When joining Future Football Elite, all players and their families are expected to uphold our Code of Conduct and embrace our philosophy of respect, development, and professionalism in football. The FA’s Respect campaign emphasises that the future of the game relies on high standards of behaviour both on and off the pitch.

What Is Respect?

Respect is more than a slogan—it’s a behavioural code that applies to everyone involved in football. It means:

• Prioritising the integrity of the game over results
• Recognising acceptable and unacceptable behaviour
• Creating a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all
• Taking responsibility for one’s actions
• Supporting referees and coaches in their roles
• Uniting the game through collective responsibility

The Respect Code of Conduct outlines behaviours that support a positive football experience and lists potential consequences if the code is not followed.

Future Football Elite Players – Code of Conduct

As a player, I will:

• Play fairly and with honesty
• Not cheat, dive, waste time, or argue with officials
• Respect my teammates, opponents, referees, and coaches
• Follow the rules and accept the referee’s decisions
• Be gracious in both victory and defeat
• Show respect to the opposing team and officials at all times
• Listen to my coach and act in the best interest of the team
• Speak to someone I trust or the Welfare Officer if something upsets me

If I do not follow this code, I understand that any of the following may happen:

• Be asked to apologise to teammates, coaches, or visiting clubs
• Receive a formal warning or be excluded from game scenarios
• Be suspended from training or asked to leave the academy
• Have my parent/guardian informed of my behaviour
• Be subject to formal action by the County FA or The FA

Future Football Elite Spectators – Code of Conduct

We all share the responsibility to create a positive environment where children can learn, grow, and enjoy football. By setting a good example, we shape how our children behave and experience the game.

As a parent or spectator, I will:

• Remember that children play for fun and development
• Celebrate effort and good play from both teams
• Respect referees, coaches, and their decisions
• Stay behind the touchline in designated spectator areas
• Allow the coach to do their job without offering conflicting instructions
• Encourage players after mistakes and promote resilience
• Never use or tolerate offensive, abusive, or threatening language or behaviour
• Promote respect for all players, officials, and opponents

WhatsApp & Social Media Policy

As a parent, guardian, or spectator, I agree to communicate respectfully with Future Football Elite coaching staff and representatives. I will not post aggressive, abusive, or negative feedback on platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or others. I understand the importance of a 24-hour cooling-off period before raising any concerns about training or match scenarios. This allows time for thoughtful communication and avoids misunderstandings or emotional reactions.