Shouldham Youth Football Club – Membership Rules
1. Membership Eligibility

• Membership of Shouldham Youth Football Club (“the Club”) is open to children and young people who meet the relevant age criteria for their team.

• All players under the age of 18 must be registered by a parent or legal guardian.

• Membership is accepted at the discretion of the Club and may be withdrawn if these rules are not adhered to.
   

2. Acceptance of Club Policies

By registering as a member of Shouldham Youth Football Club, players and parents/guardians confirm that they have read, understood and agree to comply with all Club policies, including but not limited to:

• Safeguarding Policy

• Codes of Conduct (Players, Parents/Carers, Coaches)

• Equality Policy

• Complaints Procedure

• Privacy Policy

• Medical Emergency and Welfare Guidance

All policies are published on the Club website and are subject to periodic review and update. Continued membership constitutes acceptance of any updates made.
 

3. Behaviour and Conduct

• Members, parents/carers and spectators are expected to uphold the Club’s values of respect, fair play, teamwork and sportsmanship at all times.

• Discriminatory, abusive, aggressive or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.

• Failure to comply with the Club’s Codes of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, suspension or termination of membership.
   

4. Safeguarding and Welfare

• The Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

• All concerns relating to safeguarding or welfare must be reported in line with the Club’s Safeguarding Policy.

• Members and parents/guardians must co‑operate with safeguarding procedures at all times.
   

5. Registration, Fees and Information Accuracy

• Membership is only valid once registration is complete and any applicable fees have been paid.

• Parents/carers must ensure that all personal, medical and emergency contact information provided is accurate and kept up to date.

• Failure to disclose relevant medical or welfare information may place the player at risk and could invalidate membership.
   

6. Commitment and Attendance

• Players are expected to attend training sessions and matches regularly, unless unavailable due to illness, injury or other exceptional circumstances.

• Parents/guardians should notify the relevant coach as early as possible if a player is unable to attend.
   

7. Use of Images and Media

• By accepting membership, parents/guardians consent to the reasonable use of photographs and videos of players for Club purposes, in line with the Club’s Privacy Policy.

• Any concerns regarding media use should be raised with the Club Welfare Officer.
   

8. Disciplinary Action and Termination of Membership

• The Club reserves the right to suspend or terminate membership if a player or parent/guardian:

  • breaches Club rules or policies

  • brings the Club into disrepute

  • fails to comply with safeguarding or conduct expectations

• Serious matters may be referred to the relevant County FA where appropriate.
   

9. Agreement

By completing the Club registration process, the parent/guardian confirms on behalf of themselves and the player that these Membership Rules and all associated Club policies have been read, understood and accepted in full.