Match Official Handbook 2022

CONTENTS

CONTENTS Contact Details……………………………………….

1

Code of Ethics………………………………………..

3

MatchRef Guide……………………………………...

6

Training and Coaching Nights……………………...

8

Uniform and Equipment……………………………..

11

Game Day and Post-Match Requirements………..

13

Match Duration and Ball Sizes……………………..

15

Match Fees…………………………………………...

17

Rules and Regulations Summary………………….

20

Caution and Send-Off Codes……………………….

27

Send-Off and Incident Report Guide………………

24

Team Sheet Completion……………………………

28

NNSWF and FA Policies…………………………..

30

2022 Key Dates………………………………………

39

Ground Directory…………………………………….

41

CONTACT DETAILS NNSWF REFEREE DEPARTMENT NNSWF Office working days and hours

NNSWF Office contact details

Monday – Friday

(02) 4941 7227 – Brad

9am – 5pm

(02) 4941 7230 – Riley / Connor / Charlie referees@northernnswfootball.com.au

Referee Manager

Referee Appointments Officer

Brad Carlin

Connor Markovich

Monday to Friday – 9am to 5pm

Monday to Friday – 9am to 5pm

0432 179 245

0436 447 096

bcarlin@northernnswfootball.com.au

cmarkovich@northernnswfootball.com.au

Referee Education and Development

Referee Administration Officer

Co-Ordinator

Charlie O’Bryan

Riley Kirkaldy

Monday to Tuesday and Thursday to Friday – 9am to 5pm

Monday to Friday – 9am to 5pm 0435 284 826 rkirkaldy@northernnswfootball.com.au

0439 322 399 cobryan@northernnswfootball.com.au

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CONTACT DETAILS REFEREE COACHES Premier Senior Competition First Grade Referee Coach

Premier Senior Competition Reserve Grade and Under 18 Referee Coach

Bob Kofler

Mark Carter

robertakofler@bigpond.com

mark.carter2284@gmail.com

Premier Senior Competition Reserve Grade and Under 18 Referee Coach

Zone Football League Competition Referee Coach

Jake Southward

Brett Griffiths

jake.southward@icloud.com

brett.g932@gmail.com

Premier Youth Competition Referee Coach

Premier Youth Competition Referee Assistant Coach

Connor Markovich

Ezekiel Gentle

cmarkovich@northernnswfootball.com.au

ezekiel.gentle@gmail.com

Premier Youth Competition Referee Assistant Coach

Premier Youth Competition First Year Referee Coach and Match Day Coordinator

Ayden Cutmore

Peter Guest

ayden.kyle.cutmore@gmail.com

peterg068@hotmail.com

Premier Youth Competition Assistant First Year Referee Coach and Match Day Coordinator

Premier Youth Competition Assistant First Year Referee Coach and Match Day Coordinator

Stephen Brown

Mitchell Field

brown.stephen8@gmail.com

mitchell_tricks@hotmail.com

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CODE OF ETHICS AND CONDUCT 1. INTRODUCTION This Code provides Northern NSW Football Referees and Assessors an indication of the standards of conduct and ethical behaviour expected of them. Any breaches of this Code should be reported to the Northern NSW Football Referee Department at referees@northernnswfootball.com.au.

Northern NSW Football will then consider appropriate action including but not limited to nonappointment to matches, deregistration or suspension.

2. ETHICS 2.1

Perform your duties as a referee without bias and maintain the highest standards of integrity and honesty. These standards shall be maintained in associated off-field activities.

2.2

Treat everyone equally, regardless of their disability, gender, ethnic origin, cultural background, sexual orientation, religion, age and political or club affiliation.

2.3

Conduct yourself with dignity on and off the field. Do not act in a manner that brings yourself, your colleagues or NNSWF into disrepute.

2.4

Do not gamble, or encourage any other person to gamble, on a football match with which you are associated.

2.5

Do not referee matches where you have a potential conflict of interest. Ensure you make conflicts of interest, including family relationships to players, apparent to the Referee Appointments Officer.

2.6

Treat fellow referees with respect. Negative comments and criticism about or towards another referee or the NNSWF Referee Department, verbal or written including on social media, is prohibited. Comments and criticism should be communicated to the NNSWF Referee Department.

3.

CONDUCT STANDARDS

3.1

Be honest, consistent, objective, impartial and courteous when applying the Laws of the Game.

You must resist any possible influence from protests on the part of participants or spectators of the game.

3.2

Be physically and mentally fit to meet the required standards to referee the match you are assigned. This includes completing fitness testing requirements as required by NNSWF.

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CODE OF ETHICS AND CONDUCT 3.3

Maintain a smart appearance both on and off the field, including wearing the required Umbro referee uniform. Referee uniform guidelines can be found using the Uniform and Equipment guide in your 2022 Match Official Handbook.

3.4

Your knowledge of the Laws of the Game and competition rules must be up-to-date and thoroughly understood, including any recent amendments.

3.5

Your responsibility is to your senior appointment of the day. Do not undertake other appointments earlier on the same day unless specifically arranged by the Referee Appointments Officer. Be punctual and allow enough time to properly make your appointed fixture (arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled start of the game).

3.6

Report all on-field and off-field misconduct, recording any necessary information and describing the event as you saw it. All Send-Off and Incident Reports must be submitted no later than 9.00am the next Business Day after the end of the match.

3.7

Complete all administrative tasks, including the teamsheet and Best and Fairest Player Points, at the conclusion of the match and to the standard required.

3.8

Any unavailability to officiate must be logged on MatchRef no later than Sunday midnight for the following week. (Premier Senior Competition referees are required to log their unavailability by Thursday midnight the week before). If, for any reason, you become unavailable for an appointment, notify the Referee Appointments Officer as soon as possible.

3.9

Notify NNSWF of your unavailability to referee any match in accordance with NNSWF ‘withdrawal’ guidelines. ‘Withdrawal’ guidelines can be found in the MatchRef Guide in your 2022 Match Official Handbook.

3.10 NNSWF will appoint referees to matches on a week-to-week basis at its absolute sole discretion.

4.

DISCIPLINE

4.1

If you witness a fellow referee breaching this Code, inform them of the breach - they may be unaware. In serious circumstances, report the breach to the NNSWF Referee Department.

4.2

Referees found breaching this Code or being the subject of a complaint by a colleague or third party may be called upon to explain their actions. If proven, the member may be subject to disciplinary action as decided by NNSWF.

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CODE OF ETHICS AND CONDUCT 4.3

For the party alleged to have infringed this Code, NNSWF may enforce the terms of this Code and invoke the sanctions only if it has given the party: (a) reasonable details of the alleged infringement; (b) notice of the possible sanctions; and (c) the opportunity to be heard in relation to the issues of infringement and sanction.

4.4

The scope and implementation of disciplinary sanctions is as specified in the FFA Constitution.

4.5

The imposition of a sanction is immediate or as otherwise notified by the party imposing the sanction.

5.

MEMBER PROTECTION NNSWF implements the FA National Member Protection Policy. Please see the below link for further details: https://www.ffa.com.au/governance/statutes-and-regulations

6.

INTEGRITY PROCESS NNSWF is part of FA’s integrity process. If you see anything that compromises the integrity of a match (e.g. match fixing), please see the below link for further details: https://www.ffa.com.au/governance/statutes-and-regulations

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GUIDE MatchRef is the online software program used by Northern NSW Football to publish its referee appointments and to record referees’ availability.

Getting set up (new referees) or password reset •

Once you have completed your online Availability Form for NNSWF Referees and it has been processed, you will be added to the MatchRef system using the details given.

▪

It is essential that you know your FFA number as this is used to log-in to MatchRef on a web browser (note that it is your nominated email address instead that is used to log-in on the MatchRef app).

•

A ‘MatchRef Log-In Details’ email will be sent to the email address nominated on your Availability Form. This email provides you with both the link and the information needed to log-in to the system.

•

You will then follow the link (https://nnswf.matchref.com) and log in using your FFA Number (in the ‘Referee’ section) and Password (provided via email).

•

For returning referees who have forgotten their passwords, click the ‘Request Password Reset’ and follow the prompts to have a password reset email sent to your nominated email address.

•

If you have any issues with the log-in or password reset process, please SMS the Referee Appointments Officer on 0436 447 096.

Managing your availability •

MatchRef operates using an ‘opt-out’ system meaning it will assume that you are available to officiate for matches if no unavailability has been logged.

•

The deadline for logging unavailability entries for each week is at midnight on the prior Sunday (midnight Thursday for Premier Senior Competition referees). If you miss this deadline, please contact the Referee Appointments Officer as soon as possible to advise them of your unavailability.

•

It is appreciated if you enter your unavailability as soon as you become aware of it. The Referee Appointments Officer begins drafting the referee appointments on a Thursday for matches played on the following weekend. It is much easier to ensure that referees are appointed to appropriate games and given sufficient support when information regarding unavailability is entered early.

•

Your unavailability can be viewed, entered or deleted using the ‘My Unavailability’ section on MatchRef.

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GUIDE MatchRef is the online software program used by Northern NSW Football to publish its referee appointments and to record referees’ availability.

Receiving your appointments •

Once the appointments have been published, you will receive a notification email from MatchRef with the details regarding your appointments.

•

The email shows the match role (Referee/ Assistant Referees / Fourth Official), date, kick-off time, competition, grade, ground and the teams playing. However, it does not show you the other referees who will be officiating with you.

•

It is important that referees log into MatchRef and view their full appointments in the ‘My Upcoming’ section. This gives further details of the match such as the people you are officiating with and the name of any assessor that has been appointed to your matches.

•

Viewing your appointments in the ‘My Upcoming’ section also provides a visual indication for the Appointments Officer that you have viewed your appointments.

•

If for any reason you are unable to fulfil your appointments after they have been published, please contact the Referee Appointments Officer as soon as possible on 0436 447 096.

It is also important to check ‘My Upcoming’ on MatchRef on the night before your match as this will show any last-minute changes to the appointments.

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TRAINING AND COACHING NIGHTS Referee Training Sessions Northern NSW Football Referees hold fitness training nights every week during the season at the Hunter Sports Centre, Glendale. Training will commence this year on Tuesday 18 January 2022 and will initially run every Tuesday and Thursday night from 6.00pm to 7.00pm, excluding any public holidays, until the end of daylight saving. All sessions will be held either inside the facility on the ground surrounded by the athletics track or on the outside grass field adjacent to the carpark.

When daylight saving ends in early April 2022, training will then be held only on Thursdays, still from 6.00pm to 7.00pm. Training for the year will conclude in September after next season’s finals series matches have been played.

All referees are encouraged to attend these training sessions to network with fellow referees, improve or maintain fitness levels and improve their practical refereeing skills. The training sessions consist of both fitness work as well as skills sessions run by our fitness trainers.

Referee Coaching Nights Northern NSW Football holds regular referee coaching nights throughout the year for our different referee coaching groups. These are held on Monday nights at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility starting at 6pm and concluding at around 7:30pm. The nights are an opportunity for referees to receive coaching and feedback, ask any questions they may have and network with their fellow match officials.

In 2022, Premier Competition youth referees can attend additional coaching sessions to be held at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility on one Tuesday night each month during the season.

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TRAINING AND COACHING NIGHTS Our Referee Coaching Nights in 2022 will be held on the following dates: Premier Competition First Grade, Reserve Grade and Under 18 Referees Monday 14 March 2022 Monday 11 April 2022 Monday 9 May 2022 Monday 6 June 2022 Monday 11 July 2022 Monday 8 August 2022 Premier Competition Youth Referees Monday 14 February 2022 Tuesday 1 March 2022 Monday 21 March 2022 Tuesday 5 April 2022 Tuesday 3 May 2022 Monday 16 May 2022 Tuesday 7 June 2022 Monday 20 June 2022 Tuesday 5 July 2022 Monday 18 July 2022 Tuesday 2 August 2022 Monday 15 August 2022 Tuesday 6 September 2022 Monday 19 September 2022 Tuesday 4 October 2022 Monday 17 October 2022 Tuesday 1 November 2022 Monday 14 November 2022 Page 9 of 47

TRAINING AND COACHING NIGHTS Zone Football League Competition Referees Monday 28 March 2022 Monday 23 May 2022 Monday 25 July 2022 Monday 22 August 2022

Due to physical distancing requirements, a maximum of forty-six (46) persons is currently permitted in the Seminar Room at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility. Referees wishing to attend coaching sessions in the Seminar Room therefore are required to register their attendance in advance by clicking on the registration link sent to them each month by the NNSWF Referee Department.

Page 10 of 47

UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT THE ONLY BRAND OF REFEREE UNIFORM TO BE WORN IN NORTHERN NSW IS UMBRO. Referee clothing and equipment can be purchased from the First Touch Football Supplies online store at any time. The link to access this store is as follows: https://firsttouchfootballsupplies.square.site/shop/referees/2 Upon adding any uniform or equipment to the shopping cart, simply change the delivery method to “Store pickup” (this step can also be achieved after clicking on the cart icon before moving on to “Checkout”. This allows your order to be picked 24 hours later (at the earliest) from the LMRFF front reception desk.

In case of an emergency in which you require referee clothing or equipment at extremely short notice, please contact NNSWF Reception during working hours (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) on (02) 4941 7200.

Arrival to and Departure from the Ground Northern NSW Football does not expect referees at all levels of football to dress to the same standards. The following are our expectations for each different level of football.

Premier Competition Senior Referees NPLM (U18, Reserve Grade and First Grade), HIT NL1 (U18, Reserve Grade and First Grade) and NPLW (Reserve Grade and First Grade) •

White NNSWF Referee Polo Shirt or White Business Shirt

•

Black or Navy Dress Pants

•

Black or Brown Dress Shoes

•

Black Referees Jacket (Optional)

Zone Football League Competition Referees •

White NNSWF Referee Polo Shirt

•

Enclosed shoes

•

Black Referees Jacket (Optional) Page 11 of 47

UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT Premier Competition Youth Referees NPLM (U13, U14, U15 and U16), HIT NL1 (U13, U14, U15, U16) and NPLW (U13, U15 and U17) •

White NNSWF Referee Polo Shirt

•

Black or Navy Dress Pants

•

Black or Brown Dress Shoes

•

Black Referees Jacket (Optional)

JDL Competition Referees •

Green Shirt for First Year Referees

•

Black Umbro Referee Shirt

•

Black Umbro Referee Shorts

•

Black Referee Socks

•

Black footwear

Referees clothing and equipment should be clean, neat and tidy at the beginning of each day of officiating. A referee who does not look the part can easily give a poor first impression.

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GAMEDAY & POST-MATCH REQUIREMENTS You have now viewed your referee appointments on MatchRef, and it is game day. The following are some basic requirements for each match day. It is important that all match officials follow these procedures.

Game Day Equipment Checklist • • •

Uniform - Umbro Referees Shirts, Shorts and Socks (Green Shirt for First Year Referees) Predominately or all black boots or shoes with black laces Whistle, flag, watch, stopwatch, red and yellow cards, notebook, coin and pens

Game Day Tips • • •

Know the exact location of your ground Leave home early enough to arrive at the ground at least 45 minutes before kick-off Dress appropriately when arriving at and departing from the ground

Game Day Procedure • • • • • • • • •

Arrive at the ground 45 minutes before kick-off Introduce yourself to the other match officials, club officials, players and coaches Locate the referees’ room at the ground Inspect the field of play to ensure it is suitable for play Get changed into your referee’s uniform If not already given to you, locate the team sheet and match balls Ensure that the team sheet has been filled out with all the correct information Deliver your pre-match instructions to the other match officials appointed Carry out the team walk-out procedure (if required) on time and commence the match on time

First Year Referees In your first matches as a referee or assistant referee, an assessor or mentor will be appointed to your match to help you get started as a match official. The assessor or mentor will be there to meet with you prior to the game and go through any questions, issues or concerns you may have. Your assessor or mentor will provide support, coaching and feedback at half time and after the match. The main role of the appointed assessor or mentor will be to ensure your matches are enjoyable as well as providing some coaching and feedback to help you gain confidence and knowledge.

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GAMEDAY & POST-MATCH REQUIREMENTS Post-Match Requirements Once back in the dressing room, you must complete the team sheet for that fixture, including: • • • • • • • •

correct half-time score correct full-time score goalscorers’ player numbers and minutes of the match when the goals were scored recipients and minutes of all yellow and red cards shown player numbers and minutes of all substitutions (if required) ticking a box if an Incident or Send-Off Report is being submitted the names of the referee, assistant referees and fourth official signing the team sheet as the referee

It is also advised that all match officials take a photo of the team sheet after a game involving an incident or send-off, as this will assist in you having the correct details for the submission of an appropriate report.

The team sheet (and any other completed team sheets from matches played earlier in the day) will need to be provided to a club official at the conclusion of the matchday.

Referees are requested to retain all of their match record cards used during the season in case the NNSWF Referee Department or NNSWF Football Operations Department directly contacts them during the season regarding previously played fixtures. This will assist in providing key information on final scores, cautions, dismissals and important incidents.

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MATCH DURATION AND BALL SIZES – NNSWF COMPS Competition

National Premier Leagues Men

National Premier Leagues Women

HIT Northern League One

Junior Development League

Zone Football League

FFA Cup Special Events

Grade

Match Duration

Half-Time Duration

Ball Size

First Grade

2 x 45 minute halves *

15 minutes

Size 5

Reserve Grade

2 x 45 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U18

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U16

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U15

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U14

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U13

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 4

First Grade

2 x 45 minute halves *

15 minutes

Size 5

Reserve Grade

2 x 45 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U17

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U15

2 x 35 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U13

2 x 35 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 4

First Grade

2 x 45 minute halves *

15 minutes

Size 5

Reserve Grade

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U18

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U16

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U15

2 x 35 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U14

2 x 35 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U13

2 x 35 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 4

U12

2 x 30 minute halves

5 minutes

Size 4

U11

2 x 30 minute halves

5 minutes

Size 4

First Grade

2 x 45 minute halves *

10 minutes

Size 5

Reserve Grade

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

Third Grade

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

2 x 45 minute halves *

15 minutes

Size 5

Special event rules and regulations will be circulated by Northern NSW Football prior to commencement of the event.

* Referees will play additional "injury and stoppage time" at the conclusion of each half Page 15 of 47

MATCH DURATION AND BALL SIZES – FNSW COMPS

Information about the Competition Regulations for Football NSW Competitions has not yet been made available to NNSWF Football.

The below information is therefore subject to confirmation at a later date.

Competition

Grade

Match Duration

Half-Time Duration

Ball Size

FNSW NPL 4 Men's (Jets Men's)

First Grade

2 x 45 minute halves *

15 minutes

Size 5

U20

2 x 45 minute halves

15 minutes

Size 5

U18

2 x 45 minute halves

15 minutes

Size 5

U16

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U15

2 x 35 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U14

2 x 30 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U13

2 x 30 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 4

First Grade

2 x 45 minute halves *

15 minutes

Size 5

Reserve Grade

2 x 45 minute halves

15 minutes

Size 5

U17

2 x 40 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U15

2 x 35 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

U14

2 x 30 minute halves

10 minutes

Size 5

FNSW NPL 2 Youth (Jets Youth)

FNSW NPL Women's (Jets Women's)

* Referees will play additional "injury and stoppage time" at the conclusion of each half NOTE: For all FNSW fixtures hosted at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility, correct size match balls will be supplied by the Newcastle Jets, NOT by Northern NSW Football.

Page 16 of 47

REFEREE MATCH FEES – FNSW COMPETITIONS •

•

•

Northern NSW Football Match Officials are paid their match fees through EFT. When you begin officiating with NNSWF, you will be required to complete and submit a Bank Account Details Form which nominates the account to which your match fees are to be paid.

Referee payments are processed fortnightly on a Thursday, with each payment covering the previous fortnight. For example: a referee would be paid on Thursday 18 June for all matches they officiated on between Monday 1 June and Sunday 14 June.

Throughout Northern NSW, a levy is applied to all match fees paid in order to cover referee administration and coaching costs. For NNSWF referees, this levy is 10% of all match fees paid and is automatically deducted prior to payment.

Competition

National Premier Leagues – Men and Youth

National Premier Leagues – Women and Youth

HIT Northern League One – Men and Youth

Junior Development League Special Events Zone Football Premier League Division Zone Football League Divisions One, Two and Three Travel Allowance

Assistant Fourth Age Grade Referee Referee Official (each) First Grade $200 $100 $50 Reserve Grade $112 $56 $40 U18 $80 $40 $40 U16 $70 $35 $20 U15 $64 $32 $20 U14 $52 $26 $20 U13 $46 $23 $20 First Grade $126 $63 $40 Reserve Grade $78 $39 $30 U17 $50 $25 $20 U15 $44 $22 $20 U13 $38 $19 $17 First Grade $147 $74 $50 Reserve Grade $80 $40 $30 U18 $68 $34 $25 U16 $62 $31 $20 U15 $48 $24 $20 U14 $44 $22 $18 U13 $40 $20 $18 U12 $30 $15 N/A U11 $25 N/A N/A Match Fees Determined by Northern NSW Football First Grade $126 $63 $26 Reserve Grade $88 $44 $21 Third Grade $74 $37 $21 First Grade $95 $47 $26 Reserve Grade $78 $39 $21 Third Grade $62 $31 $21 200 Kilometres and Over - $50 Page 17 of 47

REFEREE MATCH FEES – FNSW COMPETITIONS

Competition

Age Grade

Referee

Assistant Referee (each)

Fourth Official

$65 $45

N/A N/A

$40 $30 $30

N/A N/A N/A

$25 $25

N/A N/A

Men's Competitions FNSW NPL 4 Men's (Jets Men's)

FNSW NPL 2 Youth (Jets Youth)

FNSW NPL Women's (Jets Women's)

First Grade $130 U20 $90 Boy's Competitions U18 U16 U15

$80 $55 $55

U14 $50 U13 $50 Women's and Girl's Competitions First Grade

$160

$80

N/A

Reserve Grade U17 U15

$80 $55 $55

$40 $25 $25

N/A N/A N/A

U14

$50

$25

N/A

Page 18 of 47

ASSESSOR MATCH FEES – NNSWF ASSESSOR FEES

Competition

Age Grade

Assessor Fee

First Grade Reserve Grade U18 U13 to U16 First Grade Reserve Grade U13 to U17 First Grade Reserve Grade U18 U13 to U16

$100 $50 $50 $40 $75 $50 $40 $75 $50 $50 $40

Junior Development League – Referee Assessor Fee

U11 and U12 Assessment

$25

U11 and U12 Mentoring

$15

Zone Football League – Referee Assessor Fee

First Grade Reserve and Third Grade Level 1 Upgrade Level 2 Upgrade Level 3 Upgrade Video Assessment On The Run

$50 $40 $100 $75 $50 $50 $25

National Premier Leagues Men – Referee Assessor Fee

National Premier Leagues Women – Referee Assessor Fee

HIT Northern League One – Referee Assessor Fee

Other Referee Assessment Fees

Page 19 of 47

RULES AND REGULATIONS NNSWF COMPETITIONS Field of Play During any Match, an Official or Player not involved in the Competition Fixture, or a supporter shall not be permitted to stand closer than 3 metres to the playing field marked lines or where a permanent boundary fence exists, shall not be permitted to stand inside the boundary fence.

Coaching from the boundary line/fence is strictly prohibited.

Technical Area All persons must remain seated within the prescribed area during the fixture, with the exception of: -

Team Officials attending to an injured Player

-

1 Team Official who may engage in active coaching

-

Players warming up under the directions of Match Officials

Any Team Official who leaves the bench and gives instructions from outside the field of play shall forfeit any rights to organise the activities of the Team from the bench or to attend to an injured Player of the Team for the duration of the Match.

Should the substitution or interchange of a Player become necessary, a Team Official will notify the Fourth Official or Assistant Referee of the change and will remain with the Player at the centre line until the Substitute or Interchange Player is called onto the field of play.

If there is no Fourth Official, or Assistant Referee, the Team Official shall take the Substitute Player to the centre line and shall remain with the Player until he or she is called onto the field of play by the Referee.

Should a Player injury occur, the Team Official (1 only) will be called onto the field of play by the Referee, to attend to the injured Player.

In the event of an injury of a serious nature, treatment or movement of that Player is to be at the discretion of the First Aid Attendant or a Team Official.

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RULES AND REGULATIONS NNSWF COMPETITIONS Competition Structure Senior Competition:

Youth Competition:

First Grade

16 Years

Reserve Grade

15 Years

18 Years

14 Years 13 Years

Team Officials in Technical Area Clubs will be permitted to the following number of Team Officials, Substitutes and / or Interchange Players within in the Technical Area during a fixture:

Competition

Maximum Team Officials Permitted

7 Substitute Players

First Grade Reserve Grade

5 Substitute Players

18 Years 16 Years 15 Years

Maximum Players Permitted

6 Registered Team Officials 5 Interchange Players

14 Years 13 Years

All Team Officials and Players must be eligible to participate in the Match and named accordingly on the Official Team Sheet.

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RULES AND REGULATIONS NNSWF COMPETITIONS Substitution or Interchange of Players

Substitution - NPLM First Grade Each competing Team may name a maximum of 7 substitute Players on the Official Team Sheet and at its discretion use 5 substitutes during a Match, 1 of whom may be the Goalkeeper.

To reduce disruption to the Match, each Team will have a maximum of 3 opportunities to make substitutions during the game; substitutions may also be made at half-time which does not count towards the maximum of 3 opportunities. If both teams make a substitution at the same time, this will count as 1 of the 3 opportunities for each team.

For Matches where Extra Time is required, each Team will have 1 additional opportunity to make a substitution Substitution - NPLM Reserve Grade and 18 Years Each competing Team may name a maximum of 5 substitute Players on the Official Team Sheet and at its discretion use 5 substitutes during a Match, 1 of whom may be the Goalkeeper.

To reduce disruption to the Match, each Team will have a maximum of 3 opportunities to make substitutions during the game; substitutions may also be made at half-time which does not count towards the maximum of 3 opportunities. If both teams make a substitution at the same time, this will count as 1 of the 3 opportunities for each team.

For Matches where Extra Time is required, each Team will have 1 additional opportunity to make a substitution.

Player Interchange – NPLM Under 16, 15, 14 and 13 A Team is permitted to name a maximum of 5 interchange Players on the Team Sheet.

A Team will be permitted to make unlimited interchanges during each half and the half-time interval.

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RULES AND REGULATIONS NPLW COMPETITIONS Competition Structure Senior Competition:

Youth Competition:

First Grade

17 Years

Reserve Grade

15 Years 13 Years

Team Officials in Technical Area Clubs will be permitted to the following number of Team Officials, Substitutes and / or Interchange Players within in the Technical Area during a fixture:

Competition

Maximum Officials Permitted

Maximum Players Permitted 7 Substitute Players

First Grade Reserve Grade 17 Years 15 Years

6 Registered Team Officials

5 Substitute Players

13 Years

All Team Officials and Players must be eligible to participate in the Match and named accordingly on the Official Team Sheet.

Page 23 of 47

RULES AND REGULATIONS NPLW COMPETITIONS Substitution - NPLW First Grade Each competing Team may name a maximum of 7 substitute Players on the Official Team Sheet and at its discretion use 5 substitutes during a Match, 1 of whom may be the Goalkeeper.

To reduce disruption to the Match, each Team will have a maximum of 3 opportunities to make substitutions during the game; substitutions may also be made at half-time which does not count towards the maximum of 3 opportunities. If both teams make a substitution at the same time, this will count as 1 of the 3 opportunities for each team.

For Matches where Extra Time is required, each Team will have 1 additional opportunity to make a substitution Substitution - NPLW Reserve Grade Each competing Team may name a maximum of 5 substitute Players on the Official Team Sheet and at its discretion use 5 substitutes during a Match, 1 of whom may be the Goalkeeper.

To reduce disruption to the Match, each Team will have a maximum of 3 opportunities to make substitutions during the game; substitutions may also be made at half-time which does not count towards the maximum of 3 opportunities. If both teams make a substitution at the same time, this will count as 1 of the 3 opportunities for each team.

For Matches where Extra Time is required, each Team will have 1 additional opportunity to make a substitution.

Player Interchange – NPLW Under 17, 15 and 13 A Team is permitted to name a maximum of 5 interchange Players on the Team Sheet.

A Team will be permitted to make unlimited interchanges during each half and the half-time interval.

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NORTHERN LEAGUE ONE REGULATIONS Competition Structure Senior Competition:

Youth Competition:

First Grade

16 Years

Reserve Grade

15 Years

18 Years

14 Years 13 Years

Team Officials in Technical Area Clubs will be permitted to the following number of Team Officials, substitute and / or interchange Players within in the Technical Area during a fixture: Competition

Maximum Officials Permitted

7 Substitute Players

First Grade Reserve Grade

5 Substitute Players

18 Years 16 Years 15 Years 14 Years

Maximum Players Permitted

6 Registered Team Officials 5 Interchange Players

13 Years

All Team Officials and Players must be eligible to participate in the Match and named accordingly on the Official Team Sheet.

Page 25 of 47

NORTHERN LEAGUE ONE REGULATIONS Substitution or Interchange of Players

Substitution – HIT Northern League One First Grade Each competing Team may name a maximum of 7 substitute Players on the Official Team Sheet and at its discretion use 5 substitutes during a Match, 1 of whom may be the Goalkeeper.

To reduce disruption to the Match, each Team will have a maximum of 3 opportunities to make substitutions during the game; substitutions may also be made at half-time which does not count towards the maximum of 3 opportunities. If both teams make a substitution at the same time, this will count as 1 of the 3 opportunities for each team.

For Matches where Extra Time is required, each Team will have 1 additional opportunity to make a substitution Substitution – HIT Northern League One Reserve Grade and 18 Years Each competing Team may name a maximum of 5 substitute Players on the Official Team Sheet and at its discretion use 5 substitutes during a Match, 1 of whom may be the Goalkeeper.

To reduce disruption to the Match, each Team will have a maximum of 3 opportunities to make substitutions during the game; substitutions may also be made at half-time which does not count towards the maximum of 3 opportunities. If both teams make a substitution at the same time, this will count as 1 of the 3 opportunities for each team.

For Matches where Extra Time is required, each Team will have 1 additional opportunity to make a substitution.

Player Interchange – HIT Northern League One Under 16, 15, 14 and 13 A Team is permitted to name a maximum of 5 interchange Players on the Team Sheet.

A Team will be permitted to make unlimited interchanges during each half and the half-time interval.

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CAUTION AND SEND-OFF CODES CAUTION (YELLOW CARD) OFFENCES Y1

Unsporting behaviour

Y2

Dissent by word or action

Y3

Persistent offences (no specific number or pattern of offences constitutes “persistent”)

Y4

Delaying the restart of play

Y5

Failing to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a dropped ball, corner kick, free kick or throw-in

Y6

Entering, re-entering or deliberately leaving the field of play without the referee’s permission

SEND-OFF (RED CARD) OFFENCES R1

Serious foul play

R2

Violent conduct

R3

Spitting at an opponent or any other person

R4

Denying the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by a handball offence (except a goalkeeper within their penalty area)

R5

Denying a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent whose overall movement is towards the offender’s goal by an offence punishable by a free kick

R6

Using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures

R7

Receiving a second caution in the same match

R8

Offence against a Match Official

R9

Offence by a Team Official

Page 27 of 47

TEAM SHEET COMPLETION Advice for Completing Team Sheets

•

For all Northern NSW Football Premier Competitions (13 Years Competitions upwards), a Club Duty Officer for both the Home Club and the Away Club must be clearly named on the Team Sheet. A match should not commence without both Clubs naming a Club Duty Officer on the Team Sheet.

•

Team Sheets are to be completed by referees in blue or black ink and not in pencil or any other colours.

•

Referees should please ensure that care is taken when recording the details of all goals scored, goalscorers, cautions and send offs. A ruler is useful to ensure the each goal or sanction is recorded against the correct player on the Team Sheet.

•

Referees must complete the sections at the base of the Team Sheet to advise if they are lodging an Incident or Send-Off Report arising from the match.

•

Team Officials are permitted to check and sign the completed Team Sheet no less than 15 minutes after full time.

•

All referees are advised that they should take a photograph of the completed teamsheet at the completion of each match. This will assist the referees in case of any queries that may arise at a later date.

•

A sample of the Team Sheet which will be used for NNSWF Premier Competiotion fixtures in 2022 appears on the next page of this NNSWF Match Official Handbook.

Page 28 of 47

TEAM SHEET COMPLETION

Page 29 of 47

NNSWF & FA POLICIES NNSWF HOT WEATHER POLICY HOT WEATHER POLICY – NNSWF PREMIER COMPETITIONS APPLICABLE TO ALL NORTHERN NSW FOOTBALL PREMIER COMPETITIONS INCLUDING NPL NNSW, WOMEN’S PREMIER LEAGUE, FFA CUP (NNSW Preliminary involving Premier Clubs), NORTHERN LEAGUE ONE, AND ALL OTHER SANCTIONED NNSWF EVENTS INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO JDL, STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS, CHAMPION of CHAMPIONS AND ALL SANCTIONED ACTIVITIES AT LAKE MACQUARIE REGIONAL FOOTBALL FACILITY (LMRFF) With higher temperatures now occurring more frequently, consideration must be given to the effects of heat and humidity on football participants, and in particular children.

Northern NSW Football (NNSWF) has considered several factors in the development of this policy including year-round High-Performance Programs, the ongoing popularity of summer football and the recent increase in the temperatures experienced at the beginning of the traditional football season.

The following direction is provided in accordance with information provided by Sports Medicine Australia.

TEMPERATURES FOR ABANDONMENT OR POSTPONMENT OF GAMES, TRAINING and other football events including trial games, selection trials, clinics, gala days or any other football activity involving physical exertion.

Age Group Teams up to and including 12’s

Matches Abandon or postpone matches at a temperature of 26 WBGT and above

Training Abandon or postpone training at a temperature of 26 WBGT and above Abandon or postpone traditional training at a temperature of 26 WBGT and above

Abandon or postpone matches 13’s to 17’s inclusive

at a temperature of 26 WBGT and above

Abandon or postpone modified* training at a temperature of 28 WGBT and above *Modified training must have reduced intensity and drinks breaks every 15 minutes. Duration no longer than 60 minutes.

Abandon or postpone matches 18’s to Open inclusive

at a temperature of 30 WGBT and above

Abandon or postpone training at a temperature of 30 WGBT and above

CAUTION: These are the maximum cancellation temperatures. Cancellation of games, training or events at lower temperatures may be necessary depending on local conditions, humidity, player wellbeing and acclimatisation. All participants have a responsibility to carefully consider their physical capacity to participate at high temperatures. Participants who are on medication and/or recovering from a viral illness should exclude themselves from participating in fixtures when temperatures approach the stated thresholds.

For the purpose of this policy a child is a person aged up to and including 16 years of age.

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NNSWF & FA POLICIES NNSWF HOT WEATHER POLICY HOT WEATHER POLICY – NNSWF PREMIER COMPETITIONS APPLICABLE TO ALL NORTHERN NSW FOOTBALL PREMIER COMPETITIONS INCLUDING NPL NNSW, WOMEN’S PREMIER LEAGUE, FFA CUP (NNSW Preliminary involving Premier Clubs), NORTHERN LEAGUE ONE, AND ALL OTHER SANCTIONED NNSWF EVENTS INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO JDL, STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS, CHAMPION of CHAMPIONS AND ALL SANCTIONED ACTIVITIES AT LAKE MACQUARIE REGIONAL FOOTBALL FACILITY (LMRFF) NNSWF will initially provide all clubs with a Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) Heat Stress Meter. The device must be kept at the club’s home venue at all times.

The WBGT should be measured at a height of 1.2m from the ground within the centre circle of the pitch.

Any measurements being taken whilst a match is in progress should be taken at a height of 1.2m, 1m from the halfway line.

NNSWF Premier Competition Guidelines Please see the below table for a quick guide on which Leagues abide by which WBGT and who is responsible for the abandonment or postponement of activities: League • • • • • •

NPLM First Grade NPLW First Grade HIT NL1 First Grade NPLM 18 and Reserves NPLW Reserves HIT NL1 18 and Reserves

• • •

NPLM 13, 14, 15, and 16 NPLW 13, 15 and 17* HIT NL1 13, 14, 15 and 16

Responsibility to Postpone / Abandon

Maximum Temp.

Home Club Official & Match Official

30 WGBT

Home Club Official

30 WGBT

Home Club Official

26 WGBT

*This competition has been included at the lower WBGT threshold due to the heavy reliance on players up to and including 16 years. For the avoidance of doubt, any player aged up to and including 16 years of age who is part of a senior squad (Under 18’s and above) must not play in ANY fixture when the WBGT is 26 or above.

All matches are required to include a minimum of 1 drink break per half if the ambient temperature is 28° or above at kick off. This is also a maximum temperature; drinks breaks may be required at lower temperatures based on the specific conditions on the day.

Procedure for Abandonment/Postponement of matches In the event of hot weather, as outlined above, it is the responsibility of the home club to monitor the WBGT and local conditions and inform the match official of current conditions.

Clubs are required to utilise the WBGT provided by NNSWF. Should the device be unavailable, only information from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) should be used.

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NNSWF & FA POLICIES NNSWF HOT WEATHER POLICY HOT WEATHER POLICY – NNSWF PREMIER COMPETITIONS APPLICABLE TO ALL NORTHERN NSW FOOTBALL PREMIER COMPETITIONS INCLUDING NPLM, NPLW, FFA CUP (NNSW Preliminary involving Premier Clubs), HIT NORTHERN LEAGUE ONE, AND ALL OTHER SANCTIONED NNSWF EVENTS INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO JDL, STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS, CHAMPION of CHAMPIONS AND ALL SANCTIONED ACTIVITIES AT LAKE MACQUARIE REGIONAL FOOTBALL FACILITY (LMRFF) Matches must be abandonment/postponed only in the following circumstances: Prior to teams arriving: •

•

If the WBGT is at or above the Maximum WBGT at any point during the day of the fixture, with a forecast of rising temperatures throughout the day, the Home Club Official is responsible for abandoning or postponing matches. Clubs are required to validate their readings with the Away Club Official (If present) and the Match Official (if present).

Clubs are reminded to consider any matches with an evening kick-off time before postponing any match based on the above.

After teams arriving (approx. 90min prior to kick off): •

•

If the measured WBGT is at or above the Maximum WBGT 30 minutes prior to kick off the match must be postponed by the Home Club Official. Clubs are a required to validate their reading with both the Match Official & Away Club Official.

If the measured temperature rises to or above the Maximum WBGT after kick-off, the identified Home Club Official must advise the Match Officials at the next stoppage of play, and the match to be abandoned. Clubs are required to validate their readings with the Away Club Official and the Match Official.

For all matches postponed due to heat, clubs are required to follow the NNSWF Wet Weather Procedures regarding communication to opposition, referees and relevant websites. NNSWF reserves the right to postpone matches due to hot weather at its sole and absolute discretion.

Advice for all clubs During summer and warmer month’s clubs and competition organisers are required to regularly: • • • • • • • • •

Refer to the SMA Hot Weather Guidelines Provide a copy of the Beat the Heat Fact Sheet to players, parents and team officials.

Provide information in relation to sun safety Schedule training for cooler parts of the day or evening.

Closely monitor weather forecasts and local weather conditions.

Use a weather gauge, WBGT or Heat Stress Meter to monitor player conditions.

Ensure regular hydration (water/fluid intake) by players, officials and other participants.

Monitor the wellbeing of players, officials, volunteers and staff.

Increase breaks during games and training to allow rest in shade and fluid intake.

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NNSWF & FA POLICIES NNSWF LIGHTNING POLICY ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

In Australia, lightning accounts for 5 to 10 deaths and well over 100 injuries annually.

Statistics show that approximately 25% of people killed by lightning are playing sport.

Coaches must not let the desire to start/complete a match or coaching session hinder their judgment when the safety of players, coaches or spectators may be in jeopardy.

Should thunderstorms be prevalent on match day, the ‘30-30’ Rule is to be used in order to determine whether a game/training should be suspended.

The ‘30-30’ Rule

▪ ▪ ▪

▪

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

▪ ▪

When lightning is sighted, count the time until thunder is heard.

If that time is 30 seconds or less, the thunderstorm is within 10km and is DANGEROUS. As most experts believe that the ‘safe’ distance is no less than 10km, all people at risk should be seeking, or already inside safe shelters. This is the time at which matches/training should be suspended.

The threat of lightning continues for a much longer period than most people realise. It is imperative to point out that sunshine or blue sky should not fool anybody into thinking that it is safe, and you should remain alert to the possible return of the storm.

Once play/training is suspended a period of 30 minutes should be allowed before reassessing.

Using the ‘30-30’ rule, the distance of the storm should be estimated before allowing activity to continue.

Where practicable, people should be moved to a safe structure as soon as possible The best option is a large building with electric and telephone wiring and plumbing to provide a safe pathway for the current to the ground.

Once inside, stay away from corded telephones, electrical appliances, lighting fixtures, radios or microphones and electric sockets and plumbing. Mobile or cordless telephones are a safe option if the person and antenna are located within a safe structure.

Do not watch lightning from open windows or doorways. Inner rooms are preferable.

Activity can resume when the ‘30-30’ rule has been satisfied.

Lightning Strike

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Should a person be struck by lightning, ensure that immediate action is taken.

If a person is struck by lightning, there are key first aid guidelines to follow.

Medical care may be needed immediately to save a person’s life. If possible, call ‘000’ at once.

As all deaths from lightning arise from cardiac arrest and/or stopping of breathing, it is imperative that treatment is commenced as soon as possible. CPR or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is the respective recommended first aid.

Don’t risk it… if at any time you are concerned regarding approaching weather, please leave the field and take cover immediately.

Page 33 of 47

NNSWF & FA POLICIES NNSWF PLASTER CASTS & RIGID SUPPORTS POLICY Plaster casts or any rigid support or other type of cast are not permitted to be worn by players when training or playing.

This ruling is covered by FIFA Law 4 of the game.

If a player presents themselves for a game wearing a plaster cast, the referee retains the right under Law 4 to prevent or remove any player from playing should the referee rule that they are wearing non-approved equipment.

Where a player is fitted with a plaster cast or any rigid support, all coaches, team officials, clubs, associations and branches have a responsibility to ensure that their players are fit to play.

Team officials could be found to be negligent in their actions if they allow a player to play knowing that they are recovering or have sustained injury prior to the game.

The safety of all players should be a major concern of all coaches, managers and clubs and knowingly allowing a player to play when injured could result in legal action and/or a claim of negligence under the NSW Child Protection Act. A plaster cast or hard support equipment when worn by a player can also pose a risk of injury to opposition players and match officials and therefore no player is permitted to wear a plaster cast when playing or training.

In addition, a coach or manager should also never allow a player to play where it is known that a player has him/herself intentionally removed their own plaster cast and may still be recovering from the relative injury.

In all cases it is safer to allow a player to only return to playing once the club has sighted a certificate of medical fitness from a doctor.

Page 34 of 47

NNSWF & FA POLICIES FA CONCUSSION POLICY FFA Concussion Guidelines

BACKGROUND This document sets out the guiding principles and provides general advice regarding the management of concussion in football in Australia.

These Guidelines have been produced by Football Federation Australia (FFA). FFA has adopted the Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport: The 5th International Conference on Concussion in Sport held in Berlin, October 2016 (see ‘Resources’ below). This statement was produced in conjunction with Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), and has also been adopted by FIFA.

These Guidelines are of a general nature only. Individual treatment will depend on the facts and circumstances specific to each individual case. These Guidelines are not intended as a standard of care and should not be interpreted as such.

These Guidelines will be reviewed regularly by FFA and will be modified according to the development of new knowledge. The latest version of these Guidelines can be found here: https://www.ffa.com.au/governance/statutes-and-regulations

1.

DEFINITION

Concussion is a brain injury and is defined as a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain, induced by biomechanical forces (See the Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport: The 5th International Conference on Concussion in Sport for a more detailed definition).

2.

RECOVERY

The majority (80-90%) of concussions resolve in a short (7-10 day) period, although the recovery frame may be longer in children and adolescents.

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NNSWF & FA POLICIES FA CONCUSSION POLICY 3.

SIGNS OF CONCUSSION

Immediate visual indicators of concussion include: (a)

Loss of consciousness or responsiveness;

(b)

Lying motionless on the ground/slow to get up;

(c)

A dazed, blank or vacant expression;

(d)

Appearing unsteady on feet, balance problems or falling over;

(e)

Grabbing or clutching of the head

(f)

Impact seizure or convulsion

Concussion can include one or more of the following symptoms: (a)

Symptoms: Headache, dizziness, “feeling in a fog”.

(b)

Behavioural changes: Inappropriate emotions, irritability, feeling nervous or anxious.

Cognitive impairment: Slowed reaction times, confusion/disorientation- not aware of location or score, poor attention and concentration, loss of memory for events up to and/or after the concussion.

The Pocket Concussion Recognition Tool may be used to help identify a suspected concussion (see ‘Resources’ below).

4.

REMOVE FROM PLAY

Any athlete with a suspected concussion should be immediately removed from play, and should not be returned to activity until they are assessed by a qualified medical practitioner.

Players with a suspected concussion should not be left alone and should not drive a motor vehicle.

Only qualified medical practitioners should diagnose whether a concussion has occurred or provide advice as to whether the player can return to play.

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NNSWF & FA POLICIES FA CONCUSSION POLICY There should be no return to play on the day of a concussive injury.

5.

MEDICIAL ASSESSMENT

A qualified Medical Practitioner should:

6.

(a)

Diagnose whether a concussion has occurred – based on clinical judgement;

(b)

Evaluate the injured player for concussion using SCAT 5 (or Child – SCAT 5) or similar tool (see ‘Resources’ below);

(c)

Advise the player as to medical management;

(d)

Advise the player as to when it is appropriate to begin a Graduated Return to Play Program (Annexure 1 to these Guidelines).

(e)

Clear the player to return to play following the graduated RTP program

RETURN TO PLAY

Following clearance from a qualified Medical Practitioner for the player to return to play, the player should progress through a Graduated Return To Play Program (see Annexure 1 to these Guidelines).

In all cases, the Graduated Return To Play Program provides for a minimum of 6 days before the player can play a competitive game.

7.

RESOURCES (a)

Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport: The 5th International Conference on Concussion in Sport held in Berlin, October 2016 (McCrory et al), found here: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/51/11/838

(b)

Pocket Concussion Recognition Tool, found here: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/47/5/267.full.pdf

(c)

SCAT 5 – Sport Concussion Assessment Tool – 5th Edition, found here: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/bjsports/51/11/851.full.pdf

(d)

Child – SCAT5- Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (for children ages 5-12 years), found here: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/bjsports/early/2017/04/28/bjsports-2017097492childscat5.full.pdf

(e)

Graduated Return to Play Protocol (Annexure 1 to these Guidelines)

Page 37 of 47

NNSWF & FA POLICIES FA CONCUSSION POLICY Annexure 1 – Graduated Return to Play Program Rehabilitation Level

Functional exercise at each stage of rehabilitation

Objective of each stage

Complete physical and cognitive rest without symptoms. Only proceed to level 2 once ALL symptoms have resolved for a full 24-hour period.

Recovery

Level 1 No activity, minimum 24 hours following the injury where managed by a medical practitioner, otherwise minimum 14 days following the injury

Level 2 Light aerobic exercise during 24hour period

Level 3 Sport-specific exercise during 24-hour period

Level 4 Non-contact training drills during 24-hour period

Level 5 Full Contact Practice during 24hour period Level 6 After 24 hours return to play

Walking, swimming or stationary cycling keeping intensity, <70% maximum predicted heart rate. No resistance training. Symptom free during full 24-hour period following the commencement of Level 2.

Running drills. No head impact activities. Symptom free during full 24hour period following the commencement of level 3.

Progression to more complex training drills, e.g. passing drills. May start progressive resistance training.

Symptom free during full 24-hour period following the commencement of level 4.

Following medical clearance participate in normal training activities. Symptom free for a full 24- hour period following the commencement of level 5.

Return to play if remain symptom-free a minimum of 24 hours after full contact practice.

Increase heart rate

Add movement

Exercise, coordination, and cognitive load

Restore confidence and assess functional skills by coaching staff

Player rehabilitated and recovered

Page 38 of 47

2022 KEY DATES NPLM SENIOR

HIT NL1 SENIOR

Round 1: Sat 5 / Sun 6 Mar

Round 1: Sat 2 / Sun 3 Apr

Elim. / Qual. Finals: Sat 20 / Sun 21 Aug

Elim. / Qual. Finals: Sat 13 / Sun 14 Aug

Semi-Finals: Sat 27 / Sun 28 Aug

Semi-Finals: Sat 20 / Sun 21 Aug

Prelim. Finals: Sat 3 / Sun 4 Sep

Prelim. Finals: Sat 27 / Sun 28 Aug

Grand Finals: Sat 10 Sep

Grand Finals: Sat 3 Sep

NPLM YOUTH

HIT NL1 YOUTH

Round 1: Sat 5 / Sun 6 Mar

Round 1: Not Confirmed

Semi-Finals: Sat 17 / Sun 18 Sep

Semi-Finals: Not Confirmed

Grand Finals: Sun 25 Sep

Grand Finals: Not Confirmed

NPLW

JDL

Round 1: Sat 19 / Sun 20 Mar

Round 1: Not Confirmed

Semi-Finals: Sat 10 / Sun 11 Sep

Final Round: Not Confirmed

Prelim. Finals: Sat 17 / Sun 18 Sep

No Finals Series to be Played

Grand Finals: Sat 24 Sep

Page 39 of 47

2022 KEY DATES

ZPL Round 1: Sat 9 / 10 Apr 1st Leg Semi-Finals: Sat 27 / Sun 28 Aug 2nd Leg Semi-Finals: Sat 3 / Sun 4 Sep Grand Finals: Sun 11 Sep

ZFL1, ZFL2, ZFL3 Round 1: Sat 9 Apr 1st Leg Semi-Finals: Sat 28 / Sun 28 Aug 2nd Leg Semi-Finals: Sat 3 / Sun 4 Sep Grand Finals: Sat 10 Sep

Page 40 of 47

GROUND DIRECTORY ADDRESSES NATIONAL PREMIER LEAGUE MEN Adamstown Rosebud FC

Maitland FC

Adamstown Oval

Cooks Square Park

1 Bryant Street, Adamstown NSW 2289

25-37 Park Street, East Maitland NSW 2323

Broadmeadow Magic FC

Newcastle Olympic FC

Magic Park

Darling Street Oval

Curley Road & Denney Street,

Darling Street & Hassal Street, Hamilton

Broadmeadow NSW 2292

NSW 2303

Charlestown Azzurri FC

Valentine FC

Lisle Carr Oval

Cahill Oval

20 Recreation Avenue, Whitebridge NSW 2290

2 Kyneton Street, Belmont NSW 2280 OR CB Complex

Edgeworth Eagles FC

14 Parklea Avenue, Croudace Bay NSW 2280

Jack McLaughlan Oval 11B Park Street, Edgeworth NSW 2285

Weston Workers FC Rockwell Automation Park

Lake Macquarie City FC

1 Government Road, Weston NSW 2326

Macquarie Field 13 Creek Reserve Road, Speers Point NSW 2284

Cooks Hill United FC Fearnley Dawes Athletics Centre Smith St, Newcastle West NSW 2302

Lambton Jaffas FC Arthur Edden Oval Wallarah Road, New Lambton NSW 2305 Page 41 of 47

GROUND DIRECTORY ADDRESSES NATIONAL PREMIER LEAGUE WOMEN Adamstown Rosebud JFC

Newcastle Olympic FC

Adamstown Oval

Darling Street Oval

1 Bryant St, Adamstown NSW 2289

Darling St, Hamilton NSW 2303

Broadmeadow Magic FC

New Lambton FC

Magic Park

Alder Park

Curley Rd & Denney St,

132 Bridges Rd, New Lambton NSW 2305

Broadmeadow NSW 2292

Charlestown Azzurri FC Lisle Carr Oval 20 Recreation Avenue, Whitebridge NSW 2290

Warners Bay FC John Street Oval John St, Warners Bay NSW 2282

Maitland FC Cooks Square Park 25-37 Park St, East Maitland NSW 2323

Page 42 of 47

GROUND DIRECTORY ADDRESSES HIT NORTHERN LEAGUE ONE Belmont Swansea United FC

South Cardiff FC

Blacksmiths Oval

Ulinga Oval

38 Gommera St, Blacksmiths NSW 2281

Cross St & Lodwick Ln, Cardiff South NSW 2285

Cessnock City Hornets FC

Thornton Redbacks FC

Turner Park

Thornton Park

49 Aberdare Rd, Aberdare NSW 2325

34 Government Rd, Thornton NSW 2322

Kahibah FC

Toronto Awaba FC

Kahibah Oval

Lyall Peacock Oval

91 James St, Charlestown NSW 2290

29 Thorne St, Toronto NSW 2283

New Lambton FC

Wallsend FC

Alder Park

Ladbrokes Gardens Greyhounds

132 Bridges Rd, New Lambton NSW 2305

104 Sandgate Rd, Birmingham Gardens NSW 2287

Singleton Strikers FC

West Wallsend FC

Howe Park

Johnston Park

Boundary St, Singleton NSW 2330

3 Laidley St, West Wallsend NSW 2286

Page 43 of 47

GROUND DIRECTORY ADDRESSES ZONE PREMIER LEAGUE Beresfield USSC

Kotara South FC

Pasadena Oval

Nesbitt Park

Unit 2/95 Pasadena Cres, Beresfield NSW 2322

Casey Ave, Kotara NSW 2289

Cardiff City FC

Mayfield United SFC

Evans Park

Mayfield Park

Myall Road, Cardiff NSW 2285

136A Crebert St, Mayfield NSW 2304

Cooks Hill UFC

Newcastle Suns FC

Fearnley Dawes Athletics Centre

Connolly Park

Smith St, Newcastle West NSW 2302

Thornton St, Carrington NSW 2294

Dudley Redhead USFC

Swansea FC

Lydon Oval

Chapman Oval

Gardner St, Dudley NSW 2290

16 Pelican St, Swansea NSW 2281

Hamilton Azzurri JSC

Warners Bay FC

Hexham Park

John Street Oval 1

294 Maitland Rd, Hexham NSW 2322

John St, Warners Bay NSW 2282

Page 44 of 47

GROUND DIRECTORY ADDRESSES ZONE FOOTBALL LEAGUE ONE Merewether Advance SFC

Uni Men’s FC

Jesmond Park

Ray Watt Oval

Robinson Ave, Jesmond NSW 2299

Wirra Cres, Callaghan NSW 2308

New Lambton FC

Wallsend FC

Alder Park

Cook Park

132 Bridges Rd, New Lambton NSW 2305

19 MacArthur St, Shortland NSW 2307

Newcastle Olympic FC

Westlakes Wildcats FC

Islington Park

Fishburn Field

151 Maitland Rd, Islington NSW 2296

171 Dorrington Rd, Rathmines NSW 2283

Minmi SC

Nelson Bay FC

Minmi Oval

Tomaree Complex

Woodford Street, Minmi 2287

Aquatic Close, Nelson Bay 2315 North United FC Lorn Park Allan Street, Lorn NSW 2320

Page 45 of 47

GROUND DIRECTORY ADDRESSES ZONE FOOTBALL LEAGUE TWO Bolwarra Lorn JSC

Garden Suburb SC

Victoria Rd Complex

Lance Yorke Oval

Victoria Rd, Bolwarra NSW 2320

Myall Road, Garden Suburb NSW 2289

Greta Branxton FC

South Maitland FC

Miller Park

Tenambit Oval 1

6 Maitland St, East Branxton NSW 2335

Houston Avenue, Tenambit NSW 2323

Kahibah FC

Barnsley FC

Kahibah Oval No. 1

Taylor Memorial Park

91 James St, Charlestown NSW 2290

Johnson Avenue, Barnsley NSW 2278

Mayfield UJSFC

Lake Macquarie Junior FC

Stevenson Park 1

Tredinnick Oval

Stevenson Ave, Mayfield West NSW 2304

Seventh Street, Boolaroo NSW 2284

Page 46 of 47

GROUND DIRECTORY ADDRESSES ZONE FOOTBALL LEAGUE THREE Cardiff City FC

Medowie FC

Evans Park

Yulong Oval

Myall Road, Cardiff NSW 2285

4 Kirrang Dr, Medowie NSW 2318

Charlestown JFC

Morisset United FC

Charlestown Oval

Auston Oval

Ferris St, Charlestown NSW 2290

113A Dora St, Morisset NSW 2264

Kurri Kurri JFC

Bellbird JFC

Birralee Oval (Senior)

Carmichael Park

Heddon St, Kurri Kurri NSW 2327

32 Sparke Street, Bellbird NSW 2325

Newcastle Croatia FC

Hamilton Azzurri JSC

Home Ground Unknown

Smith Park 1 Corner Parkway and Smith Street, Hamilton South NSW 2303

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