Keep the playing field level
Keep the playing field level
Ensuring fair play in football
Football is a competitive sport and physical contact is a normal part of the game. However, players must play within the laws of the game and play fair. This makes the game safer and more enjoyable for everyone and makes success all the more satisfying. Fair Play is very important to FIFA, football’s international governing body and a key message in their training programme The 11.
Fair play means:
- Maintaining your dignity whether or not you’re winning
- Respecting the opposition, the officials and the rules
- Staying calm no matter what happens
Respect the referee:
Without referees, there’d be no game. Support referees by respecting their decisions – remember many of them are volunteers. Make sure you know the rules and play by them.
Mark a start close to home
As a first step to promoting fair play in your team don’t tolerate foul play from your own players – particularly dangerous tackles, elbowing and unsporting behavior. Ask your club about the New Zealand Football code of conduct.
Want to know more? Get more information on fair play from ‘The 11’ DVD. To order your free copy of the 11 DVD call 0800 THINKSAFE (0800 844 657) ACC2137 .
