(D) A Club shall not participate in this Competition until the entry fee, annual subscription, and deposit (if required) have been paid.
(E) Clubs must ensure that all its teams participating in the Competition are recorded as affiliated on the Club Portal for the forthcoming Playing Season by the 31st July. Clubs must advise the Competition Secretary in a manner prescribed by the Sanctioning Authority, or on the prescribed form, of details of its headquarters , its Officers and any other information required by the Competition. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff
5. MANAGEMENT, NOMINATION, ELECTION
(A) The Management Committee shall comprise the Officers of the Competition and 10 members who shall all be elected at the AGM.
(B) Retiring Officers shall be eligible to become candidates for re-election without nomination provided that the Officer notifies the Secretary in writing not later than 31st of March in each year.
All other candidates for election as Officers of the Competition or members of the Management Committee shall be nominated to the Secretary in writing, signed by the secretaries of two Clubs, not later than 31st of March each year. Names of the candidates for election shall be circulated with the notice of the AGM. In the event of there being no nomination for any office by the date stated in the earlier part of this Rule, Nominations may be received at the AGM.
(C) The Management Committee shall meet a minimum of twice a season, or as and when required.
On receiving a requisition signed by two-thirds (2/3) of the members of the Management Committee the Secretary shall convene a meeting of the Management Committee.
(D) Except where otherwise mentioned all communications shall be addressed to the Secretary who shall conduct the correspondence of the Competition and keep a record of its proceedings.
(E) All communications received from Clubs must be conducted through their Officers and sent to the Secretary.
Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
6. POWERS OF MANAGEMENT
(A) The Management Committee may appoint sub-committees and delegate such of their powers as they deem necessary. The decisions of all sub-committees shall be reported to the Management Committee for ratification. The Management Committee shall have power to deal only with matters within the Competition and not for any matters of misconduct that are under the jurisdiction of The FA or Affiliated Association.
(B) Subject to the permission of the Sanctioning Authority having been obtained, the Management Committee may order a match or matches to be played each Season, the proceeds to be devoted to the funds of the Competition and, if necessary, may call on each Club to contribute equally such sums as may be necessary to meet any deficiency at the end of the Season.
(C) Each member of the Management Committee shall have the right to attend and vote at all Management Committee meetings and have one vote at all such meetings, but no member shall be allowed to vote on any matters directly relating to such member or to that member or to the Club so represented or where there may be a conflict of interest. (This shall also apply to the procedure of any sub-committee).
(D) In the event of the voting being equal on any matter, the Chair shall have a second or casting vote.
The Management Committee shall have powers to apply, act upon and enforce these Rules and shall also have jurisdiction over all matters affecting the Competition. Any action by the Competition must be taken within 28 days of the Competition being notified.
(E) With the exception of Rules 6(I), 8(H), and 9, for all alleged breaches of a Rule the Management Committee shall issue a formal written charge to the Club concerned. The Club charged shall be given 7 days from the date of notification of the charge to reply. In such reply a Club may:
(i) Accept the charge and/or submit in writing a case of mitigation for consideration by the Management Committee; or
(ii) Accept the charge and notify the Competition Secretary that it wishes to put its case of mitigation at a hearing before the Management Committee; or
(iii) Deny the charge and submit in writing supporting evidence for consideration by the Management Committee; or
(iv) Deny the charge and notify the Competition Secretary that it wishes to have a hearing before the Management Committee.
Where the Club charged fails to respond within 7 days, the Management Committee shall determine the charge in such manner and upon such evidence as it considers appropriate.
Where required, hearings shall take place as soon as reasonably practicable following receipt of the reply of the Club as more fully set out above.
Having considered the reply of the Club (whether in writing or at a hearing), the Management Committee shall make its decision and, in the event that the charge is accepted or proven, decide on the appropriate penalty (with reference to the Fines Tariff where applicable).
With the exception of Teams playing at Regional NLS Feeder League of the National League System, the maximum fine for any breach of a Rule is £250 and, when setting any fine, the Management Committee must ensure that the penalty is proportional to the offence, taking into account any mitigating circumstances.
The maximum fine permitted for breach of rule by a Team playing Regional Feeder League level is £500.
No Participant under the age of 18 can be fined.
All breaches of the Laws of the Game, or the Rules and Regulations of The FA shall be dealt with in accordance with FA Rules by the appropriate Sanctioning Association
(F) All decisions of the Management Committee shall be binding subject to the right of appeal in accordance with Rule 7.
Decisions of the Management Committee must be notified in writing to those concerned within 7 days.
(G) A minimum 50% of its members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business by the Management Committee or any of its sub committees.
(H) The Management Committee, as it may deem necessary, shall have power to fill, any vacancies that may occur in their number.
(I) A Club must comply with an order or instruction of the Management Committee and must attend to the business and/or the correspondence of the Competition to the satisfaction of the Management Committee. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(J) Subject to a Club’s right of appeal in accordance with Rule 7 below, all fines and charges must be paid within 14 days of the date of notification of the decision. Any Club failing to do so will be fined in accordance with the Fines Tariff. Further failure to pay the fine including the additional fine within a further 14 days will result in fixtures being withdrawn until such time as the outstanding fines are paid.
(K) A Member of the Management Committee appointed by the Competition to attend a meeting or Competition Match may have any reasonable expenses incurred refunded by the Competition.
(L) The Management Committee shall have the power to fill any vacancy that may occur in the membership of the Competition between the AGM or SGM called to decide the constitution and the commencement of the Playing Season, subject the provisions of the National League System Regulations or Women’s Football Pyramid Regulations (which shall take precedence if applicable).
(M) The business of the Competition as determined by the Management Committee may be transacted by electronic mail or facsimile.
7. PROTESTS, CLAIMS, COMPLAINTS, APPEALS
(A) (i)All questions of eligibility, qualification of Players or interpretations of the Rules shall be referred to the Management Committee or a sub-committee duly appointed by the Management Committee.
(ii) Objections relevant to the dimensions of the pitch, goals, flag posts or other facilities will not be entertained by the Management Committee unless a protest is lodged with the referee prior to the commencement of the match.
(B) Except in cases where the Management Committee decide that there are special circumstances, protests, and complaints (which must contain full particulars of the grounds upon which they are founded) must be lodged with the Secretary within 7 days (excluding Sundays) of the Competition Match or occurrence to which they refer. A protest or complaint shall not be withdrawn except by permission of the Management Committee. A member of the Management Committee who is a member of any Club involved shall not be present (except as a witness or representative of his Club) when such protest or complaint is being determined.
(C) No protest of whatever kind shall be considered by the Management Committee unless the complaining Club shall have deposited with the Secretary a sum in accordance with the Fees Tariff. This may be forfeited in whole or in part in the event of the complaining or protesting Club losing its case. The Competition shall have power to order the defaulting Club or the Club making a losing or frivolous protest or complaint to pay the expenses of the inquiry or to order that the costs to be shared by the parties.
(D) All parties to a protest or complaint must receive a copy of the submission and must be afforded an opportunity to make a statement at least 7 days before the protest or complaint being heard.
(i) All parties must have received a minimum of 7 days’ notice of the hearing should they be instructed to attend.
(ii) Should a Club elect to state its case in person then it should indicate such when forwarding the written response.
(E) The Management Committee shall also have power to compel any party to the protest to pay such expenses as the Management Committee shall direct.
(F) Any appeal against a decision of the Management Committee must be lodged with the Sanctioning Authority within 14 days of the posting of the written notification of the decision causing the appeal, accompanied by a fee (as set out in the Fees Tariff), which may be forfeited in the event of the appeal not being upheld. A copy of the appeal must also be sent to the Secretary. The procedure for the appeal shall be determined by the Sanctioning Authority, the Sanctioning Authority may (but is not obliged to):
(i) invite submissions by the parties involved.
(ii) convene a hearing to hear the appeal.
(iii) permit new evidence; or
(iv) impose appropriate deadlines.
Any appeal shall not involve a rehearing of the evidence considered by the Management Committee.
(G) No appeal can be lodged against a decision taken at an AGM or SGM unless this is on the ground of unconstitutional conduct.
(H) All protests, claims or complaints relating to these Rules and appeals arising from a Player’s contract shall be heard and determined by the Management Committee, or a sub-committee duly appointed by the Management Committee. The Clubs or Players protesting, appealing, claiming, or complaining must send a copy of such protest, appeal, claim or complaint and deposit a fee (as set out in the Fees Tariff) which shall be forfeited in the event of the protest, appeal, claim or complaint not being upheld, and in these circumstances may, in addition, be ordered to pay the costs at the direction of the Management Committee.
All such protests, claims, complaints, and appeals must be received in writing by the Secretary within
14 days of the event or decision causing any of these to be submitted.
8. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
(A) The AGM shall be held not later than 30th of June in each year. At this meeting, the following business shall be transacted provided that at least 50% members are present and entitled to vote: -
(i) Confirm the minutes of the last AGM.
(ii) Adopt the annual report, balance sheet and statement of accounts from the previous season or accounting period.
(iii) Election of Clubs to fill vacancies.
(iv) Constitution of the Competition for the ensuing Season.
(v) Election of Competition Officers and the Management Committee members.
(vi) Appointment of auditors/verifiers.
(vii) Alteration of Rules, if any (see Rule 14).
(viii) Agree the date for the beginning of the Playing Season and kick off times applicable to the Competition.
(ix) Agree the date for the end of the Playing Season (save for Regional NLS Feeder League which shall be determined by the FA).
(x) Other business of which due notice shall have been given and accepted by the Chair as being relevant to an AGM.
(B) A copy of the duly audited/verified balance sheet, statement of accounts and agenda shall be forwarded to each Club at least 14 days prior to the meeting, together with any proposed Rule changes.
(C) A signed copy of the duly audited/verified balance sheet and statement of accounts shall be sent to the Sanctioning Authority within 14 days of its adoption by the AGM.
(D) Each Club shall be empowered to send two delegates to an AGM. Each Club shall be entitled to one vote only. 14 days’ notice shall be given of any AGM.
(E) Clubs who have withdrawn their membership of the Competition during the Playing Season being concluded or who are not continuing membership shall be entitled to attend but shall vote only on matters relating to the Season being concluded. This provision will not apply to Clubs expelled in accordance with Rule 12.
(F) All voting shall be conducted by a show of hands/voting cards, or a count of e-mail or virtual (for virtual meetings) unless a ballot be demanded by at least 50% of the delegates qualified to vote or the Chair so decides.
(G) No individual shall be entitled to vote on behalf of more than one Club.
(H) (i) Any continuing Club must be represented at the AGM. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff (ii) Any Club that has submitted a valid application to join the Competition for the forthcoming season must have the opportunity to be put forward for membership and to have a vote taken on their membership application.
(I) Officers of the Competition and Management Committee members shall be entitled to attend and vote at an AGM but cannot also cast a vote on behalf of a Club. (See Rule 8 (G)).
(J) Where a Competition is an incorporated entity, the Officers of the Competition shall ensure that the Articles of Association of the Competition are consistent with the requirements of these Rules.
9. SPECIAL GENERAL MEETINGS
On receiving a requisition signed by two-thirds (2/3) of the Clubs in membership the Secretary shall call an SGM.
The Management Committee may call an SGM at any time.
At least (7) days’ notice shall be given of a meeting under this Rule, together with an agenda of the business to be transacted at such meeting.
Each Club shall be empowered to send two delegates to all SGMs. Each Club shall be entitled to one vote only.
Any Club failing to be represented at an SGM shall be fined in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
Officers of the Competition and Management Committee members shall be entitled to attend and vote at all SGMs but cannot also cast a vote on behalf of a Club. (see Rule 9 (D)).
10. AGREEMENT TO BE SIGNED
Each Club shall complete and sign the following agreement which shall be deposited with the Competition together with the application for membership for the coming Season.
“We, (A) (name) [ ] of (address) [ ] (Chair)/(Director)and (B) (name) [ ] of (address) [ ] (Secretary)/(Director)of [ ] Football Club (Limited) have been provided with a copy of the Rules and Regulations of the [ ] Competition and do hereby agree for and on behalf of the said Club, if elected or accepted into membership, to conform to those Rules and Regulations and to accept, abide by and implement the decisions of the Management Committee of the Competition, subject to the right of appeal in accordance with Rule 7.”
The agreement shall be signed.
(i) Where a Club is an unincorporated association, by the Club Chair and Secretary; or
(ii) Where a Club is an incorporated entity, by two directors of the Club.
Any change of the Chair, Secretary or Directors of the Club as named on the above agreement must be notified to the Lancashire County Football Association to which the Club is Sanctioned and to the Secretary of this Competition.
Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
11. CONTINUATION OF MEMBERSHIP, WITHDRAWAL OF A CLUB
(A) Any Club intending, or having a provisional intention, to withdraw a Team from the Competition on completion of its fixtures and fulfilment of all other obligations to the Competition must notify the Secretary in writing of such intension by 31st of March each season. This does not apply to a Club moving in accordance with Rule 22(B). Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(B) The Management Committee shall have the discretion to deal with a Team being unable to start or complete its fixtures for a Playing Season, including, but not limited to, issuing a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff. In the event of a Team withdrawing from the Competition during the current season, they shall have to wait a complete season before they can re- apply.
(C) Notwithstanding the powers of the Management Committee pursuant to Rule 6(I), in the event of a Club failing to discharge all its financial obligations to the Competition in excess of £50, the Management Committee shall be empowered to refer the debt under The FA Football Debt Recovery provisions.
12. EXCLUSION OF CLUBS, TEAMS. MISCONDUCT OF CLUBS, OFFICERS, PLAYERS AND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
(A) At the AGM or SGM called for the purpose in accordance with the provisions of Rule 9, notice of motion having been duly circulated on the agenda by direction of the Management Committee, the accredited delegates present shall have the power to: (i) remove a member of the Management Committee from office; (ii) exclude any Club or Team from membership, both of which must be supported by more than two thirds (2/3) of those present and voting. Voting on this point shall be conducted by ballot. A member of the Management Committee or Club which is the subject of the vote being taken shall be excluded from voting.
(B) At the AGM, or at an SGM called for the purpose in accordance with the provisions of Rule 9, the accredited delegates present shall have the power to exclude from further participation in the Competition any Club whose conduct has, in their opinion, been undesirable, provided this is supported by more than two-thirds (2/3) of those present and voting. Voting on this point shall be conducted by ballot. A Club whose conduct is the subject of the vote being taken shall be excluded from voting.
(C) Any Officer or member of a Club found guilty of either a breach of Rule, other than field offences, or of inducing or attempting to induce a Player or Players of another Club in the Competition to join them shall be liable to such penalty as a General Meeting or Management Committee may decide, and their Club shall also be liable to expulsion in accordance with the provisions of 12A and/or 12B of this Rule.
13. TROPHIES
(A) The following agreement shall be signed on behalf of the winners of the cup or trophies:
“We (A) (name) and (B) (name), the Chair and Secretary of [ ] FC (Limited), members of and representing the Club, having been declared winners of cup or trophy, and the cup or trophy having been delivered to us by the Competition, do hereby on behalf of the Club jointly and severally agree to return the cup or trophy to the Competition Secretary on or before the March Committee Meeting. If the cup or trophy is lost or damaged whilst under our care, we agree to refund to the Competition the amount of its current value or the cost of its thorough repair.”
Failure to comply will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(B) At the close of each Competition awards may/shall be made to the winners and runners-up if the funds of the Competition permit.
14. ALTERATION TO RULES
(A) Alterations, for which consent has been given by the Sanctioning Authority, shall be made to these Rules only at the AGM or at an SGM specially convened for the purpose called in accordance with Rule 9. Any alteration made during the Playing Season to these Rules shall not take effect until the following Playing Season except in exceptional circumstances were approved by Sanctioning Authority and The FA.
(B) Notice of proposed alterations to be considered at the AGM shall be submitted to the Secretary by 31st March each year. The proposals, together with any proposals by the Management Committee, shall be circulated to the Clubs by 14th of April and any amendments to these proposals shall be submitted to the Secretary by 21st of April. The proposals and proposed amendments to these proposals shall be circulated to Clubs with the notice of the AGM. A proposal to change a Rule shall be carried if more than 50% [a majority] of those present and entitled to vote and voting are in favour.
(C) A copy of the proposed alterations to Rules to be considered at the AGM or SGM shall be submitted to the Sanctioning Authority or The FA (as applicable) at least 28 days prior to the date of the meeting.
15. FINANCE
(A) The Management Committee shall determine with which bank or other financial institution the funds of the Competition will be lodged.
(B) All expenditure of more than £250 shall be approved by the Management Committee.
(C) The financial year of the Competition will end on 30th April.
(D) The accounting records, or a certified balance sheet, of a Competition shall be prepared and shall be (audited/verified annually) by a suitably qualified person(s) who shall be appointed at the AGM.
16. INSURANCE
(A) All Clubs must always have valid public liability insurance cover for a minimum of at least ten million
pounds (£10,000,000) at all times.
(B) All Clubs must have valid personal accident cover for all Players registered with them from time to time. The Players’ personal accident insurance cover must be in place prior to the Club taking part in any Competition Match and shall be at least equal to the minimum recommended cover determined from time to time by the Sanctioning Authority. In instances where The FA is the Sanctioning Authority, the minimum recommended cover will be the cover required by the Affiliated Association to which a Club affiliates.
(C) Failure to comply with Rules 16(A) or 16(B) will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
17. DISSOLUTION
(A) Dissolution of the Competition shall be by resolution approved at an SGM by a majority of three quarters (3/4) of the members present and shall take effect from the date of the relevant SGM.
(B) In the event of the dissolution of the Competition, the members of the Management Committee are responsible for the winding up of the assets and liabilities of the Competition.
(C) The Management Committee shall deal with any surplus assets as follows:
1 Any surplus assets, save for a trophy or any other presentation, remaining after the discharge of the debts and liabilities of the Competition shall be transferred only to another Competition or Affiliated Association or The Football Association Benevolent Fund or to such other charitable or benevolent object in the locality of the Competition as determined by resolution at or before the time of winding up, and approved in writing by the Sanctioning Authority.
2 If a Competition is discontinued for any reason a trophy or any other presentation shall be returned to the donor if the conditions attached to it so provide or, if not, dealt with as the Sanctioning Authority may decide.
MATCH RELATED RULES
18. QUALIFICATION OF PLAYERS
ALL PLAYER REGISTRATIONS MUST BE DONE THROUGH THE FA PLAYER REGISTRATION SYSTEM.
5. (A) A Player is one who, being in all other respects eligible, has:
(i) Registered through the Player Registration System and received approval from the Competition, except in the case of a Player who has been registered on the day of the of a match, a Club Officer must e-mail the Competition with details of the registration 1 hour prior to the scheduled kick off time in order to be eligible to play in that match. The Player shall not play again in any subsequent match in the Competition until the Club has registered the player through the FA Player Registration System and is in possession of the approval from the Competition. A maximum of 10 Players may be registered in this manner.
(ii) Signed a fully and correctly completed Competition registration form in ink on a match day prior to playing which is countersigned by an Officer of the Club and witnessed by an Officer of the opposing Club and submitted to the Competition within two days (Sundays excluded) after the Competition Match. The Player shall not play again in a subsequent match in the Competition until the Club has registered the Player through the FA Player Registration System and is in possession of the approval of the Competition. A maximum of 10 Players may be registered in this manner.
(iii) Any registration that is not fully and correctly completed will be returned to the Club unprocessed and the player classed as unregistered. If a Club attempts to register a player via the Player Registration System but does not fully and correctly complete the necessary information via the Player Registration System, the registration will not be processed.
For Clubs registering Players under Rule 18.A.2 registration forms will be provided in a format to be determined by the Competition. For Clubs registering Players by the Player Registration System, Club must access the Player Registration System in order to complete the Registration process.
Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(B)
(i) Contract players are not permitted in this Competition with the exception of those Players who are registered under Contract with the same Club who have a team operating at Steps 1 to 6 of the National League System or Tiers 1-4 of the Women’s Pyramid System.
(ii) It is the responsibility of each Club to ensure that any Player registered to the Club has, where necessary, the required International Transfer Certificate. Clearance is required for any Player aged 10 and over crossing borders including Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.
(iii) Each Team must have at least 11 Players per Team registered 7 days before the start of each Playing Season. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(iv) In the event of a Non-Contract Player changing his status to that of a Contract Player with the same Club or with a Club in another Competition their registration as Non Contract Player will automatically be cancelled and declared void unless the Club conforms to the exception detailed in Rule 18.B.1
(C) A Player that owes a Football Debt (as defined under the Football Debt Recovery Regulations) shall be permitted to register and for a Club but will be suspended from football activities if the player does not comply with the terms of the Football Debt Recovery Regulation in respect of that Football Dept.
(D) A fee as set out in the Fees Tariff shall be paid by each Club/Team for each Player registered.
(E) The Management Committee shall decide all registration disputes.
In the event of a player signing a registration form or having a registration submitted for more than one Club in the Competition, the valid registration submitted first shall take precedence. The Secretary shall notify the Club last applying to register the player of the fact of the previous registration.
(F) It shall be a breach of Rule for a Player to: -
(i) Play for more than one Club in the Competition in the same Playing Season without first being transferred.
(ii) Having registered for one Club in the Competition, register for another Club in the Competition in that Playing Season except for the purpose of a transfer or where the Competition adopts Rule 18.P
(iii) Submit a signed registration form as per Rule 18(A)(ii) or submit a registration through the Player Registration System that the Player had willfully neglected to accurately or fully complete.
Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(G) (i) The Management Committee shall accept the registration of any Player subject to the provisions of Rules 18(G)(ii) and 18(G)(iii) below.
(ii) The Management Committee shall have power to refuse, cancel or suspend the registration of any Player or may fine any Player, at their discretion (in accordance with the Fines Tariff) who has been charged and found guilty of registration irregularities (subject to Rule 7).
(iii) The Management Committee shall have power to make application to refuse or cancel the registration of any Player charged and found guilty of undesirable conduct (subject to Rule 7) subject to the right of appeal to the Sanctioning Authority. Application should be made to the parent County of the Club the Player is registered or intending to be registered with.
Undesirable conduct shall mean an incident of repeated proven misconduct, which may deter a Participant from being involved in this Competition.
(iv) A Player who has previously had a registration removed in accordance with Rule 18(G)(iii) but has a registration accepted at the expiry of exclusion will be under a probationary period of 12 months. Whilst under a probationary period, should the Player commit a further act of proven misconduct under the jurisdiction of the Competition, (excluding standard dismissals), the Competition may consider a further charge of bringing the Competition into disrepute.
(Note: Action under Rule 18(G)(iii) shall not be taken against a Player for misconduct until the matter has been dealt with by the Sanctioning Authority, and then only in cases of the Player bringing the Competition into disrepute and will in any event be subject to an appeal to the Sanctioning Authority or the FA. All decisions must include the period of restriction. For the purpose of this Rule, bringing the Competition into disrepute can only be considered where the Player has received in excess of 112 days’ suspension, or 10 matches in match-based discipline, in any competition (and is not restricted to the Competition) in a period of two years or less from the date of the first offence.)
(H) Subject to compliance with FA rule when a Club wishes to register a player who is already
registered with another club it shall submit a transfer form notification to the Competition via the
Player Registration System. A fee as set out in the Fees Tariff may be Required.
Such transfers shall be referred by the Competition to the club for which the player is registered.
Should this club object to the transfer it should state its objections in writing to the Competition
and to the player concerned within 3 days of receipt of the notification. Upon receipt of the club’s
consent, or upon its failure to give written objection within 3 days, the Secretary may, on behalf of
the Management Committee, transfer the player who shall be deemed eligible to play for the new
Club from such date or 1 day after receipt of such transfer.
In the event of an objection to a transfer the matter shall be referred to the Management
Committee for a decision.
(I) A Player may not be registered for a Club nor transferred to another Club in the Competition after 31st March except by special permission of the Management Committee.
(J) Registrations are valid for one Playing Season only
(K) A Player shall not be eligible to play for a Team in any special championship, promotion or relegation deciding Competition Match (as specified in Rule 22(A) unless the Player has played 4 Competition Matches for that Team in the current Playing Season.
(L) A team shall not include more than 3 players who have played in 5 or more senior Competition matches during the current playing season unless a period of 21 clear days has elapsed since they played. 21 clear days is counted by excluding the day when the relevant player last played and the day when the Player intends to play again.
For the purpose of this rule all WLL League and WLL Cup Matches apply including Special games.
Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(M) Subject to Rule 18.M.2 any Club found to have played an ineligible Player in a Competition Match or Matches where points are awarded shall have the points gained from that Competition Match deducted from its record, up to a maximum of 12 points, and have levied upon it a fine (in accordance with the Fines Tariff).
(ii) The Management Committee may vary the sanction as relates to the deduction of points set out at Rule 18.M.1 only in circumstances where the ineligibility is due to the failure to obtain an International Transfer Certificate or where the ineligibility is related to the Player’s status.
(iii) Where a Club is found to have played an ineligible Player in accordance with Rule 18.M.1 above, the Management Committee may also, at its discretion order one or more of the following (if appropriate):
a) Award the points available in the Competition Match in question to the opponents, subject to the Competition Match not being ordered to be replayed; or
b) Levy penalty points against the Club in default; or
c) Order that such Competition Match or Matches be replayed (on such terms as are decided by the Management Committee).
(N) The following clause applies to Competitions involving Players in full-time secondary education: -
(ii) Priority must be always given to activities of school and school organizations. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(iii) The availability of children and young people must be cleared with the Head Teachers or Principles (except for Sunday leagues competitions).
(iv) To play open age football the player must have achieved the age of 16.
(O) A player who has played ? games for a Clubs Senior Team may not then play for the Reserves after a certain date – Not Applicable to WLL (See Cup Rules )
(P) If a Club wishes to cancel a Player’s registration within the Competition, it must make a request via The FA’s electronic player registration system giving the reasons for the request. The Competition may either approve or decline the request. This will only be allowed if the said player has not played any games for his Club. Otherwise, he will need to be officially transferred.
19. CLUB COLOURS
(A) Every Team must register the colour and design of its shirts and shorts with the Secretary by the A.G.M and the Competition Secretary shall decide as to their who shall decide as to their suitability.
(B) Any Team wishing to change the colour and/or designs of its shirts and shorts during the Playing Season must obtain permission from the Competition Secretary in advance of making that change.
(C) Goalkeepers must wear colour which distinguish them from all other Players and the Match Officials.
(D) No Player, including the goalkeeper, shall be permitted to wear black or very dark shirts.
(E) Any Team not being able to play in its normal colour as registered with the Competition shall notify its opponents of the colour in which they will play (including the colour of the goalkeeper’s jersey) at least 5 days before the Competition Match.
(F) If, in the opinion of the referee, two Teams have the same or similar colour, the AWAY Team shall make the change. Should a Team delay the scheduled time of kick off for a Competition Match by not having a change of colour they will be fined in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
The Secretary of the Competition may request that shirts be submitted if complaints are received as to a lack of distinguishing colour, and the Management Committee may refuse to permit any shirts, shorts, or stockings as they think fit.
(G) Shirts must be numbered 1 -17 (13 Optional), and no 2 shirts shall have the same number, failing which a fine will be levied in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
20. PLAYING SEASON. CONDITIONS OF PLAY, TIMES OF KICK-OFF. POSTPONEMENTS. SUBSTITUTES
(A) All Competition Matches shall be played in accordance with the Laws of the Game as determined by the International Football Association Board.
Clubs must take all reasonable precautions to keep their Grounds in a playable condition. All Competition Matches shall be played on pitches deemed suitable by the Management Committee. If through any fault of the home Team a match must be replayed, the Management Committee shall have power to order the venue to be changed.
The Management Committee shall have power to decide whether a pitch and/or facilities are suitable for Competition Matches and to order the Club concerned to play its Competition Match(es) on another ground.
Artificial Football Turf Pitches (3G) are allowed in this Competition provided they meet the required performance standards and are listed on the FA’s Register of Football Turf Pitches. https://footballfoundation.org.uk/3g-pitch-register. All Football Turf Pitches used must be tested (by a FIFA accredited test institute) every three years and the results passed to the FA. The FA will give a decision on the suitability for use and add the pitch to the Register.
The home Club is also responsible for advising Participants of footwear requirements when confirming match arrangements in accordance with Rule 20(C).
Within the Regional NLS Feeder Leagues all Competition Matches shall have a duration of 90 minutes. All other Competition Matches shall have duration of 90 minutes unless a shorter time (not less than sixty (60) minutes) is mutually arranged by the two Clubs in consultation with the referee prior to the commencement of the match, and in any event shall be of equal halves. Two matches involving the same two Teams can be played on the same day providing the total playing time is not more than 120 minutes.
The times of kick-off shall be agreed at the AGM and can only be altered by the mutual consent of the two competing Clubs and the Competition.
Referees must order matches to commence at the appointed time and must report all late starts to the Competition.
The home Team must provide goal nets, corner flags and at least two footballs fit for play and the referee shall make a report to the Competition if not provided. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
Overhead wires used to support pitch divider netting must be removed before the commencement of a game with the final decision to fitness being with the match referee.
(B) Except by permission of the Management Committee all Competition Matches must be played on the dates originally agreed but priority shall be given to The FA and parent County Association Cup Competitions. All other matches must be considered secondary. Clubs may mutually agree to bring forward a Competition match with the consent of the Competition. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
In the case of a revised fixture date, the Clubs must be given by the Competition 5 clear days’ notice of the match (unless otherwise mutually agreed) – League Rule
(C) An Officer of the home Club must give notice of full particulars of the location of, and access to, the Ground, time of kick-off and kit colours (including goalkeeper) to the Match Officials and an Officer of the opposing Club at least 5 clear days prior to the playing of the Competition match. The opposing Club must confirm receipt and give notice of its kit colours (including goalkeeper) at least 3 days prior to the playing of the Competition match If either is not so provided, the relevant Club shall seek such details and report the circumstances to the Competition. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(D) In accordance with the Laws of the Game, the minimum number of Players which will constitute a Team for a Competition Match is 7 Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(E) (i) Home and away matches shall be played. In the event of a Club failing to keep its engagement the Management Committee shall decide whether it should either: a) award the points from the Competition Match in question to the Club’s opponent (without the awarding of goals) or b) order the Competition Match to be rescheduled. The Management Committee shall also have the power to order the rescheduled Competition Match to be played on a neutral ground or on the opponent Clubs ground if they are satisfied that such action is warranted by the circumstances.
In addition, the Management Committee may at its discretion order one or more of the following (if appropriate) a) impose a fine (in accordance with the fines tariff) b) deduct points from the defaulting Club c) order the defaulting Club to pay any reasonable expenses incurred by the opponents.
(ii) Any Club with more than one Team in the Competition shall always fulfil its fixture, within the Competition, in the following order of precedence: First Team, Reserve Team, A Team.
(iii) Any Club unable to fulfil a fixture or where a Competition Match has been postponed for any reason must, without delay, give notice to at least the Press and Fixtures Secretary, the opposing Club and the Match Officials. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff
(iv) In the event of a Competition Match not being played or abandoned owing to causes over which neither Club has control, it should be played in its entirety on a date to be mutually agreed by the two Clubs and approved by the Competition. Failing such agreement and notification to the Competition within 1 days the Competition shall have the power to order the Match to be played on or on or before a given date. Where it is to the advantage of the Competition and the Management Committee shall also be empowered to order the score at the time of an abandonment to stand. Providing gate money is taken and retained the visiting Club shall receive their actual standard class rail or bus fares or the equivalent for [ ] persons, or car allowance at [ ] p per mile for transporting [ ] persons or hire charge of a coach (receipt to be submitted). The residue (if any) to be equally divided between the two Clubs after deducting the cost of advertising, printing, posting, police, and Match Officials charges. The home Club shall take the whole of the proceeds of the second Competition Match.
Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(v) The Management Committee shall review all Competition Matches abandoned in cases where it is consequent upon the conduct of either or both Teams. Where it is to the advantage of the Competition and does no injustice to either Club, the Management Committee shall order the score at the time of the abandonment to stand. In all cases where the Management Committee are satisfied that a Match was abandoned owing to the conduct of one Team or its Club member(s) they shall award the points for the Match to the opponent. In cases where a Match has been abandoned owing to the conduct of both Teams or their Club member(s), the Management Committee shall rule that neither Team will be awarded any points for that Match, and it shall not be replayed. No fine(s) can be applied by the Management Committee for an abandoned Match.
The Management Committee shall review any Match that has taken place where either or both Teams were under a suspension imposed upon them by The FA or Affiliated Association. In each case the Team that was under suspension would be dealt with in the same manner as if they had participated with ineligible players in accordance with Rule 18(M) above. Where both Teams were under suspension the game must be declared null and void and shall not be replayed.
(F) A Club may at its discretion and in accordance with the Laws of the Game use substitute Players in any Competition Match. A Club may name up to 5 substitute Players of whom not more than 5 may be used. This is NOT to be used as a Roll On, Roll Off rule. Once taken off a player cannot go back on.
The referee (original team sheet) and an official from the opposing team (copy team sheet) shall be informed of the names of all players taking part in the game including substitute players not later than 30 minutes (15 minutes for an Evening Fixture) before the start of the Competition Match and a Player not so named may not take part in that Competition Match.
A Player who has been named as a substitute before the start of the Competition Match but does not actually play in that game shall not be considered to have been a Player in that Competition Match within the meaning of Rule 18 of this Competition.
(G) The half time interval shall be of 10 minutes’ duration, but it shall not exceed 15 minutes. The half time interval may only be altered with the consent of the referee.
(H) The Teams taking part in a Competition Match shall identify a Team captain who shall wear an armband and shall have a responsibility to offer support in the management of the on-field discipline of their teammates. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(I) Where a suspension imposed in relation to a Football Debt (as defined under the Football Debt Recovery Regulations) upon a Club by the FA or Affiliated Association is not lifted, and/or the Club does not provide
confirmation from the FA or Affiliated Association is not lifted, and/or the Club does not provide
confirmation from the FA or Affiliated Association that such suspension is lifted to the Competition
Secretary by 1 day before a fixture, that fixture will be treated as an unfulfilled fixture and dealt with in
accordance with Rule 20(E).
21. REPORTING RESULTS
(A) The Registration Secretary must receive within 3 days of the date played, the result of each Competition Match in the prescribed manner. This must include the forename(s) and surname of the Team Players (in block letters) and, also the referee markings (to Dave Hesketh the Referees Secretary) required by Rule 23, or any other information required by the Competition. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(B) The Home Club (All Clubs regarding outside competitions) shall use SMS/Text to notify the result of each Competition Match to the Press Secretary within 30 minutes of the end of the game. Please supply goal scorer’s names and times of goals. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(C) The match result notification, correctly completed, shall be signed by an Officer of the Team, or as prescribed by the Competition. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
22. DETERMINING CHAMPIONSHIP
(A) Team rankings within the Competition will be decided by points with three points to be awarded for a win and one point for a drawn Competition Match. The Teams gaining the highest number of points in their respective divisions at the end of the Playing Season shall be adjudged the winners. Competition Matches must not be played for double points.
In the event of two or more Teams being equal on points at the end of the Playing Season, rankings shall be determined by the following criteria, in the order of priority in which they appear:
(NB: for Regional NLS Feeder Leagues criteria 1 and 2 are mandatory; for all other competitions they are optional) The West Lancashire League has adopted these criteria as in the past
1 Goal difference (where the goals scored against each Team shall be deducted from the goals scored by that Team and the Team with the most favourable goal difference shall be placed highest
2 In the event of two or more Teams being equal, the Team which has scored the most goals during the Playing Season shall be placed highest
3 In the event of two or more Teams being equal, the Team that has won the most matches during the Playing Season shall be placed highest
4 In the event of two or more Teams being equal, the Team which has the better playing record against the other Team in their head to head Competition Matches during the Playing Season will be placed highest
5 One-off fixture or play off games as determined by the League management committee
(B) Automatic promotion shall be applied for the first 2 Teams and automatic relegation shall be applied for the last 2 Teams in each division except as provided for below subject to the provisions of Rule 2(L).
(i) Should one or more Teams withdraw from any one division after the Playing Season has commenced an equal number of Teams to those withdrawing in that division shall not be automatically relegated.
(ii) Vacancies occurring after the conclusion of the Playing Season may be filled in any of the following ways:
(a) retention of otherwise relegated Team(s); or
(b) additional promotion of the next ranked Team(s) from the division below; or
(c) election.
(iii) The last 2 Teams in the lowest division shall retire, but be eligible for re-election except as below, and be subject to the conditions of Rule22 (B)(i) above.
(iv) When a senior Team is relegated to a lower division of which its reserve Team is a member, or entitled to be a member, such reserve Team must accept relegation to, or retain its position in, the next lower division; and should the senior Team be relegated to the lowest division its reserve Team automatically retires from the Competition.
(v) Should either or both leading Teams in any of the divisions have its senior Team in the next higher division, promotion shall fall, at the discretion of the General Meeting, to the next highest Team or Teams in the division concerned.
(C) In addition to the Team(s) automatically promoted under Rule 22(B), a maximum of one further Team shall be promoted by virtue of being the winner of a play-off match or series of matches (the “Play-Offs). The eligibility criteria and format of the Play-Offs are as follows [ ].
(D) In the event of a Team withdrawing from the Competition before completing 75% of its fixtures for the Playing Season all points obtained by or recorded against such defaulting Team shall be expunged from the Competition table. For the purposes of this Rule 22(D) a completed fixture shall include any Competition Match(es) which has been awarded by the Management Committee.
(E) Where a promotion and/or relegation link exists between Competitions, 2 Clubs, providing they meet the appropriate grading criteria, will be eligible to make application to the Football Association. Should the champion Club not wish for promotion or alternatively, not have the necessary grading criteria, then the Second or Third placed Club will be eligible under the same conditions.
At the end of each Season and depending on the geographical location of Clubs gaining promotion to or being relegated from the North West Counties Competition, it may be necessary for the Competition either (a) to accept a Club from the North West Counties Competition, or (b) have a Club transferred to the same Competition.
The bottom Clubs in the North West Counties Competition may be relegated. Each relegated Club will be allocated to the Competition recommended as most appropriate by the Joint Liaison Committee.
2 Clubs will be promoted to the North West Counties Competition from the West Lancashire League Competition, providing that each Club is either the Champion Club or Runner-up or Third placed Club and has the necessary grading criteria.
In the event of there being no eligible Club wishing promotion or not having the necessary grading criteria from any of the Competitions, this will reduce the number of Clubs to be relegated from the North West Counties Competition.
If no Clubs are eligible, or have a wish for promotion, no Clubs will be relegated from the North West Counties Competition unless they resign or are barred by Rule.
23. MATCH OFFICIALS
(A) Registered referees (and assistant referees were approved by The FA or County FA) for all Competition Matches shall be appointed in a manner approved by the Management Committee and by the Sanctioning Authority.
(B) 1. In the event of the non-appearance of the appointed referee the appointed senior assistant referee shall take charge and a substitute assistant referee appointed by the competing Teams.
2. In cases where there are no officially appointed Match Officials in attendance, the Clubs shall agree upon a referee. An individual thus agreed upon shall, for that Competition Match, have the full powers, status, and authority of a registered referee. Individuals under the age of 16 must not participate either as a referee or assistant referee in any Competition Match.
(C) Where assistant referees are not appointed each Team shall provide a Club assistant referee. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(D) Regional NLS Feeder Leagues: No Club shall postpone a Competition match on account of the apparent state of the ground. In the event that such circumstances prevail, Clubs should comply with procedures provided for in the document published by the FA “recommended procedure for the guidance of Clubs and Referees in determining the suitability if grounds in adverse weather conditions” Should the ground be declared unfit it is the responsibility of the home Club to immediately advise the Competition. The appointing Authority, the visiting Club, and the match Officials.
For those Leagues which are not Regional Feeder Leagues: The appointed Referee shall have the power to decide as to the fitness of the Ground in all Competition Matches and that decision shall be final, subject to the determination of the Local Authority or the owners of a Ground. Which must be accepted.
(E) Subject to any limits/provisions laid down by the Sanctioning Authority, Match Officials appointed under
this Rule shall be paid a match fee in accordance with the Fees Tariff. Match Officials will be paid their
fees and/or expenses by the home Club in his/her changing room before/immediately after the
Competition Match. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines
Tariff.
(F)In the event of a Competition Match not being played because of circumstances over which the Clubs
have no control, the Match Officials, if present, shall be entitled to [full fee plus expenses/half fee plus
expenses/expenses only]. Where a Competition Match is not played owing to one Club being in default,
that Club shall be ordered to pay the Match Officials, if they attend the Ground, their full fee, and
expenses. Failure to comply with this Rule will result in a fine in accordance with the Fines Tariff.
(G)A referee not keeping their engagement and failing to give a satisfactory explanation as to their non
appearance, may be reported to the Affiliated Association with which they are registered.
(H)Each Club shall, in a manner prescribed from time to time by the FA, award marks to the referee for
each Competition Match and the name of the referee and the marks awarded shall be submitted to the Competition on the prescribed form provided. Clubs failing to comply with this Rule shall be liable
to be fined (in accordance with the Fines Tariff) or dealt with as the Management Committee shall determine.
(I)The Competition shall keep a record of the markings and, on the form provided by the prescribed date
each Season, shall submit a summary to the Sanctioning Authority.
(J)The referee shall submit a report form, supplied by the Competition, giving the result of the
Competition Match, the number of Players in each Team and the time of kick-off to Mr. John Brown
within two days of the Competition Match.
(K)Match Officials can find a copy of the West Lancashire League Competition rules on the League
website or ask the Referees Appointments Secretary.
(L)Match Officials shall comply with the provisions of any initiatives of the FA and/or Sanctioning
Authority
Throughout amend references from “his” to “their” in order to be gender neutral.
Rules Specific to the Orsted West Lancashire League
Powers of Management Specific
6(N) Persons who have given distinguished service to the League may be invited to become Life Members, subject to approval by the Members at the Annual General Meeting. These individuals are entitled to attend any meeting organized by the Competition but may not vote.
Exclusion Specific
12(D) Any Club/Team not fulfilling 3 fixtures in a season shall be excluded from membership the following season unless gaining 2/3rds of any vote at the AGM/SGM.
Playing Season Specific
20(J) Clubs should call in a qualified and experienced referee wherever possible preferably with WLL experience and preferably the match referee – to determine the fitness of the ground.
Do not postpone in haste.
If postponed phone the Press Secretary (07790991895) and inform the Fixture Secretary.
20(K) In exceptional circumstances, if it is deemed necessary by the Competition Committee, points may be deducted at the start of the following season in order to discourage Clubs cancelling games at the end of the previous season which may affect the integrity of League Tables.
Match Official Specific
23(M) Appointed officials must attend the ground at least 60 minutes prior to the designated kick off time. All late arrivals causing unnecessary delay to the kick off time must be reported to the League.
23(N) Referees can wear any colour jersey as long as they do not clash with either team. Black shirts are preferred.
RULES OF THE WEST LANCASHIRE LEAGUE CUP COMPETITIONS
(A) All Cup Competitions shall be conducted in accordance with the Competition Rules where applicable and their structure, either League or Divisional shall be determined at the Annual General Meeting to suit the overall needs of the Competition.
(B) All teams shall be compelled to enter the Cup Competitions as directed by the Management Committee. The WLL Cup Competitions shall be competed for as follows:
The Richardson Cup, The Presidents Cup and The Challenge Cup shall be competed for by teams from the Premier Division, Division One and Division Two.
The Stewart Rowe Memorial Cup shall be competed for by teams from the reserve Divisions.
(C) The Club drawn first shall be designated as the home team with the game being played at their regular venue. However, when circumstances dictate, the venue and other arrangements relating to the playing of the game may be changed by mutual consent of the teams concerned and with the approval of the Management Committee.
(i) Any Cup match that is postponed twice, may have the venue changed / reversed at the discretion of the Management Committee.
(D) The Management Committee shall decide when the matches are played and Clubs who receive a bye in any round shall not be entitled to a bye in the following round.
(E) Each competing team shall consist of only bona fide playing members of their Club and who have registered in accordance with Competition Rule 18A, Cup Registrations are per season and no individual shall play for more than one Club in the same season, in the Cup Competitions.
(F) In the Richardson Cup and Stuart Rowe Memorial Trophy competitions the following shall apply: - in any preliminary and first round matches, players may be registered on the day of the fixture. For all other rounds of these Competitions players must have played 2 WLL Competition fixtures for the Club, however, to be eligible for any semi-final or final ties, the player must have played in a minimum of 4 WLL Competition fixtures. In the Presidents Cup and the Challenge Cup Competitions, in the first and second rounds, players must have played 2 WLL Competition fixtures for the Club, however to be eligible for any semi-final or final ties, the player must have played in a minimum of 4 WLL Competition fixtures. Furthermore, in the event of a fixture being postponed / abandoned: only those players eligible to take part in the original fixture are eligible to participate in the rescheduled tie. Please take note of Rule J. Any team found to be in breach of this rule will be fined and expunged from ALL cup competitions.
(G) All Questions of eligibility, Qualification of competitor’s interpretation of the rules or laws, shall be referred to the Management Committee, whose decision shall be final, subject to the Appeals Committee, Any team found to have played an ineligible player will be expunged from all the Cup Competitions and will be fined and their opponents will take their place in the Competition, In the case of a losing club playing an ineligible player they will be fined and may be further dealt with.
(H) All protests, claims, and complaints must be in writing and two copies sent to the Secretary within 48 hours (exclusive of Sundays) of the alleged offence or cause for a claim or complaint. The Secretary shall thereupon notify all parties concerned, and inform them when such protest, claim or complaint will be heard, or decided upon. No barrister or solicitor shall be allowed to represent any club, unless he/she is the secretary of the club concerned and his name appears in the official list of secretaries or in the rule book. A deposit of £35 must accompany each protest, claim or complaint. In the event of such protest, claim or complaint, being upheld, the offending club may be held responsible for all the expenses necessitated by inquiry, and be further dealt with as the Management Committee may decide; but should a protest, claim or complaint be not upheld, the deposit may be forfeited and paid over to the funds of the League.
(I)Any objection relative to the ground, goalposts, bar, or other appurtenances of the game, must be made to the referee and captain before the time fixed to kick-off. If possible, the fault must be remedied.
(J)A player having played in the Richardson Cup, preliminary or first round matches may still play in the Stewart Rowe Trophy provided they have not played in the senior WLL team of their Club (Premier, Division 1, Division 2 or Richardson Cup ) on 5 or more occasions throughout the season
(i)A player having played in the Presidents or Challenge Cup Competitions, may not then play in the Stewart Rowe Memorial Trophy
(ii) Note: A player having played in the Stewart Rowe Memorial Trophy, may play in the Richardson, Presidents or Challenge Cup Competitions for the same Club, but may not then play again in the Stewart Rowe Memorial Trophy.
(iii)No player can represent more than one Club in any WLL Cup Competition in the same season
(iv)No player can represent more than one team in the Stewart Rowe Memorial Trophy.
Any Club/Team found in breach of these will be fined as per the fines tariff and expunged from the relevant Cup Competition.
(K) The duration of each match shall be 90 minutes in all games unless Rule 20A is applied. All matches shall be completed on the day and if the scores are level after 90 minutes, the tie shall be determined by the taking of penalties in accordance with the procedure adopted by The International Football Association Board.
(L) All arrangements for all semi-final and final ties shall be at the discretion of the Management Committee who reserves the right to nominate the ground on which these games will be played. For all such ties, the Management Committee shall retain the balance of receipts after payment of the costs incurred to facilitate the fixtures has been made. Clubs contesting semi-final and final ties shall each submit 2 match balls of good quality” to the Referee in charge at least 15 minutes prior to the time of the commencement of the game via their nominated Club Officers. The ‘home’ Club shall report the result and other items in a semi-final game.
(M) For all Final Ties Match Officials will receive a medal, match fee and their expenses.
We are indebted to the companies and individuals listed below who kindly sponsored our competitions and awards.
Orsted (Main Sponsor)
Miller and Roskell
Kay’s Commercial Estates (Blackpool)
Mrs. S Rowe
Top Trophies North
3G football pitches may only be used provided conditions (1) to (5) below have been met (the “Performance Standard”):
1 The pitch must be surfaced with 3G football turf that has laboratory type approval according to the FIFA
Quality Concept for Football Turf (2012 & 2015 editions) – FIFA Recommended One Star/Quality level/
BS/EN15330-12013 / BS/EN 14877 2013 standard.
2 The 3G football turf pitch must be listed on The Association’s register of 3G football turf pitches before use is permitted.
1 3 Where a 3G football turf pitch is not yet listed on The Associations register (for example if it is a newly installed pitch), a Club must obtain a Laboratory Performance Test Report and submit it to The Association.
2 4 The Association reserves the right to instruct a Club to have its pitch tested at any time in order to ensure that it meets the Performance Standard. All such test shall be at the Club’s expense.
3 5 The 3G football turf, including run-offs, shall be one continuous playing surface and shall be green in colour at least 1 metre from the edge of the touchline and goal line. All line markings shall be in accordance with the Laws of Association Football.
It should be noted that:
• To achieve the FIFA Quality performance standard that a pitch must be a minimum of 100 metres x 64 metres.
• For a Club to use a 3G football turf pitch at Step 6 or above it would be subject to annual testing which would be at the Clubs expense.
• To be eligible for other competitions such as but not limited to FA Competitions, the pitch may need to be a minimum of 100 metres x 64 metres. Please check this with the relevant competition Rules.
DESIREABLE GROUND GRADING GUIDLINES
When considering any developments of ground to comply with the requirements of this grade, clubs are recommended to bear in mind the criteria for higher gradings which might be achieved for minimal expense.
NB The suitability of all installations shall be at the sole discretion of the FA Ground Grading Technical Panel
1. GROUND
1.1 Security of Tenure
Where a club does not own the freehold of their ground then evidence of adequate security of tenure must be provided. This will be in-line with the principles of Rule 2.3.2 from the FA’s Standardised Rules.
1.2 Ground Share
Ground sharing would be at the discretion of each league within the National League System, considering local circumstances. Where ground sharing is permitted the club must have sole control over and use of facilities on match days.
Ground sharing must not be allowed in for a club to gain promotion.
1.3 Capacity
There is no stated ground capacity.
1.4 Boundary of Ground
There is no requirement for a ground to be enclosed in any way.
1.5 Clubhouse
A clubhouse facility, whilst being desirable, is not compulsory.
If a clubhouse facility exists, either on or adjacent to the ground, this should be open on match days to provide refreshments to spectators.
1.6 Car Parking
There should be adequate car parking facilities on or adjacent to the ground.
1.7 Pitch Perimeter Barrier
As a minimum, there must be post and rope surrounding the pitch on all those sides that may be occupied by spectators.
The barrier, if other than solid wall type of construction may be infilled. Advertising boards may be acceptable as a means of infill. Any barrier installed at new grounds should be purpose designed, with integrated infill panels as required and be made from UPVC or coated metal.
Ideally, there should be a minimum of 1,83 meters, ideally 2 meters between the touchline, goal line and the pitch perimeter barrier.
1.8 Pitch Standards
The playing surface will be grass, unless otherwise authorised by the respective League Rules and must be of an acceptable standard. It must be free from surface depressions and excessive undulations.
The maximum slope allowable shall not exceed an even gradient of vertical to horizontal 1: 41 in any direction.
1.9 Playing Area
The playing area is to be in accordance with the requirements of the Laws of the Game. Law states that the length of the touchline must be greater than the length of the goal line.
Length - Minimum 90 m (100 yds) Maximum 120 m (130 yds)
Width - Minimum 45 m (50 yds) Maximum 90 m (100 yds)
It should be noted that at Grade H the playing area must be a minimum of 100 meters x 64 meters, and this is the recommended minimum size at Step 7.
Goal posts and goal net supports should be of professional manufacture and conform to the current safety requirements and to the requirements of the Laws of the Game.
Reference should be made to the Goalpost Safety Information booklet published by The Football Association.
Technical Areas
Portable trainers’ boxes are permitted and must be securely fixed when in use.
It is desirable for a Technical Area to be marked out in accordance with the guidelines contained in the “Laws of the Game” booklet.
1.10 Secure Walkway
A secure walkway is not a requirement.
1.11 Floodlighting
Floodlighting is not compulsory at this Grade.
However, where it is provided it must be to an average lux reading of 120. No single reading can be less than one quarter of the highest reading to ensure an even spread of light.
Reading shall be on a grid of 88 markings (8 across, 11 down) evenly spaced with the outside readings falling on the pitch boundary line. The average of all the readings is taken to be the average illumination level in lux of the floodlighting installation.
The lux values must be tested every two years in accordance with current guidelines by an approved independent contractor.
When new or improved installations are being planned, an average lux reading of 180 should be provided.
Public Address System
A public address system is not compulsory.
1.12 Entrances
There is no requirement for fixed entry points. However, where a turnstile is installed, it must be fully operational and of the controlled revolving type and offer protection and security to the operator.
1.13 Exits
Where fixed exit points are provided, there must be sufficient to ensure the safe evacuation of the ground if necessary.
All exits must be clearly signposted.
1.14 Emergency Access
Access for emergency services should be provided.
2 SPECTATOR FACILITIES
2.1 Seated Accommodation
Seated accommodation is not a requirement.
2.2 Covered Standing Accommodation
Covered accommodation is not compulsory.
Hard standing is not compulsory.
However, where it is provided, it must be a minimum width of 0.9metres, measured from the spectator’s side of the pitch perimeter barrier where provided.
2.3 Toilets
Provision should be made for adequate toilet facilities.
2.4 Refreshment Facilities
Refreshment facilities for spectators are not compulsory.
3 DRESSING ROOM FACILITIES
All dressing rooms must be secure and suitable for purpose.
3.1 Players
Separate dressing rooms must be provided for both teams. Existing dressing room dimensions will be in order, provided if they are of a minimum of 12 square metres, excluding shower and toilet areas.
However, clubs wishing progress should be aware of the need to increase to a minimum of 18 square metres. Where clubs are planning to build new changing rooms, these must be planned to a minimum size of 18 square metres, excluding shower and toilet areas.
Each dressing room should have the following:
A shower area comprising of at least 3 working showerheads – if not located in the dressing room, then they must be located adjacent to it.
Adequate toilet facilities exclusively for the use of players - if not located in the dressing room, then they must be located adjacent to it and must not be accessible to the public.
Hot and cold running water
Shared shower facilities are not acceptable.
Ideally separate toilet facilities should be provided for each team. It is not acceptable for players & match officials to share toilet facilities.
In order to be considered for promotion to step 6, clubs must have en-suite shower & toilet facilities with a minimum of 4 showerheads.
3.2 Match Officials
Separate dressing rooms must be provided for match officials, the minimum size of which shall be 4 square meters excluding shower & toilet areas.
Each match official’s dressing room should have the following:
At least 1 working showerhead.
Adequate toilet facilities, exclusively for the use of match officials, which must be separate from those provided for the players. These do not necessarily need to be situated in the dressing room but must not be accessible to the public.
Hot & cold running water.
Provision should be made for changing accommodation for both male and female match officials.
When new changing rooms are being planned or existing changing rooms refurbished, an area of 6 square meters and facilities for mixed gender match officials should be provided.
All dressing room areas to be maintained to a high level of cleanliness and secure on match days.
4 Medical
There must be a suitable qualified person (minimum F.A. Save a Life) in attendance.
All clubs must provide first aid equipment at their ground.
All Clubs are required to have a Medical Emergency Action Plan (MEAP), or equivalent, in place. A copy of which must be submitted to the League Secretary / Grounds Chairman on the standard form provided by no later than 1st August in each year displayed in a prominent public area in the clubhouse and/or dressing rooms.
APPENDIX (A) – PLAYERS WITHOUT WRITTEN CONTRACTS
FA Rule C2
(a) Regulations Concerning Approaches
Players who are not under written contract to a Club may be registered with several Clubs at any time, subject to the following provisions and those of the Competitions in which they play:
(i) Competitions sanctioned by The Association under Regulation 3 of the “Regulations for the Sanction and Control of Competitions” may make their own regulations for the approach of Players between Clubs of the Competition
(ii) During the Current season any Club wishing to approach a Player known to be registered with or having played for any other Club must give to the Secretary of each such Club seven days’ formal written notice of the intention to approach the Player.
Formal written note of approach need be given by:
(A) a Saturday Club only to all Saturday Clubs
(B) a Sunday Club only to all Sunday Clubs
(C) a midweek Club only to all midweek Clubs
(iii) The written notice must be sent by Special Delivery or Recorded Post, or a written acknowledgment otherwise obtained from the Secretary or Chairman of the Club approached, Facsimile or e-mail transmission may be used provided a receipt of acknowledgment is also obtained.
(iv) Following the date of posting of the written notice of approach, or receipt of an acknowledgment:
(A) The player may be registered on or after the eighth day,
(B) The player must have been registered on or before the 21st day.
(v) The approaching Club (A) must not approach the same Player a second time in the same season; (B) may approach only one (1) Player at a Club at any time subject to (ix) below; (C) may not approach another Player at the same Club within 28 days of an earlier notice of approach or acknowledgment.
(vi) If an approach is made by a Player to another Club during the current season, that Club shall give the Club(s), for which the Player is known to be registered or has played, seven days of notice of approach as set out in (i) to (iv) above before registering the Player.
(vii) A Club which is the subject of a complaint alleging failure to give notice in accordance with this rule may be subject to a charge of misconduct under FA Rule E1(b).
(viii) A Club proved to have breached the provisions of this Rule may have its current registration of the Player cancelled and be subject to such other penalty as The Association or Affiliated Association deems appropriate, in accordance with Regulation 8.1 of the Regulations for FA Disciplinary Action.
(ix) During the current season, a maximum of two Players may be approached in the manner described above if invited to trial at a licensed Football Association / FA Premier League / Football League Academy or Centre of Excellence.
2(b) Conditions
(i) All payments made to players must be made by the Club and fully recorded in the accounting records of the Club.
(ii) All salaried payments must be subject to PAYE and National Insurance.
(iii) Any players paid expenses must be reimbursed via an expense claim form. The Club must retain all expense records in a format acceptable to the Inland Revenue.
(iv) A currently registered Player shall not be allowed to register with another Club without first satisfying the Club Officials of the intended Club that all reasonable financial and other liabilities have been discharged to the Club or Clubs with which the Player is or was known to be registered in the current and previous season.
(v) While serving in any branch of Her Majesty’s Regular Forces, a Player may not hold a contract of employment with any Club under the jurisdiction of The Association or an Affiliated Association.
(vi) Neither a Club nor any person may attempt to induce a Player of a Club of any branch of Her Majesty’s Regular Forces to play for another Club during the current season* without at least 14 days’ written notice of approach - in the case of the Army to the Secretary of the Army Football Association, - in the case of the Royal Navy to the Secretary of the Royal Navy Football Association and in the case of the Royal Air Force to the Player’s Commanding Officer. The written notice must be sent by Special Delivery or Recorded Post, or a written acknowledgment otherwise obtained. Facsimile or e-mail transmission may be used provided a receipt of acknowledgment is also obtained.
(i) Players are required to inform Civilian Clubs of their rank and service number, which information must be stated on League or other registration forms.
Please note: a current season runs from 01 July to the following 31st May
APPENDIX (B) – GENERAL ADVICE
MANAGEMENT, NOMINATION, ELECTION
4. (A) The Competition shall be governed in accordance with the Rules and Regulations of The Football Association by a Management Committee comprised of the Officers and up to eight members who shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting. All Participants shall abide by the Football Association Regulations for Safeguarding Children as determined by the Association from time to time.
(B) Retiring Officers shall be eligible to become candidates for re-election without nomination. All other candidates for election as Officers or Members of the Management Committee shall be nominated to the Secretary in writing, signed by the Secretaries of two Member Clubs, not later than 31st March each year. Names of candidates for election shall be circulated with the notice of the Annual General Meeting. In the event of there being no nomination in accordance with the foregoing for any office, nominations may be received at the Annual General Meeting.
(C) The Management Committee shall meet at least quarterly.
On receiving a requisition signed by two-thirds of the Members of the Management Committee the Secretary shall convene a meeting of the Committee.
(D) Except where otherwise mentioned all communications shall be addressed to the Secretary who shall conduct the correspondence of the Competition and keep a record of its proceedings.
(E) All communications received from Clubs must be conducted through their nominated Officers.
2E No person may act as both Treasurer and Secretary without the written approval of the
Lancashire Football Association.
8D The intention of this rule is to ensure that player’s discharge their responsibilities to clubs who may have paid fines/administration charges on their behalf, in respect of the current season or season just ended. Similarly, clubs are expected to report to their County Association, at the end of each season, players who have failed to reimburse them for such monies paid on their behalf.
10I For matches played under the rules and regulations of the West Lancashire League. The League Management Committee will not accept any lack of respect shown towards match Officials.
13J Any person who is dismissed from the technical/dugout area by the Referee shall leave the field of play and its vicinity immediately and retire to the dressing room area, where they shall remain for the duration of the match. It is not permissible for this person to have any contact or dialogue with the match officials during or after the game.
10C Clubs and competitions requiring details of Testing Institutes should Contact
facilitiesinfo@thefa.com
13 The referee shall inspect the player’s equipment and prevent any player wearing anything considered to be dangerous from playing until he complies with Law 5
This means the wearing of any kind of jewelry as shown in Law 5
13 Appointments given must be accepted within 3 days of receipt of fixtures to the Referees Appointments Officer either by email or post, failure to do so may incur a report to his/hers Association.
MERITORIOUS AWARDS
18 The Wilson Carradus Trophy is awarded to the club that receives the highest number of marks during the season marked on the weekly team sheet. These marks are awarded by the away clubs and match referees to the host club for reception, hospitality and sportsmanship shown to their visitors off the field.
The Secretary of the Season Trophy this is awarded by League Officers considering individual knowledge of each officer in his/her dealings with club secretaries.
The Exceptional Merit Award will be made when a club or individual has given service of distinction or exceptional merit to the competition.
The Fair Play Cup is awarded to the club with the best disciplinary record as decided by the Management Committee.
The Wilf Carr Trophy will be played for at the start of each season between the League Champions and the Richardson Cup winners at a ground decided by the Fixture Secretary.
Equality Policy
Safeguarding Children
Should be renumbered as 4 not 1
Should be renumbered as 5 not 1 AND 6 not 2 AND 7 not 3 AND 8 not 4
SCHEDULE A
FEES TARIFF
RULE NUMBER DESCRIPTION MAXIMUM FEE
4 (A) CLUB ENTRY FEE £100 Per Team
4 (B) CLUB/TEAM ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION £190/£290 1/2Teams
4 (C) DEPOSIT £100
7 (C), 7 (E), 7(G) PROTEST/APPEAL FEES £35
18 (D) PLAYER REGISTRATION FEE Free
18 (H) TRANSFER FEE £5
23 (E) REFEREE FEES (Premier) £45
23 (E) REFEREE FEES (Premier Assistant) £28
23(E) REFEREE FEES (Division 1,2, & Reserves) £45
23(E) REFEREE FEES (Assistant) Division 1,2, & Reserves) £28
Mileage at £0.30 per mile
RULE NUMBER DESCRIPTION MINIMUM/MAXIMUM FINE
2 (G) FAILURE TO AFFILIATE £50 £250
2 (I) FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH FA INITIATIVES £25 £250
2 (K) UNAUTHORISED ENTRY OF TEAMS INTO COMPETITIONS £40 £250
3 FAILURE TO OBTAIN CONSENT FOR A CHANGE OF CLUB NAME £25 £250
4 (C) FAILURE TO PAY A DEPOSIT £25 £250
4(E) FAILURE TO FILL IN CORRECT DETAILS ON TIME IN THE CLUB PORTAL £50 £250
5(E) COMMUNICATIONS CONDUCTED BY PERSONS OTHER THAN NOMINATED OFFICERS £25 £250
6 (H) FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH AN INSTRUCTION OF THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE £25 £250
6 (I) FAILURE TO PAY A FINE WITHIN REQUIRED TIMEFRAME £25 £250
8 (H) FAILURE TO BE REPRESENTED AT AGM £50 £250
9(E) FAILURE TO BE REPRESENTED AT SGM £50 £250
10 FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE REQUIRED WRITTEN AGREEMENT OR TO NOTIFY CHANGES TO SIGNATORIES £25 £250
11(A) FAILURE TO PROVIDE NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL BEFORE DEADLINE £100 £250
11 (B) FAILURE TO COMMENCE/COMPLETE FIXTURES £100 £250
13 (A) FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE REQUIRED WRITTEN AGREEMENT REGARDING THE TROPHY £25 £250
16(C) FAILURE TO HAVE THE REQUIRED INSURANCE £25 £250
18 (A) FAILURE TO CORRECTLY REGISTER A PLAYER £25 £250
18 (B) (iii) FAILURE TO HAVE THE REQUIRED NUMBER OF REGISTERED PLAYERS PRIOR TO THE SEASON COMMENCING £25 £250
18 (F) REGISTERING OR PLAYING FOR MULTIPLE CLUBS, OR INACCURATE COMPLETION OF A REGISTRATION FORM £25 £250
18 (G)(ii) REGISTRATION IRREGULARITIES £25 £250
18 (L) FIELDING MORE THAN THE PERMITTED NUMBER OF PLAYERS WHO HAVE PARTICIPATED IN SENIOR COMPETITIONS MATCHES £40 £250
18 (M) PLAYING AN INELIGIBLE PLAYER £40 £250
18(N) FAILURE TO GIVE PRIORITY TO SCHOOL ACTIVITIES £25 £250
19(F) DELAYING KICK OFF DUE TO NO CHANGE OF COLOURS £25 £250
19(G) FAILURE TO NUMBER SHIRTS/DIFFERENT NUMBERS £25 £250
20(A) DELAYING KICK OFF DUE TO FAILURE TO PROVIDE REQUIRED EQUIPMENT £25 £250
20 (B) FAILURE TO PLAY MATCHES ON THE DATE FIXED £40 £250
20 (C) FAILURE TO PROVIDE DETAILS OF A FIXTURE £25 £250
20 (D) PLAYING MATCH WITH LESS THAN REQUIRED NUMBER OF PLAYERS £5 £250
20 (E) (i) (iii) & (iv) FAILURE TO PLAY FIXTURE £40 £250
20 (H) NO CAPTAIN’S ARMBAND £10 £250
21 (A) LATE RESULT NOTIFICATION FORM £10 £250
21 (B) FAILURE TO PROVIDE RESULT £10 £250
21(C) RESULT NOTIFICATION NOT SIGNED BY APPROPRIATE SIGNATORIES £10 £250
23 (C) FAILURE TO PROVIDE CLUB ASSISTANT REFEREE £20 £250
23 (E) FAILURE TO PAY MATCH OFFICIALS’ FEES AND EXPENSES £25 £250
23 (F) FAILURE TO PAY MATCH OFFICIALS WHERE A MATCH IS NOT PLAYED £25 £250
23 (H) FAILURE TO PROVIDE REFEREE’S MARK £10 £250
Recurring Formal Charge Notices to a Club and for other regular misdemeanors will incur extra fines for each extra repetitive offence i.e. d
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