The following is the DC Eagles official Code of Conduct for players and coaches. All registered players and coaches of the DC Eagles shall adhere to these guidelines.

All activities hosted by the DC Eagles, including training sessions, games and official functions, are non-discriminatory environments. Consistent behavior that is deemed offensive to anyone based on gender, race, class, religion, or sexual orientation may result in the immediate revocation of membership, with no eligibility for refund.

Training

1. All registered players shall, to the best of their ability, attend training sessions organized by the coaching staff. Training sessions are intended to improve players’ understanding of the game and its rules, thereby creating a safer and more advanced level of footy for the team and our opponents. While of course players may not be able to commit to every session, they are expected to expend a reasonable effort and understand that practice attendance will be a factor in determining playing time, regardless of talent level.
2. All players shall demonstrate respect for coaches and captains at training sessions. Do not interrupt a coach giving instruction; do not argue with a coach; and do not contradict a coach’s instruction. Players shall, to the best of their ability, perform the training drills assigned by the coaches.
3. Players shall demonstrate utmost respect for fellow players. Do not insult; do not discourage; do not verbally or physically assault another player. Physical assaults of fellow Eagles members may result in the immediate revocation of membership.

Game-Day

1. Only registered Eagles players may play in USAFL matches, without exception. Registered players are Eagles who have active USAFL profiles and have signed both the USAFL and Eagles waiver. Non-registered players are welcome at metro matches.
2. Coaches and players shall arrive at the ground at least one-hour prior to start time for preparation. Late arrivals may see a decrease in playing time, or may not start on the field.
3. All players shall demonstrate utmost respect for coaches and captains on game-day. Do not interrupt a coach giving instruction; do not argue with a coach; and do not contradict a coach’s instruction. On the field, coach’s instructions should be followed as soon as safely possible. Any questions or concerns can be addressed on the sideline or during quarter breaks.
4. Players shall demonstrate utmost respect for fellow players. Do not insult; do not discourage; do not verbally or physically assault another player. Physical assaults of fellow Eagles members during game-day may result in the immediate revocation of membership. Physical assaults of opposing players outside of a reasonable game context may result in disciplinary action.
5. Players shall maintain on-field discipline at all times during a game, and not act in any manner that may damage the team or bring the club’s reputation into disrepute.
6. Players should expect to run boundary, bring water to their teammates/other Eagles team, and assist in game prep and post-game clean-up.

Disciplinary Measures

Disciplinary action for players who violate the Code of Conduct, and are determined by the coaches and/or the Board as requiring repercussions, depending on the severity of the violation, will be limited to the following:

1. If during training (e.g., disrespect for teammates or coaches, persistent poor sportsmanship) – Repercussions for this offense are determined by the Coach and Captains. May result in sending player home, or requiring player to do extra training separate from the playing group (such as additional laps)
2. If during game-day (e.g., late arrival, poor sportsmanship, disrespect for teammates or opponents, negatively impacting team reputation) – Repercussions for this offense are determined by the Coach and Captains. May result in benching player for duration of the game or requiring them to run water instead of playing.
3. Moderate-major offenses during any footy event (e.g., damaging team reputation, violent behavior on the field, consistent disrespect for teammates, opponents, umpires) – This offense can trigger the standup of the disciplinary and appeals process, adjudicated by the Board and spelled out in the bylaws. May result in suspension from metro and USAFL games for any duration not to exceed the remainder of one season.
4. Major offenses during any footy event (e.g., severely damaging club or club’s reputation, consistently poor behavior, verbal or physical assault of teammate) – This offense can trigger the standup of the disciplinary and appeals process, adjudicated by the Board and spelled out in the bylaws. May include immediate revocation of membership with no refund.

Coaches

1. Coaches shall treat all players with equal respect. Do not insult; do not discourage; do not physically assault a player. Physical assaults of fellow Eagles members may result in the immediate revocation of coaching role and Eagles membership.
2. Coaches will demonstrate leadership at all times. This includes being on time and ready for game-day preparation, and respecting players’ time constraints by starting and ending training on time.
3. Coaches will respect the Board and support club guidelines and objectives determined by the Board.
4. Coaches will ensure the continued development of all players and incorporate new recruits in an efficient and welcoming manner. Coaches are expected to set an inclusive club culture and ensure fairness in treatment of players.

Waiver

I understand that the DC Eagles Australian Football Club assumes no responsibility for injuries or illness which I may sustain resulting from participation in any athletic activities, sports programs, the use of any equipment, exercise or other activities run by the club. I expressly acknowledge on behalf of myself and my heirs that I assume the risk for any and all injuries and illnesses which may result from participation in these activities. I hereby release and discharge the DC Eagles Australian Football Club, its agents, servants and employees from any and all claims for injury, illness, death, loss or damage, which I may suffer as a result of my participation in these activities. I give my permission to the DC Eagles Australian Football Club to use indefinitely, without limitation or obligation, photographs, film footage or tape recordings which may include my image or voice for purpose of promoting Australian Rules football and the DC Eagles Australian Football Club. By clicking the below checkbox, I agree to the pledge and waiver set forth above.